You’re driving down I-10, the Arizona sun is beating against the windshield, and the kids are starting to get that glazed look in their eyes. Or maybe you're cruising up I-95 through North Carolina, desperately needing a spot to pull over before your coffee wears off. If you search for a place to crash, you’ll inevitably see it: Days Inn by Wyndham Benson.
Actually, there are two of them. One is tucked away in the high desert of Arizona, and the other sits right at the crossroads of I-95 and I-40 in North Carolina. It’s a classic travel mix-up. Most people booking a room here are looking for a "good enough" place to sleep for eight hours, but the reality of these budget stays is a bit more nuanced than the shiny stock photos suggest.
The Arizona vs. North Carolina Confusion
Let’s get the geography straight because clicking "book" on the wrong state is a nightmare nobody wants. The Days Inn by Wyndham Benson in Arizona is located at 621 West Commerce Drive. It’s a desert hub, roughly 45 miles southeast of Tucson. People stay here primarily to see Kartchner Caverns State Park, which is a quick 10-mile hop south.
Then you’ve got the Benson, North Carolina location at 202 North Honeycutt Street. This one is a pure "road warrior" stop. It’s basically the halfway point for people driving between New York and Florida. If you’re at the North Carolina spot, you aren’t looking for caverns; you’re looking for a bed that doesn't cost $200 a night.
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What the Arizona Stay Really Looks Like
The Arizona property is an interior-corridor hotel. That's a big deal if you're worried about desert creepy-crawlies or just want to feel a bit more secure. It’s got 61 rooms spread over two floors. Honestly, the best part about this location is the proximity to local history. You're 20 minutes from the caverns and about 30 minutes from Tombstone.
They offer a free continental breakfast, but don’t expect a five-star brunch. We’re talking cereal, yogurt, waffles, and oatmeal. It’s fuel, not a feast. One weirdly specific detail: they have two on-site restaurants, which is unusual for a budget Days Inn. Usually, you’re hiking across a parking lot to a Denny's, but here you have options right under the roof.
The Truth About the North Carolina Stop
If you end up at the North Carolina location, things are a bit different. This is a larger property—103 rooms—and it uses exterior corridors. It’s a 2-star economy motel through and through.
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- Location: Directly off Exit 79 on I-95.
- Vibe: Very utilitarian. It’s a place to sleep, shower, and go.
- Pet Policy: Generally pet-friendly (usually around $10-$15 per pet), but they have a weight limit of 25 lbs. Don’t try to sneak in a Great Dane.
Guests here often mention the noise. Since it's sitting right at the intersection of two major interstates, you're going to hear the hum of trucks. If you're a light sleeper, grab some earplugs or find a room in the back of the building.
Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?
Budget hotels are a gamble. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. In Arizona, the average rate fluctuates around $70 to $90 depending on the season. In North Carolina, you can often snag a room for under $65.
Compared to the city average of nearly $120 in some nearby areas, the Days Inn by Wyndham Benson is a steal. But you have to manage expectations. Some guests have reported issues with cleanliness—stains on carpets or older fixtures that have seen better days. It's an economy brand. You’re paying for the convenience of the location, not high-thread-count sheets.
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Hidden Perks and Annoyances
Both locations offer free Wi-Fi, but let’s be real: hotel Wi-Fi is rarely "high speed" when everyone is trying to stream Netflix at 9:00 PM. If you have a big presentation or need to upload large files, bring a hotspot.
A cool thing about the Arizona spot? They actually have a whirlpool and an outdoor pool. After a day of hiking through the hot San Pedro Valley, a dip in the pool is basically a religious experience. The North Carolina pool is seasonal, so don't count on it if you're traveling in the "off" months.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
If you decide to pull the trigger and book a room, do yourself a favor. Request a room on the second floor. It helps with the noise from the parking lot and the highway. Also, check your room as soon as you walk in. If the bedsheets aren't crisp or the bathroom looks sketchy, go back to the front desk immediately. These properties are usually franchised, and the quality can vary wildly based on the current management.
For food in Benson, AZ, skip the hotel breakfast once and hit up Magaly's Mexican Restaurant or Pablo's Steaks & More. They’re local staples and way better than a soggy waffle. In Benson, NC, you’re right near Smithfield's Chicken 'N Bar-B-Q, which is basically a requirement if you're passing through the state.
Actionable Next Steps
- Double-check the state before you hit "confirm" on your booking.
- Call the property directly if you’re bringing a pet, as "pet-friendly" rooms are often limited to specific floors or areas.
- Inspect the HVAC unit upon arrival. Budget hotel AC units can be loud or finicky; make sure yours works before you unpack.
- Join Wyndham Rewards. Even if you only stay once a year, the points add up and can get you a "Go Free" night faster than you think.
Whether you're exploring the depths of Kartchner Caverns or just trying to make it to Florida in one piece, these hotels serve a very specific purpose. They aren't resorts, and they aren't trying to be. They’re a roof over your head when the road gets too long.