AmericInn by Wyndham Pequot Lakes/Jenkins

The suite's huge jacuzzi and gas fireplace made it hard to leave, and the beds were comfortable. We came for our anniversary, and for someone as picky about hotels as me, this place was just right. The lobby has a cozy fireplace and a big aquarium full of colorful fish. There's a small shop with sweatshirts, soda, chips, and pizzas they can cook for you. The pool area has a great pool table and the best hot tub I've tried, warm and spacious, with jets that are actually strong. I liked the lake and loon artwork on the walls, too. Outside, the grounds are lovely, with tall pines, a playground, horseshoes, volleyball, a firepit, and lawn chairs. There's also mini golf next door, though it was closed for the season. When we visited in summer, we enjoyed the little patio with tables, chairs, and a grill. The flowered archway and potted plants made it a peaceful spot for breakfast. Maybe the flowers were honeysuckle, I'm not sure. We'll be back next year. The owners know what they're doing.

That homemade chicken and pie at the walkable “ Ma and Pa’s” Restaurant across the street is a real plus. After trying similar hotels nearby, though, this one is easily my favorite. The staff are consistently friendly and helpful, and the whole place is so clean. The bedding feels up to date, with thick, comfortable mattresses, and the TVs are modern too. I'd choose it again even if that meant driving a little farther. I'm not going back to the other hotels.

Breakfast was much more than the usual toast and cereal boxes. There were biscuits and gravy, eggs, sausage links, breakfast potatoes, make-your-own waffles, breads, muffins, pastries, cereal, oatmeal, yogurt, hard-boiled eggs, fruit, coffee, milk, and juices. The little cafe looks out at bird feeders and a lovely view of nature. We were pleasantly surprised, though we're not hard to please. The room was nice overall, the staff gave us a friendly smile, and the TV was easy to use. If we're back in the area, we'd stay again.

We stayed for 10 nights with three very large dogs, and the manager made things easy by putting us in a suite at the end of the first floor, so walking the pups was simple. The hotel was clean and the staff were friendly. Our suite had its own hot tub, and the shared pool and hot tub were well kept. Parking worked great for our camper, too. Highly recommend it. Be sure to visit the Apine Restaurant across the entrance road.