I actually stay here a few nights each month. Their staff is great. They had a flood a few months ago, and I agree,the odor was bad for awhile but is gone now. It is an older facility, and yes they'll be rebranding/renovating soon. Ask for upper floor in the 50's and you'll be ok- (aka 455/457 etc).
I like this property better than several brands near by, beds and bedding are excellent.
If you like Thai, Thai Fusion on Broadmoor is just a few blocks away and excellent.
I am staying here now.
Checkin was good, overall service good, room I am staying in very recently renovated (although somewhat shoddy workmanship from what I can see- with wallpaper [brand new] already peeling in the bathroom). New furniture. Bed OK however too soft for my liking- it is very new however.
Wireless internet fast and free for all guests.
No noise from nearby airport- as others have posted you can hear noise from the hallway- I fixed this (as I usually do) by putting a towel along the floor in front of the door- solved the majority of the problem.
Hotel seems very busy.
Last night had a dinner at a restaurant about 15 minutes drive away called "Grove" which was excellent- seafood- very good service and high quality food.
We had a drink after dinner in the restaurant/bar "Spinnaker" which badly needs updating (looks like a flashback to 1982) however has good service and a cold beer- also here very busy.
If you want to be near the airport- definitely an OK stay- while by no means would I put this on a list of "favorite"hotels there is nothing wrong with it at all and is a perfectly serviceable Hilton. The carpet on the ground floor needs to be changed. Given that the rate was $100 cheaper per room per night than the JW downtown I would say the hotel is also priced fairly for what it is and where it is in relation to the city of Grand Rapids.
FYI- parking is free, and it seems local calls are as well. Gold and Diamond members also get a voucher good for a free drink on checkin and are recognized. View however is of a parking lot so no need to bring your camera for panoramic photos.