Escape to Murphy, NC: Your Cozy Days Inn Awaits!
Escape to Murphy, NC: My (Maybe Unexpected) Days Inn Delight! - A Hyper-Honest Review That's Probably Too Long (But Hopefully Helpful!)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to dive headfirst into my stay at the Days Inn in Murphy, North Carolina. And let me tell you, it wasn’t exactly what I expected. (Spoiler alert: That's a good thing!) I went in with, let's just say, a certain set of preconceived notions about Days Inns. You know: functional, a little tired, maybe smelling vaguely of… well, you get it.
But this place? This Days Inn in Murphy? It actually surprised me. Like, genuinely.
SEO & Metadata (But Don't Tell Anyone I'm Doing This While I'm Reviewing!)
- Keywords: Murphy NC Hotels, Days Inn Murphy North Carolina, Accessible Hotel Murphy, Mountain Getaway, Clean Hotels, Free Wi-Fi, Pet-Friendly Hotels, Pool Hotels, Affordable Hotels, Western North Carolina, Spa Hotels, Outdoor Pool, Family-Friendly Accommodations, Breakfast Included, On-site Restaurant, Wheelchair Accessible, Business Hotel, Meeting Facilities, North Carolina Travel.
- Meta Description: Uncover the unexpectedly charming Days Inn in Murphy, NC! Honest review of accessibility, cleanliness, amenities (hello, free Wi-Fi and outdoor pool!), dining options, and more. Get the real scoop on your mountain escape!
Okay, metadata done. Deep breath. Now, to the messy, glorious reality…
First Impressions & Accessibility: The Gateway Drug to Chill
Pulling up, the Days Inn looked…well, like a Days Inn. Exterior corridor, solid brick. But, and this is important, it was clean. The outside was well-maintained, no overflowing dumpsters (a huge win in my book), and plenty of parking. Car park [free of charge]? Check! CCTV outside property? Check!
And the real kicker? They actually have facilities for disabled guests. I’m not personally in need of those, but witnessing genuine effort for accessibility from the get-go? HUGE thumbs up. The ramps were properly maintained, and I even saw a guest using a wheelchair navigating with ease. Really impressed. Elevator? Yep, that too.
Getting In (and Online): Welcome to 2023, Days Inn!
Check-in/out [express]? Bingo. Smooth as you like. Contactless check-in/out? Not really an option, but everything was clean and efficient. The front desk staff were genuinely friendly, not just perfunctory, which immediately made a difference.
And then… Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hallelujah! (That's how strongly I felt). No more scrambling for a hotspot or the dreaded dial-up modem of yesteryear. I could instantly check emails, plan my adventures, and, you know, live my best digital life. Internet access – wireless, Internet access – LAN? They nailed it. Fast and reliable, which means more time playing games and less time tearing my hair out.
The Room: My Humble Abode for a Few Days
Now, the room itself wasn't exactly the Ritz-Carlton, but it was more than adequate. I had a Non-smoking room (thank goodness! I hate the smell of stale cigarettes!) and everything was surprisingly clean. Rooms sanitized between stays? Seems so. No lingering odors, no questionable stains. Daily housekeeping kept things tidy.
Available in all rooms:
- Air conditioning: Essential in the summer heat, thankfully.
- Alarm clock: I'm old-school.
- Bathtub: Always a win for a relaxing soak after a day exploring.
- Blackout curtains: Perfect for sleeping in, even if the sun is begging you to explore.
- Closet: More than enough space for all my stuff (and let's be honest, probably too many clothes).
- Coffee/tea maker: Crucial. I need my morning caffeine fix. Complimentary tea? Nice touch!
- Desk: Great for getting a little work done (if you're forced to, of course).
- Extra long bed, no problem!
- Free bottled water: Much appreciated, especially after hiking.
- Hair dryer: Because no one wants to look like a drowned rat.
- In-room safe box: Just in case, you know?
- Ironing facilities: Essential for the travel-weary business traveler (or someone who just wants to look presentable).
- Laptop workspace: See above.
- Linens: Clean and comfortable.
- Mini bar: Empty. But hey, I can use the refrigerator!
- Mirror: Check
- On-demand movies: Never used.
- Private bathroom: Duh!
- Reading light: For late-night bookworms (which I'm not, but it's there).
- Scale: I don't want to know.
- Seating area: Another nice space to chill.
- Separate shower/bathtub: Nice to have the option.
- Shower: Good water pressure.
- Smoke detector: Always reassuring.
- Socket near the bed: Essential for charging all the things!
- Sofa: Comfy enough to spread out on.
- Soundproofing: It worked. Slept like a log, even with the outside noise.
- Telephone: You know.
- Toiletries: Basic, but hey – they're there!
- Towels: Fluffy enough.
- Umbrella: Not needed, but hey, better safe than wet!
- Visual alarm: Good for those needing it.
- Wake-up service: Never used it.
- Wi-Fi [free]: The king, as always!
- Window that opens: Fresh air, yes please!
Okay, so the furnishings might be a little dated, but the room ticked all the practical boxes. Plus, the carpeting was clean, which is a massive win.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Or, Well, Try To)
This is where Murphy and this Days Inn surprised me. They actually have a swimming pool [outdoor]! And it looked clean and inviting! With a pool with view! Imagine that. I even caught a glimpse of someone enjoying it. I didn't go in myself (too much exploring to do!), but the option was there, which is a big plus.
They also had a fitness center (which I, sadly, did not experience), and I believe a spa/sauna as well (another one I gave a miss). Plus, the local area is packed with hiking trails and outdoor adventures. I even stumbled upon a shrine (very unexpected!) while exploring.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling My Wanderlust
So, here's the thing: the breakfast [buffet] was…well, it was a breakfast buffet. Western breakfast, mostly. You had your scrambled eggs (edible), your sausage (meh), your cereal (mostly sugary), and your coffee (not bad!). Coffee/tea in restaurant? Absolutely. Breakfast service? Definitely. I have to admit, it wasn’t haute cuisine, but it filled the hole in my stomach, and it was included, so no complaints.
They also have restaurants and a bar on site. Restaurants? Yes. Happy hour? Yep. I didn't try either, but it's nice to have options. Poolside bar or Snack bar? No. Room service [24-hour]? Wishful thinking, unfortunately.
Cleanliness and Safety: My Biggest Worry (That Was Ultimately Allayed!)
Look, let's be honest. During these times, cleanliness is everything. And I was genuinely impressed. They really seemed to be on top of things. I saw the staff constantly cleaning and wiping down surfaces. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Professional-grade sanitizing services? Probably. Hand sanitizer stations everywhere. They’ve clearly taken extra steps. And this is important to me. Rooms sanitized between stays? I think so. I mean, I got the vibes of being in a safe environment. CCTV in common areas? YES. Fire extinguisher? Yes. Smoke alarms? Also yes. Makes you feel good.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
Okay, so I'm not a high-maintenance traveler, but these little things can make a difference. One of the best was Cash withdrawal right at the front desk. Super handy. Also, Daily housekeeping? A lifesaver. Laundry service? Didn't use it, but good to know it's there.
For the Kids: The Family-Friendly Factor
I didn’t have any kids with me, but the presence of Family/child friendly was noted.
The Imperfections (Because Nothing's Perfect, Right?)
Waldorf Courtyard Escape: Your Maryland Getaway Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's meticulously color-coded travel itinerary. This is MURPHY, NORTH CAROLINA, in all its glorious, potentially-slightly-dusty, and definitely-not-perfect glory, as experienced through the lens of… well, me. And the Days Inn by Wyndham, bless its budget-friendly heart.
Day 1: Arrival and a Heaping Dose of… Anticipation (Plus Mild Disappointment)
Morning (ish): Okay, so the drive was lovely, scenic even, until the GPS decided to guide me through a dirt road that clearly hadn't seen a grader since the Carter administration. My poor, slightly-too-low-to-the-ground hatchback. Arrived at the Days Inn! It’s… well, it’s a Days Inn. The lobby smells vaguely of chlorine and… ambition? I'm not sure. The woman at the front desk, however, was an absolute peach, genuinely helpful, and she somehow made me feel like I was the most important person in Murphy at that moment. Score.
Afternoon: Unpack (the chaos of my suitcase spilling onto the bed!), scan the room (it’s clean! Kudos!), and then… hit the town, I guess? I figured I'd be immediately whisked away by the sheer majesty of the surrounding mountains. Instead? It's… quiet. Endearingly quiet. Like, people-take-their-afternoon-naps-in-hammocks-and-forget-to-set-an-alarm quiet. I wander into the first restaurant that opened up. The food was… okay, I could have cooked better myself. But the woman at the front desk made it up for me.
Evening: I went back to my room, had a long, luxurious (read: thirty seconds) shower, and watched some mind-numbing TV. This is the life!
Day 2: The River Runs Through It… Or, You Know, Near It.
Morning: Wake up, feeling… vaguely bewildered. I need coffee. Desperately. The Days Inn breakfast? Let's just say it’s… a collection of pre-packaged items and a waffle maker that likely saw action during the Reagan years. But hey, free is free! I head down to the Hiwassee River, which isn't as close as I'd hoped (that brochure lied!), but the drive is beautiful. The air smells like… well, like air, and a little bit of pine. A great start.
Afternoon (River Rampage): Now, about the river. I try white water rafting. I get splashed. I scream. I laugh (mainly at myself, because I am clearly not an expert). Best experience ever! I'm drenched, exhausted, and covered in river grime, but man, what a rush! I bought the photos, even though I look like a drowned rat. Totally worth it.
Evening (Restaurant Realities): After the river, I treat myself. Decent enough meal followed, a bit pricey, but I needed a celebratory beer. The waitress, bless her, was wearing a t-shirt that said, "I like big boats and I cannot lie." I thought about getting one.
Day 3: A Little Bit of Culture (Maybe?) and a Whole Lot of… Contemplation.
Morning: Okay, so I attempt the local museum. It's… small. Endearing. The exhibits are lovingly curated and I'm pretty sure one of them is entirely dedicated to apple butter. I wander about. Am I getting bored or finding peace? Am I the only person in this town? Is this the life I dreamed of?
Afternoon (The Great Outside): Breathe in the freshness. Hike to a scenic overlook. Stare out at the vastness of the mountains. I could, theoretically, get lost out there. And for a few seconds, I am tempted. The world is a beautiful, terrible place.
Evening: I get take-out pizza, eat it in my room, and watch even more terrible TV. Contemplate life choices. Maybe that apple butter recipe wasn’t so bad. I'm starting to love the Days Inn. The people here are welcoming, there's a pool that I didn't actually use. I can already feel myself starting to slow down. I can’t help but feel that there's a whole other world out there.
Day 4: Farewell (and a Sudden Urge to Stay)
Morning: Packing. Sigh. The drive home looms. I hit the coffee shop (finally, decent coffee!), I talk to the friendly woman at the front desk.
Afternoon: One last drive through the mountains. Maybe there's something to this "small-town life" thing. I still don't know the answer, but god, that river rafting!
Evening: Back on the road. The Days Inn recedes in the rearview mirror. I feel… strangely wistful. Murphy, you weird, wonderful creature. The place that felt like an unexpected adventure. I'll be back.
Escape to Murphy, NC: Your Cozy Days Inn Awaits! (…Or Does It?) Frequently Asked Questions (From a Slightly Jaded Traveler)
Alright, so you're thinking about Murphy, NC? And maybe, just *maybe*, the Days Inn has caught your eye? Look, I've been there. Done that. Survived... mostly. Let's dive into the burning questions, shall we? Prepare for the unvarnished truth.
1. Is Murphy, NC actually... *worth* visiting?
Ugh, that's a tough one. Depends what you're *looking* for. If you crave bustling nightlife, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a general air of "sophistication"... steer clear. Murphy's not that. But if you're after genuinely friendly people, stunning mountain views (seriously, the mountains are gorgeous), and a pace of life that's about three clicks slower than molasses… then yeah, it might be worth a peek. I once saw a deer casually strolling down Main Street. *Casual!* That's a whole different level of chill.
2. How's the Days Inn experience? Is it... *cozy*?
"Cozy"… hmmm. Look, let's be real. It's a Days Inn. Expect your typical fare. A bed (hopefully, it won't have springs poking you in the ribs), a TV (probably with limited channels, but hey, that's what streaming is for these days!), and your basic bathroom, which *might* have decent water pressure in the shower. My personal experience? Well, let's just say I brought my own Lysol wipes. You've been warned. I once found a stray sock under the bed... let's leave it at that. Not the Days Inn's fault, probably another guest, but still... I will say this though, they *did* have a decent breakfast. Waffles, people! Waffles are a lifesaver. I kinda love waffles.
3. What is there *to do* in Murphy, besides… well, exist?
Okay, now we're talking! That's where Murphy shines. Hiking is incredible. Seriously, go hike. The trails are well-maintained and the scenery will blow your mind. Fishing is another big one. The Hiwassee River is gorgeous, and you can find some great spots to cast a line. Then there's whitewater rafting… which I've never actually done myself (I'm more of a "sit on the porch and read a book" kind of person), but people seem to love it. Also, visit the John C. Campbell Folk School – it's really interesting, with interesting classes. Oh, and the casino! (Gamble responsibly, folks. And maybe bring a friend so you don’t end up spending your last money on the slot machines like I almost did).
4. The Murphy Days Inn – Is it safe?
Generally, yes. Murphy is pretty safe. (I’d still lock your car, ya know, basic common sense and all that.) I've stayed in the Days Inn a handful of times, and never felt unsafe. I mean, it's not the Ritz, and you might hear the occasional slamming door or the faint strains of a crying baby (or a crying *adult* for all you know, who am I to judge?), but overall it's fine. Just be aware of your surroundings, as you should anywhere. And maybe bring earplugs…you know, just in case.
5. Any tips for surviving a stay in the Murphy Days Inn?
Oh, *surviving*? You're thinking like a pro! First, pack wisely. Besides the basics, bring: a good book (or three), snacks (because you never know if you'll find a decent late-night restaurant), Lysol wipes, and earplugs. Seriously, the earplugs. They’re non-negotiable. Also, be friendly! The staff are generally lovely, and a little kindness can go a long way. And finally, lower your expectations. Remember, you're not there for luxury. You're there to *escape*. Embrace the slightly questionable carpet, the slightly less-than-stellar coffee, and the fact that the remote control might be missing a button... and just *chill*. You're in the mountains, after all. Breathe it in. Forget about your problems. (At least, for a couple of days, until you check out and head for the busy world again).
6. Speaking of breakfast... What's the breakfast situation like?
Ah, the *breakfast.* This is, honestly, a make-or-break deal for me. (Hangry person here, y'all). The Days Inn offers a continental breakfast. That means... it varies. Sometimes there are waffles (yay!), sometimes there are sad little muffins and fruit. The coffee is usually… well, it’s coffee. Adequate. Don't expect gourmet. The best approach is to temper expectations. Grab what you can, be grateful (for the waffles, seriously!), and maybe supplement with a granola bar or a yogurt you brought from the store. Oh, and try to get there early. Sometimes things run out.
7. Any hidden gems in Murphy, NC?
Okay, listen. This is one of the *best* parts about Murphy. Forget the chain restaurants (unless you're *really* craving it). Head to the local diners! Seriously. Order a burger at a roadside place. The fried okra and hushpuppes? They're heaven. Look for the little antique shops – there's some cool quirky stuff to be found. And definitely check out the local breweries or winery - they are really friendly and you can have a grand time conversing with the locals. Ask the locals for recommendations. They're usually happy to share their favorite spots. And don't be afraid to wander a little off the beaten path. That's where you'll find the *real* magic.
8. Is the pool at the Days Inn any good?
The pool? Okay, full disclosure: I am not a pool person. I prefer dry land. But, from what I could see, it was… a pool. Mostly blue. Probably chlorinated. I think there were some lounge chairs. People seemed to be using it, which is a good sign! Look, it's not the Four Seasons, but it's there. If you're a pool person, you'll probably enjoy it. If you're not a pool person… well, there are mountains to hike. No judgements.
9. Let's get down to it. What's the *real* problem with the Murphy Days Inn?Coastal Inns
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