Super 8 by Wyndham Flagstaff

The room was roomy and the bed was comfortable, and I’d stay again if I could get an upstairs room. We were right by the stairs and a restroom, with what sounded like about ten kids running around above us and racing up and down the stairs. The noise started up again before 5 a.m. That’s not entirely on the hotel, but it made for a rough night after a 12-hour drive, especially with another 12 hours ahead the next day. That’s why I gave it three stars.

Breakfast was the one letdown: just dry goods, bread and cereal, with yogurt as the only protein. Our room by the side entrance and vending machine was a bit noisy, though it made loading and unloading easier with our pet carrier. The place is pet-friendly and neither the room nor the rest of the hotel smelled of animals. It’s right off the Interstate but far enough from it that traffic didn’t bother us. The front desk attendant was friendly, welcoming, empathetic, and easygoing. After driving 660 miles across the Southwest toward California, I’d hoped to stay here the day before, and the clean room, super-comfy beds, and good night’s sleep didn’t disappoint. It was a great stay, and I hope to come back for more nights while exploring the area.

They were able to give us a first-floor room, which mattered since we’re elderly and there’s no elevator, and they also let us check in early. The hotel was a pleasant surprise, clean and well cared for. Our room had decent space and shelves in the closet area for storage, and the bathroom worked fine. The shower took a little while to get hot, and the mattress felt too firm and thin for us, so I rated it four.

The front desk staff were friendly and helpful, and the room was clean. But if you need to actually sleep, I wouldn’t pick this place. We were right by the entrance, so every person coming or going woke us, and there was more noise from people at the vending machine. Cars, trucks, and trains kept going all night. Did I mention the train? It ran several times overnight. I got zero sleep. The bed had a sheet and a blanket as thin as a napkin, and the pillows were really lumpy.