The hype
Great staff and breakfast, but the rooms are showing their age and then some.
Wingate By Wyndham Coon Rapids
$84-120/ night
Book this if You need a functional, wallet-friendly crash pad near the National Sports Center and don't mind playing 'housekeeping roulette'.
Why People Love It
- Surprisingly robust free breakfast with waffles and eggs
- Staff that genuinely tries to fix the building's shortcomings
- Prime location near Riverdale Village shopping and Mercy Hospital
Quick Take: A tired property that relies heavily on its friendly staff to distract you from the stained carpets and thin walls.
Reviewed by @ShesTrippy: I stayed here with my dog Poika for a vet trip. It’s a solid budget option if you have points to burn. The carpets have seen better days, but the bed was comfy, the neighborhood felt safe for walks, and the staff were super chill about the dog.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'newly renovated' marketing claims don't match the worn carpets and peeling trim many guests encounter.
- You're in town for a youth sports tournament and just need a bed
- You prioritize a hot breakfast over modern decor
- You're traveling with a pet (friendly policy, reasonable fee)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
5
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Some days it's fine, other days they miss trash or leave dust bunnies.
- Bathroom hygiene: The biggest weak point. Watch for hair in the tub, mold in grout lines, and peeling caulk.
- Maintenance: Showing age. Peeling paint, scuffed furniture, and loose fixtures are common.
- Linens & towels: Towels can be thin and scratchy; sheets are usually clean but check for stray hairs.
- Odors & scents: Frequent complaints of musty smells or lingering smoke in 'non-smoking' rooms.
Sleepability™
5.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway chatter and slamming doors
- Highway noise on the road-facing side
- Creaky floors from rooms above
Before you book
Good to know
- Incidental hold on credit card is standard (approx. $50-$100)
- Pool area can be hit-or-miss with temperature and maintenance
- Elevator has been reported as slow or occasionally out of service
What to pack
- Slippers (carpets have seen better days)
- Earplugs or white noise machine
- Your own pillow if you're picky (provided ones are often lumpy)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Top floor (3rd) to avoid the 'thumping' from guests above
- Rear-facing rooms to minimize highway drone
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms near the elevator/ice machine (high traffic noise)
- First-floor rooms near the side exits (security door slamming)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I'd love a room on the top floor (3rd level), away from the elevator and facing the back of the property for the quietest possible stay.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool actually open?
Yes, but check recent reviews before packing your suit—maintenance closures and heater failures happen.
Is breakfast included?
Yes, and it's a highlight: waffles, eggs, sausage, and pastries are standard.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, up to 2 dogs (approx. 30-40 lbs limit) for a fee of around $40/night.
Is there an elevator?
Yes, there is one elevator serving the 3 floors.
How far is it from downtown Minneapolis?
About a 20-25 minute drive (approx. 19-20 miles) depending on traffic.
Is parking free?
Yes, ample free surface parking is available, though the lot can get chaotic during tournaments.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'partner health club' access mentioned in some listings is often a better bet than the small on-site gym—ask the front desk for a pass.
- ✨
Breakfast ends promptly; get there by 8:30 AM on weekends to ensure the hot food hasn't been raided by sports teams.
- ✨
Check your heating/AC unit immediately upon entry; if it rattles, ask to switch rooms before unpacking.
5 things to know before you go
💡The side doors sometimes don't latch securely—double check them if you park in the back.
💡Water pressure in the shower is surprisingly decent, even if the fixture looks dated.
💡The 'business center' is basically a computer in the lobby—don't plan on running a conference call there.
💡Vending machines are often understocked; head to the nearby gas station for snacks instead.
💡Housekeeping might miss the spot behind the bathroom door—check it before you hang your towel.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Wingate By Wyndham Coon Rapids is located and what's nearby.