Hampton Inn vs Hilton Garden Inn [2024]

Travelers often find themselves faced with the tough decision of choosing the perfect hotel for their stay. Two popular options that frequently appear on the radar are Hampton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn, both of which are part of the Hilton Honors family but cater to different tastes and preferences.

In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between these two hotel chains to help you make an informed choice for your next adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Hampton Inn properties are known for their wide distribution and can be found in various locations, including urban centers, suburbs, and major highways. These hotels often cater to business travelers and road-trippers due to their accessibility. Hampton by Hilton has over 2,500 locations in 30 countries.

Hilton Garden Inn typically focuses on urban and business-oriented locations. You’ll often find Hilton Garden Inn properties in central city areas or near corporate hubs, making them ideal for business travelers. There are over 900 Hilton Garden Inn locations worldwide.

Room Comfort and Amenities

Hampton Inn offers comfortable and well-appointed rooms with a focus on providing a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Amenities include complimentary hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and fitness centers, making it a great choice for families and budget-conscious travelers.

Here’s a photo of my room at Hampton Inn National Harbor:

Hilton Garden Inn rooms are known for their ergonomic designs and modern decor. They offer in-room Keurig coffee makers, adjustable beds, and spacious workstations, making them a top choice for business travelers seeking added comfort.

Here’s a photo of my room at Hilton Garden Inn Times Square:

As you can see, both rooms are pretty similar in terms of aesthetics. I’d say rooms of both chains can be more or less equal, but it depends on the property. I personally prefer newer properties over older ones.

Dining Options

Hampton Inn provides a complimentary hot breakfast, saving you money during your stay. However, they typically do not have on-site restaurants for lunch or dinner.

Hilton Garden Inn properties often have on-site restaurants serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They also have a 24/7 pantry, offering snacks and beverages for late-night cravings.

While Hampton Inn offers a free breakfast, it is usually limited to eggs, bacon/sausage, and cereals. Hilton Garden Inn, on the other hand, offers a complete breakfast menu that includes three egg omelets and Belgian-style waffles. Hilton Garden Inn is best if you have Gold or Diamond status with Hilton (as they offer a daily breakfast credit) and Hampton Inn is best if you don’t have status.

Meetings and Events

While some Hampton Inn locations have small meeting rooms, they are generally not well-equipped for larger events or conferences.

Hilton Garden Inn properties frequently have well-appointed meeting and event spaces, making them a preferred choice for business conferences and gatherings.

The Hilton Garden Inn Pearland has a large conference center:

Price Range

Hampton Inn is often considered the more budget-friendly option, making it a great choice for travelers looking for affordable accommodations without compromising quality. Many Hampton Inns outside of major metro areas go for around $100 per night.

Hilton Garden Inn tends to be slightly more upscale and, therefore, may come with a higher price tag. A Hilton Garden Inn may go for $150 per night in the same city that charges $100 per night for a Hampton Inn.

Loyalty Programs

Both Hampton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn are part of Hilton’s Honors loyalty program, which means you’ll earn at least 10 Base Points per dollar spent if you are a Hilton Honors member. That increases if you are a Silver, Gold, or Diamond member, and Hilton also offers various promotions throughout the year which may increase the number of points earned for your stay as well.

Closing Thoughts

In the end, the choice between Hampton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn largely depends on your specific needs and preferences. Hampton Inn offers a wallet-friendly option with comfortable amenities for families and budget-conscious travelers. On the other hand, Hilton Garden Inn caters to business travelers seeking a more upscale experience with convenient amenities and meeting facilities. Both hotel chains are part of the Hilton family, which means you can expect a familiar level of quality and service, regardless of your choice.

Do you prefer Hilton Garden Inn or Hampton Inn? Leave a comment with your perspective!