Howard Johnson - Middletown, Rhode Island: history, amenities and what to check before you book

The Howard Johnson in Middletown, Rhode Island, was known in the 2000s for practical amenities and an on-site Applebee's. Many properties that used the Howard Johnson name have since changed hands or brands, so travelers should confirm current ownership, dining options, smoking and pet policies, and available amenities before booking.

Overview

The Howard Johnson in Middletown, Rhode Island, has long been a recognizable lodging option for travelers visiting Aquidneck Island and nearby Newport. In older guides it was singled out as one of the stronger offerings inside the Middletown town limits, noted for a straightforward set of amenities and convenient access to regional attractions.

What the property offered historically

In the mid-2000s the hotel marketed a mix of basic services: wired and wireless Internet access, a fitness room, and pet-friendly rooms alongside the then-common choice of smoking or non-smoking accommodations. An on-site Applebee's restaurant was also part of the property's appeal for many guests who wanted a familiar casual-dining option without leaving the hotel.

What to verify today

Hotel brands and ownership frequently change, and many properties that once used the Howard Johnson name have been rebranded, renovated, or closed. Before you book, confirm the following:

• Current brand and ownership: some properties operate under Wyndham-affiliated branding or have been sold to local owners.

• On-site dining: the Applebee's that used to be associated with the hotel may no longer be present or may operate independently. ¹

• Room policies: smoking rooms are far less common today; verify whether the property allows smoking or is fully non-smoking. ²

• Amenities: confirm availability of Wi-Fi, a fitness center or pool, and pet-friendly rooms and any size or fee restrictions. ³

How it fits Middletown now

Historically the hotel served both leisure visitors headed to Newport and business travelers who needed straightforward, budget-conscious lodging. Even when rating well locally, this kind of property is best evaluated by recent guest reviews and current photos rather than relying on older descriptions.

Booking tips

• Check multiple sources: official hotel site, major third-party booking sites, and recent guest reviews on platforms like Google, TripAdvisor, and Yelp. ⁴

• Call the hotel directly to confirm policies (pets, smoking, parking, breakfast service) and any recent renovations. ⁵

• Compare distances to Newport attractions and local transit options; location convenience was one of the reasons this hotel drew positive attention.

Bottom line

The Howard Johnson in Middletown built a reputation for practical value and dependable amenities in the 2000s. Because ownership and services can change, verify the current brand, dining options, and room policies before making a reservation.

1. Confirm the property's current brand name and ownership (Howard Johnson by Wyndham or rebranded/sold).
2. Verify whether an Applebee's restaurant currently operates on-site at the hotel location.
3. Confirm current room policies: smoking vs. non-smoking and availability of smoking rooms, if any.
4. Check current amenities: Wi-Fi availability and cost, fitness center, pool, and pet policy (fees, size limits).
5. Verify recent guest reviews and photos on Google, TripAdvisor, and major booking sites to confirm condition and service level.