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Summary of reviewsLamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU is a well-regarded hotel praised for its strategic location, clean accommodations and family-friendly atmosphere. Conveniently situated near major San Diego attractions such as SDSU, SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park, the hotel offers easy access to dining and shopping options within walking distance, making it a practical choice for visitors. The peaceful and secure environment is appreciated, despite being a bit removed from the city center.
Guests consistently commend the spacious, clean and well-maintained rooms, often highlighting the comfortable beds and thoughtful layouts, including separate living areas and well-equipped kitchenettes. The hotel grounds, lobby, breakfast room and common areas are meticulously maintained, contributing to a consistently high standard of cleanliness.
The complimentary breakfast receives favorable feedback for its variety and quality, featuring items such as waffles, oatmeal, cereals and more. Although some guests suggest adding more hot options like scrambled eggs and bacon, the breakfast is generally seen as surpassing typical continental offerings.
The staff at Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU are frequently praised for their exceptional service, described as friendly, helpful and professional. The welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable assistance provided by the staff significantly enhance the guest experience.
The pool area is another highlight, noted for its cleanliness and lovely landscaping. The pool's heated feature and extended hours are popular among families. However, occasional issues with inconsistent heating are mentioned. The hotel's parking facilities are generally appreciated for being ample, free and convenient, though some guests note that parking can become tight or crowded during peak times.
While the WiFi service receives mixed reviews with some guests experiencing intermittent and slow connections, the overall consensus reflects satisfaction with its availability. Despite these occasional connectivity issues, the hotel's overall value for money is recognized with many guests describing it as a solid choice for affordable, comfortable stays.
In summary, Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU offers a reliable and comfortable experience with its strategic location, excellent staff service, clean and spacious accommodations and family-friendly amenities. Show more
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Categories
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Dog Friendly Hotel
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Heated Pool Outdoor Pool
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Hotel with Heated Pool
Room Types
Large King Room - Non-SmokingOffering free WiFi, this air-conditioned mini suite features a TV with premium cable channels, a microwave and a coffee machine.
King Room - Non-SmokingOffering free WiFi, this air-conditioned room features a TV with premium cable channels, ironing facilities and a coffee machine.
King Room with Kitchen - Non-SmokingOffering free WiFi, this air-conditioned deluxe room features a TV with premium cable channels, ironing facilities and a coffee machine.
Queen Room with Kitchen - Non-SmokingOffering free WiFi, this air-conditioned room features a TV with premium cable channels, ironing facilities and a coffee machine.
Queen Suite with Queen Beds - Non-SmokingOffering free WiFi, this air-conditioned suite includes a kitchen, a TV with premium cable channels, ironing facilities and a coffee machine.
King Room with Roll-In Shower - Disability AccessThe spacious double room offers air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, as well as a private bathroom boasting a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. The unit has 1 bed.
Queen Room with Roll-In Shower - Disability AccessProviding free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. The spacious air-conditioned double room provides a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a tea and coffee maker, a seating area, a dressing room as well as pool views. The unit offers 1 bed.
King Room with Mobility Accessible TubThe spacious double room provides air conditioning, a tea and coffee maker, as well as a private bathroom featuring a bath and a shower. The double room features a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dressing room, a carpeted floor and heating. The unit offers 1 bed.
Queen Room with Two Queen BedsProviding free toiletries, this quadruple room includes a private bathroom with a bath, a shower and a hairdryer. This quadruple room is air-conditioned and features a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a tea and coffee maker, a dressing room and a carpeted floor. The unit offers 2 beds.
Guest Reviews
8.5
Very Good
Location
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU enjoys a favorable location that garners high praise from guests. Centrally situated, it provides convenient access to key attractions in San Diego, including SDSU, the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld and Balboa Park. The proximity to the university makes it a prime choice for families visiting students or attending events at SDSU. Guests appreciate the peaceful and secure environment, despite it being a bit removed from the bustling city center. The area surrounding the hotel offers ample dining and shopping options within walking distance, contributing to its overall convenience.
The hotel's location is well-regarded for its accessibility with major freeways nearby simplifying travel to various parts of the city. While some find the distance from downtown San Diego a minor drawback, others see it as a benefit, providing a quieter retreat away from the high tourist density. Additionally, the property is noted for its well-maintained grounds, friendly staff and clean, spacious rooms, making it a comfortable and practical choice for travelers.
In summary, Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU stands out for its strategic location near SDSU and other major attractions in San Diego, along with a tranquil setting and close proximity to numerous amenities. It offers a balance of convenience, comfort and accessibility, which is highly valued by its guests.
Breakfast
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU offers a complimentary breakfast that has received generally favorable feedback from its guests. Many have praised the variety and quality of the offerings, highlighting items such as waffles, oatmeal, hard-boiled eggs, cereals, yogurt, fruit, bagels and juices. It is frequently described as a decent, sufficient and well-stocked meal that provides a good start to the day.
Several reviews mention that the breakfast room is clean and constantly replenished, offering a range of options that cater to different tastes, which include both sweet and savory selections. The make-your-own waffle station is a standout feature appreciated by many. Overall, the breakfast is seen as surpassing the usual American continental breakfast standards with some guests calling it the best they've had at a hotel.
However, there are also comments suggesting that the breakfast could use more variety, especially with items like scrambled eggs, bacon and other hot options. A few guests felt that the selection was somewhat repetitive or overly basic, indicating that while the breakfast is good, there's room for improvement in terms of diversity and selection.
Despite these minor criticisms, the free breakfast at Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU is generally well-received and considered a valuable part of the stay, significantly enhancing the overall guest experience.
Rooms
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU offers spacious and clean accommodations with several appealing features that make it attractive for various types of travelers. The rooms are frequently described as very clean, well-maintained and significantly larger than anticipated, contributing to a comfortable stay. Many reviewers appreciated the practical and thoughtful room layouts, including the presence of separate living areas with additional TVs, well-equipped kitchenettes and ample lighting. The beds were commonly highlighted as extremely comfortable.
Despite some minor issues such as occasional noise, room keys failing and dated decor, the overall consensus on the hotel rooms is positive. The spaciousness of the rooms, often likened to mini-suites or small apartments, adds to the comfort, especially for longer stays or family accommodations. Cleanliness is consistently praised with daily cleaning ensuring fresh towels and tidied spaces.
Reviewers also noted practical amenities like refrigerators, microwaves and in-room coffee makers, along with more extensive kitchen equipment in the suites. The overall ambiance of the hotel felt safe and inviting, though some areas like soundproofing and exterior maintenance could use attention. The value for money was a recurring positive point, making it an attractive option for those visiting the area.
Beds
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU garners positive feedback for the comfort and quality of its beds. Guests frequently highlight the beds as very comfortable with several reviews describing them as extremely comfortable or even perfect. The bedding is noted to be of high quality with clean and pristine white linens enhancing the sleeping experience. The vast majority of reviews affirm the comfort of both the beds and pillows with terms like comfy, super comfortable and excellent being commonly used.
Though the majority of guests find the beds to be cozy and inviting, there are occasional mentions of certain beds being too firm or too soft for some guests' preferences. A few reviews also indicate beds could benefit from being more comfortable, pointing to issues such as lumpiness or being overly stiff. However, these critiques are sparse compared to the abundance of favorable feedback.
The hotel offers various bed options, including two queen beds, which have been positively remarked on for their comfort and spaciousness. Overall, the consensus from the reviews paints a picture of a hotel that prioritizes the sleeping comfort of its guests, providing clean, comfortable and inviting beds.
Cleanliness
The 'Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU' consistently earns high marks for its cleanliness from guests. Reviewers frequently highlight the property's sparkling clean rooms and well-maintained facilities, including the lobby, breakfast room and common areas. The hotel grounds are described as beautifully landscaped with an abundance of flowers and plants, contributing to a well-kept and inviting atmosphere.
Many comments emphasize the meticulous attention to cleanliness across all areas of the hotel, including spotless bathrooms and tidy common spaces. The rooms are commonly noted for being not only clean but also comfortable and cozy. Daily housekeeping services, including fresh towels and thorough cleaning, add to the positive experience.
The pool area and garden are particularly praised for their cleanliness and pleasing aesthetic. Guests also appreciate the modern, well-maintained facilities that uphold a high standard of hygiene and comfort.
Overall, the cleanliness and maintenance of 'Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU' significantly enhance the guest experience, making it a reliable choice for those who prioritize a pristine environment during their stay.
Staff
At 'Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU,' the staff truly shines as a highlight of the guest experience. Consistently praised for their exceptional service, the staff members are described as friendly, helpful and polite. Guests frequently compliment the welcoming atmosphere, noting that employees are not only professional but also genuinely kind and accommodating. The front desk service, in particular, is often highlighted for its attentiveness and cordiality, ensuring a smooth check-in process.
Housekeeping and other staff roles contribute significantly to the hotel's warm environment with numerous mentions of their courteous and supportive demeanor. The staff's knowledge and willingness to assist with recommendations for restaurants and transportation options further enhance guests’ stays.
Overall, the personnel’s commitment to excellent customer service, coupled with their cheerful and approachable nature, makes 'Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU' a preferred choice for many visitors. Whether it's providing detailed local information or a friendly smile upon arrival, the dedicated team ensures every guest feels comfortable and well cared for throughout their stay.
Wi-Fi
At the Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU, guests have mixed experiences with the WiFi service. While some visitors commend the WiFi for being free, fast and offering impressive streaming speeds, others report various issues. Several guests note that the connection is unreliable, intermittent and slow, particularly in rooms located at the far end of the property where the signal can be nonexistent. There are mentions of needing to renew the WiFi login daily, which can be inconvenient. Despite some positive comments about stable and good WiFi service in certain areas, a common theme is the inconsistency in connection quality. This inconsistency impacts the ability to use the internet for work or streaming seamlessly with some guests pointing out frequent disconnections and poor reception in certain parts of the hotel.
Pool
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU has consistently received positive feedback about its pool area from guests. Visitors have praised the beautiful, well-maintained surroundings and the lovely landscaping that adds to the overall ambiance. The pool is a hit among families with kids particularly enjoying it. Many reviews highlight the pool's cleanliness and the fact that it is heated, often staying open until 10 PM, which adds to the convenience for guests.
The cozy and spacious pool area is equipped with comfortable sun loungers and free towels, enhancing the relaxation experience. Despite being on the smaller side, the pool area is described as nice, quiet and sufficiently accommodating. The well-kept pool appeals to those looking for a refreshing swim or a serene spot to unwind.
However, a couple of guests noted inconsistent pool heating. Still, the overall sentiment remains positive with the pool contributing to a good atmosphere and a great stay at the hotel. The pool's proximity to local restaurants and its lovely setting make it a standout feature noted by many guests who enjoyed this amenity.
Parking
Guests generally appreciated the parking facilities at Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU, highlighting the ample, free and convenient parking options available on-site. Many found it easy to park their cars with several mentioning the ability to park right outside their rooms or close by. The well-lit and safe parking area was noted positively, adding to a stress-free experience regarding vehicle safety.
Despite the overall positive feedback, a few guests did point out that the parking lot could become crowded or full, especially if arriving late in the evening. Some also mentioned that the parking spaces were tight and limited, making maneuvering slightly challenging at times. However, for the most part, visitors found the parking arrangements satisfactory with enough space for vehicles and no hidden fees associated with parking.
In summary, while there were occasional concerns about the tightness and limited availability of parking spots during peak times, the majority of guests found the parking at Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU to be ample, free and convenient.
Family
The Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU is highly praised for its family-friendly atmosphere and facilities geared toward a comfortable and enjoyable stay for families. Guests appreciated the clean and spacious family rooms with several highlighting the suitability for larger families. The hotel's swimming pool was a hit, providing a fun and refreshing activity for both kids and adults.
The kid-friendly ambiance is evident with many families noting their children had plenty of company with other young guests around. The hotel’s family suite received positive mentions, indicating it comfortably accommodated families of five members.
Despite minor critiques of the breakfast offerings with suggestions for more variety, the overall sentiment suggests that the hotel is a solid choice for those traveling with children. The helpful staff, family-oriented services and convenient location make it a favorite for repeat visits. For those planning a long road trip, especially with pets, this hotel stands out as a convenient and family-friendly stopping point.
3 Star
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU offers a commendable experience for those seeking an affordable and comfortable stay in a three-star hotel. Guests frequently highlighted the good value for money, describing it as a good three-star option with a setting and service that meets expectations. The property stands out as a clean and well-maintained establishment, despite being an older-style motel.
The hotel's facilities and services align well with its three-star rating, making it a suitable choice for short stays, particularly for two nights. Situated conveniently between northern and southern San Diego, it also benefits from a strategic location.
Despite some mentioning that the facility could feel overpriced for what it is, overall feedback points to a positive price-performance ratio with many stating that the quality exceeds its price. The basic amenities, including the sometimes unreliable but included wifi, complement the reasonable pricing.
For travelers looking for an affordable, no-frills stay, Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU offers a great value for the price, fitting well within the expectations for a three-star hotel.
Business
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU caters well to business travelers, offering facilities that are suitable for work-related stays. The establishment is praised for being great for business trips and is located conveniently within a business district, which adds to its appeal for professionals. Additionally, the location provides easy access to San Diego attractions, making it a practical choice for those needing to balance work and leisure. The helpful staff and the value for money are also highlighted, although there is a note suggesting that there might be limited business-specific features. Overall, it's a fine and practical choice for business travelers.
Accessible
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU offers a range of accessibility features that are beneficial for guests with disabilities. The hotel is praised for its easy accessibility, good parking facilities and ample parking space, making it convenient for those with mobility issues. All rooms are accessible from the exterior, which simplifies the experience for families with children or individuals with limited mobility. Wheelchair accessibility is also a noted feature, enhancing the overall usability of the property.
Moreover, the hotel's central location and proximity to various supermarkets within walking distance add to its convenience. The main floor is accessible, ensuring that essential facilities are within reach. That said, there are some limitations; the hotel does not have an elevator, which can be problematic for seniors or those needing to access upper floors. Additionally, there are some reported issues with ramp accessibility and a limited number of accessible outlets. Despite these drawbacks, the hotel provides a practical option for many guests seeking accessibility.
Heated Pool
The heated pool at Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU receives consistent praise from guests. Many highlighted the warmth of the pool, mentioning it multiple times in their reviews. Several guests noted that the pool was indeed heated, enhancing their overall experience at the hotel. However, there were occasional mentions of the pool not being heated. On the whole, the feedback underscores that the heated pool is generally a positive feature, contributing to a pleasant stay for visitors.
Outdoor Pool
The outdoor pool at Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU consistently impresses guests with its beauty and cleanliness. The pool area is described as beautifully maintained, featuring well-kept flowers and grass that add to the inviting atmosphere. Guests appreciate the cozy and accessible design, which includes shaded areas and warm towels. The pool itself is large, heated and impeccably maintained, ensuring a pleasant experience for visitors. Overall, the outdoor pool receives high praise for its inviting and well-cared-for environment, making it a standout feature of the hotel.
Dog Friendly
Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU stands out as a welcoming establishment for travelers with pets. Known for its pet-friendly policy, it allows guests to bring their furry companions for a minimal pet fee of $15. The accommodations specifically cater to various pets, including dogs and even cats, enhancing the travel experience for pet owners.
The hotel offers dog-friendly rooms that are comfortable and well-suited for those traveling with pets. Many guests appreciate the ease of finding such pet-friendly lodgings, especially when faced with challenges in other places. The establishment's ability to accommodate pets well makes it a sought-after choice for pet owners.
Families with kids and pets will find the environment accommodating, providing a great combination for a pleasant stay. The pet-friendly atmosphere is enhanced by the presence of many fellow travelers with pets, creating a vibrant and welcoming community.
However, a few concerns have been noted, such as occasional pet-related smells and noise from barking dogs during odd hours, indicating that the hotel could benefit from better soundproofing and odor management.
Overall, Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU offers a budget-friendly and pet-friendly stay, making it a convenient option for those on extended trips with their pets.
Yes, Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Heated Pool, Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU.
Yes, Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU.
No, Lamplighter Inn & Suites at SDSU doesn't have a gym.