Best Western Niantic Inn

This hotel stands out as a newly renovated and modern property, offering a refreshing experience for guests. Its signature feature is its contemporary design and pristine condition, consistently praised for its cleanliness and the overall comfort it provides. The hotel's friendly staff and convenient location near major highways and local amenities further enhance its appeal. It is an ideal choice for business travelers seeking a quiet and comfortable stay, families exploring the area's attractions like Mystic, couples looking for a modern and good-value getaway, and even pet owners due to its accommodating policy. To maximize your stay, be aware that while the hotel is new, some rooms may experience noise from thin walls or exterior doors, and breakfast offerings can vary in quality and availability, especially later in the service.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests consistently appreciate the range of basic but important amenities available. The hotel offers complimentary free Wi-Fi and ample free parking, adding significant value. Many rooms are equipped with a mini-fridge and microwave, providing convenience for longer stays or quick snacks. For entertainment, rooms feature large TVs with access to cable and Netflix. The hotel also includes a fitness center, though some guests note its limited operating hours, typically opening at 8 AM. While some reviews mention a pool, others indicate it may not always be operational or available. Thoughtful touches like USB charging outlets, phone charging clocks, a water bottle filler in the lobby, and ice machines on each floor contribute to a comfortable and well-equipped experience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel receives widespread acclaim for its immaculate cleanliness and the overall comfort of its accommodations. Rooms are frequently described as spotless, very clean, and modern, reflecting the recent renovations. Guests often highlight the comfortable beds and high-quality linens that ensure a restful night's sleep. Many appreciate the spacious rooms and well-appointed bathrooms, often featuring walk-in showers and quality body products. Some select suites even boast a separate room with a powerful jacuzzi and an additional TV. The absence of carpeting, with Pergo-type floors, is noted for contributing to cleanliness. However, some guests report issues with thin walls, leading to noise from neighboring rooms or the hallway, and occasional disturbances from exterior doors slamming. A few isolated incidents mention a persistent cigarette smoke odor in specific rooms or a strong perfume-like scent in hallways.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast at the hotel receives mixed but generally positive feedback. Many guests praise the wide array of choices and describe it as plentiful and delicious, often including options like waffles, omelets, sausage, bagels, pastries, and cereal. The staff in the breakfast area are frequently commended for being attentive and ensuring items are stocked and clean. However, some guests find the breakfast to be just "okay," noting a limited selection of healthy options, a lack of fresh fruit, or issues with items not being hot. Specific complaints include undercooked meats, dry eggs, watered-down juice, and the coffee sometimes being cold. Early risers should also note that breakfast typically starts at 7 AM, which may be too late for some schedules.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's convenient location is a significant advantage for many travelers. It offers easy highway access right off I-95, making it simple to reach and depart. Guests appreciate its proximity to various amenities, including a Starbucks next door, a grocery store across the street, and numerous restaurants and fast-food options nearby. For those visiting local attractions, the hotel is well-situated, being approximately a 15-20 minute drive from Mohegan Sun casino and about 20 minutes from Mystic Seaport. While the location is generally praised, some guests mention challenges with road construction near the entrance, which can make initial access a bit confusing, and difficulty making left turns onto the heavily traveled main road.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight the welcoming and courteous demeanor of the team, noting their willingness to go out of their way to assist. The check-in process is often described as seamless and efficient, contributing to a positive first impression. Many reviews commend the staff for their responsiveness to requests, such as fixing a TV remote or accommodating room preferences. Housekeeping is also noted for doing a good job maintaining cleanliness. However, some guests have reported issues with the check-in process taking an extended amount of time, particularly for pre-paid reservations, and a few instances of confusion regarding room choices or issues with receiving receipts after checkout.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is a significant benefit for guests traveling with animals. A notable concern raised by some guests is the occasional malfunction of the fire alarm system, leading to disruptive activations during the night. Additionally, some guests have noted the absence of baby changing tables in the lobby restrooms, which can be inconvenient for families with infants. While rooms are generally well-equipped, a few guests mentioned the lack of an in-room phone for direct communication with the front desk. On a positive note, some guests have received a thoughtful gift bag upon arrival, adding a welcoming touch to their stay.