Magnuson Hotel Jacksonville Downtown

The best thing was the low nightly rate. It was also handy for downtown one way and the business district the other. Beyond that, I wouldn’t call the stay good. My room key expired every day, so I had to return to the desk for a reset, and staff said several other guests had the same issue. There was old coffee in the maker, the bathroom door was decaying, and the tub had old stains and a mat that looked years overdue for replacement. The sink handle was loose, the hot and cold directions on the tub were reversed, and the bathroom switches worked opposite to what you’d expect: the one nearer the bathroom lit the sink, the other lit the bathroom, and down meant on. The fridge and microwave had rust on the outside, on the front door and microwave top, not inside. One side of the bed sagged, the non-smoking room smelled smoked in, and the towels barely absorbed water. The hair dryer was so weak I was glad I brought my own. The floor was very dirty, enough to show on my socks, and I didn’t dare go barefoot. Sink water smelled like it had gone through a sewage plant, so I bought bottled water. The area by the stairs to the second floor smelled like skunk spray the whole four-night stay; the stairs are deteriorating, and the outdoor lighting is dim enough that you have to watch your step after dark. The outside trash can was overflowing. There’s little parking in front, though plenty behind the hotel, reached through a narrow one-way-at-a-time driveway. Traffic is noisy because the hotel is beside a business road and near the I-95 entrance. I brought a fan for white noise, and it helped. The small dining room stays locked except for the three hours breakfast is served. The selection is very small, but what was available was fine. Calling this a two-star hotel is an insult to the number two.

The staff were lovely, especially the two women I dealt with at the front desk, and the bar next door is a hidden gem for food and drinks. I’d stop there again if I came back to town. The hotel, though, was in much worse shape than advertised, and most of the photos aren’t of it. My shower was covered in mold, and I found mold in my apple juice at breakfast. I’m pretty sure I need a tetanus shot after staying there. Worst catfish of my life.

The location right by I-95 is convenient, and the staff were pretty friendly. The room still wasn’t worth it. There were orange spots on the bedding and cockroaches, and I had the worst sleep of my life. I didn’t feel comfortable taking off my clothes or showering. All night, nonstop, I heard something from the bathroom that sounded like knocking or banging. I wouldn’t recommend it.

For what it costs, the room is surprisingly nice and clean. The bed is comfortable and the AC works great. A few small things need attention: the power outlets are loose enough that my phone charger fell out. They even have smoking rooms. All in all, good value for the price.