Red Roof Inn Charleston - Dunbar

The hotel is often chosen for its pet-friendly policy and perceived value, making it a practical choice for travelers on a budget or those passing through with pets. Guests frequently highlight the staff's friendliness, though cleanliness issues, a notable lack of in-room amenities, and significant problems with security deposits are recurring themes. This establishment is particularly suited for budget-conscious travelers, pet owners, and those seeking a convenient stopover for a short stay. To enhance your experience, guests should be prepared for a mandatory security deposit that may take a long time to be refunded, and it is advisable to confirm specific in-room amenities like refrigerators and microwaves upon booking.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's facilities present a mixed experience for guests. The swimming pool is consistently reported as being closed for maintenance or unavailable, which is a disappointment for many who booked expecting this amenity. While Wi-Fi is provided, some guests found the connection to be slow, impacting their ability to stay connected. The availability of vending machines and ice machines is inconsistent, with numerous reports of them being out of order or only accessible on the first floor, leading to inconvenience for guests on higher floors. The lobby and common areas are generally perceived as clean, and the presence of a coffee machine in the lobby is appreciated by some. However, the overall functionality and consistent availability of these amenities often fall short of guest expectations, affecting the overall convenience of their stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
While some guests found their rooms clean and comfortable, a significant number reported serious issues. Common complaints include dirty floors, stained linens, and the presence of bed bugs, roaches, or spiders. Many rooms are described as poorly maintained, with peeling paint, broken TVs, and non-functional AC units that are often loud. A recurring concern is the absence of basic in-room amenities such as a mini-fridge and microwave, which many guests expect. Bathrooms also receive mixed reviews, with reports of clogged toilets, dirty bathtubs, no hot water, or conversely, water that is too hot. Noise levels from hallways, other guests, and outside sources like trains or street activity are frequently mentioned as disruptive.

Dining & Food Quality
Regarding dining, the hotel generally does not offer a breakfast service, which is a common point of feedback for guests who anticipate this amenity. Despite this, the hotel's location is frequently praised for its proximity to a variety of restaurants and dining options that are within easy walking distance. Guests appreciate the convenience of having choices like a Mexican restaurant nearby, as well as a Walgreens for quick purchases. While there is no dedicated hotel restaurant or in-room dining service, the availability of coffee in the lobby is noted, though its quality receives mixed reviews. This setup encourages guests to explore local eateries for their meals.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is frequently highlighted as a major advantage, being easy to find for some and conveniently situated near the interstate and Yeager Airport. It offers easy access to various restaurants, groceries, pharmacies, and shopping centers, many within walking distance. However, some guests found the hotel hard to locate initially, describing it as set back behind other buildings or requiring specific side street access. Parking can be problematic, with limited spots and guests sometimes needing to use adjacent lots. The surrounding area receives mixed comments, with some guests noting the presence of homeless people or feeling the area was run-down or sketchy, though others found it safe.

Staff & Service
The staff generally receives high praise for being friendly, helpful, and accommodating, with many guests highlighting positive interactions at the front desk. The check-in process is described as quick and easy by some, though others experienced long waits or issues with new systems. However, housekeeping is a significant area of concern, with numerous reports of rooms not being cleaned daily, towels not being replaced, or aggressive check-out procedures. Issues with deposit refunds are a major point of contention, often requiring multiple follow-ups and causing frustration. While many staff members are commended for their attentiveness and willingness to assist, some guests encountered rude or unhelpful employees, particularly regarding problem resolution.

Additional Information
A critical and frequently mentioned aspect of staying at this hotel is the mandatory $100 security deposit, which guests are often surprised by as it is not always clearly communicated during booking. A significant number of reviews indicate prolonged delays or difficulties in receiving this deposit refund, sometimes taking weeks or requiring multiple calls, leading to considerable frustration. The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by pet owners, though some note challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas for pets. Despite being a non-smoking property, some guests reported strong smoke odors in hallways and rooms, with instances of guests smoking inside. The hotel is noted by some to have undergone recent renovations, contributing to a newer appearance in certain areas.