Howard's Motel

Glendo gets packed every summer when people come for the lake, even though the town only has about 300 people. I was there for the state 4 H competition, and for two nights the price came to around $160 with tax and a military discount, so I'd stay again. The room was basic, clean, and cooled nicely by the AC. Direct TV had a decent selection, though the TV was tiny but usable. The pillows weren't good, so bring your own or something to add support. They don't serve breakfast, but you can buy burritos and other things at the gas station, where you also check in. It closes around 9 pm, depending on the day. There's no ice machine, but they'll give you a bag of ice if you ask.

There's no breakfast, which makes the stay feel a bit expensive. Still, everything went smoothly when I checked in and got my keys at the Sinclair gas station. My room was spacious and clean, and despite being between Interstate 25 and the railroad tracks, there was hardly any noise.

The motel itself was clean and very good, which we liked during our one-night stop with my family on the way to Yellowstone. But the two older staff members' treatment of me felt racist and was atrocious. There isn't an office, so I called before arriving and was told someone would bring the keys to our room. We waited outside, then someone shouted from the Sinclair gas station right next door and rudely told us to get the keys there. I was just a regular traveler checking in, and I didn't like the way they treated me. Those two old hags seem to think they can behave this way toward people of color. If this had happened in California, they would have been beaten to death for it.

My boss put me up here and apologized for sending me to a dive. He didn't need to, the room was super clean and comfortable, and one of the nicest motel rooms I've had the pleasure of staying in. Nothing fancy, but I'd choose this over a national chain any day.