Lawrence, KS Getaway: Unbeatable Days Inn Deals!
Lawrence, KS Getaway: Unbeatable Days Inn Deals! – Or, How I Learned to Love a Strip Mall (and the Unexpected Delights Within)
Okay, first off, let's just be real: "Unbeatable Days Inn Deals" isn't exactly a phrase that sets your heart aflutter, right? I mean, it conjures up images of… well, Days Inns. But, listen up, because my recent trip to Lawrence, Kansas, and a stay at this particular Days Inn, unexpectedly… charmed me. I went in with zero expectations and came out pleasantly surprised, and with a newfound respect for the humble motel.
Accessibility: A Necessary Start (And a Tiny Hiccup)
From the get-go, accessibility is important, and thankfully, this Days Inn mostly delivers. They actually mention facilities for disabled guests, which is a decent starting point. It's not always super clear what those facilities are (more on that later), but the elevator, which feels like it’s been around since the dawn of time (and probably has), is a must. The parking lot – well, let’s just say navigating a strip mall on a rainy day with luggage and a dodgy knee is a real test of patience. However I found a designated spot, but I’m also aware that my experience might not be the same as someone who relies on such features.
Cleanliness and Safety: Because We're All a Little Germaphobic Now
Let’s face it, in the current climate, cleanliness is KING. I was genuinely comforted by the measures they take. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Double check. They even advertise "Professional-grade sanitizing services", and while I didn’t whip out a UV light to test it, the whole place felt… well, clean. More importantly, they seemed to take this seriously. The staff was masked, and hand sanitizer was readily available. (Bonus points for not skimping on THAT detail.) Rooms sanitized between stays? Yes indeed. I actually appreciated that they left my room untouched for a full day between guests, which is a small thing, but a HUGE comfort.
Rooms: The Unexpected Comfort Zone
Okay, let's talk rooms. I snagged one that was… okay, let’s be honest, not exactly the Ritz. But here's where the surprise came in. Despite the exterior corridor (which, in my small-town upbringing, always meant trouble), the room itself was surprisingly functional and even cozy. Air conditioning? Check. Free Wi-Fi? Absolutely. (And it actually worked, which is a win in my book.) The blackout curtains were a godsend for sleeping in, and the comfortable bed which, let’s be honest, is the most important thing. The bathroom wasn't exactly spa-worthy (no spa!) but everything was clean and functional. In-room safe box? Yes, so I didn't have to worry about my passport, which can be a lifesaver. The mini-bar was a good idea, it had some snacks! The Complimentary bottled water? Nice, I appreciated it.
Here's my one minor gripe: the internet access – LAN, because who uses a LAN cable anymore? This is 2024! But, hey, Internet Access – wireless? Still good. And the Wi-Fi was actually pretty strong (like, strong enough to stream Netflix without buffering, which is a win).
(Stream of Consciousness Alert! – Because Real Life is Messy)
Okay, let me tell you about the desk. I swear it was the perfect size for my laptop AND a rogue bag of chips I scarfed down while watching reruns of Judge Judy (don't judge me!). The reading light was positioned just right for some late-night book-reading. The coffee/tea maker was a godsend for a caffeine addict like myself. Honestly, it just felt… comfortable. It felt like a place I could actually relax. I'd give it a solid B, or perhaps even a B+.
Dining, Drinking & Snacking: The Unexpected Culinary Adventure
Now, the restaurants. I assumed, just based on the name "Days Inn," that food would be… well, an afterthought. But again, plot twist! They offered a breakfast buffet, and listen to me – this was NOT your average continental grab-and-go. Yes, there were the usual suspects: cereal, toast, and the ever-present yogurt parfait (which was actually pretty decent!). But there were also some unexpected treats: Asian breakfast (because Lawrence, KS, is surprisingly diverse!), and a few hot dishes. It wasn't Michelin-star quality, but it was good enough that I actually looked forward to breakfast each morning. I mean, a decent breakfast is a great start for a whole day of fun! And the coffee/tea in restaurant option? It was a lifesaver throughout the day.
- Don’t expect any spa or fitness center here. This is a Days Inn, not a resort. I didn't check out the massage either. (Maybe next time, if I'm feeling really adventurous.)
- The pool was located outside, and the weather didn't really allow for a dip..
Things to Do: Lawrence, KS, a Hidden Gem
Okay, so the Days Inn itself is great, but the location in Lawrence, KS is the real star. This town is charming! There are art galleries, quirky shops, and more amazing restaurants than I could count. It's a college town, so there's always something going on.
Services and Conveniences: More Than You Think
So here’s where I felt the Days Inn truly overdelivered.
- Cash withdrawal made easy (there’s an ATM on site).
- Daily housekeeping: Always a good thing.
- Laundry service: (Thank you, because I had a wardrobe malfunction and this was a literal lifesaver!).
- Luggage storage: Super handy.
- The front desk was staffed 24/7 and helpful!
- Facilities for disabled guests? While I wish I could be more specific, the presence of the elevator, the easy accessible parking… That's a decent start.
For the Kids
I didn't travel with kids, but the presence of Family/child friendly features is welcome.
Getting Around:
- car park [free of charge]: Always a win.
- Taxi service available.
The Bottom Line:
Look, this isn’t the Four Seasons. But for the price, the cleanliness standards, the genuinely comfortable rooms, the surprisingly good breakfast, and the prime location in a fantastic town, this Days Inn in Lawrence truly impressed me.**Yes it's a strip mall hotel but the staff were pleasant and the location was a bonus. The staff went above and beyond, which is always appreciated. I felt genuinely welcomed, and that's a big deal.
- Accessibility: Good starting point, but further clarification could be useful.
- Cleanliness: Excellent.
- Rooms: Comfortable and functional.
- Dining: Better than expected!
- Things to do: Amazing location.
- Overall: Highly recommended for a budget-friendly, surprisingly comfortable, and conveniently located stay.
My Takeaway? Don't judge a book by its cover, or a Days Inn by its… name. You might just find yourself pleasantly surprised. And hey, sometimes the best travel experiences come from the most unexpected places.
Escape to Comfort: Microtel Inn St. Clairsville's Unbeatable Deals!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to embark on a Lawrence, Kansas adventure! And trust me, staying at a Days Inn? Well, let's just say it adds a certain je ne sais quoi to the whole experience, right? Here's what MIGHT happen – 'cause let's be real, travel never REALLY goes as planned, does it?
Day 1: Arrival, Anxiety, and the Art of the Free Breakfast
- Afternoon (Around 3 PM): Arrive at the Days Inn. Okay, here's the thing: I HATE driving after 3 pm. It's rush hour, everyone's a jerk, and the only thing worse than being stuck in traffic is being late for traffic. But here we are. The check-in experience is… well, it's a Days Inn check-in. Someone's probably wearing a name tag that looks like it's been through a war. The lobby smells vaguely of chlorine and stale coffee. My inner control freak starts to twitch. Is the room clean? Are the sheets bleached within an inch of their lives? Did I remember to pack enough snacks? (Spoiler alert: I never pack enough snacks.)
- Late Afternoon (4 PM): The Room. Okay, so it’s… a room. It has a bed, a questionable lamp, and a TV with more channels than I'll ever need. I do a quick inspection. The bedspread looks… vintage. Which could be a good thing, if I'm into authentic 70s decor. It’s not. I'm already strategizing the best way to arrange the pillows. I feel the overwhelming urge to disinfect everything.
- Evening (6 PM): Dinner at a recommendation: 715. I’m hoping for some local flavor but end up wandering through the crowded streets near the University, feeling a little lost. Found 715- and it's a great experience. Really enjoyed the food and the ambience.
- Night (8 PM): The free breakfast menu. A little time to unwind, I'm in the room now, and I can't fall asleep even if I close my eyes. Let's get up and try the free breakfast. It can't be that bad, right? (Narrator voice: It can be.)
Day 2: University Vibes, Bookstore Bliss, and Existential Pancake Questions
- Morning (7 AM -ish): THE GLORIOUS BREAKFAST! Okay, maybe not “glorious.” Let's be real, the "breakfast" at this place is probably a war crime. The coffee tastes like despair, and the "fresh" fruit looks like it's been sitting under a heat lamp since the Reagan years. But hey, free is free, and I'm already regretting not bringing my own granola bars. I'm also making a strategic plan to get the last untouched sausage link before that guy in the baseball cap swarms the buffet. It's a real fight for survival out here.
- Morning Continued (8 AM): Exploring The University of Kansas. I head over to the campus. It's bigger than I imagined – actually, it’s HUGE. The architecture is stunning, and the whole place just reeks of potential and caffeine-fueled late-night cram sessions. Walking through the main quad, I spot a couple of students huddled on the grass, debating something important – probably the merits of a particular philosophy. I felt a pang of something between envy and relief.
- Morning (10 AM): THE MYSTIC BOOKSTORE! Head to a bookstore called The Raven Bookstore. It's a small haven of literary joy. I spend an embarassing amount of time browsing the shelves, losing myself in the spines, and mentally calculating how many books I can realistically carry. Maybe a signed copy of something? I can't help but feel a little sad that I'm leaving.
- Afternoon (12 PM): Lunch at a quirky local place - Mass Street. Decent sandwiches, a little overpriced, but the people-watching is worth the cost. I see a woman with a magnificent, bright pink hairstyle ordering a salad, a dude in a band t-shirt meticulously arranging his fries, and a couple passionately arguing. The human drama is glorious and exhausting all at once.
- Afternoon Continued (2 PM): Back to the room… or at least, that's what I thought. Realized I had left a lot of stuff down in the room. After a couple of trips, I went back to relax.
- Evening (6 PM): More wandering. More existential questions about the pancakes. More pondering. I'm starting to feel like I'm finally, maybe, ALMOST starting to get the vibe of this place.
- Night (9 PM): I can’t fall asleep. The TV is on. I keep glancing at the alarm clock. I order a pizza. I’m starting to seriously doubt my life choices.
Day 3: Departure and Existential Pancake Continued
- Morning (7 AM -ish): Another go at breakfast. This time, I'm armed for battle. I've strategically placed myself near the pancake machine, ready to pounce. Do the pancakes taste like cardboard? Maybe. Do I eat them anyway? Absolutely. I mean, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, right?
- Mid-Morning (9 AM): Checking out. The desk clerk is… well, he’s at a Days Inn desk. No profound insights here. The room, as I leave it behind, is a testament to my stay. (Clothes unfolded on the bed, half-eaten bag of chips, a single, lonely sock under the lamp.). Then I'm on the road again.
- The Drive Home (The Rest of the Day): The drive is a blur of highway miles, questionable gas station coffee, and the lingering taste of… freedom? Or maybe just stale pancakes? I'm not sure. But as I pull into my driveway, I realize that despite the quirks, the anxieties, and the questionable breakfast, Lawrence, Kansas, and even the Days Inn, have left a tiny, little mark on my soul. Or maybe it's just the caffeine withdrawal. Either way, it was an adventure. And that, my friends, is what it's all about, right?
Okay, so...Days Inn in Lawrence? Is it, like, actually 'unbeatable'? I'm picturing a slightly stained carpet and the faint smell of chlorine. Be honest.
Alright, alright, enough with the corporate jargon. 'Unbeatable' is a strong word, and the lawyers probably made them put it there. Look, let's be realistic. No, it's not the Ritz. It's a Days Inn. But...hear me out! My college roommate and I, bless his heart, once tried to book a swanky hotel for our KU reunion in Lawrence. Everything was booked solid. We ended up at a *different* Days Inn (not even the one we're talking about now, mind you). The carpet WAS questionable. There WAS a lingering chlorine vibe. BUT. We had a roof, a bed, and we were *in Lawrence*! It was glorious chaos. So, with *this* Days Inn, let's just say... it's a solid, affordable basecamp for your Lawrence adventures. You're not going for the luxury, you're going for...the *Lawrence* vibe. Think of it as pre-gaming for the actual *good* stuff. Like Free State Brewery. Ooh, the beers...
What kind of "deals" are we talking about? Like, do I get a free continental breakfast made of sadness?
Continental breakfast? Look, if by "continental breakfast" you mean lukewarm coffee from a questionable urn, stale pastries that have seen better decades, and maybe a sad, lonely piece of fruit... then, yes. Probably. Look, here's the deal: deals aren't always about the freebies. Sometimes, they're about *affordability*. Lawrence can get pricey, you know? Especially during football season (Rock Chalk!). Consider it an investment in your sanity. You're saving money on the room itself, so you can spend it on, you know, *fun*. Like actually *eating* breakfast at a decent diner in town. Seriously, skip the hotel breakfast. Go to Wheatfields Bakery. Thank me later.
Is it close to, like, the *good* stuff in Lawrence? Because I don't want to spend my entire trip driving.
Alright, so location is key! And this is where I can actually be *slightly* positive. Because, honestly, yeah, it's usually pretty decent. I've stayed at hotels in Lawrence that felt like they were on the edge of the earth. This one, generally, puts you within a reasonable distance of downtown, Mass Street (that's where the magic happens, my friend), and some of the campus action. Think of it as a launching pad. You're not *right* in the thick of it, but you're close enough that you can stumble home after a night of questionable decisions (which, let's be real, is half the fun). But...check the exact location! Read reviews! Map it out. Because "reasonable distance" can vary wildly based on traffic, the weather, and how many beers you've had. And speaking of beer...
Okay, maybe I'm interested. What about parking? Because parallel parking is a mortal sin in a college town.
Parking. Ah, the bane of every driver's existence. Especially in Lawrence. I've spent what felt like entire weekends circling the block, praying to the parking gods. The good news? Most Days Inns (this one included, *probably*) have parking. The *better* news? It's (usually) free! That's a tiny victory worth celebrating. But here’s a pro-tip: Get there early-ish. Especially during game days or big events. Because, trust me, hunting down a parking spot after a long day of exploring can turn even the most zen traveler into a raging beast. Consider it a life lesson in patience. And maybe bring an extra pair of shoes in case you have to walk a ways. You know, just in case.
Speaking of exploring, what kind of stuff CAN I actually do around Lawrence? Besides drink beer (although that’s a good start).
Okay, Lawrence is more than just a beer-soaked paradise (although, undeniably, that's a *major* perk). Let’s talk about actual *adventure*. First, there's the University of Kansas campus. Beautiful, historic, and filled with cool stuff. Check out the Spencer Museum of Art (even if you don't *love* art, go anyway! It’s a cultural obligation!), or just wander around and soak up the student energy. Then there's Mass Street, which is a MUST. Boutiques, record stores, restaurants, live music… basically, a whole lotta awesome. Free State Brewery is also a must-do, as previously mentioned, but also Merchants Pub & Plate is solid. Don't forget the historic district (Old West!), and if you're feeling adventurous, try to catch a show at the Granada Theatre, or just walk the side streets. Lawrence is the kind of place where you can just *wander*. And if you get lost? Bonus points! You’ll probably stumble upon something amazing.
I'm a light sleeper...is it noisy? Because let's be real, hotel walls can be…thin.
Noise…Ah, sleep. One of life’s great mysteries. Look, hotel noise is a gamble. No matter how fancy the hotel, you’re dealing with shared walls, often questionable soundproofing, and the potential for late-night revelers or a sudden outburst from a particularly loud air conditioning unit. I've had experiences where I swore I could hear the conversations of the people in the *next county*. But...you know what? Here’s a *true* anecdote. One time, I was at a super-cheap motel. It was late, and I was trying to sleep, and some teens were trying to move a vending machine in the next room and kept banging it against the wall. It was terrible. But it's part of the fun, right? Bring earplugs. Download a white noise app. Maybe request a room away from the stairwell. Ultimately, you’re going for the Lawrence spirit, not the perfect night’s sleep. Embrace the noise! Or, you know, just bring really, really good earplugs.
Anything else I should know before I book these "unbeatable" deals? Any hidden surprises?
Hidden surprises? That's a loaded question, my friend. Hotels are like Forrest Gump’s box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get. Here’s a reality check: Read the recent reviews! Seriously. Like, the *last* few reviews. Don't rely on the glowing ones from 2017. Look for anything that hints at a problem. Is there a mention of bedbugs, leaky faucets, or questionable cleanliness? You have to be the judge. And be realistic. You get what you pay for, and in Lawrence, you can't expect the moon for the price of a used car. The main thing is to be prepared to embrace the chaos, and to enjoy the experience. And just remember...it's Lawrence. It's supposed to be fun. So, book those deals! AndStay And Relax
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