Tidy gardens lead guests to the main door, where a small vestibule extends into a cool and relaxing lobby. Decorated with stone tiles and dark wood, the lobby is kept bright by the natural light streaming through large skylights. Menus for the on-site restaurant, AG Inspired Cuisine, are available, and there are several cream-colored sofas and patterned chairs around the large central staircase leading to upstairs guest rooms. The reception desk is small and discreetly built into the wall. Most guests here are couples celebrating something special; though kids are welcome there isn't much for them to do.

Sterling Inn & Spa is located on an unattractive but quiet section of Magdalen Street, with restaurants and hotels on three sides and a nice-looking residential area on the other. Though the streets are rather bland and unappealing, it’s remarkably calm considering how close the hotel is to the heart of the Clifton Hill tourist district, which is only a few blocks away. This property is a safe and easy walk to Niagara Falls, as well as nearby attractions like the Skywheel, Casino Niagara, Fallsview Waterpark, and Rainbow Bridge.

Each room at the Sterling Inn & Spa is slightly different, but all are large, contemporary, and clean. Dark-wood bed frames, exposed beams, and wood floors set off crisp white linens and red touches. High ceilings and extra-large bathroom lend a luxurious vibe -- some rooms even feel like modern loft apartments. Traditional and deluxe rooms have either a whirlpool tub for two, or a large steam shower with rainfall showerhead. The huge two-room suites include a secluded sitting area. All rooms have a fireplace, wet bar, mini-fridge, coffeemaker, and free Wi-Fi. Many rooms overlook the parking lot -- kind of a downer in comparison to the romantic rooms.

The property itself is fairly small, but does include convenient amenities: a small business center with computer and printer, lackluster fitness center, and large downstairs room for private parties and events. A romantic spa provides a wide variety of treatments, including several different massages and body scrubs using refreshing ingredients. The most appealing feature is the on-site restaurant, AG Inspired Cuisine -- a modern, restaurant serving local wines and seasonal cuisine, mostly at tables draped in white linens for two. Free in-room breakfast -- with homemade granola, eggs, and croissants -- is served daily. The hotel is also close to a number of restaurants, shops, bars, and activities.