Review: Hyatt Regency Bethesda

The Hyatt Regency is located in downtown Bethesda, Maryland, right next to the Bethesda Metro stop (red line) that will whisk you into downtown Washington DC. Bethesda is a cool city, with a nice shopping and eating district about a 5 minute walk from the hotel. While it’s not necessarily a “must visit” city, it may provide relief from high hotel prices in DC itself.

If you plan on driving to the hotel, there’s a parking lot under the hotel (not managed by Hyatt), with rates going as high as $20 per night on weekdays.

The hotel itself is outdated (more on that later), and feels like something out of the 1980s.

As I entered the hotel from the parking deck, I checked in and was offered a room on a high floor. The hotel has an open atrium, with the rooms all facing inwards.

Each time I’ve stayed here, I’ve been placed in a corner, larger room, which is nice. The first time I stayed here was as a Hyatt Platinum, this time as a Diamond.

By the bed, there was an alarm clock with the old iPhone 4-style charging port. You can tell a hotel hasn’t been renovated in quite some time if the alarm clock port is out of style.

The bathroom was surprisingly large, and included the traditional sink/vanity, toilet and bathtub/shower.

The room was visibly worn, and I found it interesting that in order to provide more electrical outlets, they had taped a power strip to the nightstand.

As a Hyatt Diamond, I was offered breakfast the next morning. The Hyatt Bethesda does not offer a Regency Club, so breakfast is provided in an alcove in the lobby. It’s a self serve bar, with to-go style items. Prior to taking food, you’re required to check-in with an attendant behind the bar.

A microwave is provided to heat the selection of breakfast sandwiches on hand. You’ll also find pre-packaged fruit cups, yogurts and a selection of pastries and breads. I really wish they offered a full-breakfast and not a fast-food style service, but if you’re in a rush to leave for an event or meeting, this certainly fits the bill better.

My Take

The best aspect of this hotel is it’s location, being right next to the metro, within walking distance of downtown Bethesda, and close to the National Institutes of Health. Inside, however, I find it needing a renovation and refresh, and the breakfast options needing an overhaul.