Thunderbird Motor Inn Elko

The room was fine and we slept well, and it was quiet. Parking is tight if you're in a big vehicle, and don't back into the pool area. The rating could've been better if housekeeping hadn't left a shopping bag in the bedside table with headphones, a red lace thong, a curling iron, and more. That's housekeeping 101.

The room was comfortable and spacious, though not completely clean. It could work well as a long-term place for traveling workers. There's a coffee maker, mic, and fridge, plus a decent TV with several channels. Breakfast is better than average, with protein options. Dogs are allowed for $20 a night. The motel sits right in the middle of Elko's action, close to I-80, gas stations, and places to eat.

The pillows were awful, lumpy, and smelled like old man scalp. The shampoo was so watered down that it took five washes and rinses to get a lather on my short, work-dirty hair. The TV remote powered the TV on and off and controlled volume, but I could watch only one channel. For a budget stay, the price is great in this economy, and the hotel is cool. They should've made more of its mid-Century vibe. The room was average clean with no strange odors. The bathroom was clean too, and the carpet, clearly made from leftover scraps from the carpet store, appeared mostly clean. It'll do if you're on a budget, but if you expect at least Comfort Inn level, you'll be fairly disappointed.

The added protein options at breakfast were appreciated, but the waffle maker was dirty and the pancake batter was runny and a day old. The rooms were 80-90% clean and acceptably comfortable. Planes landing overhead were loud, as were cars on the main road in the evening. I loved the classic feel and walkable location. The murals and vintage signs in the old town area are darling. For the price, it was what you'd expect. Nobody would expect five stars.