Best Western Holiday Lodge

This hotel is a popular choice for its convenient location just off the interstate and its unique feature of an attached restaurant, Bennigan's, which many guests appreciate for its convenience and quality. It is particularly well-suited for pet owners due to its accommodating policies and specific room features, as well as families and concert-goers attending events at the nearby Surf Ballroom, thanks to its shuttle service and family-friendly amenities. The hotel consistently receives praise for its generally clean environment and the helpfulness of its staff. For a more comfortable stay, guests might consider inquiring about rooms in the main building to avoid the annex, and it's advisable to check the status of the elevator upon arrival, as it can sometimes be out of service.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently highlight the convenience of the attached restaurant, Bennigan's, which offers a varied menu and the option for in-room dining. The hotel features an indoor pool that is often described as clean and a good size, providing a fun option for families, though some guests noted it was occasionally closed for repairs or lacked a hot tub. A fitness center is available and appreciated for its 24/7 access. The hotel also provides free Wi-Fi and readily available ice machines. For those traveling with pets, the dedicated pet relief area and rooms with direct outside doors are a significant advantage. The shuttle service to local attractions like the Surf Ballroom is a highly valued amenity, especially for event attendees. However, a recurring concern is the elevator, which is frequently reported as small, old, or out of order, posing a challenge for guests with luggage or mobility issues.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is generally positive, with many guests describing rooms as clean and comfortable. The beds are often praised for being exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few guests found them too firm. Rooms are typically well-maintained, and some are noted for their spacious layout. However, a significant number of reviews mention issues with smell, ranging from musty odors and old cigarette smoke to strong, sometimes overwhelming, deodorizers that can cause discomfort for sensitive guests. Some reports also indicate dirty carpets or general wear and tear, such as ceiling tiles in disrepair. Noise can be an issue, with mentions of loud heaters, thin walls allowing sound from neighbors, and significant train noise impacting sleep for some. There are also isolated reports of cold showers and non-functioning in-room appliances like refrigerators.

Dining & Food Quality
The attached restaurant, Bennigan's, is a standout feature, consistently praised for its convenience, good food quality, and varied menu. Many guests appreciate not having to leave the hotel for dinner, and the option for in-room dining is a welcome perk. The complimentary breakfast receives high marks for its variety and quality, often including hot options like eggs, sausage, and a popular pancake machine. Guests frequently commend the breakfast staff for keeping the area clean and well-stocked. While most feedback is positive, some guests found the breakfast items, such as eggs, to be cold, and a few noted that the coffee could be disappointing. The hotel also caters well to events, with the food quality for wedding receptions and other gatherings receiving positive comments.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major advantage, situated conveniently just off the interstate, making it an ideal stop for travelers. It offers easy access to popular local attractions, including the Surf Ballroom, Clear Lake, and Mason City, with many shops and dining options nearby. The availability of a shuttle service to the Surf Ballroom is particularly appreciated by concert-goers. Parking is generally ample, accommodating larger vehicles like RVs, though some guests found the layout confusing. A notable point of concern for some is the proximity to train tracks, leading to significant train noise that can be disruptive, especially for rooms in certain areas or the annex building.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receives high praise for being exceptionally friendly, helpful, courteous, and accommodating. Guests frequently highlight the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to assist with various requests, including room changes and luggage. Housekeeping is often commended for maintaining clean rooms and being responsive to guest needs. The maintenance staff is noted for being prompt and effective in addressing issues. Breakfast staff are frequently mentioned for their attentiveness in keeping food stocked and dining areas tidy. The event coordination team also receives positive feedback for their organization and support during special occasions. The shuttle service drivers are generally friendly and efficient, enhancing the overall guest experience, though one isolated incident noted a driver prioritizing personal acquaintances.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the hotel's unique layout, which includes an annex building separate from the main hotel. This annex, while sometimes offering rooms with convenient outside doors for pet policy guests, is older, lacks an elevator, and requires a longer walk through a tunnel, which some find inconvenient or musty. A recurring issue for some sensitive guests is the pervasive strong deodorizer smell throughout the property, which can be overwhelming. Despite being an older property, many reviews note that it has undergone remodeling and is generally well-maintained. The hotel is a popular venue for event hosting, including weddings and conferences, with dedicated staff and facilities. While generally considered a good value, some guests felt the room price was high given certain conditions. Some guests also expressed concerns about door security, particularly with outside-facing doors not feeling entirely secure.