Benton Place Inn

The location downtown was ideal, within walking distance of the shops and restaurants. My own room was quite nice, and the owner was very kind and helpful when I spoke with her several times. Still, I gave the inn three stars because the owners seemed unaware of the property's condition. My sister and her husband got a terrible room: it was dirty, the balcony couldn't be used, and broken tiles and moss made the sidewalks and stairs to the second floor downright dangerous. I also left a dress behind. The caretaker repeatedly said she'd mail it, and I told her I understood it was my fault and she didn't owe me anything. But she kept me waiting for over a month and never sent it. A simple no would've been fine.

We returned to the Benton Place 30 years after our honeymoon there, when Rebecca was running it. Back then she had pastries and mimosas ready for guests. This time there weren't any of those extras, and we left a little disappointed. The place badly needs updates. The carpet was so stained and gross that I didn't want to take my shoes off. It's got so much potential, which makes seeing it neglected a shame.

We stayed in the Benton room for our anniversary and loved it. The host maria was sweet and quick to respond, and the room was spotless, huge, and welcoming. The tub was enormous, too. I'm 6"4 and usually have trouble fitting in a tub, but this one worked perfectly for my wife and me. You're just steps from main Street and all the shops and restaurants, yet the place felt peaceful because it's tucked onto a quiet side street. I can't recommend it enough.

The Benton suite itself was nice, with a great tub for two, and we weren't bothered during the stay. It was mostly clean, though there were a few spider webs near the ceiling. No breakfast or pastries, and I didn't see anyone on the property all weekend. It felt like we were just renting a room, and I think you can get more for a $700 three-night stay in eureka. The full-size coffee maker came with only single-serve hotel coffee packets, so it was basically useless. I also asked in advance about having a package delivered and was assured it'd be fine. When I checked in, it was in the room, opened and apparently resealed with clear packing tape, even though it had originally been secured with brown tape. Do I know they opened it? No. Have I ever received a package like that? No. It left me thinking they may have been snooping to see what I'd ordered.