Hotel Check: EVEN Hotel Omaha Downtown

WHERE IS IT? In the downtown area, the hotel is convenient to office buildings, the Old Market shopping and dining district, and TD Ameritrade Park. Many rooms enjoy great views of the downtown skyline. A free shuttle takes guests to the airport and anywhere within a three-mile radius of the hotel.

WHAT’S IT LIKE?EVEN is unique in its focus on well-being and life balance for travelers. Following plentiful research, IHG wanted to create a brand centered around four pillars: staying active, eating well, getting a sound rest, staying productive. Everything in the hotel is geared around these principles. Guest rooms have fitness equipment for those who don’t have time for a full gym workout (there’s an impressive gym here too) and high-quality bedding with both soft and firm pillows. Boosted Internet speeds and public co-working space are meant to help guests achieve maximum productivity during their stay. The lobby also has table tennis, games and a great bar and grab-and-go restaurant focused on healthy light bites when it’s time to relax. Clever quotes line the walls throughout the hotel instead of more traditional artwork, which adds a light-hearted feel to the design.

ROOM FACILITIES In a cheeky nod to the brand name, there are no odd-numbered rooms at the hotel. All have high ceilings and large king beds with bedside power outlets and eucalyptus linens. Blackout shades on the windows are another essential for sound rest. Each floor has an ice and water station, and guest rooms come with a reusable, take-home water bottle. I appreciated that Keurig coffeemakers and refrigerators are in all rooms, and a microwave is available in the lobby. My room had two work desks (including one in a corner nook facing the Omaha skyline) as well as a stand-up working option. The hallmark of the room (besides a huge TV and great wireless Internet) is the workout equipment including sanitized yoga mats, core-strengthening equipment like balance balls, resistance bands, and in many rooms an exercise bike. This is great for those who prefer the personal privacy of an in-room workout. Workout videos are also available on the TV system. Bathrooms feature rainfall showers, Beekman 1801 toiletries and bright mirrors.

RESTAURANTS AND BARS Cork & Kale is the health-focused, tapas-style café in the lobby. It’s a grab and go concept, and there are also drinks and snacks on offer. During the evening hours, a full bar with craft cocktails and local beer on tap is a popular stop before or after heading to the Old Market for great dining.

LEISURE FACILITIES One level above the lobby is an impressive gym facility. Rather than focusing on equipment from one brand, it features the best machinery from each major brand with a large selection of free weights and cardio machines. Guests seem to like that the gym is visible from the lobby, which reminds travelers of the wellness focus of EVEN. There’s also a separate room with spin bikes and on-demand video instruction. An indoor swimming pool proves especially popular with families.

BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES Free wireless Internet is available everywhere in the hotel, and power outlets are next to each seat in the lobby. Several meeting rooms provide space for small to medium-sized groups.

VERDICT At a time when people are working remotely while balancing home life and sometimes home schooling, the EVEN brand shines with a focus on all the things you want to stay productive and healthy. Add IHG Rewards Club points to the mix, and it’s a winner.

HOW MANY ROOMS? 132 rooms and suites

PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS Walking distance to Old Market shopping and dining; impressive focus on personal well-being and health at this pet-friendly property.

PRICE Internet rates for a traditional room start at $89

CONTACT 2220 Farnam Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68102, Phone 402-345-3836. ihg.com/evenhotels