Candlewood Suites is an extended-stay hotel chain owned by IHG Hotels & Resorts
Candlewood Suites operates as a hotel brand designed for stays longer than a typical vacation — usually a week or more. The chain is part of InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), which also owns Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, and other hotel brands. Candlewood locations exist in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, with over 200 properties worldwide.
Unlike a standard hotel room, a Candlewood Suites unit includes a kitchen or kitchenette, a separate living area, and a bedroom. The layout is closer to an apartment than a hotel room. This setup appeals to people relocating for work, undergoing home repairs, staying during a job assignment, or needing temporary housing for other reasons.
You book through the Candlewood Suites website, through IHG's loyalty program (IHG One Rewards), or through third-party booking sites like Expedia or Booking.com. Rates vary by location, season, and length of stay — longer stays typically cost less per night than shorter ones.
Key Takeaways
- Candlewood Suites rooms include a full kitchen or kitchenette, separate living space, and laundry facilities, which differ from standard hotel rooms.
- The chain targets guests staying seven nights or longer, and nightly rates usually decrease as your stay length increases.
- You can earn IHG One Rewards points on your stay, which can be redeemed for future hotel nights or other rewards.
- Pet policies vary by location, so confirm whether your pet is allowed and what fees explore before booking.
- Cancellation policies depend on your rate type and how far in advance you booked, so review the terms when you reserve.
Room features and what comes with your stay
Every Candlewood Suites room has a kitchen or kitchenette with a refrigerator, stove or cooktop, microwave, and dishwasher. The living area includes a sofa, dining table, and television. Bedrooms are separate from the living space. Bathrooms have standard hotel fixtures.
All properties include a laundry facility on-site or in your room — most newer locations have in-unit washers and dryers. This is a major difference from standard hotels, where you would need to use a laundromat or pay for a laundry service.
Your stay includes housekeeping, though the frequency depends on your length of stay. Stays under seven nights typically receive daily housekeeping. Longer stays receive housekeeping once or twice per week. You can request additional cleaning for a fee.
Most Candlewood Suites locations offer a free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a fitness center. Some properties have a business center, a small market or convenience store, and a pet park. Amenities vary by location, so check the specific property's details before booking.
Pricing and how length of stay affects your rate
Candlewood Suites uses a tiered pricing model where nightly rates drop as your stay gets longer. A one-night stay costs more per night than a seven-night stay, which costs more per night than a 30-night stay. The exact discount structure varies by location and season.
Rates also depend on the time of year, day of the week, and local demand. A stay in summer or during a major local event will cost more than the same stay in winter or during a slow period. Weekend rates may differ from weekday rates.
When you book, the website shows the total cost for your entire stay, not just the nightly rate. This makes it easier to see what you will actually pay. Some locations offer weekly or monthly rate packages that lock in a lower price if you commit to that length upfront.
IHG One Rewards points and loyalty benefits
Every night you stay at Candlewood Suites, you earn points in the IHG One Rewards program if you are a member. You can join for free on the IHG website or at check-in. Points accumulate and can be redeemed for future hotel stays, room upgrades, or other rewards.
Elite status in IHG One Rewards comes from reaching certain point thresholds or night counts in a calendar year. Higher elite levels unlock perks like free breakfast, room upgrades, late checkout, and bonus points on future stays. The benefits vary by elite tier.
You can also earn points by booking through the IHG website or app rather than through a third-party site. Some credit cards affiliated with IHG offer bonus points when you book through them or stay at IHG properties.
Pet policies and restrictions by location
Candlewood Suites allows pets at most locations, but policies differ. Some properties charge a one-time pet fee per stay (typically $50 to $150), while others charge a nightly fee. Some locations have a limit on the number or size of pets allowed. A few properties do not allow pets at all.
When you book, check the specific property's pet policy before confirming your reservation. If you are booking through a third-party site, call the property directly to confirm the current pet policy, as websites sometimes show outdated information.
Many Candlewood Suites locations have a pet park or designated pet relief area on the grounds. This is useful if you are staying for an extended period and need a place for your pet to exercise.
Cancellation and modification policies
Candlewood Suites offers different rate types, and each has its own cancellation terms. A fully refundable rate typically allows you to cancel up to a certain number of days before arrival (often 5 to 7 days) without penalty. A non-refundable rate usually does not allow cancellations, or charges a fee if you cancel.
When you book, the confirmation email or booking page shows your specific cancellation important date and what happens if you cancel after that date. If you need to modify your stay (change dates, shorten your stay, or extend it), contact the property or your booking site to see what options are available.
If your stay is cancelled by the hotel due to an emergency or overbooking, the hotel will work with you to rebook at another property or provide a refund, depending on the circumstances.
Check-in, check-out, and what to bring
Standard check-in is typically 3:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM, though these times vary by property. If you need early check-in or late check-out, contact the property in advance to request it. Early check-in and late check-out are sometimes available at no extra charge, depending on occupancy.
Bring a valid photo ID and a credit card for check-in. If you are paying with cash, the property may require a deposit. Bring any documentation related to your stay — your confirmation email, loyalty program number, or any special requests you made when booking.
Since your room has a kitchen, you may want to bring or purchase groceries and cooking supplies. Most properties have a small market on-site, but prices are typically higher than a grocery store. Bring any medications, toiletries, or personal items you need, as hotel supplies are limited compared to a standard hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my stay after I arrive?
Yes, in most cases. Contact the front desk or call the property directly to request an extension. Availability and pricing depend on local demand. If the property is fully booked, you may not be able to extend, or you may need to move to a different property.
Is there a minimum stay requirement?
Candlewood Suites targets extended stays, but minimum stay requirements vary by location and season. Some properties require a minimum of three or seven nights, while others allow one-night bookings. Check the property's details when you search for your dates.
What if I need to store luggage or personal items?
Most Candlewood Suites locations have storage space available. Contact the front desk to arrange storage before or after your stay. Fees, if any, vary by property.
Are utilities included in the room rate?
Yes, utilities (electricity, water, gas) are included in your nightly rate. You pay for any long-distance phone calls or premium cable channels you use, if those services are available and not included in your rate.
Can I work from my room during my stay?
Yes. Every room includes Wi-Fi, a desk or work area, and a phone line. Many properties also have a business center with computers, printers, and meeting space available for a fee or at no charge.