Motel 6 The Dalles, OR

This hotel is frequently praised for offering surprisingly updated and clean rooms for a budget-friendly option, often described as one of the best of its brand. It provides great value, making it an ideal choice for road trippers and budget-conscious travelers seeking a comfortable stopover. Its pet-friendly policy is a significant draw for pet owners, while its convenient location and ample parking are appreciated by truckers and those on long journeys. Guests consistently highlight the generally clean environment and the friendly, helpful staff. To enhance your stay, it is advisable to bring your own toiletries, be mindful of potential noise from thin walls or nearby traffic, and consider your preference for mattress firmness, as this varies among rooms.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a pool, which receives mixed reviews, with some guests finding it pleasant and clean, while others note it can be dirty or in need of maintenance, and it is sometimes closed. Wi-Fi is generally reported as working well and is free for guests. For convenience, laundry facilities are available, though they can occasionally be out of service. Guests appreciate the presence of refrigerators and microwaves in the rooms, which are a welcome addition for longer stays or storing snacks. Vending machines and ice machines are also on-site. The building itself is older and appears somewhat dated from the outside and in common areas, but many guests are pleasantly surprised by the modern updates within the rooms. It is important to note that there is no elevator, which can be a consideration for guests with mobility issues or heavy luggage.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The cleanliness of the rooms is a recurring theme, with most guests finding them spotless and well-maintained, though a few severe negative experiences mention issues like hair under sheets, mold, or stains. Mattress firmness is a highly debated topic; while some guests find the beds comfortable and conducive to a good night's sleep, many others describe them as very firm, hard, or saggy, feeling like old spring mattresses. Noise levels can be a significant concern, with frequent mentions of thin walls, sounds from logging trucks, hallway activity, and people slamming doors, which can disturb light sleepers. In-room amenities are basic; there is typically no in-room coffee maker or toiletries beyond a bar of soap, requiring guests to bring their own. The television size and placement receive mixed feedback, and some bathrooms are noted as very small, though air conditioning and hot water pressure are consistently praised.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not offer a full breakfast service, which is a common point of feedback from guests. However, lobby coffee is available, often described as good, strong, and accessible for extended hours, sometimes even 24/7. For dining options, guests note that the hotel is conveniently located near various restaurants and popular food trucks, many of which are within walking distance. This allows guests to easily find meals and snacks outside the hotel premises, compensating for the lack of on-site dining facilities.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts excellent freeway access, being conveniently located right off the main highway, making it an ideal stop for travelers. Its central location places guests within easy reach of various services and amenities in the town. While not directly in the bustling center, it serves as a good base for exploring nearby attractions and the surrounding areas, including hiking spots and Hood River, which is a short drive away. Parking is generally ample, with specific areas designated for truck parking and trailers, a significant advantage for those traveling with larger vehicles. However, some guests express concerns about the immediate surrounding area, noting the presence of homeless individuals or a generally less appealing neighborhood, though the hotel itself is considered safe.

Staff & Service
The friendly staff consistently receives high praise from guests, with many highlighting their helpfulness, professionalism, and welcoming demeanor. The quick check-in and efficient check-out processes contribute to a smooth and pleasant experience. Staff members are often commended for their understanding and accommodating nature, particularly in situations like early arrivals or unexpected extensions of stay. While the overall sentiment towards staff is overwhelmingly positive, feedback regarding housekeeping is mixed; some guests report prompt and thorough service, while others note a lack of daily room cleaning or issues with initial room preparation, such as uncleaned sheets.

Additional Information
A significant advantage of this hotel is its very accommodating pet-friendly policy, allowing pets to stay without an additional charge, and providing designated pet areas. The property is undergoing ongoing renovations, which means while the exterior and some common areas may appear older or dated, many rooms have been updated with modern furnishings and fixtures. Guests should be aware that there is no elevator to access upper floors, which can be challenging for those with heavy luggage or mobility concerns. Some guests have reported occasional key card issues, requiring multiple trips to the front desk for re-activation. The hotel also notably offers smoking rooms, catering to guests who prefer this option.