Magnuson Hotel Fowlerville

Magnuson Hotel Fowlerville has become a regular stop on my Maryland to East Lansing drives. I've stayed there about four times a year for the last seven years, and I always make a point of returning. The family running it are pleasant, professional, and clearly take pride in the place. The cheerful woman who seems to lead the family is especially lovely to chat with, and they make sure you have what you need. It's an affordable spot just off the freeway, convenient for the Lansing area and places south. The rooms are clean and practical, with a fridge, microwave, TV with internet, and coffee maker. I've paid twice as much elsewhere and gotten less. I've stayed in more than 50 hotels, and this one is in my top three. I honestly look forward to both the stay and talking with the family.

The room was comfortable and clean, and the towels and trash were taken care of regularly during our week in Fowlerville visiting family. We'd read mostly poor reviews, so the stay was a pleasant surprise. The decor, furniture, and walls are dated and imperfect, which didn't bother us since it's a budget hotel. The AC worked well, the shower stayed hot, and when the TV stopped working, they fixed it right away, even though it was midnight. We had no problems and found it an affordable, clean, comfortable place with good service.

From the highway it looked almost deserted, and the reviews had made me unsure, but we decided to pull in anyway. It was open, the front desk staff were friendly and polite, and the rooms were clean with comfortable beds. There was plenty of parking space for my semi even with a 12-foot-wide load. We also got Chinese food from a nearby carryout-only place, and it was really good.

My friends and I were out walking when a box stalker called, "Hey fellas, come here." We didn't trust a stranger and said no, but then they came out and chased us.