Finding a place to crash in the northern suburbs of Cincy can feel like a game of "spot the difference" between endless beige hallways. If you’re looking at The Blu Hotel Blue Ash Cincinnati, you’ve probably noticed it stands out a bit from the standard corporate cookie-cutters. It’s part of the Ascend Hotel Collection by Choice Hotels, which basically means it tries to keep a "boutique" vibe while having the backing of a massive brand.
Honestly, it’s a weirdly specific spot. It is tucked right off Reed Hartman Highway.
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You’re about 20 minutes north of downtown, but you’re actually closer to the action at Kings Island or the massive corporate campuses that dominate this part of the woods. People book it because it doesn’t feel like a soulless transit hub. There’s some actual character here.
What is the Blu Hotel Blue Ash Cincinnati Actually Like?
The first thing you’ll notice is that it’s not a massive skyscraper. It is a three-story, interior-corridor building. It was originally built in 1987, but don't let that date scare you off. It went through some major facelifts, most notably a big pivot to the "Blu" branding that brought in more modern aesthetics—think bright open spaces and furniture that doesn't look like it was salvaged from an 80s law office.
There are only 50 rooms. That’s small.
Because it’s small, the staff usually knows who you are. The lobby is the heart of the place, designed with an atrium style that lets in a lot of light. There’s a long common table there which is kinda perfect if you’re one of those people who needs to work on a laptop but hates being stuck in a room.
Speaking of rooms, they aren't cramped. We're talking Egyptian cotton sheets and actual workspace. Most rooms come with a fridge and microwave, which is a lifesaver if you’re staying for more than a night and don't want to eat out every single meal.
Breaking Down the Amenities
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what you get for your money.
- The Pool: It’s seasonal and outdoors. If you’re here in January, it’s a no-go. But in the humid Ohio summer? It's a solid perk.
- Breakfast: They call it a "gourmet" coffee and hot continental breakfast. It’s better than a cold cereal bar, but don't expect a five-star brunch. It gets the job done.
- Connectivity: They claim 100+ Mbps WiFi. In the world of hotel internet, that’s actually fast enough to stream a movie without the dreaded buffering circle.
- Gym: There is a fitness center on-site. It’s basic, but it exists.
One thing to keep in mind is the "Blu" name can be confusing. People often mix it up with the "Blu Restaurant & Bar" located in the nearby Embassy Suites. To be clear: the Blu Hotel is its own standalone boutique property under the Ascend flag. It doesn't have a full-service internal restaurant for dinner, but it’s surrounded by some of the best food in the Cincinnati suburbs.
Why Location Matters in Blue Ash
Blue Ash isn't just a random suburb; it’s a massive business hub. If you’re at The Blu Hotel Blue Ash Cincinnati for work, you’re likely minutes away from companies like Kroger, P&G, or Ethicon.
But if you’re here for fun, you’re in a strategic spot.
Summit Park is basically in your backyard. It’s a 130-acre park on the site of the old airport. It’s got an observation tower that gives you views all the way to downtown and Kings Island. On the weekends, it’s packed with food trucks and people hitting the trails.
If you want to head into the city, you’re right between I-75 and I-71. You can be at the Great American Ball Park for a Reds game or at the Zoo in about 20-25 minutes, depending on how much the "Malfunction Junction" traffic decides to hate you that day.
Surprising Details and Common Misconceptions
People often think "boutique" means "expensive." At the Blu Hotel, that's not always the case. Prices often hover around the $100-$130 mark, which is competitive for the area.
Another weird detail: the property uses a greywater recycling system. It’s a bit of an eco-friendly touch you don’t usually see in older suburban builds.
One thing that trips people up is the check-in. They don't typically offer after-hours check-in without prior arrangement, so if you're rolling in at 3:00 AM after a flight delay, you definitely want to call ahead. The front desk isn't always a 24-hour party, though there is usually someone reachable.
Is it Right for You?
Look, if you want a massive resort with five restaurants and a spa, this isn't it. But if you’re tired of the same three hotel chains and want something that feels a bit more "local" without losing the reliability of a big brand, it hits the mark.
It’s great for:
- Business travelers who need fast WiFi and a quiet desk.
- Families heading to Kings Island (it’s about a 12-minute drive).
- People who actually want a room with a microwave and fridge that doesn't feel like a dorm room.
The rooms are spacious—around 450 to 550 square feet for the suites. That’s a lot bigger than what you’d get for the same price in downtown Cincinnati.
Actionable Insights for Your Stay
If you decide to book, here is how to make the most of it:
- Ask for a pool view: If you're there in the summer, the rooms facing the garden and pool area feel a bit more relaxed than the ones facing the parking lot.
- Skip the hotel coffee once: Head over to Fretboard Brewing Company nearby if you want a local vibe in the evening, or Sleepy Bee Cafe for a breakfast that’ll beat any continental buffet.
- Check the Tower: If you have an hour to kill, go to the Observation Tower at Summit Park. It’s free and legitimately one of the best views in Hamilton County.
- Watch the Remotes: Some guests have noted the TV navigation can be a bit clunky. If you’re planning a movie night, maybe bring a HDMI cable for your laptop just in case.
Ultimately, The Blu Hotel Blue Ash Cincinnati is a solid, middle-of-the-road choice that punches above its weight in terms of style and space. It’s a reliable anchor for anyone exploring the northern side of the Queen City.
Check your travel dates against the Bengals or Reds home schedules, as prices in the entire Blue Ash area tend to spike when there's a home game or a massive event like the Western & Southern Open. Secure your booking at least three weeks out to snag the better rates under the Choice Privileges program.