Overnight #3 on my cross country trip landed me in the popular Kearney; wooden walkway across the interstate and endless miles of motels and all. Actually, who would have thought this bustling oasis of a exit would come out of nowhere. There were quite a few deals in the vicinity around the same price range; the green travel book echoed what the makeshift sign advertised right outfront, "best deal in town". And so, I booked. Right away from first entrance, the first impression; the small 'mud room' in between the front door and the lobby, smelled like something I never smelled before, a previous reviewer did mention it, it did smell like a foul south asian cooking scent. I was pleased when I got into the lobby to find this 'signature' stench was contained only to the mud room; however, the rest of the hotel (halls, lobby) had that powerwashed scent/feel to it. I can only guess within the time the previous reviewers stayed, this place did get a major scrubbing; my room was very clean and looked updated. the king bed was nice and comfy and bathroom had no cracked tiles or anything previously mentioned. This was a pretty low rockbottom price, so I would say the room was well worth the value. The front desk did seem a bit "to the point" but honored the discount and was accommodating. There was a little compartment room with a sliding glass door with a computer with surprising fast internet. The pool, a bit small but warm water but the hot tub was nice and hot. Hats off to who ever got on these people to be accommodating to the guests, in the closet size gym that consisted of about 3 apparatus, were internet print-outs taped to the wall (really, about 50 of them ! ) along with matching pictures and depictions of what recommended exercises to do. The breakfast room yes, was small and narrow, and I decided to sleep in rather then partake, but I suppose considering there were still stale cereal bits out and what looked like old milk containers, I can conclude it was just as appetizing as previous reviewers noted. Yes, to get to the rooms from the front entrance (if you can stand the reek) you have to go through this area, however if you park around the back there is a side door that takes you to the stairs leading up to the second floor. For the price I recommend, they live up to their signage best deal in town.
I should also note, this is a rare exit where there is actual lively civilization, restaurants a plenty - including a perkins right next door, lots of motels to choose from. Apparently there is a university in this town and shopping mall. The people did seem like a mix of travelers but that is probably because of this location being so close to the interstate. You wont feel like you are in the middle of nowhere; however its always a good idea to park somewhere well lit or close to your room; the dude in the truck wearing a cowboy hat wouldn't stop starring at me until i got out of my car to book and some woman was jumping rope right in front of the front door upon pulling up, heading in for the night after dessert at perkins (which was filled with locals) AND upon leaving the next morning.