Back in January 2023, Hilton took the industry by surprise announcing a new economy brand called Spark By Hilton. Unlike other Hilton mega properties placing luxury at the forefront such as the Conrad and LXR brands, Spark aims to appeal to the budget traveler while offering clean and simple accommodations. New spark properties will be conversions from other hotel brands using existing infrastructure. This is the case with Hilton’s first Spark Property, Spark By Hilton Mystic Groton which will be reviewed answering the question weather or not if Spark is a good value for the money.
First Impressions
Pulling into the property located adjacent to the interstate 95 exit, it is hard to miss the property with its large purple sign advertising the opening of the hotel. There is an abundance of parking spots including three dedicated spaces for Hilton Honors Diamond members. During check-in staff briskly yet warmly welcomed us in and checked us in. As the computer systems were down, the security deposit was not taken immediately and would be added at a later time. After completing the check in process, the staff explained a little bit about the property and highlighted that this is a new brand for Hilton. In the lobby area, the layout and low ceiling height make it obvious that this is an older building.
Heading to our room on the second floor we passed a large lounge space where bagels are served in the morning. During other times of the day, the space serves as a lounge where complimentary coffee is served all day. During this evening, there were a few people occupying the bright and colorful space. There are various seating options including couches and tables of various heights and sizes. Towards the center of the space is a tv area with rocking chairs and picnic style tables.
Entering room 215, the minimalistic yet practical space consists of a luggage area, sink and bathroom near the entrance. There are two beds with a center nightstand between the beds. A small desk area is located near the smart TV. Interestingly enough the desk swings outward but gets impeded by the end of the bed. Also near the TV is a mini fridge with enough room to fit a few water bottles and a food container.
Nearby Attractions
Amenities at the Spark are sparce but include Wi-Fi, a fitness center and an outdoor pool. Where the Spark By Hilton Mystic Groton shines the most is it’s prime location. It is right off the exit ramp of I-95 and is a few minutes away from Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium. One of the largest casinos in the United States, Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods is a quick 15 to 20 minutes from the hotel. Nearby is the USS Nautilus Museum featuring the US Navy’s first Nuclear submarine. Not too far away is the US Coast Guard Academy.
The Bare Bones Breakfast
In the morning, the lounge area was stocked with a bagel bar offering plain bagels, everything bagels . Coffee, water and Tea is also available. There is an orange juice machine near the bagels however, it decided to pour out a watered down version of orange juice that had no flavor whatsoever. The bagels were basic and lacked much flavor. Being a budget property the expectations were not set that high for the Bagel Bar.
Checking Out
For what it is worth the Spark By Hilton does exactly what it’s intended to. It provided a clean and comfortable stay. The rooms were sparse but had all the essentials needed for a short stay. Staff on property were friendly and responsive. When asking for a toothbrush and toothpaste, staff members at the desk briskly provided the items. While the lounge area is a nice touch, the Bagel Bar leaves much to be desired. Other than that the property does not try to be more than what’s advertised compared to the recently opened Tempo By Hilton Times Square. Overall, for only $103 a night with taxes and fees, the Spark By Hilton is a good value for the money and gets the job done without much fuss.