Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place

For those searching for "Hotels Near Of Me" in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, particularly in the vital Oakland neighborhood, the Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place offers an all-suite, extended-stay experience. Located at 3341 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, this Marriott property caters to guests seeking more than a standard hotel room, whether for long-term work assignments, medical visits, or family trips. For inquiries or reservations, the hotel can be reached at (412) 621-5600 or +1 412-621-5600.

The Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place boasts an exceptionally convenient and highly sought-after location directly on Forbes Avenue, placing it squarely within Pittsburgh's academic and medical hub. This prime position makes it an ideal choice for visitors to the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, Carlow University, and various UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center) hospitals and clinics. Guests can often walk to these institutions, which is a significant advantage for those attending conferences, visiting students, or undergoing medical treatments.

The surrounding Oakland neighborhood is a lively and dynamic urban environment, offering a plethora of dining options, from casual eateries popular with students to more established restaurants. Diverse cuisines are readily available, ensuring guests have numerous choices for meals. Cultural attractions such as the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh (including the Carnegie Museum of Natural History and the Carnegie Museum of Art), Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum are also within easy walking distance or a short drive, providing ample opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

While the location is excellent for accessibility to institutions and local amenities, it is important to note that, as an urban hotel, it can be a busy area. Parking is available on-site in a covered garage but comes with a daily surcharge (approximately $22.00 per night with in/out privileges) and is described as "limited" and potentially "tight" for larger vehicles. This is a common aspect of urban lodging and should be factored into planning. The hotel is also well-connected to public transportation routes, offering bus services for broader city access.

As a Residence Inn by Marriott, this property is designed with the extended-stay guest in mind, providing amenities that create a more home-like environment. A key feature is the complimentary hot breakfast, which aims to provide a satisfying start to the day. While some guests describe the breakfast as "very good" or "great" with a "nice variety," others have found it "disappointing," noting that the "dining area was very small, and the atmosphere was uncomfortable, with a staff member watching over guests closely." This suggests variability in the breakfast experience and dining area comfort.

A hallmark of Residence Inn suites is the inclusion of a fully equipped kitchen. Each suite features a full-sized refrigerator/freezer, stovetop, microwave, dishwasher, and all necessary cookware, dishes, and utensils. This allows guests the flexibility to prepare their own meals, reducing dining costs and offering the convenience of home cooking. This feature is particularly valuable for longer stays or for guests with specific dietary needs.

The hotel offers complimentary wired and wireless internet access (Wi-Fi) throughout the property and in all suites, ensuring guests can stay connected for work or leisure. For recreation, there is an indoor heated pool and a well-equipped fitness center. The pool is generally well-received for providing an opportunity to relax and stay active. The hotel also offers a complimentary grocery shopping service, where guests can provide a list and the staff will stock their in-room refrigerator, further enhancing the extended-stay convenience. Guests can also utilize barbecue grills on-site.

Other essential services include a 24-hour front desk, express check-in/check-out, and luggage storage. A 24-hour business center is available, along with meeting facilities. The hotel is pet-friendly, welcoming two pets of any size per accommodation for an additional fee (approximately $100 per stay), with a requirement for pets to be crated when left unattended in rooms. On-site laundry facilities are also provided for guest use, adding to the convenience for longer stays.

The primary distinguishing feature of the Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place is its all-suite layout with full kitchens, which provides significantly more space and flexibility than a standard hotel room. This is particularly appealing for families, groups, or individuals on extended assignments who desire a more residential feel. The hotel's direct proximity to major universities and medical centers is another unbeatable feature, making it a logical choice for those with specific ties to these institutions.

However, recent guest feedback has highlighted significant concerns, particularly regarding cleanliness and certain aspects of service. One detailed review explicitly stated, "I do not think my room has actually been getting cleaned," citing "black hairs all through the sheets and pillows," "hair on my dining table and all through the shower drain," and empty conditioner bottles, suggesting beds were "just remade and not changed." Another guest noted that their "room was not thoroughly cleaned" and that there was "no blanket provided for the sofa bed." While front desk workers are generally described as "always helpful" and responsive to immediate issues like providing new sheets, the recurring cleanliness complaints raise serious concerns about housekeeping consistency and standards. This contradicts other reviews that praise the hotel as "very clean."

Service at the front desk has also received mixed reviews. While some staff are described as "friendly and welcoming," one guest experienced a 30-minute wait due to only one staff member and described him as "not very courteous" and "overwhelmed," failing to explain amenities or offer local suggestions. This indicates potential understaffing or inconsistencies in guest interaction training. The hotel's policy of not offering daily housekeeping (housekeeping is typically on request for extended stays, but the review implies an issue even with that) can also be a point of discomfort for some guests, especially when cleanliness is already a concern.

As a Marriott property, the Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place participates in the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program. Members can earn points on their stays, which can be redeemed for free nights, exclusive member rates, and other benefits. Marriott frequently offers various promotions, including discounts for longer stays, seasonal packages, and special rates for AAA/CAA, AARP, government, and military personnel. Guests are always encouraged to check the official Marriott website or contact the hotel directly for the most current offers and availability.

Given the detailed guest feedback, several critical considerations are vital for prospective guests:

• Cleanliness Concerns: The most pressing issue highlighted in recent reviews is the inconsistency and occasional severe lack of cleanliness in guest rooms. Guests should be prepared to thoroughly inspect their room upon arrival and be proactive in communicating any issues to the front desk immediately. This could involve requesting a room change if cleanliness standards are unacceptable.
• Housekeeping Frequency: Understand that daily housekeeping may not be standard, especially for extended stays. Inquire about the exact cleaning schedule and how to request service if needed.
• Staffing and Service: While some staff are highly praised, be aware that there might be instances of overwhelmed or less courteous service, particularly during peak times. Patience and clear communication may be required.
• Breakfast Experience: Manage expectations for the complimentary breakfast, as the dining area can be small and the atmosphere may not always be ideal. Consider exploring nearby dining options if a robust and comfortable breakfast experience is a high priority.
• Parking: Factor in the daily parking fee and the potential for limited or tight spots in the on-site garage.
• Value for Price: One guest felt the hotel "did not live up to the value I expected for the price I paid," especially considering the cleanliness and breakfast issues. This suggests guests should weigh the benefits of the full kitchen and location against potential drawbacks.

In summary, the Residence Inn Pittsburgh Oakland/University Place offers the undeniable advantage of an excellent location within Pittsburgh's university and medical hub, combined with the convenience of all-suite accommodations featuring full kitchens and complimentary breakfast. However, recent and concerning guest feedback regarding cleanliness and occasional service inconsistencies means that prospective guests should approach their booking with a clear understanding of these potential issues and be prepared to advocate for their needs during their stay.