If you're spending a few days in and around Indian River, Burt Lake, or Mullett Lake, the Hometown Inn is about your choice for a hotel other than driving to Cheboygan, Mackinaw City, Petoskey or the airport in Pellston.

A good location right off I-75, the Hometown Inn was until about a year ago a Holiday Inn Express franchise. It's my understanding the then-owners refused to make some of the upgrades that are being imposed on Holiday Inn Express franchises.

The first thing I noticed upon checking in was a large sign reading "under new management." The lobby has an up-north lodge feel, is clean and welcoming. There is also a large pool that is regularly used by locals for swimming in the colder months.

Rates weren't too expensive -- they hovered between $69 and $80 on a weekend. The rooms are basic. The TV may be older, but it has 99 channels. The decor is basic and is probably original to when the hotel opened as a Holiday Inn Express in the late... more