Utica Rest Inn

My friend and I, two 25 year old women, traveled from Maine and arrived around 9 PM on our way across country. We walked in and there was no one in the lobby to speak with/check in with, yet random people were in the lobby talking to their own reflections. The entrance to the building was wide open for anyone to go in. There were sketchy people walking around the parking lot and in the building. I was texted the pin to get into our room. The only lock on the door was a keypad, and given the sketchy area, we felt extremely unsafe. While entering the room there was a man stalking the door and watching us enter. Were placed in the first room on the left on the first floor. Window was only kept shut with a small piece of wood. Once we were in our room we looked around to see if it was clean and it was the most disgusting room we’ve ever seen. My bed had urine and blood stains on it and the pillow had old make up on it. We literally could not have gotten out of there faster. So unsafe. NOT recommended for lone travelers or women or anyone who does not want to be at risk for assault/human trafficking etc. $130... absolutely insane.

My boyfriend and I are bicycle touring around the country, so we are familiar with budget motels. From my point of view I do not require the most updated decor, but I DO insist on very clean accommodations. If it’s not clean I have trouble relaxing. I’m also sensitive to smells (cigarettes, mold, etc) so I’m picky about that. The Rest Inn was very clean and completely odor free. Yes the room is dated but the bed was very comfortable, the room spacious, and…did I mention clean? If you’re looking for something no frills but sanitary and quite comfortable, this place fits the bill.

Budget priced. Very clean room and hallways. Modern bathroom, no unwanted odors. Bed comfortable with standard motel foam pillows. I didn't ask if feather pillows were available on request. Might want to bring your own if they are not. If driving a large vehicle best to park in the front or side lot. Back lot is tight. Several fast food places and one fine dining restaurant in immediate area, also a 24 hr Denny's. Would stay there again.

Chose this place because it was inexpensive and we were only staying for a few hours due to a party and there were no rooms elsewhere. The room we got was classified as “non-smoking” but it smelled like cigarettes to the point of almost unable to breathe. There’s a big sign at the front desk that reads “No Smoking” and as we drive in from the party, I noticed the “security guard” walking and smoking as he walked out of the 1st floor corridor. Hopefully the owner (if cares) will review cameras. As others have mentioned, you’ll get English muffin, bread and butter/jelly for breakfast.

If you want a good hotel, inexpensive, this is the place to go. Great location, very clean and the host and hostess were very helpful and friendly. For sure, if we go back for the Great Irish Festival in the future we'll be back. Rooms and bathroom clean and we couldn't ask for better.