Red Roof Inn PLUS+ Raleigh Downtown – NCSU/Conv Center

The hotel is primarily recognized for its budget-friendly pricing, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking an economical stay. Its signature feature is its accessibility to various local event venues, appealing to concert-goers and those attending nearby functions. While some guests appreciate the convenient location, others express concerns about the surrounding area. The hotel's staff consistently receives praise for their helpfulness and positive attitudes, often going above and beyond for guests. However, recurring issues with room cleanliness and pervasive unpleasant odors are frequently noted. This hotel is well-suited for budget-conscious travelers and pet owners looking for a straightforward place to stay. To enhance your experience, it is advisable to confirm specific room amenities like a microwave or fridge upon booking, as these are not standard in all rooms, and be prepared for potential inconsistencies in room condition.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers various vending machines for snacks and drinks, though some guests report issues with them being out of order or only accepting coins, and a lack of diet beverage options. The elevators are a frequent point of concern, often reported as out of service, dirty, or emitting unpleasant smells. While the hotel provides complimentary coffee and tea, guests note that the stations are often unstocked or the quality is subpar, and there is no full breakfast service. A notable point of contention for many guests is a mandatory safe fee charged upfront, even if the safe is not used, requiring guests to actively request its removal. Furthermore, not all rooms are consistently equipped with a microwave or fridge, which can be an inconvenience for guests expecting these amenities.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is highly mixed, with many guests expressing significant dissatisfaction. While some rooms are described as adequately clean with comfortable beds, a substantial number of reviews highlight pervasive issues. Common complaints include dirty bathrooms with visible hair and uncleaned fixtures, mold and mildew odors, and sticky floors that leave residue on feet. Pest problems, including roaches, ants, and even bedbugs, are frequently reported. Rooms are often perceived as outdated rooms and in disrepair, with malfunctioning or noisy AC units and plumbing problems such as non-draining sinks or broken toilets. Noise levels from other guests, traffic, or construction are also a recurring concern. A strong, pervasive smoke smell (cigarettes and other substances) is widely reported throughout the hotel, including in non-smoking rooms, despite hotel policy.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location receives mixed reviews. Many guests find it convenient due to its proximity to event venues, shopping, and restaurants, and appreciate its easy highway access. However, a significant number of reviews describe the surrounding area as a sketchy area with a bad reputation, leading to feelings of being unsafe at night. Concerns about loitering individuals and general disorder in the vicinity are common. While the hotel is close to some points of interest, it is not considered walkable to others, and some guests felt misled by its advertised proximity to certain landmarks. Parking is available, but some guests noted issues with litter and abandoned vehicles in the lot, contributing to the overall perception of the area.

Staff & Service
The friendly staff is consistently highlighted as a major positive aspect of the hotel experience. Many guests praise their helpful and attentive demeanor, noting their willingness to assist with requests like extra towels or room changes. The quick check-in and check-out processes are frequently appreciated, with some guests mentioning staff going above and beyond, such as waiving early check-in fees due to travel fatigue. However, there are also reports of rude, unprofessional, or absent staff, particularly at the front desk, leading to frustration and delays. Despite these isolated negative experiences, the overall sentiment regarding customer service from the majority of the staff remains positive, with many reviewers commending individual employees for their exceptional efforts and pleasant attitudes.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is a significant draw for guests traveling with animals, though some note challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas nearby. A recurring theme is the presence of individuals who appear to be on long-term stays, contributing to a different atmosphere than a typical transient hotel. Guests frequently report significant noise from other guests, including loud conversations, music, and disturbances in hallways, which can impact sleep quality. Some reviews also mention issues with hotel policies regarding payment, such as unexpected charges or difficulties with refunds, and a lack of transparency about certain fees beyond the room rate. Housekeeping services are often inconsistent, with some guests reporting rooms not being cleaned during their stay unless specifically requested.