Econo Lodge East Ridge

This hotel is widely regarded as an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a convenient and affordable stop, particularly road trippers and families on overnight journeys. Its signature feature is its strategic location right off the interstate, offering easy access for those passing through. Guests frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff as a major positive, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. While some aspects of the property are noted as basic, the overall consensus points to a good value for the price. For a smoother experience, guests with mobility concerns should inquire about ground-floor rooms, and it is advisable to bring earplugs if sensitive to highway noise.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides practical in-room amenities that enhance guest convenience, including a mini fridge, microwave, and a coffee maker. Guests appreciate the availability of parking directly adjacent to their rooms, making loading and unloading hassle-free. While Wi-Fi is offered, some guests reported it to be slow or unreliable at times. A recurring issue noted by several guests is the functionality of the ice machine, which is often reported as out of order, requiring guests to seek ice elsewhere. The property is also pet-friendly, accommodating furry companions for an additional fee, and the parking lot is generally well-lit, contributing to a sense of security.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. Many guests found their rooms to be clean and well-maintained, praising the overall tidiness. However, a significant number of reviews detail concerns such as stained sheets, moldy shower curtains, dust, and a persistent smoke smell in non-smoking rooms. Some guests also reported issues with the flooring feeling dirty. Regarding comfort, while many found the beds to be comfortable, a considerable portion described the mattresses as hard or worn, leading to discomfort. Highway noise is a consistent complaint, impacting sleep quality for some, and issues like loose toilets or non-functioning climate control were occasionally mentioned.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining offerings are quite limited, with many guests noting the absence of a full breakfast service despite some expectations. While hot coffee and juice are typically available in the lobby, a comprehensive breakfast with various food options is not provided. This often leads guests to seek meals elsewhere. Fortunately, the hotel's location is praised for its proximity to numerous restaurants and fast-food establishments, including popular chains, making it convenient for guests to find diverse dining choices within a short distance. There is no mention of in-room dining or a hotel bar.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient location for travelers, situated directly off the interstate, which allows for easy on and off access. This makes it an ideal stop for those on long drives. Guests appreciate its proximity to various restaurants and local attractions like Camp Jordan. However, the close proximity to the highway also means that traffic noise is a consistent factor, often audible from the rooms. While the location is generally considered safe, some guests found the entrance to the property somewhat challenging to locate, occasionally requiring navigation through another motel's parking lot. Parking is readily available and often allows guests to park directly outside their room.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with many guests highlighting their exceptional friendliness and helpfulness. Reviewers frequently commend the staff for their welcoming demeanor, attentiveness, and willingness to assist with requests, such as accommodating late check-outs or addressing room issues. The check-in process is often described as quick and efficient, contributing to a smooth arrival experience. While the vast majority of interactions are positive, a few isolated instances of less helpful or rude service were reported. Overall, the dedication of the staff to providing excellent service is a standout feature, significantly enhancing the guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel requires a refundable deposit, typically around one hundred dollars, upon check-in. While the property is advertised as non-smoking, some guests reported a lingering cigarette smoke smell in their rooms, indicating that the policy may not always be strictly adhered to. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with animals, though a specific pet fee is applied. Some guests experienced difficulty reaching the hotel by phone after their stay, particularly when attempting to inquire about lost items. Additionally, guests with mobility issues should confirm the availability of ground-floor rooms as some found themselves assigned to upper floors without elevator access.