The Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Willoughby, the only hotel actually in Willoughby proper, delivers a perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score and a 9.1 location rating. The Steele Mansion Inn in nearby Painesville dominates the entire list with a staggering 9.8 Exceptional overall score. Together, they define the two ends of the local lodging spectrum.
Forget the generic chains — Willoughby rewards those who know where to look. These 13 properties, from a perfect-scoring mansion to a pet-friendly apartment, are the real deal.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 13 properties across the Willoughby area using 2600+ total verified guest reviews, filtering for an 8.3/10 average guest score and prioritizing location, cleanliness, and value scores.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall: #4 Steele Mansion Inn→ Rates
- Only hotel in Willoughby: #11 Courtyard by Marriott Willoughby→ Rates
- Pet-friendly with a kitchen: #12 Cozy, 1st floor apartment→ Rates
#6 Staybridge Suites→ Rates - Cleanest property: #4 Steele Mansion Inn→ Rates
- Best Wi-Fi (10.0): #11 Courtyard by Marriott Willoughby→ Rates
#12 Cozy, 1st floor apartment→ Rates - Top luxury & character: #4 Steele Mansion Inn→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Super 8 by Wyndham Mentor/Cleveland Area | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Comfort Inn Mayfield Heights Cleveland East | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Best Western Plus Mentor-Cleveland Northeast | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Hyatt Place Cleveland/Lyndhurst/Legacy Village | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Staybridge Suites Cleveland Mayfield Heights by IHG | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Holiday Inn Cleveland Northeast – Mentor by IHG | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Painesville – Concord by IHG | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland-Mentor | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Four Points by Sheraton Cleveland-Eastlake | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Willoughby | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Cozy, 1st floor apartment 2bdrms Plus Semi | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Residence Inn by Marriott Cleveland Mentor | (50+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Hotels in Willoughby, Ranked by Real Guest Scores
1. Super 8 by Wyndham Mentor/Cleveland Area
The Vibe
This is a budget-friendly roadside stop that doesn’t pretend to be more. The 8.5 location score in Mentor puts it close to FirstEnergy Stadium, Progressive Field, and the Cleveland Clinic — making it a practical launchpad for a game day or hospital visit. Free WiFi at 7.5 is workable but not blazing.
What You Actually Get
Air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, and a bathtub after a long drive. Breakfast is included in the room rate, which keeps the wallet happy. Pets are allowed on request (charges may apply), and the property accepts groups up to 9 rooms before different policies kick in. Check-in starts at 2:00 PM — earlier than most competitors. The 7.4 overall score is the lowest on this list, so set expectations accordingly: it’s a clean, functional spot, not a destination.
Choose this if: You need a cheap, pet-friendly base near Cleveland attractions and don’t mind a basic 2-star setup.
Check Tonight’s Price for Super 8 by Wyndham Mentor/Cleveland Area →
2. Comfort Inn Mayfield Heights Cleveland East
The Vibe
A 4-star hotel at a nearly 2-star price. The 8.6 location score and staff rating of 8.5 make this a strong contender for travelers who want reliable quality in Mayfield Heights without paying Hyatt prices. Guests consistently call out the breakfast chef — “he needs a raise,” one wrote.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking is a tangible perk — you won’t circle blocks. The fitness center has upper-floor access via elevator, so no hauling bags up stairs. Pets are allowed with a $25 per night charge per pet (dogs under 40 lbs; cats in cages). Guest FAQ confirms the property is less than 1 mile from the Cleveland Clinic. Cleanliness sits at 8.2, well above the Super 8. The property requires photo ID and credit card check-in. Breakfast is included, and the chef earns raves — expect a warm interaction, not just a cereal bar.
Choose this if: You want a 4-star feel with free parking and a pet policy that won’t break the bank.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn Mayfield Heights Cleveland East →
3. Best Western Plus Mentor-Cleveland Northeast
The Vibe
This Best Western Plus is anything but standard — an 8.7 Excellent rating with a 9.0 for cleanliness, location, and comfort. Guests compare it favorably to pricier Cleveland options: “heads above the one we stayed in near Cleveland.” The on-site pub and restaurant make it a mini-destination.
What You Actually Get
A seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a shared lounge with a restaurant and pub on-site. Wonderful Breakfast is included, and the property serves a daily hot and cold buffet. Cleanliness and comfort both score 9.0 — the highest pairing on the list outside the Steele Mansion. Pets are allowed ( $30 per night per pet ). Staff has a 9.2 rating: expect friendly, capable front desk service. Free parking is available at the hotel. The 8.3 value score suggests you’re paying for quality but not gouging.
Choose this if: You want a high-scoring hotel with an on-site pub and breakfast buffet — no need to leave the property.
Check Tonight’s Price for Best Western Plus Mentor-Cleveland Northeast →
4. Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub
The Vibe
A 9.8 Exceptional score — the highest on this list by a full point. Guests describe it as “like a museum at every turn.” The Steele Mansion is a restored property filled with antiques, garden views, and a level of detail that chain hotels can’t touch. It’s in Painesville, about 15 minutes east of Willoughby.
What You Actually Get
Cleanliness scores a 9.9 — the top cleanliness mark across all 13 properties. Facilities and comfort both hit 9.8 and 9.9 respectively. Free private parking is available on-site (yes, they confirmed in a guest QA). Some rooms feature Jason International MicroSilk Airtubs — essentially spa-quality jetted tubs. A free Exceptional Breakfast is included. Pets are allowed for $35 per pet per day (dogs and cats only; restrictions apply). The 9.5 Wi-Fi score is strong. The property is 26 miles from the Cleveland Orchestra — a quieter, countryside feel compared to Mentor hotels.
Choose this if: You want an exceptional, character-filled stay with spa tubs and a garden setting — the top-rated property in the area by far.
Check Tonight’s Price for Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub →
5. Hyatt Place Cleveland/Lyndhurst/Legacy Village
The Vibe
Location is the story here: 9.3 — tied for second-highest on the list. Hyatt Place sits in Lyndhurst, steps from Legacy Village’s shops and restaurants. Guests call out the “exceeded expectations” pool and gym. The indoor pool is a winter-saver.
What You Actually Get
An indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a restaurant and bar, and free on-site parking. Breakfast is included. Cleanliness scores 8.8, comfort 8.7. An incidental deposit of $15 is required at check-in (refundable). There is no Jacuzzi or hot tub — guest QA confirms this. A laundry facility is available ($2 wash, $1 dry). Pets are allowed on request with charges. Wi-Fi at 8.5 is reliable. The property is 20 miles from Cleveland Hopkins Airport — the closest airport proximity on the list.
Choose this if: You want to walk to Legacy Village’s shops and restaurants with an indoor pool as backup entertainment.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hyatt Place Cleveland/Lyndhurst/Legacy Village →
6. Staybridge Suites Cleveland Mayfield Heights Beachwood by IHG
The Vibe
Staybridge Suites is the extended-stay choice — and it does it well. The 9.2 staff rating matches the Best Western Plus, and guests rave about “spacious rooms” and a “great kitchen.” The outdoor pool and hot tub combo makes summer stays a draw. It’s 8.3 miles from the Cleveland Orchestra.
What You Actually Get
Suites with kitchens — this is a key differentiator. The property has an outdoor swimming pool and a hot tub. Very Good Breakfast is included. Free on-site parking. Pets are allowed with a flat fee: $75+tax for up to 7 nights, $150+tax for longer stays. Cleanliness scores 9.0, and value scores 8.8 — the best value score on the list. Staff is 9.2. Check-in is at 4:00 PM, the latest on the list — plan accordingly. Wi-Fi is 7.1, on the lower end; if fast internet is critical, this may not be your property.
Choose this if: You need a kitchen for a longer stay, want a hot tub, and value staff friendliness above fast Wi-Fi.
Check Tonight’s Price for Staybridge Suites Cleveland Mayfield Heights Beachwood by IHG →
7. Holiday Inn Cleveland Northeast – Mentor by IHG
The Vibe
A solidly built Holiday Inn with an 8.3 Very Good score and an 8.9 location rating — right on Reynolds Road in Mentor, surrounded by restaurants and with “lots of parking spaces.” Guests note the property feels “updated” with comfortable beds. Breakfast is a perk, but not all rates include it.
What You Actually Get
An indoor swimming pool, on-site restaurant, free on-site parking, and breakfast (check your rate). Cleanliness and comfort both hit 8.8 and 8.7. Staff scores 8.7. Pets are not allowed — a key exclusion if you’re traveling with furry friends. Wi-Fi is 8.5, solid for streaming. The property is located near FirstEnergy Stadium, Progressive Field, and the Cleveland Clinic. Check guest QA: breakfast is not automatically included — you must select a rate that includes it.
Choose this if: You want an indoor pool and on-site dining in a clean, updated hotel — but skip if you need pet-friendly.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Cleveland Northeast – Mentor by IHG →
8. Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Painesville – Concord by IHG
The Vibe
An 8.6 Excellent property with a quiet woods-and-pond view that guests love: “beautiful view of a woods and pond with ducks.” The location scores 8.9, and “multiple restaurants within walking distance” is a rare perk for Painesville. It’s a 3-star but feels more upscale.
What You Actually Get
An indoor swimming pool and fitness center. Free WiFi at 8.5. Cleanliness at 8.9 and comfort at 8.8 are strong across the board. Free parking on site. Breakfast is included in the room price. Pets are not allowed. A $25 refundable deposit is required at check-in. Check guest QA: the pool is open. The property is 38 miles from Cleveland Hopkins Airport, the farthest on the list — but that distance buys quiet and nature views.
Choose this if: You value quiet nature views, an indoor pool, and quick access to Painesville dining without a car.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Painesville – Concord by IHG →
9. Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland-Mentor
The Vibe
Guests describe this Hampton Inn as “modern” with “bright and uplifting décor.” The 9.3 location score ties with Hyatt Place — excellent access to Mentor. Comfort scores 9.2, the second-highest comfort rating on the list. It feels newer than its competitors.
What You Actually Get
Free parking, fitness center, and Very Good Breakfast included. The property has one smoking room — a rare option — which is a whirlpool suite. The pool is open 8 AM to 9 PM, and breakfast runs 6 AM to 10 AM daily. A damage deposit of $50 is required at check-in. Pets are allowed with charges. Staff scores 9.0. This is a 3-star hotel but the décor and amenities push it toward a 4-star experience. The 9.0 cleanliness score matches the Best Western Plus.
Choose this if: You want a modern, high-comfort hotel with a pool and one of the best location scores in Mentor.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites Cleveland-Mentor →
10. Four Points by Sheraton Cleveland-Eastlake
The Vibe
A 4-star Sheraton in Eastlake with “soft like sleeping on a cloud” beds — guests love the comfort. The 8.6 comfort score leads the property. It’s 14 miles from the Cleveland Orchestra and undergoing renovations, so expect some modernized areas but potential construction noise.
What You Actually Get
An indoor swimming pool, breakfast (at €9, a la carte), free on-site parking, and air conditioning. The property is currently under renovation — guests may experience noise or light disturbances. Pets are not allowed. Check-in is 3:00 PM, check-out at 12:00 PM. The hotel offers a military discount. Wi-Fi scores 6.7 — the lowest on the list — so don’t rely on streaming. Late checkout is available based on availability. Rooms with 2 beds are available.
Choose this if: You prioritize mattress comfort above all else and don’t mind a property mid-renovation.
Check Tonight’s Price for Four Points by Sheraton Cleveland-Eastlake →
11. Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Willoughby
The Vibe
This is the one — the only hotel physically located in Willoughby proper. It’s a 3-star Courtyard by Marriott with a perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi score and a 9.1 location rating. Guests call it “every motel should aspire to be” — high praise for a 7.8-scoring property. The staff member who served breakfast past closing time is a legend among reviewers.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi at a perfect 10.0 — the best connection on the list. An indoor swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, and breakfast (exceptional at €13). Free parking is on site. All rooms have microwaves — confirmable via guest QA. Rooms with 2 queen beds are available. The property is 12 miles from the Cleveland Orchestra and 28 miles from Cleveland Hopkins Airport. Pets are not allowed. Check-out is at 12:00 PM, giving you an extra hour vs. competitors.
Choose this if: You need to be in Willoughby and demand flawless Wi-Fi — this is your only direct option and it delivers.
Check Tonight’s Price for Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Willoughby →
12. Cozy, 1st floor apartment 2bdrms Plus Semi Private room with Futon
The Vibe
This is an entire apartment — 1,600 sq ft of space — in South Euclid, about 10 miles from Willoughby. It’s a home base for families or remote workers: 2 bedrooms plus a semi-private room with a futon. The 10.0 Wi-Fi score matches the Courtyard. Guests like “the size of the place, the location and the price.”
What You Actually Get
Full kitchen, free on-site parking, and free Wi-Fi at 10.0. The entire place is yours — no shared corridors or thin hotel walls. Pets are allowed for a $50 per pet, per stay fee (max 2 pets). There are 3 inside steps to reach the unit — no elevator, but the 1st-floor unit is single-level inside. Quiet hours are enforced. A desk is available for work. The property is 4 miles from downtown Cleveland and 10 miles from the airport — the closest airport proximity on the list. English is spoken.
Choose this if: You need a whole apartment with a kitchen, pet-friendly policy, and reliable Wi-Fi for working or family trips.
Check Tonight’s Price for Cozy, 1st floor apartment 2bdrms Plus Semi Private room with Futon →
13. Residence Inn by Marriott Cleveland Mentor
The Vibe
Residence Inn is Marriott’s extended-stay answer, and this Mentor location delivers. The 9.1 staff rating is third-highest on the list — guests name-check employee Alicia for exceptional service. The outdoor pool is open seasonally. It’s 24 miles from the Cleveland Orchestra.
What You Actually Get
Suites with kitchens — a key differentiator for longer stays. An outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and Very Good Breakfast included. Free on-site parking. Pets are allowed on request with charges (groups booking 9+ rooms have different policies). Some studios have tub/shower combos; others have walk-in showers — check your specific unit. Two-bedroom suites have separate bedrooms with their own full baths plus a common living room and kitchen. Staff scores 9.1. Wi-Fi at 8.3 is solid. Upper floors are accessible by elevator. Cleanliness and comfort both score 8.5.
Choose this if: You want a Marriott extended-stay suite with kitchens, a stellar staff reputation, and a seasonal pool.
Check Tonight’s Price for Residence Inn by Marriott Cleveland Mentor →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#4 Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub
A 9.8 Exceptional score with a 9.9 cleanliness rating and spa-grade Airtubs — no other property comes close.
Check Tonight’s Price for Steele Mansion Inn & Gathering Hub →
💰 Best Value
#12 Cozy, 1st floor apartment 2bdrms
A full 1,600 sq ft apartment with a kitchen and perfect Wi-Fi for the price of a standard hotel room — plus pet-friendly.
Check Tonight’s Price for Cozy, 1st floor apartment 2bdrms Plus Semi Private room with Futon →
📍 Best Location
#11 Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Willoughby
The only hotel inside Willoughby proper — 9.1 location score and perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi make it the smart choice.
Check Tonight’s Price for Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Willoughby →
How We Ranked These Willoughby Hotels
We evaluated 13 properties near Willoughby using 2600+ verified guest reviews from travelers who actually stayed. Each property was scored on six criteria — cleanliness, location, staff, comfort, facilities, and value — to surface the real standouts.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to Willoughby downtown, Mentor dining corridors, and Cleveland-area attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotel in this list is actually located in Willoughby?
The Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Willoughby (ranked #11) is the only property physically located within Willoughby city limits, at 35103 Maplegrove Road. It has a 9.1 location score and perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi. If you need to be in Willoughby proper — for visiting Historic Downtown Willoughby or local businesses — this is your direct option. The other properties are in neighboring Mentor, Painesville, Eastlake, Lyndhurst, Mayfield Heights, and South Euclid.
Are pets allowed at these Willoughby-area hotels?
Yes, several properties allow pets — but with varying fees. The Super 8 (#1) and Comfort Inn Mayfield Heights (#2) allow pets on request with charges. The Best Western Plus (#3) charges $30 per night per pet. The Steele Mansion Inn (#4) charges $35 per day per pet (dogs and cats only). Staybridge Suites (#6) has a flat $75 fee for up to 7 nights. The Cozy Apartment (#12) charges a $50 per pet per stay fee (max 2 pets). The Holiday Inn Cleveland Northeast (#7), Holiday Inn Express Painesville (#8), Four Points Eastlake (#10), and Courtyard Willoughby (#11) do not allow pets.
Which hotels offer free cancellation policies?
Cancellation policies vary by rate type across all 13 properties — there’s no universal free cancellation. The Super 8 (#1), Comfort Inn (#2), Best Western Plus (#3), Steele Mansion (#4), Hyatt Place (#5), Staybridge Suites (#6), Holiday Inn Mentor (#7), Holiday Inn Express Painesville (#8), Hampton Inn (#9), Four Points (#10), Courtyard Willoughby (#11), and Residence Inn (#13) all state that cancellation and prepayment policies “vary according to accommodation type.” When booking, look for a “free cancellation” rate badge on the rate selection page. The Cozy Apartment (#12) also has variable cancellation.
What’s the best time to visit Willoughby and the surrounding area?
Summer (June through August) is peak season for Willoughby, Mentor, and Lake County — outdoor pools at Best Western Plus (#3), Staybridge Suites (#6), and Residence Inn (#13) are open seasonally. Fall (September to October) offers mild weather and lower rates, ideal for exploring Historic Downtown Willoughby and the Lake Erie coastline. Winter travelers should prioritize properties with indoor pools — Hyatt Place (#5), Holiday Inn Mentor (#7), Holiday Inn Express Painesville (#8), Four Points (#10), and Courtyard Willoughby (#11) all have them.
Which hotels have the best Wi-Fi for remote work?
Two properties score a perfect 10.0 for Wi-Fi: the Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Willoughby (#11) and the Cozy Apartment (#12). For strong alternatives, the Best Western Plus (#3) and Steele Mansion Inn (#4) both score 9.0 and 9.5 respectively. Avoid the Four Points by Sheraton Eastlake (#10) — its Wi-Fi scores just 6.7. The Staybridge Suites (#6) also sits low at 7.1. If stable video calls are critical, stick with the Courtyard Willoughby or the Cozy Apartment.
How do I get from Cleveland Hopkins Airport to Willoughby?
Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is approximately 28 miles from Willoughby. The closest property to the airport in this list is the Cozy Apartment in South Euclid (#12) at 10 miles. The Hyatt Place Lyndhurst (#5) is 20 miles away. The Courtyard Willoughby (#11) is 28 miles. Rideshare costs roughly $35-55 depending on time of day. Rental cars are available at the airport. No direct public transit runs from CLE to Willoughby — a car is recommended for exploring the broader Mentor-Willoughby area.