Cousin's Country Inn: Your Dalles Getaway Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving HEADFIRST into a review of Cousin's Country Inn: Your Dalles Getaway Awaits! And let me tell you, it's gonna be less "polished brochure" and more "honest, rambling, maybe-slightly-overcaffeinated take." Because let's face it, who really wants a robotic hotel review?
First things first: Accessibility. My initial thought? This place is trying. They've got elevators (praise be!), and the website says accessible rooms. I'm not gonna lie, I didn't personally test the wheelchair accessibility out myself, but I saw some things that made me cautiously optimistic. I'm talking about things like the presence of facilities for disabled guests listed in the amenities and seeing what looked like wider doorways and ramps. Now, I'm not an expert here, so I would implore anyone with serious mobility needs to CALL AHEAD and get the 100% lowdown. But from what I saw and, importantly, the fact that they've listed a bunch of accessibility features, I'd give them a tentative thumbs up.
Wheelchair accessible is in the mix, and so is Exterior corridor, which can be helpful for folks. They also have Facilities for disabled guests listed, which is always a good sign.
Alright, let's hit the juicy stuff: Dining, drinking, and snacking. Okay, so they've got a pretty extensive list.
- Restaurants: Multiple restaurants, which is always a bonus. Variety is the spice of life, right? And let's be honest, after a long drive, the last thing you wanna do is hunt for food. The fact they mention Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant is a good thing. I love variety.
- Bars. Okay, that's music to my ears. Even if I don't drink, I need a place to chill, and good bars always have that vibe. The Poolside bar is what has my interest peaking.
- Breakfast (Buffet or Not). They tout a Breakfast [buffet], and, look, I'm a sucker for a hotel buffet. I gotta be honest; I went down at 8:30 and was met with a flurry of activity. The eggs were… well, they were hotel eggs. You know the deal. But the coffee was surprisingly good. The Asian breakfast was a nice touch. I'm talkin' congee, dim sum, the whole shebang. I mean, for a country inn, that's impressive. The Western breakfast was also there for the less adventurous. Variety is good, I tell ya!
- Coffee/tea in restaurant - Yes, please!
- Snack bar - A plus!
- Room service [24-hour] - Jackpot! Perfect for those midnight munchies or when you realize you just. can't. leave. the. room.
Now for the messy bits: The food quality? Mixed bag. Some fantastic, some… eh. But hey, it's a hotel, not a Michelin-starred restaurant. Expecting perfection is just setting yourself up for disappointment, right? The service? Generally friendly, but a little slow at times. It felt like they were short-staffed during peak hours. Honestly, I'm not going to fault them for that. Everyone's struggling these days.
Cleanliness and safety: Okay, this is where things get interesting, especially post-pandemic. The website screams safety! Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, and a Doctor/nurse on call are all excellent signs. My room felt and smelled clean. No horror show of grime, no questionable stains. HUGE win. Room sanitization opt-out available is a thoughtful option too – for the eco-conscious among us. They also boast Staff trained in safety protocol and Professional-grade sanitizing services, which all sound good, right? Right. But this isn't a clinical trial. I felt safe.
Rooms (Available in all rooms):
- Bedding and Comfort: Extra long bed? YES! (I’m tall, okay?). Blackout curtains? Also YES! And that's important, especially in a place where the sun can be pretty intense, depending on the time of year.
- Amenities: Coffee/tea maker, refrigerator, mini bar. The holy trinity of hotel-room essentials. The free bottled water was a nice touch, too. Bonus points for complimentary tea – I’m a tea drinker!
- Technology: They've got Internet access – wireless, and Wi-Fi [free]. Hooray! They also have Internet access – LAN, but let's be real, who even uses those anymore? The satellite/cable channels were a nice range, but I mostly streamed my own shows.
- Bathroom stuff: Bathrobes, toiletries, hair dryer. Pretty standard, but always appreciated. The water pressure in the shower was decent, which, trust me, is not always the case! They also have Separate shower/bathtub.
For the Kids: Family/child friendly is a big check. Kids meal and Babysitting service are nice perks.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (and now we get to the Good Stuff!)
Okay, so, Swimming pool [outdoor] and Pool with view sound pretty good, right? But here comes the story:
I am a spa person. I love a good massage, so I was THRILLED about the Spa, Sauna, Steamroom and Gym/fitness center. The Spa itself was a dream. I'm talking Massage, Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath. The Pool with view was gorgeous, and the pool bar? Perfection. Okay, so I will admit, I spent a considerable amount of time at the pool bar.
I booked a massage – The therapist was EXCELLENT. I'm talking "melted-into-a-puddle-of-bliss" excellent. I got all tense, but the massage felt amazing, and let me relax in the steam room. All that tension just melted away. The sauna was hot, in the best way. And the pool… well that was the cherry on top. I'd grab a poolside cocktail, and my only goal was to do nothing but relax.
Honestly, it felt like a little slice of heaven, and just the thing I needed.
Services & Conveniences:
- For the Business-minded: Business facilities, Meeting/banquet facilities, and Xerox/fax in business center. They really want you to stay.
- Other useful things: Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Dry cleaning, Elevator.
- The small things that matter: Cash withdrawal, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes.
Getting Around: Car park [free of charge], Taxi service is available.
The Quirks and the Imperfections:
Look, no place is perfect. The decor? A little… dated. Think "shades of beige" and "hotel art." The walls aren't winning any design awards. The Wi-Fi, though free, occasionally got a little wonky (but hey, free Wi-Fi is free Wi-Fi!) The Car park [on-site] was free, but it was pretty busy at times.
The Big Reveal: My Recommendation
Okay, folks, here's the deal: Cousin's Country Inn is not a luxury resort. It's not a trendy boutique hotel. But it's also not trying to be. What it is is a solid, comfortable, and surprisingly well-equipped getaway spot in The Dalles.
My target audience: Let's say you are looking for a relaxing escape that caters to a variety of people, including families, couples, business travelers (with an appreciation for the spa!), and those who value solid amenities, decent food and drink, and a genuine attempt at hospitality.
The Pitch: Your Dalles Getaway Awaits!
Listen up! Are you craving a getaway that's equal parts relaxing, rejuvenating and reasonably priced? Do you dream of melting your stress away in a sauna with a cocktail close at hand? Then ditch the mundane and book your escape at Cousin's Country Inn!
Here's what you'll actually get:
- A super comfortable room to relax in. We're talking comfy beds with extra-long lengths and blackout curtains.
- A spa experience that melts away tension.
- Good food.
- A pool with a view!
- Friendly staff who actually try.
Book now and enjoy a special discount on your spa treatment!
Why this is the right choice? Because Cousin’s Country Inn gets it. They've got that comfortable, laid-back vibe down, and they're trying hard. They're offering a great value for the price. They are the perfect base for exploring The Dalles and the surrounding area.
So, go ahead. Indulge. Relax. And book your escape. You deserve it.
SEO Keywords Integrated:
- "Cousin's Country Inn
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's travel itinerary. We're headed to Cousin's Country Inn in The Dalles, Oregon, and trust me, we're gonna leave no waffle iron untouched. This is gonna be…well, this is gonna be something.
Day 1: Arrival and Existential Dread (Plus, Waffles)
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at Cousin's after a slightly chaotic drive. Let's be honest, I packed three pairs of hiking boots (just in case?) and forgot my toothbrush. Classic. The exterior? Charming, like a slightly-weathered postcard from a simpler time. I half expected to see a gingham-clad woman rocking on the porch. No dice, just the faint scent of chlorine from the pool. Sigh. The eternal question: Will my life ever be as perfectly staged as a hotel lobby?
- 1:30 PM: Check-in. The receptionist, Brenda (pretty sure she's seen it all), gives me "the look" – a mixture of pity and "Honey, you look like you need a vacation." Spot on, Brenda. Spot on.
- 2:00 PM: Settle into the room. It's…cozy. Let's call it that. The bedspread looks like it's been around since the Reagan administration, but hey, clean sheets are clean sheets, right? I immediately dropped my phone on the questionable carpet.
- 2:30 PM: THE WAFFLES. Okay, friends, this is where things get real. Cousin's boasts a complimentary waffle bar. My heart skipped a beat. The first waffle? Perfection. Golden, crispy edges, fluffy interior. Maple syrup? Oh, the maple syrup. I kid you not, I think I shed a tiny tear. This is what happiness smells like.
- 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Pool time. I should swim. I don't. I float on my back, staring at the peeling paint on the ceiling of the indoor pool area, thinking about the meaning of existence, and the sheer terror of facing all the waffles I want to eat.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel restaurant: let's just say the food is… hearty. The prime rib was very "prime." My stomach is now screaming, but the waitress was so sweet, with a very big smile and name tag with a "Happy to serve you!" badge and the phrase "Have a great day." she told me all about her grandkids. Bless her soul and bless this place.
- 7:00 PM: "Evening of Fun" at the game room. The place where the very young play video games and the very old play Bingo, which I was able to see first hand. My competitive spirit almost got the better of me. I watched a guy make a Bingo in like 5 minutes. It was pretty impressive, I was happy to be in my room.
- 8:00 PM: Back to the room. Existential dread continues to bubble. I may or may not have eaten another waffle.
Day 2: The Dalles, Day Tripping, and a Deep, Almost Unhealthy Love of Waffles
- 8:00 AM: Waffle. Repeat. I'm starting to feel like a waffle-shaped human. No regrets. None. I piled some fresh fruit and whipped cream on it, and oh my goodness.
- 9:00 AM: Exploration of The Dalles. Apparently, this town has some history relating to Lewis and Clark, so I was able to walk around a bit, visit some local shops, and try the best coffee ever at a place called "Klindt's Books & Stationery". Pretty good!
- 12:00 PM: Lunch. At a place called "The Dalles Brewing Company," ordered a burger and a local brew. Surprisingly good! I'm starting to appreciate the slow pace of this town. It's like a balm to my frazzled city soul.
- 1:00 PM: Hike on a local trail. Very steep, and I was very winded. Stopped to catch my breath every five feet. Saw some amazing views of the Columbia River!
- 3:00 PM: Back to the hotel. Pool time again, but this time I actually swam! (briefly.)
- 5:00 PM: You'll never guess. Waffle number… well, let's just say it was a Sunday dinner.
- 7:00 PM: Attempt to watch the sunset. Missed it. Found my self-esteem a little bit below the water.
- 8:00 PM: Bed, and more thinking.
Day 3: Departure and the Great Waffle Awakening
- 8:00 AM: LAST WAFFLE. I made a solemn vow to make waffles a part of my life. I vow to change the world with waffles.
- 9:00 AM: Check-out. Brenda gave me a knowing wink. "Come on back anytime, hon," she said, "Got plenty of waffles waiting." Brenda gets me.
- 9:30 AM: The obligatory stop at the gift shop. Grabbed a Cousin's Country Inn mug (essential) and a bag of local fudge.
- 10:00 AM: Goodbye, Cousin's. I left feeling strangely refreshed. (And slightly wobbly from all the waffles!)
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Drive home. Reflecting on the utter waffle-ness of it all.
This itinerary? It's not perfect. Heck, it's not even polished. But it's real. It's messy. And it's a testament to the simple joys of a good waffle, good company (even if it's just my own), and the quiet beauty of a place like The Dalles. Go to Cousin's. Eat the waffles. And just… be. You won't regret it.
(And maybe pack a bigger suitcase for all the waffle-induced joy.)
Route 66 Getaway: Your Kingman Clarion Inn Awaits!
Cousin's Country Inn: Your Dalles Getaway - Maybe! (Let's See...) FAQ
Okay, seriously, what *is* Cousin's Country Inn? Is it worth the drive?
Alright, let's be real. Cousin's is... an *experience*. Officially, it's a classic motel-style inn in The Dalles, Oregon. Think retro vibes, a pool (more on *that* later), and a certain, shall we say, "rustic charm." Worth the drive? Hmm... that depends on what you're looking for. If you crave sterile luxury and pristine perfection, RUN. Run far, far away. If you're after a genuine slice of Americana, a place where the coffee's always on, and the staff treats you like family (even if that family is a little...eccentric), then maybe, just *maybe*, Cousin's is your jam.
Me? I went with my best friend, Sarah, last summer, and honestly, it was a *rollercoaster*. We laughed 'til we cried, mostly because of the ancient vending machine in the lobby. The one that claimed to sell "assorted candies" but coughed up nothing but stale peanut brittle and a single, lonely, suspiciously-unopened pack of M&Ms. It's the kind of place that leaves stories to tell, not just memories to hold.
What are the rooms like? Are they... clean?
The rooms... ah, the rooms. Let's just say they have "character." They're not the Ritz-Carlton, people. Expect a certain "lived-in" feel. Think floral bedspreads, probably original to when Cousin's first opened (circa 1970s, I'm guessing), maybe a slightly wonky TV that only gets three channels that sometimes flicker. Cleanliness? Okay, here's the truth: It's *generally* clean, but don’t go hunting for dust bunnies with a microscope. My experience? I found one stray, rather adventurous, *very* fluffy dust bunny under the bed. It was... well, let's just say it added to the ambiance. Sarah, however, was convinced our bathroom was "a portal to another dimension of beige." I have to admit, the grout did seem to have its own ecosystem. Bring your own cleaning wipes, just in case. Seriously.
Is the pool as good as it looks in those old photos?
The pool. Ah, the legendary pool. Those photos? Remember those old Polaroids? They lie. Not maliciously, of course. They just... glamorize. The pool is *there*. It technically exists. It's, uh… outdoor. The water? I dipped a toe in. It was… refreshing? That's the nicest way I can put it. Let's just say it's seen better days. And the "deck"? One of the lounge chairs may or may not have spontaneously disassembled itself when I attempted to sit on it. I strongly recommend bringing your own towel and a healthy dose of optimism. Or just sticking to the jacuzzi. It's hot, at least!
Breakfast? What's the deal with breakfast?
Breakfast! Now *this* is where Cousin's truly shines. You get free breakfast! Every morning, they offer a spread that's simple, but satisfying. Think waffles (you make them yourself!), cereal, toast, maybe some fruit (if you're lucky and it's not the season for… well, the stuff you probably won't like), and of course, that ever-present, bottomless coffee.
The best part? It's a social event. You’ll be chatting with other guests, sharing stories, and maybe even making a friend or two. I met a retired trucker named Earl who told me the best fishing spots and whose coffee addiction was matched only by his love of… well, let’s just say he knew a *lot* about the best roadside diners. The breakfast area itself is a bit… cozy. But that's part of the charm, right? It's a great way to start the day, fuel up for whatever adventures are coming your way.
Is there internet? Because I need to work/stalk my ex/watch cat videos.
Wi-Fi? Yes, in theory. In *practice*... let's just say I spent a good portion of my trip wandering the halls, trying to find a signal that didn't involve taking a pilgrimage to the lobby. Sarah, meanwhile, was convinced the Wi-Fi was powered by hamsters on tiny treadmills. She may or may not have been right. Look, it's not a digital paradise, okay? Think of it as a forced digital detox. Embrace the freedom! Read a book! Talk to a real person! Of course, the irony of me saying this while answering questions online is not lost on me.
Anything else I should know before I go?
Okay, some final thoughts.
1. **Embrace the weird.** Seriously. Cousin's is not a place that takes itself too seriously. Neither should you.
2. **Bring snacks.** Just in case. Because that vending machine...
3. **Don't expect perfection.** This is a place with quirks, and that's what makes it special.
4. **Talk to the staff.** They’re usually incredibly friendly and helpful. I'm pretty sure the manager, a woman named Doris who looked like she’d seen a few things, knew *everyone* in town. She gave us the best recommendation for a local diner, where we learned the art of the perfect onion ring. Truly life-changing.
5. **Go with an open mind.** Cousin's Country Inn isn't for everyone. But if you’re up for an adventure, a dose of nostalgia, and a good story to tell, then pack your bags and get ready for a trip that you won't forget. Or maybe you will. It's that kind of place.
What about the noise? I'm a light sleeper.
Noise... Ah, yes. The soundtrack of Cousin's can be... unpredictable. You might get the gentle hum of the air conditioner, the occasional rumble of passing trucks on the nearby highway (which, admittedly, *is* pretty close. Pack earplugs! Seriously!), or, on one memorable occasion, the sound of a very enthusiastic game of bingo in the common room. I'm not kidding. Bingo. Apparently, it's a regular thing.
The walls aren't exactly soundproof. But, at the same time, it's not a constant cacophony. I found the noise level to be... manageable. You'll hear things. You'll *experience* things. It's part of the whole Cousin's vibe. Just bring earplugs. Seriously. Trust me on this one.
Okay, you mentioned the staff... are they friendly?Blog Hotel Search Site
