Howard Johnson by Wyndham Gravenhurst

This hotel is consistently praised for its convenient location right off the highway and its cleanliness, making it a practical choice for various travelers. Its signature feature is its accessibility to essential amenities and major routes, appealing to travelers passing through, families seeking easy access to dining and attractions, and business travelers needing a straightforward, quiet stay. The hotel also caters well to pet owners with dedicated rooms and is noted for accommodating groups like hockey teams with its spacious rooms and common areas. Guests often highlight the comfortable beds and the generally friendly staff. To enhance your stay, consider managing expectations regarding the complimentary breakfast and, if you are a light sleeper, be aware that rooms facing the road may experience some traffic noise.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the practical amenities available, including a microwave and mini-fridge in the rooms, which are highly valued for convenience, especially for longer stays or those with specific dietary needs. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, though some guests have noted occasional connectivity issues. While there isn't a full-service restaurant on-site, a common room is available for groups, and pet-friendly rooms offer direct access to the parking lot, which is very convenient for pet owners. The property offers ample parking, which is consistently plowed in winter, ensuring easy access. Other useful facilities include ice machines and vending machines, adding to the overall guest convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Most guests commend the hotel's cleanliness, frequently describing rooms as spotless and well-maintained. The comfortable beds and quality linens are a recurring highlight, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Rooms are generally described as spacious, providing ample room for guests and their belongings. However, some guests have noted that the decor is outdated, with a few mentioning a musty smell in hallways or certain rooms. Feedback on bathrooms is mixed; while some find them clean, others report them as small, outdated, or having issues like slow drainage or mildew. Noise levels are generally considered quiet, though some front-facing rooms may experience minor traffic noise, and occasional noise from other guests in hallways has been reported.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel offers a continental breakfast that receives mixed but generally modest feedback. Most guests describe it as basic and limited, primarily consisting of cereals, bagels, toast, and coffee. Many express a desire for more breakfast variety, specifically mentioning the lack of hot food or protein options like eggs, and a limited selection of fruit or yogurt. The coffee quality is also occasionally mentioned as being weak or cold. While some guests find the breakfast suitable for a quick start to the day, many suggest that it could be significantly improved to meet expectations for a more substantial meal.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a significant advantage, offering easy highway access and placing guests within close proximity to numerous amenities. It is conveniently situated near a variety of walkable amenities including restaurants, stores, Starbucks, McDonald's, and gas stations, making it easy for guests to find dining and shopping options without needing to drive. The hotel is also well-located for exploring local attractions, being a short distance from areas like the Muskoka Wharf and Gull Lake Park. Ample parking is consistently available, accommodating even larger vehicles, which adds to the convenience for guests traveling by car.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness and helpful demeanor. Guests frequently highlight the quick check-in and check-out processes, contributing to a smooth arrival and departure experience. The staff is noted for being very accommodating to guest requests, such as providing extra toiletries, replacing faulty in-room appliances, or assisting with TV issues. Many reviews commend the attentive service provided, with staff going out of their way to ensure guest comfort and satisfaction, including assisting with lost items. Overall, the staff's commitment to providing excellent service is a standout feature, creating a welcoming and positive atmosphere for most visitors.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, with specific walk-out rooms available that offer direct access to the parking lot, which is particularly convenient for guests traveling with animals. Guests should be aware that a security deposit may be required upon check-in. While the hotel generally provides basic toiletries, some guests have noted a lack of certain items like Tylenol. The property is diligent with snow removal during winter months, ensuring clear pathways and parking areas. For groups, a common room is available for gatherings, which has been appreciated by teams and families. Some guests have noted that the hotel's late check-out policy may involve an additional fee, though half-hour extensions have been granted.