I recently spent 5 nights at the 500 West. Until this hotel cleans up its hallways, elevators, bathrooms, and homeless policies, I'll never suggest it to anyone. I was attracted to the place because of the low rates, but I would have much rather spent twice as much if it meant actually sleeping peacefully. The street noise kept me up at night, as did non-guests sauntering through the hallways asking for money.
The bathrooms were disgusting. I was so happy to make it home to take a real shower to clean off the 500 West nasties!
By the way, it's not really in the heart of the gas lamp district as they advertise.
Stay away!