Econo Lodge Cranston - Providence

For individuals searching through "Hotels Near Of Me" in the greater Providence area, particularly those prioritizing affordability, the Econo Lodge Cranston - Providence stands as a value-oriented option. Located at 101 New London Ave, Cranston, RI 02920, USA, and reachable by phone at (401) 942-4200, this Econo Lodge property aims to provide essential comforts for travelers on a budget.

The Econo Lodge Cranston - Providence is situated in Cranston, a city just south of Providence, offering a more suburban environment compared to downtown Providence. Its location off Interstate 95 provides convenient access for travelers driving through or looking for a base to explore both Cranston and Providence. The hotel is particularly well-positioned for guests traveling via T.F. Green Airport (PVD), being approximately 3.7 to 4.9 miles away, making it a viable choice for airport parking needs, though a shuttle service is not consistently offered by the hotel directly for airport transfers (third-party parking services may utilize this location).

Nearby attractions include the Roger Williams Park Zoo and the Casino at Roger Williams Park, offering entertainment options for families and individuals. For shopping and dining, Garden City Center is close by, as are the Rhode Island Mall and Warwick Mall. While not directly in the heart of Providence, it offers relatively easy access to downtown Providence attractions like the Dunkin' Donuts Center (Amica Mutual Pavilion), the Rhode Island Convention Center, and Brown University, typically within a short drive. The area surrounding the hotel provides basic amenities and a quieter setting compared to the bustling city center.

The Econo Lodge Cranston - Providence focuses on providing fundamental services and amenities to ensure a practical stay:

• Accommodation: The hotel features 65 guest rooms, accessible via exterior corridors. Each room typically includes air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a coffee/tea maker, a desk, and a private bathroom with a shower/tub combination and a hair dryer. Some rooms may also have a separate sitting area and an in-room safe. Both smoking and non-smoking rooms are available, as are accessible rooms with features like accessible tubs. Rollaway beds are available for an additional charge.
• Dining: The hotel offers a "Free Easy Starts® breakfast" (continental breakfast) to help guests begin their day without an extra cost. Coffee and tea are also available in a common area. While the hotel does not appear to have a full-service restaurant or bar on-site, there are various dining options in the surrounding Cranston area.
• Connectivity: Complimentary wireless internet access (WiFi) is provided in all rooms and public areas, allowing guests to stay connected. Free weekday newspapers are also offered.
• Parking: A significant advantage for guests is the availability of free on-site self-parking. The hotel also offers RV/bus/truck parking, potentially for a fee, and wheelchair-accessible van parking.
• Guest Services: A 24-hour front desk is available to assist with check-in (from 3:00 PM) and check-out (by 11:00 AM). The hotel also has a 24-hour business center with copy and fax services, a front-desk safe, and laundry facilities.
• Pet-Friendly: The Econo Lodge Cranston - Providence is a pet-friendly hotel, welcoming two pets of any size for an additional fee per pet, per night (typically $25). Both dogs and cats are permitted, and pets may be left unattended in rooms. There is grass on the property for pet relief.
• Recreation: While not extensive, some information suggests the presence of a hot tub and potentially a fitness center, though these amenities might be limited or subject to change. A golf course is noted within 3 km, suggesting nearby recreational opportunities.

Key features of the Econo Lodge Cranston - Providence include:

• Affordability: Positioned as a budget-friendly option, it often provides more economical rates compared to other hotels in the greater Providence area.
• Convenient Location for Road Travelers: Its proximity to I-95 and T.F. Green Airport makes it a practical stop for those traveling by car or needing easy airport access.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The welcoming stance towards pets, including the allowance for unattended pets in rooms (with conditions) and dedicated pet relief areas, is a strong draw for travelers with animals.
• Free Parking: The availability of free on-site parking is a valuable amenity, especially for guests with vehicles.
• Basic Essentials: The hotel focuses on delivering essential services like free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, which are important for many budget travelers.

The Econo Lodge brand, part of Choice Hotels, often promotes itself on providing "easy stops on the road" and "hassle-free experiences" with affordability at its core. Guests can typically find various deals and competitive rates through Choice Hotels' website and other booking platforms, particularly for advance purchases or loyalty program members (Choice Privileges Rewards program). The inclusion of free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi are standard promotional points.

However, an objective introduction requires acknowledging customer feedback, which for the Econo Lodge Cranston - Providence has been mixed, leaning towards significant criticism:

• Cleanliness Issues: A major recurring complaint is about cleanliness. Guests have reported issues such as stains on sheets, hair in bathrooms, and a general lack of deep cleaning, leading to rooms not feeling fresh or well-maintained. The presence of cigarette smells in non-smoking rooms has also been noted.
• Room Condition and Maintenance: Beyond cleanliness, the overall condition of rooms and amenities has been a concern. Reports include old and dingy sheets, coffee stains in tubs, and malfunctioning fixtures (e.g., sink only providing hot water). Some guests feel the actual rooms do not match the pictures advertised online, suggesting potential discrepancies between marketing and reality.
• Housekeeping Intrusions: Multiple guests have highlighted issues with housekeeping staff, including knocking on doors hours before check-out time and and, in some severe cases, walking into rooms without permission, which is a significant privacy concern.
• Value for Price: Despite being a budget option, some guests have found the price to be "very pricey" for the quality of the room and services received, feeling that the cost does not reflect the perceived value.

On the positive side, the hotel's affordable pricing (when compared to higher-end options) is acknowledged by some as a reason for return visits, implying that for some, the low cost outweighs the drawbacks. Its accessibility from the highway and the availability of free parking are also considered practical advantages for many travelers. The pet-friendly policy is a definite plus for those traveling with their furry companions.

In conclusion, the Econo Lodge Cranston - Providence, discoverable via "Hotels Near Of Me," is an option for budget-conscious travelers seeking basic accommodation with free parking and a pet-friendly policy in the Cranston area, with convenient access to major roads and T.F. Green Airport. However, prospective guests should be prepared for potentially variable conditions regarding cleanliness, room maintenance, and service quality, and manage their expectations accordingly, prioritizing affordability over premium comfort or consistent service.