Wanderoo Lodge

When I stayed a few weeks ago with my teenage daughter, it was just okay. The welcome was kind, and they explained how the electric door locks worked. It served its purpose, but I won't choose to stay there again. I travel to Eureka Springs every March and had considered the hotel before because it seemed fun, reasonably priced, and close to all the places I go.

We always make a stop here when we visit Eureka Springs, which is only a few minutes away by car. The rooms have a bit of age to them, but the cute vintage decor suits them. There’s a summer pool, and outside you can sit on the big porch or gather around the bonfire pit in Adirondack chairs. The bar and restaurant are a highlight too, with tasty food, a great atmosphere, and excellent live bands on weekends. It’s got what you need for a good weekend away.

We spent one night at Wanderoo and slept well, even though I usually prefer fluffier pillows. The mattress and linens were comfortable, and the hot shower was great. Our room was neat and very clean, with all the basics and a nice strong coffee. I was surprised that the highway noise didn’t bother us much overnight. Staff were warm and welcoming, and the bar kindly gave us some ice for our cooler when we left. There’s a nice outdoor firepit for gathering, and be sure to look through the little gift shop for one of the cleverly written T-shirts. We had drinks and heard live music at The Gravel Bar on a Monday, and thought it was a cool place. We’ll recommend Wanderoo and plan to come back.

I've stayed here twice, but this last visit was enough to put me off returning. The room smelled musty and the AC didn't do the job, though I was prepared to let that go. Then they charged me $20 because my wife washed her face with the wrong cloth. There wasn't a black rag in the room, and although we were told we should have asked for one, nobody was at the desk at check-in or checkout.