Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portsmouth

This hotel offers a memorable stay, distinguished by its retro decor and recently renovated rooms that provide a fresh, inviting atmosphere. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's exceptional cleanliness, the comfort of its beds, and the outstanding friendliness of its staff, all contributing to its reputation as a great value. It is particularly well-suited for budget-conscious travelers seeking a clean and comfortable base, couples on a getaway, and families visiting the area, including those with connections to UNH. To enhance your experience, consider requesting a room away from the highway if you are a light sleeper, and be aware of the breakfast limitations.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of convenient in-room amenities, including a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker, which guests appreciate for added comfort during their stay. While a fitness center is available, some guests have noted its limited equipment, with some machines not always in working order. Free Wi-Fi is provided, ensuring guests can stay connected. The hotel also features a guest laundry room for convenience. However, the ice machines have received mixed feedback, with some guests reporting them to be out of order or having cleanliness issues. The elevator is functional but could benefit from a cosmetic upgrade.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests overwhelmingly praise the hotel's immaculate cleanliness, describing rooms as spotless, bright, and well-maintained. The beds are frequently mentioned as being very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most. The room decor is a standout feature, with many enjoying the unique, modern take on a retro style. Rooms are generally described as spacious and well-arranged. However, feedback on bathrooms is mixed; while often clean, some fixtures are noted as dated, and issues such as low water pressure, lack of grab bars, and insufficient towel racks have been reported. Noise levels can vary, with some guests experiencing hallway noise or traffic noise from the nearby highway, though many find the rooms generally quiet.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast receives mixed reviews, often described as basic and limited. While it includes staples like yogurt, cereal, toast, bagels, and microwaveable breakfast sandwiches, many guests express a desire for more variety, such as hot food options, a waffle maker, or fresh fruit. The breakfast area itself is frequently noted as being very small and can become crowded, making for an uncomfortable dining experience for some. Despite these limitations, the coffee is generally well-regarded, and the presence of a diner within walking distance is a popular alternative for a more substantial meal.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is highly convenient for travelers, offering easy access to major highways, particularly I-95. While it is a short drive to downtown Portsmouth, typically around 10 minutes, walking to the city center can take about 25-45 minutes, making a car or ride-sharing service often necessary for exploring the area. Guests appreciate its proximity to local attractions and other towns like Kittery and Hampton Beach. Parking is generally ample and free, though some guests have noted that the rear parking area can be challenging or non-existent at times.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight positive interactions with front desk personnel and breakfast attendants, who are noted for going above and beyond to assist. The check-in process is generally described as quick and smooth, with staff often accommodating early arrivals when possible. While most experiences are positive, some guests have reported mixed encounters, including instances of unhelpful staff regarding in-room issues or initial check-in experiences. However, the overall sentiment points to a dedicated team committed to guest satisfaction, often resolving issues like key card malfunctions or room changes effectively.

Additional Information
The hotel's distinctive retro look and vibrant decor are frequently mentioned as a unique and enjoyable aspect of the stay. However, guests should be aware of the incidental charge applied to credit cards upon check-in, which some find inconvenient as it can take several business days to be refunded. A recurring issue noted by guests is the frequent malfunction of door key cards, often requiring multiple trips to the front desk for re-activation. Some guests have also reported issues with in-room televisions being outdated or not fully functional. Additionally, while the hotel strives for a peaceful environment, some guests have experienced noise from other occupants in the hallways.