I fully recognize this is a long review, but I’ve tried to keep it as objective as possible. After reading other recent reviews, I see a lot of common themes, which speaks volumes.
Having stayed at the freshly and fully renovated Sheraton Chapel Hill several times for work travel, I booked the Sheraton Imperial near RDU without hesitation based on location. Unfortunately, the two properties aren’t comparable in quality or experience—and I regret not doing a bit more research before booking.
While Sheraton Chapel Hill underwent a thoughtful, comprehensive renovation (including HVAC and infrastructure), the Sheraton Imperial feels dated, with only a surface-level refresh. The lobby shows some cosmetic updates, but the overall condition and building systems reflect significant cost-cutting and deferred maintenance.
First impressions weren’t great.
The curb appeal is lacking with overgrown landscaping, wilting flowers, dirty stonework, and no signage or welcoming presence. The vestibule and main lobby smelled musty and featured banged-up side tables.
On a positive note, the front desk team was polite, professional, and helpful throughout my stay. However, it was clear they’re used to handling room change requests which, unfortunately, became part of my experience.
My first room on the 10th floor was nearly 80 degrees with stale air and a noticeable smoky odor. I was told the hallway HVAC on upper floors wasn’t functioning and was promptly moved to the 6th floor…same issue. Only after a third room change to the 2nd floor did I get a cool, comfortable, smoke-free room.
As someone who spends 60+ nights a year in hotels, it’s rare that I need to change rooms—let alone three times in one stay. I also noticed several other guests requesting room changes at the front desk, which seemed telling.
The guest rooms show what I’d call a partial renovation. Some finishes look updated, but the HVAC units are old and noisy, the bathroom still had a stained drop ceiling, and the vanity was from a prior room design. It feels like corners were cut.
The Club Lounge was another letdown.
The space, spanning the 9th and 10th floors, was uncomfortably warm due to nonfunctioning AC. No signage acknowledged this, and a few portable AC units scattered around weren’t enough to make it pleasant. Food offerings were basic and below the standard I’ve experienced at other Sheraton lounges.
The lobby bar setup felt like an afterthought. It’s tucked awkwardly in a corner of the large lobby, with a small footprint and a worn, sticky photocopied menu. Food and drinks were average—but again, the staff was friendly.
Important to note also, there’s no gym onsite. Guests have access to the adjacent Fitness Connection via a short walk past the pool. While large, multi-level, and fully equipped, the gym is very dated and doesn’t feel like a premium amenity for a hotel in this category.
The lounge offerings were limited, with short hours, and the quality fell far below what I’ve experienced at Sheraton Chapel Hill. That property isn’t extraordinary either, but in comparison, it’s night and day.
Funnily enough, I received two welcome emails from the hotel prior to arrival, neither mentioned the HVAC issues or any service limitations with the lounge. That would have been the perfect time to set expectations. Had I known, I likely would have booked at the Marriott or Delta just up the street.
Bottom line:
This hotel has potential but is in serious need of a comprehensive renovation and not just cosmetic updates. Unless you’re in a pinch, I wouldn’t stay here or recommend it.
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