Inn at the Finger Lakes

For local users and visitors to the Finger Lakes Region searching for "Hotels Near Of Me" in Auburn, New York, the Inn at the Finger Lakes offers an economical accommodation choice. Located at 12 Seminary Ave (with 15 John Street often used for GPS), Auburn, NY 13021, USA, this hotel positions itself as a budget-friendly option, particularly appealing to those prioritizing cost over extensive amenities. Prospective guests should be aware of some of the unique operational aspects and customer feedback when considering their stay.

The Inn at the Finger Lakes is a two-star hotel with 77 rooms spread across three floors, built in 1998 and reportedly last renovated in 2017. The design is straightforward and functional, characteristic of an economy hotel, focusing on providing essential lodging rather than luxury. It features interior hallways, which can contribute to a quieter environment than properties with exterior access. The hotel prides itself on offering "clean and comfortable rooms," although recent customer reviews present a mixed picture of cleanliness and maintenance in practice.

Its location is a significant advantage, placing it within walking distance of downtown Auburn's attractions, including the Seward House Museum, Willard Memorial Chapel, Auburn Public Theater, and various local restaurants and shops. This proximity allows guests to explore the city's cultural and historical sites easily on foot. Furthermore, its position in the Finger Lakes Region means it's well-situated for those looking to explore the distinctive wineries along the Cayuga and Seneca wine trails, as well as natural attractions like Owasco Lake and Skaneateles Lake. The hotel also has an electric vehicle charging station on-site, catering to environmentally conscious travelers.

The Inn at the Finger Lakes provides a core set of services aimed at convenience and basic comfort. A 24-hour reception is available, though a notable recent change is the implementation of a kiosk-based check-in system, sometimes requiring a video call with staff rather than a face-to-face interaction upon arrival. One guest reported, "Lobby was locked, had to check in with a Kiosk. Never saw an actual person until this morning when I went to get coffee." While this offers efficiency, it might be a departure from traditional hotel service for some guests.

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, including in guest rooms and common areas, ensuring connectivity. Free self-parking is also provided on-site. The hotel is pet-friendly, welcoming dogs for an extra charge (typically a deposit of $25.00 per stay and a fee of $25.00 per pet, per stay, for up to two dogs, 50 lbs max per pet; service animals are exempt). Daily housekeeping is generally offered, though customer reviews suggest inconsistencies in the quality of this service, with reports of stained towels and blankets, and sticky carpet spots.

Other services include laundry facilities, dry cleaning service, and a 24-hour business center with computer access. While some sources mention a continental breakfast being available, recent reviews suggest that this may not always be a consistent offering or may be limited, with one guest noting the coffee dispenser was "just about empty and coffee ended up being cold." The hotel also requires a security deposit, typically $100 per room per night, upon arrival, which is fully refundable upon check-out, subject to a damage inspection. However, guests have reported difficulties in getting this deposit back, leading to frustration and a negative impact on their overall experience.

The 77 rooms at Inn at the Finger Lakes aim to provide essential comforts for guests. Each room typically includes air conditioning, a private bathroom with a shower/tub combination, complimentary toiletries, and a hairdryer. In-room amenities often feature a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a work desk, and a coffee/tea maker. Many rooms are also equipped with a microwave and refrigerator, which are valuable for guests planning longer stays or wishing to prepare light meals. Ironing facilities and in-room safes are also generally available. Accessible rooms are provided for guests with disabilities, featuring wider door openings, grab bars, and roll-in showers in some units.

Beyond the individual rooms, the hotel offers some common area features, including a communal living room with a TV, a snack bar/deli, vending machines for quick refreshments, and an outdoor picnic area. While some older information might mention a fitness facility or a bar/lounge, current details and recent reviews indicate that these facilities are often closed on specific days (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday), or may not be actively maintained. The presence of a "Manager's Reception with Wine" was mentioned in some sources, offering complimentary wine and appetizers, but its current availability should be verified. The hotel states it has 22 suites among its 77 rooms, which might offer more space and a separate lounge area with a sofa.

It is crucial for potential guests to align their expectations with the hotel's price point and the reported realities in reviews. While the hotel aims to provide basic amenities, the quality and consistency of these amenities, particularly in terms of cleanliness and the functionality of items like mini-fridges (which one guest noted was missing despite being pictured), can be a point of concern. The small size of the TV was also mentioned as a disappointment by one guest.

The Inn at the Finger Lakes primarily promotes itself through its affordability and convenient location. For local users searching for "Hotels Near Of Me" with a tight budget, the competitive pricing is often the main draw. While it may not participate in major global loyalty programs like larger hotel chains, it aims to provide value through its base rates and inclusive amenities where available.

Promotional aspects might include:

• Competitive Pricing: The hotel's rates are generally lower than many other options in the Finger Lakes Region, appealing to budget-conscious travelers. Prices can vary, with some listings showing rates around $60-80 per night, though some reviews mention a $100 price point.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The ability to bring pets (for a fee) is a significant draw for a specific segment of travelers, as not all hotels offer this amenity.
• Free Wi-Fi and Parking: These standard inclusions add to the perceived value for guests.
• Proximity to Attractions: The hotel often highlights its walkability to downtown Auburn's historical sites and proximity to the Finger Lakes Wine Trails, promoting itself as an ideal base for exploration without needing extensive travel.

Potential guests are strongly advised to call the hotel directly at (315) 253-5000 or +1 315-253-5000 to inquire about current rates, confirm the availability and status of specific amenities (such as breakfast or fitness facilities), and clarify the deposit refund policy. This direct communication is especially important given the mixed customer reviews regarding cleanliness, maintenance, and the process of getting deposits back. While the hotel offers an affordable entry point to the Finger Lakes, managing expectations regarding service quality and the overall condition of the property based on recent guest experiences is essential for a satisfactory stay.