Red Roof Inn & Suites Cincinnati North-Mason

This rather simple property from the Red Roof Inn chain is geared towards budget travelers, offering affordable rates and a handful of features that add a bit more value to a stay here. The two-story building does indeed have the brand's signature red roof, and it features a porte-cochere entrance that leads into the lobby. Decor throughout is chainlike and bland, with some wear-and-tear visible throughout, but it's functional and clean. The lobby is an airy space thanks to high ceilings, large windows, and a glass entrance that let in natural light. A couple of armchairs provide seating in a corner by the window. The space also doubles as the breakfast area -- one side of the room is filled with tables and chairs and a self-serve buffet area. Other than this, there's not much else here in terms of common spaces. The outdoor pool offers some alfresco space to lounge in, but note that it's open seasonally. The property mostly draws budget travelers arriving by car who don't mind the location that's a bit removed from downtown Cincinnati. 

The hotel is located just off the I-71 in a commercial area with auto dealerships, a shopping mall, and other shopping options like JCPenney and Kohl's. There are several casual dining options and fast food spots (like Olive Garden and Steak 'n Shake) in the area. The mall, a Waterstone Center (with a Target and Old Navy) is a four-minute drive or 16-minute walk away. There are a couple of family-friendly attractions within a 15-minute drive, such as The Beach Waterpark and Kings Island amusement park.Central Cincinnati is around a half-hour drive away, though it can take upwards of an hour to reach depending on traffic. Top attractions include the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the Newport Aquarium, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, all of which take about a half-hour to reach by car (or more, dependent on traffic). Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport is about a 40-minute drive away.

Rooms feature chainlike decor and a bland brown and red color scheme. They're a bit dated in style and some furnishings show wear and tear. Crimson accent walls pop again brown patterned carpets and dark wood furniture, which includes large headboards framing beds and nightstands flanking them. All rooms have work desks with ergonomic chairs. Suites add living areas with couches. All units are equipped with a solid set of amenities including flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. Some rooms add perks like whirlpool tubs in the bedrooms. Bathrooms are small and plain, with shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and granite-topped sink vanities. 

As a budget hotel, it doesn't offer much in terms of features, but a handful of extras add some more value to a stay. The biggest perk is the outdoor pool, but note that it's open seasonally. It provides some loungers and tables and chairs that line the surrounding pool deck. It's right by the parking lot though, so not situated in the most ideal location. The hotel also has a tiny fitness room, but it's equipped with just four cardio machines (treadmill, two ellipticals, and a stationary bike). It's a simple space with mirrored walls and a flat-screen TV.Another perk that's appreciated by guests is the free continental breakfast that's served daily in the lobby dining area. It offers breakfast staples like cereal, muffins, fruit, bagels, bread, coffee, and juice, plus there's a make-your-own waffles station. Other amenities include coin-operated guest laundry facilities, vending machines with drinks and snacks, a business center with a computer and printer, and a meeting room that holds up to 110 people. Wi-Fi is free throughout, as is on-site parking in the hotel's lot.