Hotel Review: Travelodge in Redding, Ca.
I didn’t expect to find a hotel that boasted “family friendly” in Redding, Ca. Though 90,000 strong, Redding is not a quite a tourist hot-spot. There are certainly things to do with kids, but the valley heat in the summer can be a deterrent when considering a summer vacation. I know of a few places I have wanted to explore in Redding. Even in July, I thought it worth a few days stay on our way up north. When I learned that the Travelodge had a room designed with families in mind, I booked it immediately. The following is my opinion of the pros and cons of the Travelodge on Market Street if you are traveling with a family.
Sleepy Bear Room – The room we stayed in includes two queens in one room and a separate room called the “sleepy bear” room that is joined by a closing door. The sleepy bear room contains a double bed with a bear in a nightcap on the quilt and matching drapery, curtains, lampshade, and a child-sized chair. There are many advantages to having an adjoining room with a door, particularly when you have one child who still naps and others who do not. It also makes it easier to accommodate a child whose bedtime is earlier than others in the family. I found this a cute room with its kid décor, its own air conditioning unit, and even a night light included. I did notice light stains on the quilt and a more noticeable stain on the blanket. The sheets were clean, but the stains gave me pause to inspect everything closely.
Kitchen – A huge advantage to traveling with children is access to a kitchen, especially when staying for a few days. Snacks and meals can be stored and prepared, often saving time and money. This room provided a large refrigerator, microwave and sink. The kitchen, however, was located within the bathroom. This seems of questionable health practices, but I suppose for the limited stay of a hotel it can be overlooked.
Breakfast – I am a big fan of included breakfasts. The more you can take care of at the hotel, the less hassle for everyone. Breakfast is included at the Travelodge, however it is a voucher for a restaurant called Lumberjacks several miles away. I must say, the breakfast at Lumberjacks was tasty. One day the service was terrific, the second day was quite busy and added a full hour to our morning schedule. We opted to skip the third day, as our plans did not take us toward downtown. The quality of food at Lumberjacks was much better than what one often gets at a hotel lobby. If you have plenty of time, it is probably a welcome change from the pastry buffet hotels frequently serve. The hassle of driving downtown, parking, getting seated, ordering, and then eating can alternatively be more of an inconvenience when you have kids.
Conveniences – Travelodge has an outdoor gated swimming pool, which is a plus for traveling with kids during the summer. (It is located in the center of the parking lot.)
Inconveniences - The hotel is not located in a great part of town. It appears to be surrounded by motels that people use as their primary residence. After learning where I was staying, a Redding local suggested I bring everything from the car into the hotel at night. The guest services personnel say they have never heard of a car break-in at their hotel.
Summary: For what you get, the cost per night is less expensive than other local chain hotels. In exchange, it seems, you find yourself at the “budget” end of town. It also happens to be located close to a great park (Caldwell Park) and a water slide park. If the location is unimportant to you, this is a pretty good deal for a family to come see the sights of Redding.
I received a discount on the room during my stay. The review, however, is based entirely on my own experience there.
this is where my grandparents used to stay when we were little so we could go swimming. I have never thought about staying along this strip, but this hotel review is making me reconsider. Three beds is a huge plus when you have 4 kids.
I very much appreciate the comment about our property. We have worked hard to be recognized as a property that is provides a good place for those traveling on a budget but desires a few pluses. Our pool and spa/workout room seems to be the ticket for most people w/ kids.
One thing I like to clarify, the area of town, north of the bridge, has really changed over the years. Most all the business have done some sort of remodel or refresh. The city, county and State have invested quite a bit on this stretch of highway 273, 299 and North market. Making it look great and safe. We’re a rocks throw from one of the finest elementary school in the region, Turtle Bay School
Also, many families like the River Trail system which is a few blocks from the hotel. One direction takes you right to the Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay Exploration Park.
One last extra for families with kids – our kitchenettes are HUGE and serving larger families well. Thanks again for the comments and hope to see you again!
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