Howard Johnson by Wyndham Mystic

This hotel is primarily chosen for its prime location, offering easy access to local attractions and amenities, making it a suitable option for budget-conscious travelers and sightseers looking to explore the area. Its affordability often outweighs concerns about its overall condition, positioning it as a practical base for short stays. Families might find the indoor pool appealing, when available. To enhance your stay, be prepared for an older property that is undergoing updates, and take advantage of the 10% discount offered at the popular diner located conveniently next door.

Facilities & Amenities
The indoor pool is a notable feature, often appreciated by guests, especially families, though some reviews mention it being closed for repairs, cold, or having strong chlorine odors. Free Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the property. Rooms often include a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker, which guests find convenient for their stay. However, common areas like hallways are frequently described as run-down, and issues with ice machines and the fitness center being out of order are noted. A significant concern for many guests is the lack of adequate security for building access doors, with reports of them being broken or unlocked, allowing unmonitored entry.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The most prevalent feedback concerns cleanliness and the overall condition of the rooms and common areas. Many guests report dirty carpets, stained walls, peeling paint, and a pervasive musty odor or mildew smell in hallways and rooms. Bathrooms are frequently cited for issues such as mold, rust, clogged drains, broken fixtures, and general lack of thorough cleaning. While some guests find the beds comfortable, others mention uncomfortable mattresses or lumpy pillows. Noise from the highway and adjacent rooms is a common complaint, impacting sleep quality. Reports of bugs and unpleasant stains on bedding or furniture are also present, leading to significant discomfort for many.

Dining & Food Quality
Most guests appreciate the convenience of the Mystic Diner located directly next to the hotel, often highlighting its good food and the 10% discount offered to hotel guests. This diner serves as a primary dining option for many visitors, providing a reliable place for meals throughout the day. However, the hotel itself does not consistently offer a complimentary breakfast, with some guests expressing disappointment about its absence or the limited options provided, such as lukewarm coffee or a single bottle of orange juice. The diner's proximity and discount are a significant draw, often compensating for the hotel's lack of in-house breakfast service.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently praised as its strongest asset. It offers easy access to popular attractions such as Old Mystic Village, the Mystic Aquarium, and various restaurants and shops, many within walking distance. Its proximity to the highway makes it convenient for travelers, including those visiting nearby casinos. While parking is available, some guests note concerns about its security, with a "park at your own risk" sign mentioned. The location is ideal for sightseeing and exploring the area, often outweighing other concerns for guests seeking convenience and proximity to local points of interest.

Staff & Service
Feedback on staff and service is mixed but leans positive for individual interactions. Many guests commend the front desk staff for being friendly, polite, courteous, and helpful, particularly during check-in and when addressing immediate concerns like room changes. Some specific staff members are highlighted for their attentiveness and willingness to assist. However, other reviews describe instances of unresponsive staff, long waits for assistance, or a perceived lack of care from management regarding persistent issues. Requests for extra towels or housekeeping services are sometimes not fulfilled promptly, and some guests report difficulties with refunds or resolving complaints.

Additional Information
Guests frequently encounter a non-refundable booking policy, which can lead to frustration when seeking compensation for unsatisfactory stays. The hotel is often described as an older property in need of significant renovations and upgrades, with many areas showing signs of dilapidation and poor maintenance. Some rooms feature balconies, which are appreciated, though their condition can vary, with reports of broken chairs or unclean surfaces. The proximity to the highway means that traffic noise can be an issue for rooms facing that direction. Guests are advised to manage expectations regarding the hotel's overall condition, as it is often chosen for its affordability rather than its luxury.