Clarion Inn & Suites - University Area

For those in Cortland, NY, or travelers searching for "Hotels Near Me" in the university area, the Clarion Inn & Suites - University Area is an option that may appear. Located at 2 1/2 Locust Ave, Cortland, NY 13045, USA, the hotel can be reached via phone at (607) 218-2250 or mobile at +1 607-218-2250. An objective introduction to this hotel requires a careful examination of its stated offerings alongside the candid experiences shared by its past guests, as these provide a more comprehensive understanding of what to expect.

The environment of the Clarion Inn & Suites - University Area is situated on Locust Avenue, placing it in a location that aims to be convenient for visitors to SUNY Cortland and other local points of interest. While the "University Area" designation might suggest a vibrant, campus-adjacent atmosphere, customer reviews indicate that the immediate surroundings of the parking lot may back up to industrial facilities where trucks park, leading to significant and "unbearably sickening and nauseating" odors, described as smelling of urine. This external environment is a critical factor for potential guests, as it can severely impact the overall comfort and enjoyment of the stay, even before entering the building. The exterior condition and surrounding ambiance are often the first impressions, and in this case, they are consistently highlighted as a major detractor. The property itself is a two-story structure, and it's explicitly noted that there is no elevator, which could be a significant accessibility issue for guests with mobility challenges or heavy luggage.

In terms of services, a consistent positive point raised by multiple customer reviews is the staff. Guests frequently describe the staff as "super nice and accommodating," "wonderful," and quick to address immediate concerns. For instance, when issues with room conditions or amenities arise, the front desk has been commended for being "very quick to change our room and profusely apologize." This indicates a strong commitment to guest satisfaction from the hotel's personnel, which can be a redeeming quality even amidst other challenges. The hotel officially offers a complimentary breakfast, though the quality and appeal of this service are heavily disputed by customer feedback. Reviews describe the breakfast food as "nasty," "putrid," with "hard and dry scrambled eggs," "nasty cheap fake sausage patties," and very limited options, including only syrup for waffles, a few slices of bread, prepackaged muffins, and two types of cold cereal. This suggests that while a breakfast service is provided, its quality may not meet guests' expectations. Other services listed for a Clarion Inn & Suites typically include daily housekeeping, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour front desk.

Regarding features, the Clarion Inn & Suites - University Area, as part of the Clarion brand, aims to provide certain standard amenities. Rooms generally come with private bathrooms, and some may include premium bedding and specific room configurations. However, the condition of these features is a significant area of concern based on guest experiences. Rooms are repeatedly described as "old, worn out, run down, and filthy." Specific issues cited include stained carpets, uncomfortable beds, improperly flushing toilets, very slippery bathtubs, and doors that "don't close properly." A concerning security issue noted was a missing peephole in a door, allowing outsiders to potentially see into the room. The overall impression conveyed by reviews is that the hotel is in "complete disrepair" and "outdated." While the hotel's official information may list features like a fitness center, business center, and an attached Perkins Restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the critical feedback on the general property condition and cleanliness of public areas (like the lobby and first floor smelling "alarmingly horrific") would likely diminish the appeal and usability of such facilities for many guests.

Promotional information for the Clarion Inn & Suites - University Area would typically highlight its affiliation with a national brand, its proximity to SUNY Cortland, and standard amenities like free breakfast and Wi-Fi. It might also mention features like pet-friendly accommodations, a fitness center, and possibly connecting rooms. The presence of an on-site restaurant (Perkins) is a common promotional point, offering convenience for dining. However, for local users searching "Hotels Near Me," it is critical to present a balanced view that integrates the overwhelmingly negative customer feedback. The severe complaints regarding odors both inside and outside the hotel, the dilapidated and unclean state of the rooms and common areas, and significant safety concerns like broken stairs and inadequate door security cannot be overlooked. While the staff's kindness is a consistent positive, it appears to be insufficient to counteract the extensive issues with the physical property and some core services. The price point, with some guests paying around $200 for one night, is also frequently noted as being disproportionate to the quality of the accommodations received. Therefore, while the hotel may appear in "Hotels Near Me" searches, potential guests should proceed with extreme caution and consider the detailed experiences of previous visitors before booking, especially if cleanliness, safety, and basic amenity standards are priorities.