Allyndale Motel

The woman at the desk was nice and respectful, and the yard is beautiful, with picnic tables and grills outside. There’s also a bike trail you can get onto right at the property. Pets aren’t allowed. My room was tiny and extremely hot, and it looked like it hadn’t been cleaned. It had a fridge and microwave but no coffee pot. I asked about upgrading to a bigger room, but couldn’t.

I know this old motel from previous stays, and the price is worth it if you’re not expecting a five-star hotel. My bed was clean, and the room had a microwave and mini fridge. There are plenty of things that could be updated, and the years when smoking was allowed in the rooms have left their marks. I’ve never had trouble with the rooms or staff. There was a small mix-up when I arrived, but the manager sorted it out. I don’t sweat the small things.

On both of my motorcycle trips through Duluth, I stayed here. It’s at the edge of town, but feels like the country, and the rooms themselves aren’t anything special. The place just feels like home. The front desk clerk was the only staff member I saw, and she was pleasant, helpful, and gracious. Downtown bars and restaurants are about a $14 Uber ride away.

The grounds are lovely and peaceful, with a little brook behind the rooms and a hiking trail. Freight trains are just up the hill, and you can hear I-35, but the birds, woods, lawns, critters, and wind in the trees make up for that. It’s a cute little place with old-school charm, friendly proprietors, a nice choice of postcards, and a free newspaper. The rooms have lots of windows to open for fresh air and the sounds of nature.