Econo Lodge

This hotel is primarily noted for its convenient location right off the highway, offering easy access to local restaurants and stores, making it a frequent choice for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a quick stopover. However, guests overwhelmingly report significant concerns regarding the hotel's overall condition, frequently describing it as extremely run-down and in dire need of comprehensive updates. Recurring themes include pervasive issues with cleanliness, ranging from dirty rooms and stained linens to widespread pest infestations, particularly cockroaches and bed bugs. While some guests found the beds comfortable and appreciated the presence of air conditioning, many experienced considerable noise disturbances. The general consensus points to a property that falls far short of basic hospitality standards. To ensure a more comfortable stay, guests are strongly advised to bring their own cleaning supplies and to take extra precautions to secure their rooms.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a limited range of facilities and amenities, reflecting its budget-friendly nature. While some rooms are equipped with a mini-fridge and microwave, guests frequently report issues such as unplugged or moldy refrigerators, and a general lack of cleanliness within these appliances. The air conditioning units are noted to function, providing relief from heat, though their cleanliness is often questioned. Similarly, while televisions are present and generally work, some guests experienced signal issues. Free Wi-Fi is available, allowing guests to stay connected. However, the ice machines are consistently described as unclean, with reports of grime and mold. There is no mention of a swimming pool or fitness center, and some guests expressed a desire for a vending machine in the lobby for quick snacks and drinks. Basic amenities like an iron and ironing board are often absent from rooms.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The most significant and consistently reported concerns revolve around cleanliness and room comfort. Guests frequently describe rooms as filthy, disgusting, and extremely outdated, with many noting a pervasive musty smell or the odor of cigarettes. Common issues include stained sheets, towels, furniture, and pillows, often accompanied by hair and debris on surfaces. The bathrooms are a particular point of contention, with reports of dirty toilets, stained tubs, mold on bathmats and in showers, and sinks separating from walls. Pest infestations, specifically cockroaches and bed bugs, are widely reported, causing significant distress. Many rooms suffer from broken furniture, peeling wallpaper, and general disrepair. Noise is a frequent complaint, stemming from highway traffic, other guests, and malfunctioning air conditioning units, making a restful night's sleep challenging for many.

Dining & Food Quality
A consistent point of feedback regarding dining and food quality is the notable absence of breakfast service. Despite some guests expecting or hoping for a complimentary morning meal, reviews repeatedly confirm that no breakfast is provided, with some noting that this service has been suspended for an extended period, even prior to the pandemic. This lack of a breakfast offering is a frequent disappointment for travelers, particularly those seeking to save money on their journey. While there are no on-site restaurants or room service options mentioned, the hotel's location is often cited as being convenient to various local restaurants and fast-food establishments, allowing guests to find dining options nearby. Some guests also expressed a desire for a vending machine in the lobby for quick snacks, highlighting the limited on-site food availability.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as one of its primary advantages. Situated directly off the highway, it offers easy accessibility for travelers and is considered convenient for reaching various destinations. Guests appreciate its proximity to a wide array of local restaurants, fast-food establishments, and grocery stores, many of which are within walking distance. This makes finding dining options and essential supplies straightforward. The hotel is also noted for being close to downtown Utica and the train station, providing convenient access to the city's attractions and public transport. While the immediate surroundings are sometimes described as less appealing by some, the hotel's strategic position for travel and access to amenities remains a frequently praised aspect of the guest experience.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding staff and service is notably mixed, with guests reporting a range of experiences. Some guests commend individual staff members, particularly at the front desk, describing them as friendly, polite, helpful, and accommodating, especially when assisting with last-minute room requests or addressing specific issues like a broken door. These positive interactions often highlight a willingness to go "above and beyond" for certain guests. However, a significant number of reviews detail highly negative experiences, citing rude and unprofessional behavior from staff. Complaints include staff entering rooms without permission, a lack of apologies for substandard conditions, and unhelpful responses to serious concerns like pest infestations. The check-in process is sometimes described as slow or rigid, with some guests finding staff unaccommodating regarding early check-ins.

Additional Information
Several additional points of information are frequently mentioned by guests, offering further insight into the hotel experience. A deposit is often required upon check-in, which some guests reported issues with regarding its timely return. The hotel enforces a strict check-in time, with staff often unwilling to allow guests into their rooms even a few minutes early, regardless of room readiness. There are also reports of a minimum age requirement for check-in, with some guests under 21 being turned away. Guests frequently note the absence of basic in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, or ironing board. Safety concerns are raised by the condition of electrical outlets, which are sometimes pushed into walls, and the lack of functional emergency locks or telephones in rooms, with some doors not automatically locking.