Howard Johnson by Wyndham Bangor

The Howard Johnson in Bangor is what it promises to be: a straightforward two-star motel that handles the basics competently and doesn't pretend to be anything else. Located on Odlin Road just off I-95, less than 1.2 miles from Bangor International Airport, it's built for travelers who need a clean bed, reliable parking, and a quick morning exit. The property carries the retro aesthetic of a 1970s-era motor lodge - wood paneling, simple furnishings - which works for some guests as nostalgic charm and for others as dated décor.

Couples and families who've stayed here consistently praise the beds (especially the king-size mattresses) and the friendliness of the front-desk staff. Guests traveling with dogs return repeatedly, citing the pet-friendly policy and the small yard out back. The main friction point across reviews isn't the room quality but the breakfast situation - a grab-and-go bag containing a microwaveable sandwich, yogurt, banana, and a pastry has disappointed enough guests to be worth flagging upfront.

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The beds are genuinely comfortable. Guests repeatedly single out the king-size mattresses as the property's standout feature. Even solo travelers who've spent one night there describe waking up rested after long drives - which, on a highway corridor, is no small thing.

Pet-friendly without fuss or fees. The hotel welcomes dogs and doesn't charge extra. Reviews mention a grassy area out back where guests walk their animals. If you're road-tripping with a dog and need a bed for the night, this property gets it right at a price significantly lower than chains that charge pet premiums.

Staff goes the extra mile on check-in. Multiple guests report arriving with booking confirmation issues and finding the front desk understanding and flexible. One guest named Kate is called out by name in reviews for exceptional kindness. The team handles early arrivals and late checkouts without attitude.

Unbeatable value and location for airport travelers. At under $100 per night in shoulder season, it's the cheapest clean option within walking distance of Bangor International. The location on the highway corridor also puts you within 300 yards of Tim Hortons and Mexican restaurants, and downtown Bangor is 10 minutes away.

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The property is organized around standard motel layout - ground-floor access, exterior corridors, wood-paneled building. Rooms are compact and functional. All listed accommodations include air conditioning, a private bathroom with a shower/tub combo, a cable TV, a desk, and in-room refrigerator and microwave. Non-smoking rooms throughout.

• King Room – Non-Smoking: Single king bed, preferred by couples and solo travelers. Most guest feedback centers on this category.
• Queen Room with Two Queen Beds – Non-Smoking: Two queen beds, better for families or small groups needing separate sleeping areas.

One honest note: several guests have flagged that you can hear neighbors through adjoining walls if they're talking or the TV is on. One reviewer mentioned an adjoining-room door, which felt concerning to them (though it was secure). If you're noise-sensitive, request a ground-floor end unit when you call ahead.

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Practical essentials · Free WiFi · Free parking (ample, paved lot) · 24-hour front desk · Daily housekeeping · Laundry facilities · Business center · Pet-friendly (no extra charge) · Accessible parking and facilities for disabled guests

In-room comfort · Private bathroom with bathtub or shower · Hairdryer · Air conditioning · Desk · Cable TV · In-room refrigerator and microwave · Alarm clock

Services & extras · Vending machines (snacks and drinks) · Fax/photocopying · Ironing service · Private check-in/out

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The "breakfast included" claim requires context. Rather than a sit-down meal or a buffet, guests receive a grab-and-go bag containing a microwaveable Jimmy Dean sandwich, yogurt, banana, and either a honey-bun or donut. Opinions split sharply: some guests find it adequate for a quick departure, while others - particularly those traveling with families - feel disappointed by the limited nutrition and unprepared-food quality. No on-site breakfast room exists. Dunkin' is within walking distance if you'd prefer coffee and pastries instead.

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Spring (April–May): This is a popular layover season for travelers heading north to Bar Harbor or the Acadia region. Rooms book solid around Easter. Weather is unpredictable - bring a jacket. No special seasonal closures.

Summer (June–August): Peak leaf-peepers, families heading to the coast, and concert-goers attending events in Bangor drive demand. Rates spike during popular events at the Bangor Auditorium. Highway traffic can be heavy; plan early morning departures if continuing north.

Fall (September–October): Another busy corridor for foliage tourism. Rates remain elevated through October. The property stays open year-round with no seasonal amenities changes.

Winter (November–March): Quietest season, with rates often dipping below $80 per night. Convenient for holiday travel to Boston and points south. Snow plowing is standard; no special winter closures.

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"The king-size bed and always having hot water for showers."

• Nikeda, United States · Family · 8/10

"Dog friendly" and "extremely comfortable" mattress - the two reasons I return.

• Roxanne, Canada · Solo traveler · 9/10

"Staff was really friendly and kind. Easy check in. Comfortable bed. Nice bathroom."

• Jennifer, Canada · Couple · 7/10

"Clean and comfortable" with a "spacious room" and "spotless bathroom."

• Tom, France · Solo traveler · 8/10

"Great location/good value" and the people working there are "very nice."

• Karen, United States · Solo traveler · 9/10

"Convenient to highway and restaurants" with "pleasant staff" and "nice bed."

• Goldie, United States · Solo traveler · 9/10

Minor concerns to know about: Several guests mention musty or odd odors in hallways and some rooms, though cleaning quality varies - most rate the room itself as clean. A handful of guests noted outdated décor, visible rust on fixtures, and worn fabric. Phone lines in some rooms don't work reliably. The property's website advertises a pool and sit-down breakfast that no longer exist - a frustration for guests who discovered this on arrival. Room noise from neighbors is possible, though not universal.

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• Bangor International Airport: 1.2 miles · Direct access via Odlin Road
• Downtown Bangor & historic district: 10 minutes · Shopping, dining, and the Stephen King Home tours
• Tim Hortons & Mexican restaurant: 300 yards · Quick meal options without leaving the area
• Kenduskeag Stream Trail: 5 miles · Local walking and biking path
• Cole Land Transportation Museum: 4 miles · Quirky collection of vintage Maine vehicles and heavy equipment
• Penobscot River Park: 8 miles · Picnic area and water access in nearby Brewer
• Orono and University of Maine campus: 15 miles · If visiting students or attending campus events
• Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island:** 1.5 hours · Gateway to Maine's premier national park

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Is this hotel on the water or with views? No. It's a motel on a highway corridor. The property is inland and built for convenience rather than scenery. Views are of the parking lot and road.

Is breakfast actually included? Yes, but it's a grab-and-go bag (sandwich, yogurt, fruit, pastry), not a restaurant meal. If you want a hot breakfast, Dunkin' or local diners are nearby.

Is there a pool? No. The website and signs on-property reference a pool that no longer exists - a source of guest complaints. Plan accordingly.

Is the hotel pet-friendly? Yes, and pets stay free with no additional charge. A grassy area out back is available for walking dogs.

How far is it from Bangor Airport? 1.2 miles - about a 5-minute drive. Ideal for early flights or last-minute layovers.

Are there working phones in the rooms? Most rooms have phones, but several guests report non-functioning lines. Call the front desk if you need a phone that works.

What's the nearest town center? Downtown Bangor is 10 minutes away. Tim Hortons and a Mexican restaurant are 300 yards on foot.

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