Finding a place to crash along Interstate 84 can feel like a gamble. You’re driving through the Columbia River Gorge, the sun is setting behind the basalt cliffs, and you just need a bed that doesn't feel like a mistake. Honestly, the Super 8 The Dalles Oregon is one of those spots that triggers a lot of assumptions before you even pull into the parking lot. People see the yellow sign and think they know exactly what they’re getting—a cookie-cutter budget room with lukewarm coffee.
But here’s the thing. This specific location at 609 Cherry Heights Road sits at a weirdly perfect crossroads of history and convenience. It isn’t just a pit stop; it’s basically the gateway to the eastern end of the Gorge. If you've ever stayed at a roadside motel that felt like it was falling apart, you’ll be surprised to find that this one actually finished a major interior remodel recently.
It's better now. Not "five-star resort" better, but "I can actually relax here" better.
The Reality of Staying at Super 8 The Dalles Oregon
Let’s get the elephant out of the room. This is a budget hotel. If you're looking for Egyptian cotton and a concierge named Sebastian, you're in the wrong place. However, for a traveler who needs a basecamp for exploring the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, it hits the marks that matter.
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The rooms here were overhauled not too long ago. We’re talking new carpets, refreshed bedding, and a lobby that doesn't smell like 1985. You’ve got the standard 73 rooms, and they all come with the essentials: a microwave for your leftovers, a mini-fridge for your drinks, and Wi-Fi that actually works for more than just checking emails.
What You’ll Actually Find Inside
The layout is straightforward. You’ve got an elevator—thank god, because carrying a cooler up three flights of stairs is nobody’s idea of a vacation—and an outdoor pool that is open seasonally, usually from May through October.
Check-in is generally fast. There’s a guy named Jeremy at the front desk who has been mentioned by several travelers as being particularly helpful. That’s the kind of thing you don't always get at big chains. It’s that small-town Oregon vibe where the staff actually knows where the best local pizza is.
One thing to keep in mind: the location. It is literally right off I-84. This is a double-edged sword. On one hand, you can be back on the highway in sixty seconds. On the other hand, it’s a highway. If you’re a light sleeper, ask for a room on the side away from the interstate. It makes a massive difference. Honestly, the noise isn't "jet engine" loud, but you’ll hear the occasional semi-truck engine brake if your window is facing the road.
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Amenities and Those Little "Extras"
Most people stay here for the price point, which usually hovers between $75 and $95 depending on the season. July is the peak. If you're coming in June or July, book early. If you show up in April, you can snag a deal for way less.
- The Breakfast: It’s a "Super Start" continental situation. Expect waffles (the kind you make yourself in the iron), bagels, yogurt, and fruit. It’s not a brunch buffet at the Ritz, but it fills the gap before a hike.
- Pet Policy: This is a big one. They allow pets, usually for a fee of about $15 per pet, per night. They generally put pet owners on the first or third floor. There’s a small grassy area on-site for "business," but if you want a real walk, you're better off heading to Sorosis Park nearby.
- Parking: It’s free. It’s also large enough for trucks and RVs. If you’re towing a boat for the Columbia River, you won’t be struggling to parallel park.
Location: Why This Spot Actually Works
The Dalles is a weirdly underrated town. Everyone stops in Hood River, which is cool but expensive and crowded. The Dalles is grittier, sunnier, and feels more "real." From the Super 8 The Dalles Oregon, you are basically a five-minute drive from the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center and Museum.
If you haven't been there, go. They have live raptor presentations. Seeing a bald eagle up close is worth the ten-dollar admission alone.
Then there’s the Sunshine Mill. It’s an old flour mill turned into a winery and boutique. They even do drive-in movies in the parking lot during the summer. It’s about a four-minute drive from the hotel. You can go taste some local Syrah and then be back in your room before the wine hits too hard.
Nearby Eats
You don’t have to eat at the gas station next door.
- Freebridge Brewing: Great pizza and even better beer. It’s in a historic building downtown.
- Bargeway Pub: If you want to sit by the river and listen to live music, this is the spot.
- Klindt’s Booksellers: This is Oregon’s oldest bookstore. It’s been around since 1870. Even if you aren't a big reader, walking through the creaky floorboards is a vibe.
Addressing the "Sketchy" Factor
If you read reviews from three or four years ago, they aren't great. There were complaints about cleanliness and "shady" characters in the parking lot. But ever since the recent remodel and a shift in management, that's largely been cleared up. The property feels secure, and the lighting in the parking lot is bright.
Is it perfect? No. You might find a stray thread on a carpet or a showerhead that’s a bit temperamental. But for a hundred bucks in one of the most beautiful regions of the Pacific Northwest, it’s a solid choice.
The staff, like Diana at the front desk, are known for being accommodating. If your room isn't up to par, tell them. They’re usually quick to move you or fix the issue. Most of the bad experiences people have at budget motels come from not speaking up until they’re writing a review two days later.
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Actionable Insights for Your Stay
If you’re planning to book the Super 8 The Dalles Oregon, here is how to do it right:
- Request the "Quiet Side": Always ask for a room facing away from I-84. Your ears will thank you.
- Check the Pool Dates: If you’re counting on a swim, call ahead. The outdoor pool is weather-dependent and usually closes once the October chill hits.
- Use Your Rewards: Since this is a Wyndham property, use your Wyndham Rewards points. You can often get a "Go Free" night for 7,500 or 15,000 points.
- Explore Early: The Dalles gets hot in the summer—way hotter than Portland. If you’re planning to hike the Riverfront Trail, start at 7:00 AM.
- Skip the Third-Party Sites: Sometimes booking directly through the Wyndham site gives you better cancellation flexibility than the big travel aggregate sites.
Ultimately, this hotel is a tool. It’s a place to recharge your batteries so you can spend your energy on the trails, the river, and the wineries. It’s clean, it’s updated, and it puts you exactly where you need to be to see the best of Eastern Oregon.
Pack your hiking boots, bring the dog, and don't overthink it. It's a solid roof over your head in a town that has more history than most people realize.
Check the local weather forecast for The Dalles before you leave, as the wind in the Gorge can change your hiking plans in a heartbeat. If the wind is kicking up over 20 mph, head to the Discovery Center instead of the exposed cliffside trails.