Richmond, Kentucky, is one of those places that feels like a gateway. If you’re driving down I-75, you’re either heading deep into the heart of the Bluegrass or you're making the long haul toward Knoxville or Cincinnati. Most people stopping at the Comfort Inn Richmond KY aren't there for a five-star resort experience. They’re there because they need a bed that doesn't feel like a slab of concrete and a breakfast that beats a stale vending machine granola bar.
Honestly, picking a hotel in a college town like Richmond—home to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU)—can be a gamble. You’ve got the high-end spots that overcharge during graduation weekend and the budget motels that make you want to sleep in your car. The Comfort Inn sits right in that weird middle ground. It’s located at 1006 Commercial Drive, tucked just off the interstate.
It’s convenient. It’s predictable. But is it actually good?
Why Location is the Main Selling Point
The location of the Comfort Inn Richmond KY is its strongest flex. If you’re a parent visiting a student at EKU, you’re basically five minutes from campus. That matters when you’re trying to navigate Richmond’s surprisingly annoying traffic during move-in day.
You’re also right next to the Richmond Centre. If you forgot a toothbrush or need a semi-decent meal at a chain restaurant, everything is within a two-minute drive. Being near I-75 (Exit 87) makes it a prime "crash pad" for road trippers. You can hear the highway if you’re a light sleeper, but most people find the convenience outweighs the hum of semi-trucks.
The Reality of the Rooms
Let’s talk about the rooms because that’s where the "Comfort" part of the name is supposed to happen. These aren't ultra-modern suites. They’re classic Choice Hotels vibes. You’ll find the standard layout: a desk for the workaholics, a microwave for your leftovers from Casa Fiesta, and a mini-fridge that actually stays cold.
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The beds? They’re decent. Not "cloud-like," but they won't wreck your back. The hotel has undergone some renovations over the last few years to ditch those 1990s floral bedspreads for the cleaner, white linen look. It makes the space feel less like a time capsule.
One thing people often miss is the specific layout of the bathrooms. They’re functional. The water pressure is usually reliable—which is a big deal if you’ve been driving for eight hours. However, if you’re staying in a room near the elevator, you’re going to hear it. Same goes for the ice machine. If you value silence, ask for a room at the end of the hallway on a higher floor. It makes a massive difference in how much "hallway chatter" you have to endure.
The Breakfast Situation
Everyone asks about the waffles. Yes, they have the Texas-shaped (or sometimes standard) waffle makers. It’s a staple.
Breakfast here is the standard "Comfort" spread:
- Scrambled eggs (the fluffy, bulk-made kind)
- Sausage patties or links
- Yogurt and cereal
- Fresh fruit (usually apples or oranges)
- The aforementioned waffles
It’s free. It’s better than paying fifteen bucks at a diner down the street, but it gets crowded. If you show up at 8:45 AM on a Saturday, expect to hover over a table like a vulture. The staff does a pretty solid job of refilling the coffee, which is surprisingly drinkable. It’s not artisan roast, but it gets the job done.
Amenities That Actually Work
A lot of hotels list an indoor pool like it’s a luxury feature, but then you get there and it’s the size of a bathtub and smells like a chemical spill. The pool at the Comfort Inn Richmond KY is fine. It’s a standard indoor setup. It’s great for wearing out kids before bed, but don't expect to do Olympic laps.
The fitness center is... well, it’s a room with a few machines. If you’re a gym rat, you might be disappointed. If you just want to walk on a treadmill for twenty minutes to feel less guilty about the Cracker Barrel you ate for dinner, it’s perfect.
Dealing With the "College Town" Factor
You have to remember that Richmond is an EKU town. This impacts your stay at the Comfort Inn more than you’d think. During home football games or Parents' Weekend, this hotel fills up fast. Prices spike. The vibe shifts from quiet travelers to excited families and rowdy alumni.
If you’re looking for a quiet retreat, check the EKU calendar before you book. If there's a major event, you’re going to pay more and sleep less. On the flip side, the hotel staff is very used to handling these crowds. They’re efficient. They don’t get flustered when twenty people try to check in at once.
Comparing the Competition
Why stay here instead of the Hampton Inn or the Holiday Inn Express down the road? Honestly, it usually comes down to about twenty or thirty bucks. The Comfort Inn Richmond KY is often the "value play." You get 90% of the same experience for a lower price point.
The Hampton Inn might feel a tiny bit newer, and the Holiday Inn might have a slightly better shower head, but the Comfort Inn wins on consistency. You know exactly what you’re getting. There are no weird surprises.
Common Gripes and How to Avoid Them
No hotel is perfect. Some guests have mentioned that the carpets can feel a bit "tired" in certain wings of the building. Others have pointed out that the Wi-Fi can be spotty if you’re trying to stream 4K video during peak hours.
If you need high-speed internet for a Zoom call, try to set up in the lobby or use a hotspot. The building’s construction seems to eat signal in the corners. Also, if you’re sensitive to smells, keep in mind that this is an older building. They do a good job with cleaning, but it has that "hotel" scent—a mix of laundry detergent and industrial cleaner.
Hidden Perks Near the Hotel
If you’re staying at the Comfort Inn, don't just sit in your room.
- Lake Reba Park: It’s about a ten-minute drive. It’s huge. There’s a walking trail, a dog park, and even a miniature golf course. It’s the best place in Richmond to stretch your legs after a long drive.
- Fort Boonesborough State Park: About fifteen minutes north. If you’re a history nerd, this is a must. It’s a reconstruction of the fort founded by Daniel Boone.
- Apollo Pizza: If you’re tired of the chain food surrounding the hotel, drive into the "Old Town" area and hit up Apollo. Their beer list is stellar and the pizza is legit.
Technical Details for Your Stay
Check-in and Check-out: Usually 3:00 PM and 11:00 AM. They are pretty flexible with late check-outs if you ask nicely and they aren't fully booked.
Pet Policy: This is a big one. The Comfort Inn is generally pet-friendly, but they do charge a fee. Always call ahead to confirm. Don't just show up with a Great Dane and expect them to be cool with it.
Parking: Plenty of it. Even if you’re pulling a trailer or driving a large SUV, the lot is spacious enough that you won't feel like you’re playing a game of Tetris.
Actionable Steps for a Better Stay
To get the most out of your stay at the Comfort Inn Richmond KY, follow this quick checklist:
- Book Direct or Check the Choice Privileges App: You can often find "Member Only" rates that beat Expedia or Booking.com by $10–$15. Plus, you get points.
- Request a High-Floor Room Away from I-75: This minimizes both highway noise and the sound of people stomping around above you.
- Time Your Breakfast: Aim for 7:00 AM or just before the cutoff at 9:00 AM to avoid the heaviest crowds.
- Inspect Your Room Immediately: Check the AC unit and the bathroom. If something isn't right, tell the front desk within the first ten minutes. They are much more likely to move you to a better room before you’ve unpacked everything.
- Use the Side Entrances: If you’re hauling a lot of luggage, the side doors are often closer to the parking spots than the main lobby entrance. Just make sure you have your key card handy.
Richmond isn't a metropolis, but it’s a busy hub. Whether you're passing through or staying for a graduation, this hotel provides exactly what it promises: a reliable, clean, and affordable place to rest. It’s not flashy. It doesn't have a spa. But when you’ve been on the road for six hours and the sun is going down, that glowing yellow sign feels like exactly what you need.