Howard Johnson by Wyndham Williams

The room was clean, modern, and updated, and the price was decent. Staff were nice, and it’s an easy walk to Grand Canyon Railway (Polar Express). I’d stay here again as a base for future trips to the Grand Canyon and nearby attractions. One small drawback, the mini-fridge had no freezer compartment for refreezing ice packs for a cooler. There are ice machines, but the signs say not to use them to fill coolers.

Breakfast was simple but nicely done, with a clean, well-stocked area and plenty of seats. There was a waffle station, donuts, muffins, toast, yogurt, fresh apples, oranges and bananas, juices, fresh coffee, and a hot chocolate machine with two choices. Our kids also loved the clean, well-maintained indoor pool and hot tub, and used both on each of our two days. We stayed at Howard Johnson by Wyndham Williams for two nights, and our room was clean, comfortable, and in good condition. Henry and his wife were welcoming, kind hosts who clearly take pride in the property and its friendly atmosphere. Veronica, the night clerk, was helpful, professional, and friendly too. The whole visit felt easy and relaxing, with nothing negative to say about the room or property. We’d gladly return and recommend it to families or anyone visiting Williams.

The hot tub was hot, which was nice, but the pool photos have been touched up and don’t show what the pool room really looks like. The breakfast room is tiny and cramped, packed all morning, and the food was low quality. There was rotten fruit in the bowl. The place felt dirty and gloomy. There are two separate buildings, and only one connects to the lobby, pool, and breakfast area, so ask for a room in that building if you don’t want to walk outside. Neither building has an elevator, so expect to carry your things upstairs or request a first-floor room. I wouldn’t stay here.

I asked the older man at the front if I could inspect the room before paying, especially to check the bed, pillows, and sheets for cleanliness and bed bugs. He seemed upset when I looked closely through the pillows and sheets, which made me feel like he had something to hide. The sheets were stained, and it looked like someone had tried to cover it up. I also saw a bug when I walked in, though I don’t know what kind it was. I’m glad we didn’t stay. If you want a nice, clean room, don’t come here.