Finding a place to crash near the airport usually goes one of two ways. You either drop $200 on a room you’ll only see for six hours, or you roll the dice on a budget spot and hope the sheets aren't crunchy. Honestly, Motel 6 Cleveland Middleburg Heights Middleburg Heights OH sits in that weird, misunderstood middle ground. People see the "6" and assume it's just a neon sign and a drafty door, but this specific spot at 7219 Engle Road is actually a bit of a strategic powerhouse for a certain type of traveler.
It’s about three miles from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE). That’s the big draw. If you’ve got a 6:00 AM flight and you live in Akron or Mentor, you’re not waking up at 3:00 AM. You’re staying here.
The Reality of Staying at Motel 6 Cleveland Middleburg Heights Middleburg Heights OH
Let's be real for a second. You aren't booking this for the "ambiance." You’re booking it because it’s cheap and it works. Recently, this location has been going through a series of renovations. If you haven't been here in a couple of years, it looks different. The floors are that faux-wood laminate now—no more questionable 1990s carpets that hold onto smells like a sponge. It feels cleaner. It is cleaner.
The rooms are basic. You get a bed, a TV with expanded cable (standard Motel 6 fare), and a bathroom. Some rooms—the "Deluxe" ones—come with a microwave and a mini-fridge. If you’re staying more than one night, pay the extra five bucks for the deluxe. Having a cold Gatorade and a place to heat up leftover pizza from Jo Jo Carloni’s down the street makes a massive difference in your quality of life.
Logistics and Location
The location is actually its best-kept secret. It's tucked right off I-71 and Bagley Road. You can be in downtown Cleveland in 15 or 20 minutes if the traffic gods are smiling.
- Distance to Airport: 3.1 miles.
- I-X Center: 3.7 miles. (Huge for trade shows).
- Progressive Field/Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse: About 14 miles.
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: 11 miles.
One thing to keep in mind: parking is $10 per night here now. That’s a relatively recent change that catches people off guard. You used to just park for free everywhere in the suburbs, but the proximity to the airport means they have to manage the lot so people don't just leave their cars there for a week-long trip to Vegas.
What to Expect (The Good and the "Kinda" Bad)
The staff here, like "Chico" who many regulars mention, are surprisingly helpful for a budget motel. They deal with a lot—delayed flights, grumpy travelers, and the occasional local drama. They’re professional.
But, look, it’s a Motel 6. The walls aren't exactly soundproof. If your neighbor is a heavy walker or likes loud late-night talk shows, you’re going to hear it. This is why a pair of earplugs is the unofficial "pro traveler" move for this property.
The Pet Policy
This is a huge win. Motel 6 is famous for letting pets stay for free. No "non-refundable $75 cleaning fee" that doubles the price of your room. If you’re moving across the country with a cat and a dog, this is your sanctuary. There’s even a Tri-City Bark Park about two miles away on Sheldon Road where you can let them burn off some energy before hitting the road again.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Don't just show up and expect a fridge. Read the room description carefully. If it doesn't say "Micfridge," you're getting a bed and a bathroom, period. Also, they take a $50 cash deposit at check-in sometimes, which is old school but happens. They give it back when you leave as long as you didn't smoke in the room or break the TV.
Where to Eat Nearby
Since there’s no continental breakfast here (unless you count the morning coffee in the lobby), you’ll need food.
- Sips and Such Social House: This place is on Pearl Road. It’s got a gastropub vibe. Their "Sippuccino" is legendary if you need a caffeine hit that tastes like dessert.
- Fat Head’s Brewery: It’s literally right around the corner on Engle Lake Drive. If you like craft beer and sandwiches the size of your head, go there. It's one of the best breweries in Ohio.
- Rock Creek Kitchen and Bar: Good for a late-night burger. They’ve got live music sometimes too.
Is It Worth It?
If you need a five-star spa, you’re in the wrong place. Go to the Ritz downtown. But if you’re a contractor working in Middleburg Heights, a family on a budget visiting the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, or a traveler with a dog needing a spot near CLE, it’s solid.
The price fluctuates. In February, you might snag a room for $50. In August, during the high season, it might jump to $80 or $90. Even at $90, it's usually the cheapest "decent" option in the zip code.
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Pro Tip: Request a room on the top floor. Since there are no elevators, people with heavy luggage tend to stay on the first floor. The second floor is usually quieter because there’s less foot traffic outside your door.
Actionable Next Steps
- Book ahead for I-X Center events: When there’s a major show, every hotel on Engle Road sells out.
- Bring your own toiletries: The soap provided is... functional. If you like your hair to feel like hair, bring your own shampoo.
- Confirm your "Micfridge" status: If you need to store meds or food, call the front desk after booking to ensure your specific room has the amenities you expect.
- Check the Pet Rules: While they stay free, you can't leave them unattended in the room. Plan your dinner accordingly!
Basically, it's a place to sleep. It's safe, it's renovated, and it's close to everything. Just set your expectations to "efficiency" rather than "luxury," and you'll have a perfectly fine stay.