Finding a place to crash in Raleigh shouldn't feel like a high-stakes gamble. But honestly, when you look at Red Roof Plus Raleigh NC, you see a wildly mixed bag of "best stay ever" and "never again" reviews. It's confusing.
Located at 1813 South Saunders Street, this spot sits right on the edge of downtown. It's about 1.5 miles from the Raleigh Convention Center. For some, that’s a perfect home base. For others, the industrial vibe of South Saunders feels a little too gritty.
Most people expect a standard budget motel experience. You know the drill: scratchy towels and a faint smell of floor cleaner. But the "Plus" in the name actually means something specific here. It’s an "Upscale Economy" branding that Red Roof launched to separate their renovated properties from the older, more basic ones.
Think wood-like floors instead of dusty carpets. Vessel sinks. Granite countertops. It's basically a glow-up for the budget traveler.
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The Reality of Staying at Red Roof Plus Raleigh NC
Let’s talk about the rooms. You’ve got options.
Standard rooms are what you’d expect, but the Premium Rooms are the real secret here. If you book a Premium King or Double, they toss in a snack box. Usually, it’s got water, orange juice, popcorn, and some granola bars. Is it a five-course meal? No. Is it great when you arrive at 11:00 PM and everything nearby is closed? Absolutely.
The laminate flooring is a huge win. Carpets in cheap hotels are notorious for trapping... well, everything. These hard floors feel way cleaner underfoot.
- Check-in time: 3:00 PM
- Check-out time: 11:00 AM
- The WiFi: It’s "Verified," which is Red Roof's way of saying it won't die while you're trying to watch Netflix.
- Smoking: It’s 100% smoke-free. Huge for those of us who can't stand the smell of stale Virginia Slims.
Why Location is a Double-Edged Sword
You’re close to everything. NC State University is just a few minutes away. The Red Hat Amphitheater is basically in your backyard. If you're in town for a concert at Walnut Creek, you're only about 5 miles out.
But there’s a catch.
The South Saunders corridor is busy. It’s a main artery into the city. You’ll hear some traffic. You might see some "colorful" characters at the gas station next door. It’s urban. If you’re expecting a quiet suburban cul-de-sac, you’re in the wrong place. However, if you want to be five minutes from the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences without paying $300 a night for a Marriott, this is the trade-off.
Pets Stay Free (Mostly)
This is the big one. Most Raleigh hotels hit you with a $50 or $75 "non-refundable pet fee."
At Red Roof Plus Raleigh NC, your first pet stays for free. Total. Zero dollars. If you have a second pet, it’s usually around $15 a night. They allow dogs and cats up to 80 pounds.
Just a heads up: you can’t leave them in the room alone. The staff is pretty strict about this for safety reasons. There’s a grassy area on-site for "business," but don't expect a private dog park. It’s a motel, not a kennel.
Eating Nearby: Beyond the Vending Machine
You aren't going to find a five-star restaurant inside the hotel. There is no "room service" in the traditional sense, though they have a dining delivery service partnership.
Luckily, you're near some of the best food in the South.
- The Pit Authentic Barbecue: About 2.5 miles away. Get the chopped whole-hog BBQ. It's legendary.
- Beasley’s Chicken + Honey: Ashley Christensen’s famous spot. It’s downtown, roughly 2.8 miles from your room.
- Big Ed’s City Market: If you want a breakfast that will make you need a nap by 10:00 AM, go here. The biscuits are the size of your head.
If you’re feeling lazy, there are plenty of fast-food spots within walking distance, but honestly, with Downtown Raleigh so close, it’s worth the $8 Uber ride to get something real.
Is It Safe? Addressing the Elephant in the Room
Safety is the #1 question people ask about this specific location.
Look, it’s an open-corridor motel in a busy city area. Use common sense. Don’t leave your laptop sitting on the passenger seat of your car. Lock your door.
Recent guest reviews from late 2025 and early 2026 are a mix. Some people mention feeling perfectly fine because of the bright "RediClean" lighting and the 24-hour front desk staff. Others have mentioned noise issues or people hanging out in the parking lot.
It’s a budget spot. It’s not the Ritz. If you want a gated entrance and a doorman, you’ll need to triple your budget and head toward North Hills.
Practical Tips for a Better Stay
- Ask for a room on the top floor. It cuts down on the noise from people walking above you.
- Bring your own toiletries. They provide the basics (soap, shampoo), but they aren't exactly high-end spa quality.
- Check your room immediately. If something feels off—a weird smell or a leaky faucet—tell the front desk right away. They’re usually pretty good about switching you if they have the space.
- Park near the lobby. It’s better lit and has more foot traffic.
Final Word on Value
If you’re a student visiting NCSU, a pet owner on a road trip, or a concert-goer who just needs a bed, Red Roof Plus Raleigh NC hits the spot. It’s functional. It’s cheap. It’s upgraded just enough to feel modern without the modern price tag.
Don't expect a luxury resort. Expect a clean bed, a hot shower, and a snack box if you book the right room.
Next Steps for Your Trip:
- Check the current rates on the official Red Roof website; they often have "RediRewards" discounts that third-party sites like Expedia don't show.
- If you're traveling with a pet, call the hotel directly at 919-833-6005 after booking to ensure you're assigned a pet-friendly designated room.
- Map out your route to the Raleigh Convention Center or NCSU beforehand, as traffic on South Saunders can get backed up during morning rush hour.