POPLAR HOUSE INN

For those exploring "Hotels Near Of Me" in the historic and charming city of Newport, Rhode Island, the POPLAR HOUSE INN presents itself as a distinctive accommodation option. Located at 19 Poplar St, Newport, RI 02840, USA, this inn offers a unique alternative to more conventional hotels. The property can be contacted at (401) 429-3200 or +1 401-429-3200.

• Environment and Location:

  The POPLAR HOUSE INN is situated in the center of historic Newport, offering a prime location that allows guests to experience the city on foot. It is described as being just a three-block walk to downtown Newport, the Newport Shipyard, and the harbor. This puts guests within easy reach of a multitude of attractions including approximately 80 restaurants, various pubs and music venues, as well as access to local transportation like buses, airport shuttles, and pedicabs. The inn’s central position means that many of Newport's key areas, such as the historic colonial village and yachting village, are readily accessible. Reviews highlight its "excellent location" and its convenience for exploring the best of Newport. The immediate neighborhood is described as "mixed but changing rapidly," with new housing. While the overall impression of Newport is one of a beautiful, historic community, some past reviews have unfortunately described the property's condition in starkly negative terms, using phrases like "junk yard" and "looks like something out of a horror movie," and stating it "doesn't fit the historic community." However, other reviews from different sources describe the location positively, emphasizing its walkability to major attractions.

• Services and Amenities:

  The POPLAR HOUSE INN is operated as a Bed and Breakfast, though its service model deviates from a traditional hotel. It offers private rooms and private bathrooms. Amenities listed include free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Guests are provided with a "self-serve all day" breakfast, which includes a wide variety of food, drinks, and snacks. Some listings also mention a fridge and microwave being available. The inn aims to provide a "charming, friendly and comfortable" stay. For entertainment, there are big screens with Apple TV and stereos, contributing to a "musical ambiance."

  A significant aspect of the service is the host's role as a concierge. The owner, who has reportedly been running Poplar House for thirty years, aims to make guests "feel right at home" by offering helpful advice on what to see and how to get around Newport. This personalized guidance is a key part of the guest experience. The property also indicates that it provides off-street parking, which is a valuable amenity in Newport.

  It is important to note that some customer reviews raise concerns about the actual condition of the advertised services and amenities. One review specifically mentioned that claimed "clean sheets" were "not as advertised," and that the "pictures looked great online but it is atrocious." These past severe criticisms regarding cleanliness and discrepancies between online representation and reality are crucial for potential guests to consider.

• Features and Highlights:

  The main features of the POPLAR HOUSE INN revolve around its concept as a "home away from home" and its central location. The inn is noted for its "thrifty weekday getaways and reasonably priced Newport weekends." It aims to be a more affordable option compared to larger hotels in the area. The "NO COOKING JUST BNB BREAKFAST SELF SERVE ALL DAY" model provides flexibility for guests.

  A specific feature mentioned on some platforms is its pet-friendly policy. However, this has been a point of contention in past customer feedback. One review explicitly states that the host said "no dogs allowed" despite the website claiming it was "pet-friendly," causing significant disappointment for a guest traveling with a dog. This indicates a potential inconsistency between advertised policies and actual practice, or a misunderstanding that occurred.

  The property is described as having two sleeping rooms according to one listing, suggesting a very intimate and small-scale operation, reinforcing the "home away from home" concept. The focus is on providing a base from which to explore Newport, with the host offering local insights. Some reviews from earlier years praise the host's attentiveness and helpfulness, describing him as "extremely service oriented" and a "wonderful host" who "regularly checked on what we needed and satisfied promptly any of our requests." However, recent, very critical reviews paint a vastly different picture, focusing on the perceived poor condition of the property and negative customer service experiences, particularly regarding deposits and pet policies. The drastic difference in reviews suggests a highly variable guest experience or changes over time.

• Promotional Information:

  Given the nature of the POPLAR HOUSE INN, promotional information may be more localized and direct rather than extensive campaigns. The inn emphasizes its role as a "home away from home" and its central location as key selling points. It is marketed as a good value option, with rates often below those of larger hotels. Guests are encouraged to call directly to discuss their needs, as bookings are primarily taken over the phone. This direct contact allows for a more personalized discussion of stay requirements and potentially any offers that might not be widely advertised online.

  However, based on customer reviews, potential guests should proceed with caution and verify all advertised policies and amenities directly with the inn prior to booking, especially regarding pet-friendliness and cancellation policies. The reported issue with a $256 deposit not being reimbursed for an emergency cancellation, even with a month's notice, highlights a potentially stringent cancellation policy that guests should be fully aware of before committing to a reservation. It also suggests that "future guests" may want to confirm specific terms to avoid similar issues. The discrepancy between advertised features (like pet-friendliness) and actual experiences also implies that direct communication is paramount to ensure expectations align with the inn's offerings.