Planning a trip to Colorado Springs and looking for an affordable hotel near Garden of the Gods? Quality Inn Garden of the Gods is a popular budget-friendly option. But is it worth your money? In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know: room quality, amenities, location pros and cons, and practical tips to make the most of your stay. No fluff, just real advice from a frequent traveler.
Location and Accessibility
Quality Inn Garden of the Gods is located at 555 W Garden of the Gods Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907. It’s literally minutes from the Garden of the Gods Park entrance, making it a top choice for hikers and nature lovers. The hotel is also close to I-25, so you can easily reach downtown Colorado Springs (10 minutes), the Air Force Academy (15 minutes), and Pikes Peak (30 minutes). However, note that the immediate area has limited dining options within walking distance – you’ll need a car or rideshare for restaurants like The Famous Steak House or Jose Muldoon’s. Parking is free and ample.
Room Quality and Cleanliness
Rooms are standard for a 2-star hotel: clean but basic. Expect two queen beds or one king, a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and flat-screen TV. The beds are firm but comfortable, and linens are fresh. Bathrooms are small with shower/tub combos; water pressure is good. The biggest complaint from past guests is noise – thin walls mean you can hear hallway chatter and neighboring TVs. Ask for a top-floor room away from the elevator to minimize noise. Housekeeping is daily but can be inconsistent; check your room upon arrival for any issues and request a change if needed.
Amenities: What You Get (and Don’t)
Freebies include Wi-Fi (decent speed for browsing, not great for streaming), a complimentary breakfast (waffles, cereal, yogurt, bagels, coffee – nothing hot like eggs or bacon), and an outdoor pool (open seasonally, unheated, so it’s chilly even in summer). There’s also a fitness center with a few cardio machines. No business center, but the front desk can print documents. The hotel does not have an elevator, so if you have mobility issues, request a ground-floor room. Pet-friendly policy: dogs up to 50 lbs for a $20 fee per night – call ahead to confirm availability.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are real pitfalls guests have faced:
1. Booking the wrong room type: Some rooms have exterior entrances (motel-style), which can be less secure and noisier. Request an interior corridor room.
2. Not checking for hidden fees: The advertised rate often excludes a $10/night resort fee (covers breakfast, parking, Wi-Fi). Confirm total cost before booking.
3. Assuming the pool is heated: It’s not. If swimming is important, choose a hotel with a heated indoor pool.
4. Skipping the breakfast rush: Between 7:30-8:30 AM, the breakfast area gets crowded. Go early (6:30 AM) or late (after 9 AM) to avoid lines.
Tips for Getting the Best Value
To save money and avoid disappointment:
- Book directly on Quality Inn’s website to get the best rate and loyalty points. Third-party sites often add fees.
- Join Choice Privileges (free) for member-only discounts and free nights.
- Call the hotel directly to ask about upgrades or deals – sometimes they’ll offer a better room for the same price.
- Check for AAA or AARP discounts if applicable.
- Bring earplugs and a sleep mask – the blackout curtains are decent, but noise is an issue.
- Use the free shuttle to Garden of the Gods if available (call ahead to confirm service).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Quality Inn Garden of the Gods safe?
A: Yes, the area is safe, with well-lit parking lots. The hotel has security cameras and a front desk staffed 24/7.
Q: How far is it from the Garden of the Gods Park entrance?
A: Less than 1 mile – a 2-minute drive or 15-minute walk.
Q: Does the hotel have a shuttle to the airport?
A: No, but you can use Uber or Lyft (about $30 to Colorado Springs Airport).
Q: Can I cancel my reservation for free?
A: Usually you can cancel up to 24 hours before check-in without penalty. Confirm the policy when booking.
Q: Is breakfast included?
A: Yes, free continental breakfast is included in the resort fee.
Final Verdict
Quality Inn Garden of the Gods is a solid budget choice if you prioritize location over luxury. It’s clean, safe, and close to the park, but don’t expect upscale amenities. Perfect for hikers who just need a place to sleep. If you want a quieter stay with better breakfast, consider spending a bit more at the nearby Holiday Inn Express. For most travelers, though, this hotel delivers good value for the price.