Bloomington, Indiana's A Summerhouse Inn

A Summerhouse Inn, on Bloomington, Indiana's third street, is a no frills option that's worth a try if you are looking to save some money.

This home to the University of Indiana is filled with hotels, but -- especially during school events -- they can be pricey. A Summerhouse Inn's prices on its 96 rooms vary by season and can run as low as $60 a night. The rooms are average size and in pretty good shape even though the outside of the motel looks a bit warn. I had a refrigerator, microwave and coffee pot in my room, which was also equipped with free high speed internet. They even have hair dryers and irons in the room.

On the grounds of A Summerhouse Inn there is an outdoor pool, barbecue grill with picnic area and a sandbox for the kids. A continental breakfast of muffins, danish, cereal and apples is included in the room rate free of charge. It is extremely kid friendly, with rollaway beds and cribs available. Pets are also allowed.

The staff was very helpful when I needed feather-free pillows and even recommended a few places to go when I had car problems. I only have some minor complaints. I am an early riser and the breakfast did not start until 8:00 a.m. (the office area was completely locked up until then). This is the only food available at the motel and there are no other food options within a short walk. The bathroom also had some peeling paint and could use a bit of remodeling.

A Summerhouse Inn is not a place to go if you are looking for brand new decor or rooms service, but it is well worth the trip if you are staying in Bloomington, Indiana (about an hour from Indianapolis), and looking for an economy place to stay. It is only a few miles from the University and Oliver Winery, the largest winery in the state of Indiana.

For more information about A Summerhouse Inn, visit their website or call 1-800-371-0934.