Aspen Inn

The rooms were clean, the price was reasonable, and breakfast had yogurt, bagels, cereal, packaged pastries, juice, and coffee. I also loved the Smart TVs, since being able to watch Netflix and Hulu is a big perk you rarely get at hotels. The beds were springy and not great, though, and the hot tub was broken with no sign it would be fixed soon. They charged both my room and my family member's room to my card on arrival, even though I didn't want them to use it and had been told I would pay at checkout. We stayed with several family members. I booked because Aspen Inn was one of the only pet-friendly options in Grand Marais at the time. A few days before we arrived, they told me the policy had changed, but said I could still bring my dog because I had booked before the change. It's conveniently located at the Grand Marais city limits off Highway 61. Since they no longer allow pets, I don't think we'll stay again.

For the price, it's a nice little place, and I'll definitely stay here again. I'm here to hike, so I don't need a fancy resort. The rooms are very clean, the bathrooms work, and the stay was pleasant. Some cheap hotels have terrible showers, but Aspen's was fine.

With a bit more attention, this could be a decent budget stay in an expensive tourist town. Staff did respond when we asked for an extra pillow and towels, but I wouldn't book again without seeing the room first. The pool and spa had been unavailable for quite a while, including when my husband stayed a couple of months earlier, so Aspen should remove them from its website as amenities. Breakfast was limited and just okay. I'd skip the fresh fruit: my apple was mushy and my orange was starting to rot. The bedding looked clean, but much of the room didn't. The windowsills, headboards, and nightstands seemed not to have been cleaned or dusted for a long time. The rug was filthy, there was a lingering odor, and there was more dirt than a couple of days' worth, even allowing for the gravel lot and open windows. The bathroom door wouldn't shut, either.

For a budget inn, it was fine for the price. Mitchell, the manager, was especially wonderful and helpful with everything. She went above and beyond, and I really appreciated it.