Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Fairview Heights - St. Louis

This hotel offers a budget-friendly stay, often chosen for its convenient location and pet-friendly policy, particularly appreciated by guests traveling with animals due to the absence of carpet in rooms. It is a suitable option for road trippers and pass-through guests seeking a basic, clean, and quiet place to rest. While many guests find the staff to be friendly and helpful, some experiences indicate inconsistencies in service and room conditions. Budget-conscious travelers will find the affordability appealing, though managing expectations regarding amenities and noise levels is advisable. To enhance your stay, consider verifying specific amenities like the pool before booking and be prepared for a basic breakfast offering.

Facilities & Amenities
Most guests appreciate the presence of in-room microwaves and refrigerators, which add convenience to their stay. The parking lot is generally described as good and safe, providing peace of mind for those traveling by car. However, a significant and recurring point of dissatisfaction is the indoor pool, which is frequently advertised but reported by numerous guests to be permanently closed or under maintenance, often for several years. This discrepancy is a major letdown for guests who book specifically for pool access. While some guests found the Wi-Fi to be working well, others reported security warnings or issues with the connection. Some rooms are equipped with an alarm clock and extra plug-ins, though consistency varies. The AC unit in some rooms was noted to be noisy or ineffective, particularly during warmer periods.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is notably mixed. Many guests describe their rooms as clean and quiet, with some mentioning recently updated flooring. However, a significant number of reviews report issues such as stained sheets, dirty rooms, musty smells, and even sightings of roaches or bed bugs, leading to highly negative experiences for some. Bed comfort also varies, with some finding them comfortable while others describe them as hard, thin, or squeaky. Noise levels are a frequent complaint, with many guests noting thin walls that allow sounds from neighboring rooms or hallways to be easily heard, impacting sleep quality. While some rooms are described as spacious, many guests found the bathroom to be tiny, with limited space around the toilet and sometimes poor lighting in the shower.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a continental breakfast that receives varied feedback. Most guests describe it as basic, limited, or "on the lighter side," typically including items like waffles, cereal, toast, yogurt, and muffins. Some guests found the breakfast variety to be insufficient, with reports of runny eggs, lack of milk for cereal, or bad-tasting juice. The coffee quality also garnered mixed opinions, being described as good by some and horrible by others. While some guests found the breakfast acceptable for a quick start to the day, many opted to eat elsewhere due to the limited choices. The hotel's proximity to a popular local restaurant is often highlighted as a convenient alternative for dining.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently praised as one of its strongest attributes. Guests appreciate its easy access from the interstate and its proximity to various amenities. It is conveniently situated near a popular local restaurant, making dining options easily accessible on foot. The location is also noted for being close to shopping areas and other local attractions, providing convenience for both leisure and business travelers. The parking facilities are generally described as good and safe, contributing to a hassle-free experience for guests with vehicles. Many reviews highlight the hotel's position as a good base for exploring the surrounding area or as a convenient stop when passing through.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receives positive feedback, with many guests describing them as friendly, sweet, helpful, and accommodating. The check-in process is often noted as quick and seamless, contributing to a positive first impression. Guests appreciate the attentiveness of the staff in addressing requests, such as changing rooms when issues arise. However, some guests reported negative interactions, including instances of staff being rude, argumentative, or slow to appear at the front desk. There are also recurring mentions of a required deposit at check-in, which some guests found unexpected and reported as being slow to be refunded, causing frustration.

Additional Information
A frequently mentioned point of concern for guests is the deposit policy, with many reviews highlighting that a significant deposit is required at check-in and can take an extended period to be refunded, sometimes leading to disputes. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is a notable advantage for guests traveling with animals, especially since rooms are designed without carpet, minimizing pet odors. Many guests note that the property is older or outdated, though some rooms have received recent updates. There are also reports of Wi-Fi security warnings, suggesting potential issues with the network's certification. Guests frequently mention significant noise disturbances from neighboring rooms due to thin walls, indicating a challenge with sound insulation. Some guests also reported being charged an early check-in fee.