Whenever I visit Boone, North Carolina, I’m usually looking for a place that’s comfortable, conveniently located, and has a little personality. Rhode’s Motor Lodge checked all of those boxes and ended up being one of my favorite places I’ve stayed in the area. It has all the charm of a restored mid-century motor lodge but with modern comforts that make it feel like a boutique hotel rather than a renovated motel.
From the moment I arrived, I could tell Rhode’s was different. The property has done an excellent job embracing its mid-century roots while updating everything for today’s traveler. The architecture maintains the classic roadside motor lodge layout, but the renovations give it a fresh Scandinavian-meets-Appalachian aesthetic that’s both inviting and unique. Other reviewers have noted the thoughtful restoration and the hotel’s nostalgic yet modern design, and after staying here, I completely understand why it’s frequently mentioned as one of the property’s biggest strengths.
A Comfortable Room with a Great View
I booked one of the balcony rooms, and that turned out to be one of the highlights of my stay. Sitting outside and looking toward the surrounding mountains was a relaxing way to start the morning and wind down in the evening. The balcony added an extra level of enjoyment that made the room feel much larger than simply having four walls.
The room itself was spacious and tastefully furnished with mid-century-inspired furniture that matched the overall character of the property. Rather than feeling trendy for the sake of being trendy, everything felt intentional and well put together. The design gave the room plenty of personality without sacrificing comfort.
Speaking of comfort, the bed was excellent. I slept well throughout my stay, and everything from the mattress to the bedding felt high quality. The bathroom also impressed me with strong water pressure—something I always appreciate after spending the day exploring Boone and the surrounding mountains. The room simply met every need I had during my visit.
Other reviewers have also praised the comfortable beds, spacious bathrooms, cleanliness, and the overall attention to detail throughout the rooms. Many specifically mention that the renovations strike a great balance between preserving the motor lodge’s history while delivering modern amenities.
The Exterior Room Entrance Was Actually a Plus
Some travelers may hesitate when they hear that the guest room doors open directly to the parking lot in the traditional motor lodge style.
Personally, I ended up really liking it.
Being able to park just outside my room made loading and unloading the car incredibly easy. Whether I was bringing luggage inside or grabbing something I’d forgotten in the vehicle, I never had to navigate long hallways or elevators. It was simply more convenient.
Interestingly, other reviewers have made similar observations, noting that having your vehicle parked directly outside the room makes loading and unloading quick and easy—especially for road trips or travelers carrying outdoor gear.
Excellent On-Site Dining
One of the unexpected highlights of my stay was the on-site restaurant, Over Yonder.
The food was excellent.
It’s always nice when a hotel has a restaurant, but it’s even better when the restaurant is somewhere you’d want to visit regardless of where you’re staying. Every meal I had was flavorful, well prepared, and made it easy to simply relax instead of driving somewhere else for dinner.
Other reviewers consistently mention the quality of the restaurant, with many describing it as a destination in its own right rather than just a convenient hotel dining option. Several guests even commented that they planned meals around eating there during their stay.
More Than Just a Place to Sleep
Another aspect that stood out was the atmosphere around the property. The outdoor gathering spaces, fire pits, and common areas create an environment where it would be easy to spend an evening relaxing after a day in the mountains.
While I didn’t spend a great deal of time using those spaces, other reviewers frequently mention enjoying the outdoor seating areas, fire pits, and welcoming common spaces, saying they contribute to the lodge’s relaxed mountain vibe. Many also praise the staff for being friendly and accommodating throughout their stay.
Final Thoughts
Rhode’s Motor Lodge delivered exactly what I was hoping for and then some. The balcony with mountain views, spacious room, comfortable bed, excellent water pressure, and stylish mid-century furnishings made for a relaxing stay, while the exterior room entrance turned out to be much more convenient than I expected. Add in an outstanding meal at the on-site restaurant, and it all came together to create an experience I’d gladly repeat.
What I appreciated most is that Rhode’s has its own personality. It doesn’t feel like another interchangeable chain hotel. Instead, it embraces its history while offering modern comfort in a way that’s both memorable and practical.
I’ll definitely stay here again the next time I’m in Boone. If you’re looking for a hotel with character, comfortable accommodations, a great location, and excellent food just steps from your room, Rhode’s Motor Lodge is an easy recommendation.
