Rodeway Inn & Suites Downtown

Description:

• In the northern corner of downtown, this place is good for business travelers without expense accounts and vacationers who just need reliable, safe accommodations. This humble chain motel must be surprised to find itself in a quickly gentrifying part of town: The El Cortez Hotel across the street has been transformed into upscale condos and shops, and new residential construction is winding nearby. The Rodeway is designed so rooms open onto exterior walkways surrounding the drive-in entry courtyard, lending an insular feel in this once-dicey corner of town. The hotel operates a free shuttle to the airport, train station, and cruise ship terminal. Note: The hilltop location gives thighs a workout on the walk to and from the Gaslamp Quarter, but third-floor rooms offer the best chance of a view.

• © Frommer's 2013

Other features:

Data ports, fax machines, nearby trolley can take visitors anywhere from East County to the Mexican border.