Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Ontario Airport-Mills Mall By IHG United States

Ontario Airport's BEST Hotel? Mills Mall's Hidden Gem! (Holiday Inn Express Review)

Ontario Airport's REAL Holiday Inn Express Review: Mill's Mall's Surprisingly Awesome Secret (and the Wi-Fi is Actually Decent!)

Okay, so let's be honest. When you hear "Holiday Inn Express near Ontario Airport," you're probably picturing… well, a Holiday Inn Express. Functional. Clean-ish. Maybe a slightly sad continental breakfast. But hold up, because the one nestled behind the Mills at Ontario Mills shopping mall? It’s actually… kinda good. Like, unexpectedly good. Let me explain. (And yes, I'm going to ramble a bit, that's how I review things.)

Accessibility, Accessibility, Accessibility! (and a Slight Caveat)

Right off the bat, huge thumbs up for accessibility. This is HUGE for me, because, well, sometimes I'm just… tired. And needing easy access is paramount. The elevators are easy breezy, and hallways felt spacious enough for anyone. But… and this is the only slight hiccup I found… I didn't personally see any specific ramps leading into the lobby. Now, I didn't have a wheelchair, so I could easily have missed them, and they could be there. But it's something to double-check if it's a primary concern. Everything else seemed remarkably well-designed for guests with mobility needs, from the rooms to the public spaces. (Wheelchair accessible: Mostly, with a little extra investigation needed on entry.)

The Tech Stuff: Wi-Fi, Oh Glorious Wi-Fi! (and a Lan?!)

Okay, let's talk internet. This is key. Airport hotels live or die by their Wi-Fi. My biggest fear is usually the dreaded, agonizingly slow connection that makes even simple tasks a nightmare. But… gasp… the Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! was actually… usable! In fact, it was GOOD. Like, I actually got some work done. I'm talking video calls without stuttering, streaming without buffering. Seriously, this alone bumped this place up a star for me. They also advertise Internet [LAN] which is a real blast from the past, and while I didn't try it, the thought of a wired connection felt almost… quaint. (Internet: solid. Internet access – wireless: yes. Internet access – LAN: exists!)

Cleanliness, Safety, and Those Pesky Protocols (and Did I Mention the Hand Sanitizer?!)

Listen, in today's world, cleanliness is paramount. And the Holiday Inn Express Ontario Mills seems to be taking it seriously. I saw signs everywhere about their Anti-viral cleaning products and their dedication to hygiene. They highlight these protocols: Daily disinfection in common areas, Rooms sanitized between stays, Staff trained in safety protocol, etc. And… there's Hand sanitizer EVERYWHERE. Like, strategically placed at every entryway and corner. Which, as a recovering germaphobe, I appreciated deeply. They even had individually-wrapped food options. Cleanliness and safety, Safety/security feature, etc.

Getting Around: Location, Location, Location (and Uber Availability!)

The hotel sits right behind the Mills at Ontario Mills. That means shopping, dining, all within easy walking distance. Airport transfer: available. Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site]: Yes. It's also incredibly easy to get an Uber or Lyft, which is a lifesaver if you're tired of driving after your flight. Airport transfer, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Taxi service, Valet parking.

The Room: Comfort and Surprisingly Decent Amenities (and the Blackout Curtains… Yes!)

My room was… well, it was a Holiday Inn Express room, but a good one. The Air conditioning worked like a charm. The Blackout curtains were, and I need to stress this, amazing. Seriously, if you value sleep like I do, they're a game-changer. The bed was comfy, the Desk was functional (crucial for us laptop warriors), and the Coffee/tea maker was a welcome touch. (Available in all rooms, Air conditioning, Blackout curtains, Coffee/tea maker, Desk, Wi-Fi [free]). Plus, I think the Hair dryer blew air (important details, people!). The Interconnecting room(s) available is a real bonus for families. Air conditioning, Blackout curtains, Coffee/tea maker, Desk, Hair dryer, Interconnecting room(s) available, Wi-Fi [free], Additional toilet.

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Breakfast and Beyond (and My Breakfast-Related Meltdown)

The free breakfast… Alright, let's talk about breakfast. This is where things get… interesting. The Breakfast [included] is the typical Holiday Inn Express fare: eggs, sausage, maybe some waffles. And the usual Breakfast [buffet] setup. They also have Breakfast takeaway service which is handy. The reality is, it can be a little… hit or miss. One day the eggs were fluffy and delicious; the next… well, let's just say they weren't my favourite. The coffee was decent, though. (Restaurants, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast takeaway service). Asian breakfast, Western breakfast.

There's also a Coffee shop which is a lifesaver in the mornings. I'm sure they have Desserts in restaurant, Salad in restaurant, Soup in restaurant but I did not see it in person.

Things to Do (Besides Shocking Yourself at the Mall) and Ways to Relax (and I Didn't Use Any of Them… Regret!)

Okay, so this is where the Holiday Inn Express Ontario Mills really shines (or, in my case, could have). They have a Swimming pool [outdoor], a Gym/fitness center, and even a Spa/sauna. My problem? I was so busy working and/or relaxing, I didn't have a moment to get to one. This is where I’m feeling a little guilty, because I regret not checking out the Pool with view. Maybe next time, I'll actually use the things to do available. (Swimming pool [outdoor], Gym/fitness, pool with view, Spa/sauna).

Services and Conveniences: Everything You (Probably) Need (and a Slightly Annoying Elevator)

The front desk staff were friendly and helpful (Front desk [24-hour]), and they offered a lot of standard services. Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Convenience store, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Safety deposit boxes. This would be an ideal place for Family/child friendly.

For the Kids (if you have them)

The hotel is Family/child friendly and they offer Babysitting service and Kids meal. I didn't use them, because I am just me, but it's a thumbs up for parents.

The Verdict: Worth It? Absolutely! (With a Pinch of Salt)

Would I stay here again? Absolutely. For the price, the location, the surprisingly good Wi-Fi, and the overall convenience, it's a solid choice. It’s not the Ritz, but for an airport hotel, it’s far better than it seems. Cleanliness and safety, Accessibility, Internet access – Lan, Internet access – wireless, Wi-Fi [free], Front desk [24-hour], Family/child friendly, Elevator, etc.

Here’s the Deal:

Tired of airport hotel roulette? Craving a genuinely comfortable stay near Ontario Airport?

Book your stay at the Holiday Inn Express Ontario Mills TODAY!

Here’s What You’ll Get:

Blazing-Fast Wi-Fi: Stream your shows, video conference like a pro!
Spotless Rooms: Rest easy knowing cleanliness is a top priority.
Convenience: Right next to Ontario Mills Mall, tons of dining options.
Free Breakfast: Fuel up for your day (and hey, maybe the eggs will be extra fluffy!).
Comfort: Comfortable beds and those amazing blackout curtains.

Don’t settle for a mediocre airport experience.

Click here to book your stay and experience the surprising comfort and convenience of the Holiday Inn Express Ontario Mills!

Mystic Getaway: Unwind at Baymont Inn & Suites!

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Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn't your grandma's perfectly-polished travel brochure. This is me, wrestling with jet lag, a questionable coffee stain, and the looming existential dread of a budget motel. Here's my "holiday in, or at least near, a Holiday Inn Express" itinerary, complete with all the messy, glorious imperfections:

Day 1: Arrival and the "Welcome to California" Shuffle

1:00 PM - Arrival at Ontario International Airport (ONT): Okay, first off, ONT? Really? Sounds like a character from a bad sci-fi movie. Anyway, I land. Smooth flight! (For once.) My luggage, of course, is the diva in the airport drama. It's taking its sweet time. Found the shuttle – it smells faintly of industrial cleaner and broken dreams.
1:30 PM - Check-in at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ontario Airport - Mills Mall (By IHG): The lobby is… well, it’s a Holiday Inn Express. You know the drill: beige, vaguely floral patterned carpet, and the faint aroma of chlorine and ambition. The front desk gal seems to have mastered the art of the polite smile that hides a deep, inner weariness, which, honestly? Relatable. Got my room key. Success! (Though, let's be real, success is a relative term when you're still wearing the same socks you traveled in.)
2:00 PM - Room Reconnaissance: The room… is a room. Queen bed, a desk that looks like it's seen a few hard years of homework and pizza boxes, a TV, and a view of… the parking lot. Ah, the romance of the California desert! The air conditioning is blasting, which is good, because I’m already starting to sweat from the stress of unpacking. Or maybe it's just the California sun. Who can tell anymore?
2:30 PM - The Great Unpackening: This is where I discover the mystery stain on my favorite t-shirt. (Was it the coffee? The airplane food? The sheer pressure of the airport experience? The world may never know.). Attempt to hang things up, realize the closet barely fits anything, and vow to never overpack again. (Spoiler alert: I will.)
3:00 PM - Snack Situation: I raid my travel snacks. Trail mix. Granola bar. A bag of questionable dried mangoes that I bought out of desperation at the airport bookstore. Fueling up for… well, I'm not sure yet. Probably staring out the window. Or scrolling my phone.
3:30 PM - Bathroom Shenanigans: The bathroom. My personal sanctuary. Inspect the toiletries. Take a deep breath. Notice the slight musty smell. Contemplate bringing my own soap next time. Why is the shower curtain always trying to hug me?
4:00 PM - The Mills at Ontario Mills - A Pre-Dinner Adventure: Okay, so I convince myself I should "explore." Which translates to, "wander aimlessly through a shopping mall." This is crucial for establishing orientation, I tell myself. The mall is everything you think a Californian mall would be: huge, crowded, a little overwhelming. I see a pretzel stand. Must… resist…. Okay, fine. I buy a pretzel. I eat the pretzel, even though I'm not hungry. I look at a few stores. Everything is too loud. I feel… a little lost. But at least I now know where the food court is located. Progress!
6:00 PM - Dinner Debacle: Okay, so I went to a restaurant I looked up beforehand. The reviews were mixed, but whatever. I order something that sounds safe. The food arrives. It’s… not great. I politely eat most of it, because I'm a polite person. And because I'm starving. And because I don't want to make a scene. I decide that I hate eating alone. But I also like the solitude. It's a complex relationship, this solo travel thing.
7:30 PM - Back to Base Camp (aka the Hotel Room): Sink into the cozy embrace of the hotel bed. The TV is on. The remote is a battle waged between me and the endless options I have but never actually choose.
8:30 PM - Reflection and Regret: Stare at the ceiling. Ruminate about the pretzel. Reconsider life choices. Wonder if I should have ordered dessert.
9:00 PM - Attempt to Sleep: The A/C is still blasting, the city lights are casting a weird orange glow, and my brain is doing the cha-cha. Close eyes. Think about… nothing. And then, finally, darkness.

Day 2: Museum Hop and the Urgent Need for Caffeine. & The Ultimate Taco Quest

8:00 AM - Breakfast (The Free Kind): Let’s be honest, the “free breakfast” at these hotels is a gamble. Cereal that tastes like cardboard? Overcooked scrambled eggs? Today is a good day. Waffles! (I'm easily pleased). Coffee: lukewarm, but thankfully caffeinated.
9:00 AM - Riverside Art Museum (A Moment of Culture): Okay, so, "museum" is a bit of a stretch. This is more of a "museum with a modest collection." It's still better than staring at the parking lot, though. The art is interesting. I spend way too long staring at a painting with a weirdly compelling texture. I think?
11:00 AM - Drive of Despair: The freeways in this area are a parking lot. Traffic. Traffic. Traffic. I swear, the GPS is using reverse psychology on me and trying to make me angry.
12:00 PM - The Taco Hunt: Okay, here's where things get serious. I'm on a quest. A taco quest. I consult Yelp, Google, and the wisdom of the internet gods. I decide on a local taco joint that's supposed to be “authentic.” This is one of the most important moments of the trip.
12:30 PM - Taco Triumphant!: The place is in a strip mall. It's small. It's busy. The smell of grilled meat is intoxicating. I order tacos. I devour tacos. The tacos are… glorious. The tortillas are perfect. The meat is tender. The salsa has a perfect bite. It's a religious experience. This is why I came to California. This is what life is all about.
1:30 PM - The Post-Taco Coma: The post-taco bliss is intense. I contemplate a nap in the car, but I decide to fight the urge. After-taco walk. Around the parking lot.
2:00 PM - Retail Therapy: The urge to shop is overwhelming. I find a bookstore. It’s a good bookstore. The shelves smell like old paper and new possibilities. I buy a book I'll probably never read and a funny mug. The world is briefly alright.
4:00 PM - The Pool (Optional, Mostly Abandoned): There's a pool at the hotel. It looks… okay. But the sun is beating down. And the thought of having to apply sunscreen is exhausting. I watch others from a window.
6:00 PM - Dinner at a Chain Restaurant: I'm too tired to care. I eat something predictable. I leave a decent tip.
7:00 PM - TV Therapy and Bedtime Antics: Watch TV. Fall asleep on the couch. Wake up. Panic. Go to bed. Repeat.

Day 3: Heading Out (Or Just Heading Somewhere):

8:00 AM - Free Breakfast (Again): Waffles again. This time, the coffee is colder. My expectations are managed.
9:00 AM - Checkout and Travel Plans: Pack. Repack. Check out. Decide where to go. The next adventure is on the horizon. (Or maybe it's just the airport.)
12:00 PM - Departure: This is it. Farewell Ontario. Farewell, beige carpet. Farewell, questionable coffee. A flight awaits. * I’m not sure I "saw" California. But, I definitely experienced it. And, honestly, isn’t that what it's all about?

This itinerary is a work in progress, just like me. 😉

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Ontario Airport's Best Hotel & A Hidden Gem: Holiday Inn Express - My Truth!

Okay, Seriously, Is This Holiday Inn Express REALLY the Best Near Ontario Airport? I Mean… Really?

Alright, let's get one thing straight: "best" is subjective. But for ME, after countless airport layovers and stressed-out travel days... yeah, I'm inclined to say YES. And listen, I'm not easy to please. I'm *that* person who judges hotels based on the quality of their coffee (crucial!), the firmness of the pillows (even more crucial!), and whether the remote has more than five channels of actual watchable TV (crisis averted!). The Holiday Inn Express near Ontario Airport - the one practically attached to the Mills Mall – it's a solid contender. Consider it a trustworthy travel companion, or at least a decent one.

I once had a REALLY bad flight delayed for 7 hours and they let me check in early, that was such a lifesaver.

What's This I Hear About Being "Attached" to Mills Mall? Convenient or a Nightmare?

It's both! Hear me out. Convenience: Absolutely. Forgot a charger? Poof, there's an Apple store. Need a last-minute souvenir? Bingo! Pre-flight retail therapy is a thing, people. I've snagged last-minute snacks, a surprisingly good book, and even a decent pair of headphones at that mall.

Now, the nightmare side. The mall can FEEL overwhelming after a long flight. It’s bright, bustling, and sometimes I just want a quiet corner to crawl into. The walk from the airport shuttle to the hotel entrance IS long, especially when dragging a suitcase. And the food court... ugh, the food court. But hey, the sheer number of options is impressive. Avoid the food court at rush hour like the plague though.

The Room Itself. Spill the Tea! Is it Clean? Actually Comfortable?

Okay, the rooms. They're…pretty much what you expect from a Holiday Inn Express. Clean? Yes, usually. I'm a bit of a germaphobe, and I've never encountered anything truly horrifying (apart from that one time a rogue crumb ended up on my bed, and I had a mini-meltdown...okay, it was a big one). Comfortable? Generally, yes. The beds are decent, the pillows are… well, they're not the *best* pillows of my life, but they do the job. The one thing I consistently find is that the AC seems to be either freezing or stuffy, no real sweet spot, that's annoying.

Don't expect luxury. But hey, it’s a place to sleep, shower, and maybe watch some terrible daytime TV before your flight. And the free wifi is a godsend when you're trying to distract yourself from the impending doom of flying.

And About That Free Breakfast... Is It Actually Worth Getting Out of Bed For?

The Breakfast…oh, the breakfast. It's a classic. Standard buffet fare: eggs (questionable origin, possibly from a chicken farm on Pluto), sausage (possibly even *more* questionable), cereal (always the same, every single time), and the usual suspects.

Listen. I'm not going to pretend its gourmet. But, it’s FREE, people! And for someone who is a massive fan of travel (and who consistently oversleeps)... the convenience is king. Grabbing a quick waffle before dashing for the shuttle makes the whole experience worthwhile and keeps me happy.

The Staff - Are They Helpful or Are They Just Going Through the Motions?

Generally, the staff are decent. I've encountered some truly lovely, helpful people. I do remember one time, when I'd lost my luggage and I was at my wit's end, a kind gentleman at the front desk, (I think his name was David?) went above and beyond to help me contact the airline and track it down. He was a lifesaver. You know, I've met staff everywhere, everyone seems to have different personalities, from those who seem genuinely happy to be there, to those who are obviously just trying to make a paycheck.

Hidden Gems or Annoyances? Anything I Need to Know Before Booking?

Okay, some things to know:

**The Pool...** I have never used it. Frankly I don't see the point, it's cold outside. I have seen it though. It exists.
**The Airport Shuttle:** It works, which is good. But sometimes, it gets full FAST during peak times. Allow extra time. Always.
**Parking:** It's available, but can get pricey. Factor that in.
**Annoyances:** As I said before, the AC is a struggle so bring a sweater or plan to sweat.
**Hidden Gem:** The little convenience store in the lobby is a Godsend for forgotten essentials. And I may or may not have bought some wine there once...don't judge me, flight delays are stressful!

Would I Stay There Again?

Look. Absolutely. It's not perfect. It's not the Four Seasons. But it’s reliable, convenient, and gets the job done. And honestly, after the stress of flying, you just want a clean bed, a decent breakfast, and a hot shower. This Holiday Inn Express usually delivers. And for me, that’s enough. As long as the coffee’s decent, I'm a happy camper.

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