Kings Inn San Diego

The stucco and multi-colored stone building has a green pitched roof and a motel-style layout, with some rooms facing the parking lot. Most of the property is still a bit dated, but the ongoing renovation has embraced the mid-century vibe in a fresher way, mainly in guest rooms. The dark lobby has a lot of wood paneling and stone, as well as unattractive floral-patterned carpeting and worn leather sofas, which altogether give off an old rec-room feel. But, it’s a welcoming spot for families, who spend time by the clean, heated pool surrounded by palm trees, and white and aqua lounge chairs. The restaurants both have a fun, kid-friendly feel -- particularly the Waffle Spot, with cartoon murals and pastel colors decorating the funky diner. 

The Kings Inn is one hotel on a strip of budget properties along the aptly named Hotel Circle in Mission Valley. Freeway Eight runs parallel, with shopping and other restaurants across from it, so the area isn’t very walkable. Parking is free, and guests with cars are close to most attractions. Old Town San Diego is a five-minute drive or a half-hour by trolley; the Green Line Trolley stops at Fashion Valley Mall, a mile away.SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, and Mission Beach are all a 10-minute drive, and Seaport Village is about 15-minutes away by car. 

The 140 Standard King and Standard Double Queen rooms are clean and adequately sized. Each has a fresh, aqua and gray color scheme, though the green carpeting and heavy floral curtains are a bit drab. Furniture in the non-renovated rooms is of the old, Formica variety, while updated rooms have newer dark-wood furniture, brightly upholstered mid-century armchairs, and funky light fixtures and lamps. White tile bathrooms have shower/tub combos and hairdryers; some updated Suites have modern, dark-wood vanities. Each room has a flat-screen TV, coffeemaker, iron and ironing board, and mini-fridge; microwaves are available for a daily fee. Some rooms can get freeway noise. 

There are two on-site restaurants. The Amigo Spot serves Mexican food and drinks, and has a weekday happy hour with free appetizers, and live music on weekends. The kid-friendly Waffle Spot has an extensive breakfast and sandwich menu. Both restaurants offer room service. The heated pool and hot tub are open year round. Free coffee, tea, and filtered water are available in the lobby. Parking and Wi-Fi are also free. A computer and printer are available for guests, along with coin-operated washers and dryers. There are three banquet/meeting rooms.