Howard Johnson is a budget hotel chain owned by Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Howard Johnson operates as a mid-range hotel brand under Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the parent company that also owns Days Inn, Super 8, and La Quinta. The chain has locations across the United States, Canada, and several other countries. Most Howard Johnson properties are independently owned and operated by franchisees, which means service levels and amenities can vary between locations.

The brand positions itself as an affordable alternative to full-service hotels, typically offering basic rooms, free breakfast at many locations, and standard hotel services. Room rates generally fall between budget chains like Motel 6 and mid-range chains like Best Western, though prices vary significantly by location and season.

Key Takeaways

  • Howard Johnson is part of the Wyndham Hotels group and operates as a franchise system, so quality and amenities differ between individual properties.
  • Most Howard Johnson hotels include free breakfast and basic amenities like Wi-Fi and a front desk, but you should check the specific property's offerings before booking.
  • You can book directly through the Howard Johnson website, through Wyndham's loyalty program (Wyndham Rewards), or through third-party booking sites.
  • Cancellation policies, pet policies, and parking fees vary by location, so confirm these details with your chosen property before completing your reservation.

What amenities and services are typically included

Most Howard Johnson locations offer free Wi-Fi, a front desk available during business hours, and free breakfast — though breakfast quality and hours vary by property. Many locations have a small fitness center, outdoor pool, or both, though not all properties include these features. Some locations offer business centers, meeting rooms, or laundry facilities.

Because Howard Johnson is a franchise system, individual properties set their own amenities. A Howard Johnson in a rural area may have fewer services than one in a city or near a highway. Before booking, check the specific property's listing to see what it actually offers — the brand website and third-party booking sites both show amenity lists for each location.

How to book a Howard Johnson room

You can book through three main routes: the official Howard Johnson website (howardjohnson.com), Wyndham's loyalty program website (Wyndham Rewards), or third-party booking platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, or Google Hotels. Booking directly through Howard Johnson or Wyndham Rewards sometimes offers loyalty points or member discounts, while third-party sites may show lower rates on specific dates.

When you book, you will see the cancellation policy for that specific reservation — most Howard Johnson properties offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before arrival, but some may charge a fee for earlier cancellations. The rate you see at booking is the rate you pay, though taxes and resort fees (if any) are added at checkout. Confirm the total cost before completing your reservation.

Cancellation, refund, and modification policies

Cancellation policies are set by the individual property, not by the Howard Johnson brand as a whole. When you book, the cancellation terms appear clearly before you confirm — read these carefully, as they determine whether you can cancel free of charge and by what important date. Most properties allow free cancellation up to one or two days before arrival, but some may have stricter terms.

If you need to cancel or modify your reservation after booking, contact the property directly or use your booking confirmation email, which usually includes a link to manage your reservation. If you booked through a third-party site, you may need to cancel through that site rather than calling the hotel directly. Keep your confirmation number handy — you will need it to make any changes.

Pet policies and special requests

Pet policies vary by location. Some Howard Johnson properties are pet-friendly and allow dogs or cats for a nightly fee (typically $10 to $25 per pet, though this varies), while others do not allow pets at all. Check the specific property's pet policy before booking if you are traveling with an animal. The property listing on the booking site usually states whether pets are allowed.

Special requests — such as a ground-floor room, a room away from the elevator, or a crib for an infant — can be noted during booking or by calling the property directly after you reserve. The hotel will try to honor these requests, but they are not may provide. Call ahead if a specific request is important to your stay.

Parking, fees, and what to expect on arrival

Most Howard Johnson properties offer free parking in a lot or lot-adjacent area, though some urban locations may charge a daily parking fee. Check the property listing or call ahead to confirm parking is free at your chosen location. If you are driving an oversized vehicle, ask about parking restrictions when you book.

Check-in is typically at 3:00 p.m. and checkout at 11:00 a.m., though these times vary by property. If you need early check-in or late checkout, call the property in advance to request it — availability depends on occupancy that day. Bring a valid photo ID and a credit card at check-in, even if you prepaid your reservation. The front desk may place a hold on your card for incidental charges (room service, phone calls, or damage), which is released when you check out.

Loyalty rewards and discounts

Wyndham Rewards is the loyalty program for Howard Johnson and all Wyndham-owned brands. Members earn points for each night stayed, which can be redeemed for free nights, room upgrades, or other rewards. Membership is free to join, and you can enroll online before booking or at the front desk during check-in.

Wyndham Rewards members sometimes receive member-only rates that are lower than the public rate for the same dates. If you book through the Wyndham Rewards website while logged in, you will see these rates automatically. AAA members, military personnel, and seniors may also receive discounts at some properties — ask about these when booking or call the property directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I extend my stay after I arrive?

Yes, if rooms are available. Call the front desk or ask at check-in whether you can add nights to your reservation. The rate for additional nights may differ from your original rate, and you will pay the current rate for those dates. Availability depends on how full the hotel is.

What should I do if there is a problem with my room?

Contact the front desk when ready. If your room has a maintenance issue, cleanliness problem, or noise issue, staff can move you to another room or address the problem. Do not wait until checkout to report issues — the sooner you notify the desk, the sooner they can help.

Is breakfast included at every Howard Johnson?

Most Howard Johnson properties include free breakfast, but not all. Check the property listing before booking to confirm breakfast is included. If breakfast is listed as included, it is usually served during set hours in the morning — ask the front desk for exact times when you check in.

Can I get a refund if I paid in advance?

Refunds depend on the cancellation policy for your specific reservation. If you cancel within the free cancellation window (usually 24 to 48 hours before arrival), you will receive a full refund. If you cancel after that important date, you may forfeit the full payment. Check your confirmation email for the exact cancellation terms.

What if I lose my room key?

Go to the front desk and report the lost key. Staff will issue you a replacement key card, usually at no charge for the first replacement. Keep your key safe during your stay to avoid additional fees for multiple replacements.