Motel 9 University-Downtown

I got into town at 10:45 at night after a three-hour drive. I’d originally booked a 5-star hotel, but the card on file was declined, so I needed a budget-friendly option I could pay for myself. The night clerk was courteous and helpful on the phone, and when I arrived, she even made sure I had an iron and ironing board for my business meeting the next morning. The motel reminded me of a 1980s Motel 6, but the room had what I needed in a pinch. The bed was comfortable and clean, the room was clean enough, and the residents I met in the office were polite. It’s definitely not the Hilton, but at this price you can’t expect that atmosphere. All in all, a great stay.

My mini fridge worked, but the microwave didn’t, there was no phone or iron, and the hair dryer was broken. I didn’t even try the coffee maker. There was also a hole about 3 by 4 feet in the ceiling above the toilet. I avoided the bathroom the whole time, kept the door shut, and used friends’ bathroom nearby. I was there for three days and two nights and didn’t spend much time in the room because of business, so it took a while to notice everything. When I told the man at the front desk about the problems, he said he’d come check, but never showed up. He only came back five minutes before checkout to say it was time to leave or pay for another night. I won’t stay here again or recommend it.

Our car broke down right next to the place, so I was relieved that the room and sheets looked and smelled clean. There wasn’t a bug in sight, thank goodness. The night clerk was attentive at check-in, and the day clerk was polite when we checked out, though we only spoke briefly. The shower had plenty of hot water, it was quiet, and we slept well. For the price, it was a great stay.

It’s handy for the University and the hospital, and that’s about all I can say for it. I’ve stayed twice, about a year apart, and it was shabby both times. They still offer breakfast, but it’s gone from cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, juice, and coffee to just cereal and sometimes coffee. The staff aren’t rude, but they seem to be going through the motions. The price is high for the quality of service.