Red Roof Inn Elkhart

This hotel is widely recognized for its pet-friendly policy and drive-up access, making it a practical choice for travelers with pets and transporters moving RVs, who appreciate the convenience and ample parking. Its location near the interstate and various amenities also makes it suitable for short-stay travelers and those attending local events like rugby games. While some guests find it a good value for the price, many highlight significant concerns regarding cleanliness and maintenance. The overall experience is quite mixed, with a notable divide between those who find it perfectly adequate for their needs and those who describe it as run-down. To ensure a more comfortable stay, guests are advised to thoroughly inspect their room upon arrival and consider bringing their own cleaning supplies.

Facilities & Amenities
Most guests appreciate the basic but functional in-room amenities such as a microwave and refrigerator, which add convenience for longer stays or self-catering. The availability of free Wi-Fi is also a plus, though some guests report inconsistent signal strength. For laundry needs, a guest laundry facility is available, although some visitors noted issues with finding a change machine. While there is no swimming pool or continental breakfast, coffee is typically available in the office. Other conveniences include ice machines and vending machines, though guests may need to walk to the main office to access ice. Some rooms are equipped with a safe, and the hotel has recently updated its door locks to a tap-card system.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Cleanliness and room comfort receive highly mixed feedback. Many guests report issues with filthy floors that leave feet dirty, pervasive cigarette smoke smell even in non-smoking rooms, and a general musty or damp odor. Common complaints include visible stains on bedding, walls, and towels, along with mold in bathrooms and showers. Some rooms show signs of wear, such as peeling toilet seats, holes in walls, and burn holes in fabrics. While some guests find the beds comfortable, a significant number describe them as old, saggy, or hard. Noise from outside, including barking dogs and late-night activity, is also a frequent concern. Reports of roaches and, more alarmingly, bed bugs, are recurring and severe.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback regarding dining options is consistently focused on the lack of a continental breakfast. Many guests express disappointment that this amenity is not provided, especially given its common availability at similar economy hotels. While coffee is offered in the main office, some reviews indicate that the coffee pot is frequently empty, leading to inconvenience. There are no on-site restaurants or room service options mentioned in the reviews. However, the hotel's location is often praised for being within walking distance of various restaurants and dining establishments, allowing guests to easily find external food options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage for many guests, offering easy access to the interstate, freeway, and numerous local attractions, including the Moose Rugby Grounds. It is conveniently situated within walking distance of a variety of restaurants and shopping areas. The parking lot is generally described as well-lit and ample, though it can occasionally become full. However, some guests express concerns about the immediate surrounding area, describing it as a rough location with visible transient activity and occasional police presence, which can impact the perceived safety and quietness of the environment.

Staff & Service
Guest experiences with staff and service are notably varied. Many guests commend the friendly staff, highlighting their helpfulness, politeness, and accommodating nature, particularly during quick check-in processes. Some appreciate the professional and welcoming demeanor of the front desk team. Conversely, a substantial number of reviews report negative interactions, describing staff as rude, unresponsive to complaints about room conditions or pests, and sometimes unprofessional in their conduct. Issues like housekeeping not visiting daily and difficulties in resolving room-related problems are frequently mentioned, leading to frustration for some guests.

Additional Information
A key feature of this hotel is its strong pet-friendly policy, which is highly valued by guests traveling with animals, who appreciate the ample grassy areas for walking dogs. The hotel also offers drive-up access to rooms, providing convenience for loading and unloading. For transporters, the hotel often allows early check-in and late check-out, catering to their specific travel schedules. Some guests noted a policy where no credit card on file was required for booking. However, there are mentions of staff enforcing a policy against having company in rooms, which some guests found restrictive.