BEST WESTERN CLEARLAKE PLAZA, Springfield

The hotel sits right off Route 72, which becomes Clearlake Avenue, and is easily accessible by car; stay in the left lane when approaching from the highway. It is about 15 minutes from Lincoln's Tomb. The surrounding area is commercial, with a McDonald's, Starbucks (0.5 km), and a gas station within walking distance. Downtown Springfield and the Bos Center (4 km), Korean War Veteran National Museum & Library (5 km), and the University of Illinois at Springfield (10 km) require a short drive. The Knight's Action Park is 14 km away. The immediate surroundings are practical for transit stops, but walking to restaurants is convenient.

The hotel offers double, quadruple, and suite configurations, all with air conditioning, tea and coffee makers, hairdryers, and ironing facilities. Some rooms are interconnected, making them suitable for families. The property is older and can feel dated; the rooms vary in condition, with some reporting musty smells, mold, or stains. Beds are generally comfortable, though some mattresses may be older or firm. Road-facing rooms are quiet due to highway placement, but internal noise from pets or neighbours is possible. No rooms have USB ports. Wheelchair-accessible rooms are available with features like grab rails, a raised toilet, and a lower sink.

Breakfast is served from 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM and includes standard options like eggs, sausage, pancakes from a pancake machine, and a coffee urn, though the selection is limited. The breakfast area is small and can get crowded early. The hotel has vending machines for drinks and snacks. A Starbucks is a 5-minute walk away, and several fast-food and casual dining options are within walking distance or a short drive. No evening restaurant or bar is on site.

The indoor pool is open and can be used year-round, though it is highly chlorinated and may be closed for maintenance on occasion. Towels are provided at the pool area. The fitness centre is available around the clock and includes basic cardio equipment. No sauna, hot tub, or spa services are on site.

The hotel offers free Wi-Fi in all areas, a business centre with free fax and photocopying, and a 24-hour front desk. Free parking is available on site and does not require a reservation. Accessible parking is also provided. The front desk can issue invoices and assist with requests. Housekeeping replenishes rooms daily. There is no coin laundry. The property has exterior doors without automatic openers, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. A luggage cart is available but is in limited supply.