So, you’re driving down Highway 84, maybe cutting through Central Texas toward Waco or heading east to Fairfield, and you see it. The Inn at Mexia Mexia TX. It looks like your classic roadside motel, the kind of place with exterior corridors and a neon sign that’s seen better days. Honestly, most people just drive right past it, assuming it’s just another "no-tell motel" with scratchy sheets and a funky smell.
But here’s the thing.
If you actually pull in and talk to the regulars—the workers who stay here two or three nights every single month or the families visiting Fort Parker—you’ll hear a different story. It’s not the Four Seasons. Nobody is claiming that. But for a budget-friendly 2-star spot in Limestone County, it hits a weirdly specific sweet spot that the big chains sometimes miss.
The Reality of Staying at the Inn at Mexia Mexia TX
Let’s get the basics out of the way. The property is located at 600 West Palestine Street. If you’re using a GPS, it might just call it Highway 84. It’s a two-story building that’s been around since 1989, though it had a pretty significant renovation back in 2016.
The first thing you’ll notice is the layout. It’s an exterior corridor setup. For some, that’s a dealbreaker because of "safety" or "noise." For others, especially if you’re hauling a lot of gear or traveling with a dog (yes, they are generally pet-friendly, though you should always call ahead to confirm the current fee), it’s a godsend. You park your truck right in front of your door. You haul your suitcase three feet. Done.
What’s actually inside the rooms?
I’ve seen a lot of budget motels where the "free Wi-Fi" is basically a dial-up connection from 1998. At the Inn at Mexia Mexia TX, the internet is surprisingly stable. You’re not going to be hosting a 4K gaming stream, but you can definitely catch up on emails or watch Netflix without the spinning wheel of death.
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The rooms themselves are pretty standard:
- 32-inch LED TVs with premium satellite (plenty of channels to choose from).
- A microwave and a refrigerator. This is huge. Most people staying here are doing it to save money, and having a fridge that actually stays cold means you aren't eating out for every meal.
- Wood furniture that feels a bit more solid than the particle-board stuff you find in newer "budget" builds.
- Rainfall showerheads. Yeah, seriously. They upgraded the bathrooms with these, and it’s a small touch that makes a massive difference after a long day on the road.
One thing that genuinely surprises people? The beds. They use premium bedding and down comforters. There’s even a pillow menu, which feels like a total glitch in the matrix for a motel at this price point.
The "Good, Bad, and Weird" of the Location
Mexia (pronounced Muh-HAY-uh, for those not from around here) is a town of about 7,000 people. It’s quiet. But the Inn at Mexia Mexia TX sits in a spot that’s actually pretty strategic.
You’re basically two minutes away from the Mexia Public Schools Museum. Sounds niche, right? It is. But if you’re into local history, it’s a goldmine. You’re also only a 5-minute drive from Parkview Regional Hospital. A lot of the guests here are actually families of patients or traveling nurses because it’s the closest reliable place to crash.
Nearby Essentials and Eats
There is a restaurant right on-site. It’s convenient, sure, but you also have options.
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- Charlie Burgers & Grill: Classic Texas burger joint. Messy, greasy, and worth it.
- The Farm House: If you want that "sit down and eat chicken fried steak until you can't move" experience.
- Coffee Cabaret: This is on Paris Street. It’s the local hidden gem for a decent lunch and actually good coffee.
Common Misconceptions (E-E-A-T Insights)
People see the 2.5-star rating on sites like Expedia or Kayak and assume the worst. "It must be dirty," or "The staff doesn't care."
Actually, the staff is one of the most cited "pros" in recent 2024 and 2025 reviews. It’s often family-run or managed by a small, tight-knit crew. They know the area. They know where the construction is on the highway. They’ll actually talk to you.
However, let’s be real about the limitations.
It’s an older building. Sometimes the AC units are a bit loud. Sometimes you might find a stray hair or a dust bunny under the bed because the housekeeping crew is small. If you go in expecting a sterile, brand-new Hilton experience, you’ll be disappointed. If you go in expecting a clean, safe place to sleep for $75 or $80 a night, you’ll probably be pleasantly surprised.
The Pool Situation
There is a seasonal outdoor pool. It’s open from April to October. It’s basic, but in the Texas heat? It’s a lifesaver. Just don’t expect a resort-style "oasisl"—it’s a fenced-in pool in a parking lot. It gets the job done.
Why Choose This Over the Comfort Inn or Best Western?
Look, Mexia has a Comfort Inn & Suites and a Best Western Limestone Inn. Both are great. They’re newer. They have indoor hallways.
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They also cost about 20% to 30% more.
If you’re a corporate traveler with a wide-open expense account, go to the Comfort Inn. But if you’re a contractor, a fisherman heading to Lake Mexia (which is only 15 minutes away), or a budget traveler, the Inn at Mexia Mexia TX is the move. You get the same microwave, the same fridge, and arguably more comfortable bedding for a lower price.
Pro-Tips for Your Stay
If you decide to book, there are a few things that can make your stay a lot better.
- Ask for a remodeled room. Not every room has been updated at the exact same time. The remodeled ones have better flooring and fresher paint.
- Check the appliances. Sometimes the mini-fridges are unplugged to save energy when the room is vacant. Plug it in as soon as you get there so your drinks are cold by bedtime.
- The "Fountain" View. Some guests suggest asking for a room facing the fountain area. It’s a bit quieter and has a slightly better vibe than looking directly at the parking lot.
- Late Check-in. The front desk is 24 hours, which is a big deal in small-town Texas. You won't get locked out if you arrive at 2:00 AM.
Safety and Cleanliness
Since 2024, the property has leaned heavily into guest safety measures. You’ll find hand sanitizer stations and staff who actually use the acrylic shields at the desk. They wash the linens at high temperatures ($60^\circ C$ or higher), which is standard but nice to have confirmed.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're planning a trip through Limestone County, don't just book the first thing you see on a travel app.
- Compare Prices Directly: Sometimes the hotel's direct site (or calling them at 254-562-5593) will get you a better rate than the big aggregators who tack on service fees.
- Check the Calendar: If there’s an event at the Limestone County Fairgrounds or a reunion at the Confederate Reunion Grounds, this place fills up fast. Book at least two weeks out.
- Prepare for the Drive: If you’re coming from Waco, it’s about a 45-minute straight shot East on HWY 84.
The Inn at Mexia Mexia TX isn't trying to change the world. It’s just trying to provide a solid night's sleep for people who value their paycheck. It’s honest, it’s local, and it’s better than you probably think.