Knights Inn is a budget hotel chain owned by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts
Knights Inn operates as a no-frills hotel brand under the Wyndham umbrella, positioning itself in the economy segment alongside chains like Motel 6 and Super 8. The chain focuses on basic lodging at lower nightly rates, typically without on-site restaurants, room service, or extensive amenities. Most Knights Inn locations are independently franchised, which means room quality, cleanliness standards, and available features can vary significantly between properties.
The brand targets budget-conscious travelers, road-trippers, and people needing short-term housing. Knights Inn properties tend to be older, converted motels rather than newly built hotels, and many are located along highways or in smaller towns rather than downtown business districts or major tourist areas.
Key Takeaways
- Knights Inn is a budget chain owned by Wyndham that charges lower nightly rates than mid-range brands but offers fewer amenities and services.
- Room quality and cleanliness vary by location because franchisees operate individual properties independently, so checking recent guest reviews is essential before booking.
- Most Knights Inn hotels do not have restaurants, bars, or front-desk services beyond basic check-in, and many do not offer daily housekeeping.
- The chain participates in Wyndham's rewards program, allowing members to earn points toward free nights or upgrades at any Wyndham property.
- Knights Inn typically charges lower rates than chains like Choice Hotels or IHG but may charge fees for parking, Wi-Fi, or late checkout that other budget chains include.
Room types and what is usually included
Knights Inn rooms are typically small, with either one or two double beds, a television, and basic bathroom fixtures. Most locations offer either smoking or non-smoking rooms, though the availability of each depends on the individual property. Air conditioning and heating are standard, though guests sometimes report that climate control is inconsistent or noisy.
Wi-Fi access varies by location. Some Knights Inn hotels include it at no charge, while others charge a daily or nightly fee (typically $5 to $10). Parking is free at most locations, though some urban or downtown properties may charge. Refrigerators and microwaves are not may provide in all rooms; check the specific property's listing before booking if you need either.
Housekeeping service is not daily at all locations. Some properties offer daily cleaning only if you request it, while others clean rooms only at checkout. This differs from mid-range chains like La Quinta or Red Roof, which typically include daily housekeeping as standard.
Amenities and services that differ from mid-range chains
Knights Inn properties do not have on-site restaurants, bars, or room service. There is no front-desk concierge, and many locations have limited front-desk hours — some close the desk at night and require guests to use a phone or keypad entry system. This is a significant difference from chains like Best Western or Choice Hotels, where front-desk staff are usually available 24 hours.
Swimming pools are available at some Knights Inn locations but are not standard across the chain. Fitness centers, business centers, and meeting rooms are rare. Some properties may have a small lobby with seating, but many do not. Breakfast is not included at any Knights Inn location, though some properties have vending machines or a small convenience area.
Pet policies vary by property. Some Knights Inn hotels allow pets for an additional nightly fee (often $10 to $25), while others do not allow them at all. Check the specific location's policy before booking if you are traveling with an animal.
How Knights Inn pricing compares to other budget chains
Knights Inn nightly rates are typically lower than mid-range chains like La Quinta, Red Roof, or Motel 6, though the difference is often only $10 to $30 per night depending on location and season. In major cities or during peak travel times, the savings may be smaller. In rural areas or off-season, Knights Inn rates can be significantly cheaper.
However, the lower advertised rate may not reflect the true cost. Many Knights Inn locations charge additional fees that other budget chains include: Wi-Fi fees, parking fees in some areas, resort fees, and fees for late checkout. Always check the full price breakdown during booking, including taxes and fees, before comparing to other chains.
Knights Inn does not include breakfast, which is a cost difference from some competitors. Red Roof and Motel 6 also do not include breakfast, but some budget chains like La Quinta include a basic continental breakfast. If you plan to eat breakfast at the hotel, factor that cost into your comparison.
Wyndham rewards program and how to earn points
Knights Inn participates in Wyndham Rewards, the loyalty program that covers all Wyndham-owned and franchised brands. Members earn points for each night stayed, which can be redeemed for free nights at any Wyndham property, including Knights Inn, La Quinta, Ramada, or Baymont.
Enrollment in Wyndham Rewards is free. You can join online before booking or at the front desk during check-in. Points are typically awarded based on the room rate paid, not the number of nights, so a discounted rate earns fewer points than a full-price rate. Elite members (those who stay frequently or spend a certain amount annually) receive benefits like room upgrades, late checkout, and bonus points.
Points do not expire as long as you have account activity at least once every 24 months. You can also earn points through credit card partnerships and dining at partner restaurants, though Knights Inn locations do not have on-site dining.
What to check before booking a specific Knights Inn location
Because Knights Inn properties are franchised and vary widely, reading recent guest reviews is more important than it is for larger, more standardized chains. Look for comments about cleanliness, noise levels, Wi-Fi reliability, and whether the property matches the photos in the listing. Some Knights Inn hotels have been recently renovated, while others are older and show wear.
Verify the specific amenities at the property you are considering: whether Wi-Fi is included, whether parking is free, whether there is a pool, and what the pet policy is. These details are not consistent across the chain and must be confirmed for each location. Check the hotel's phone number and call directly if the online listing is unclear or outdated.
Look at the property's location on a map. Many Knights Inn hotels are on highway strips or in less developed areas, which can mean limited nearby restaurants or services. If you need walkable access to shops or dining, verify the neighborhood before booking.
How Knights Inn differs from other budget and economy chains
Knights Inn is positioned below mid-range chains like La Quinta or Red Roof in terms of amenities and service, though pricing is comparable or slightly lower. Compared to Motel 6 (also a Wyndham brand), Knights Inn and Motel 6 are very similar in price and amenities, with the main difference being brand reputation and property condition — Motel 6 has invested more in recent renovations at many locations.
Compared to Super 8 (another Wyndham brand), Knights Inn is typically cheaper but offers fewer amenities. Super 8 properties more often include a small breakfast area and are more likely to have been updated recently. Compared to independent motels or very small chains, Knights Inn offers the advantage of a national reservation system, Wyndham Rewards points, and some consistency in basic standards, though individual properties still vary.
If you prioritize the lowest possible nightly rate and do not need amenities like breakfast, a pool, or 24-hour front desk, Knights Inn may be the most cost-effective choice. If you need more services or consistency, a mid-range chain or a different Wyndham brand like La Quinta may be worth the additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Knights Inn hotels include breakfast?
No, Knights Inn does not include breakfast at any location. Some properties have vending machines or a small convenience area, but there is no complimentary meal. You will need to budget for breakfast separately or eat at a nearby restaurant.
Can I cancel a Knights Inn reservation without a penalty?
Cancellation policies vary by property and booking rate. Most Knights Inn locations allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before arrival, but some may have stricter policies. Check the specific cancellation terms for your booking before confirming your reservation.
Are Knights Inn rooms clean and safe?
Cleanliness and safety standards vary significantly by location because franchisees operate independently. Read recent guest reviews for the specific property you are considering, and call the hotel directly if you have concerns. Wyndham maintains basic standards, but individual properties may not meet them consistently.
Does Knights Inn charge extra fees beyond the nightly rate?
Many Knights Inn locations charge additional fees for Wi-Fi, parking (in some areas), resort fees, or late checkout. Always review the full price breakdown during booking, including all taxes and fees, before confirming your reservation.
Can I earn Wyndham Rewards points at Knights Inn?
Yes, every night you stay at Knights Inn earns points in your Wyndham Rewards account. Enrollment is free, and points can be redeemed for free nights at any Wyndham property, including other Knights Inn locations, La Quinta, or Ramada.