Econo Lodge

I picked this motel because I was in town for racing and wanted to park by the door while unloading heavy tools from my car. The photos and reviews made the Econo Lodge look like a good fit, and the renovation seemed decent for a two-star chain. The bed was comfortable and my wife and I slept well until morning, when she screamed at the huge roach on the wall. Neither of us had ever seen one that big. It didn't look like something that had just wandered in, and it seemed to have been thriving there. I called the front desk and was told we'd get a full refund. After we checked all our belongings and packed the car, an employee said only the remaining nights would be refunded and that I had to see the manager after 10 or 11am. I couldn't, since I'd be at the track, so I called. A different woman, who was friendly and understanding, said the manager wasn't there but she'd handle it and I should receive a refund. The motel has potential, but both the property and staff need work. My wife used to work for a Choice Hotel and told me about the satisfaction guarantee. The first employee should have known the policy, but apparently didn't. I set my hotel expectations according to price and star rating, and this one did meet the basic two-star standard apart from that experience.

For what it cost, the stay wasn't too bad. The shower only let out a tiny amount of hot water, so I ended up with a lukewarm shower. There was a spider and web in the corner, and daylight showed around the closed outside door. Aside from those issues, the staff were friendly and the bed was reasonably comfortable. I'd probably stay again.

I paid $39.99 through a prepaid deal, so the low price is part of why this was a good stop. I just needed a bed and roof, and the clean, roomy room had a fridge, good TV, and parking right outside the door. Since the motel is all one level, there was no noise from above. Breakfast wasn't great, but for $40 I wasn't too bothered, and there's a Waffle House down the street. Check-in and checkout were quick, and the staff were courteous. A good stay overall.

The outside looks old, but inside the rooms were spotless and newly remodeled. I got one for $49 including tax and fees, which is hard to beat. It's clean and very affordable, and I'd stay here again.