Peppermill Empress Inn

Nothing about the stay really stood out, but everything went smoothly and the room was clean, which mattered most. It was well kept, and the bed was on the firm side but comfortable. Check-in and checkout were easy, and the price felt fair for the amenities. I’d be happy to come back if the rates stay competitive.

The only real letdown was the coffee. It was weak enough to taste more like water. Everything else made this a surprisingly good stay for a 2-star hotel. I travel a lot, and the front desk attendant welcomed me warmly and took time to answer my questions. The room and bathroom were spotless, spacious, and quiet, even though the hotel is near a highway. I was alone in a queen bed and didn’t hear road or neighbor noise. The thick, fluffy towels were a nice touch, and the shampoo and conditioner were much better than I expected. My hair stayed shiny all day. Breakfast was better than I expected for a free meal at this price, though, as you’d expect in America, most of it was typical junk food. I liked the pancake machine and the healthier boiled eggs, since I try to avoid sugar and eat clean. I paid $160.98 after tax for a Saturday night in peak summer and felt it was worth it. I’d stay again and recommend it to anyone wanting a clean, quiet, budget-friendly place.

The soap they gave us was about the size of a quarter. I spent 2 nights here, and for such a low-quality hotel it felt both expensive and cheap. The place reminded me of a qhetto motel, without the kind of service I’ve had at other places.

The front desk staff were very friendly and efficient, though the young blonde working breakfast always seemed to have a scowl. Breakfast had plenty to choose from: muffins, bagels with cream cheese and jam, fruit cups, cereal, yogurt, coffee with lots of creamer or milk options, mini pancakes, string cheese, tea, hot chocolate, and orange and apple juice. Our room was clean, with no grimy grout or tiles. The mirror was oddly placed, partly behind the TV, and the 32-inch set seemed too small for the distance from the bed. A bright LED streetlight outside our room lit it up too much at night. The air conditioner and bathroom fan were very loud and need repair or replacement. The walls are thin, so we heard people talking and neighboring AC units rumbling and vibrating. There was some traffic overnight, and an altercation in the parking lot at 3am. Bring earplugs.