Howard Johnson By Wyndham, Ridgecrest
831 N China Lake Blvd, Ridgecrest, CA 93555, Ridgecrest, United States
2-star hotel
Guest rating: 4.0 / 5
Howard Johnson By Wyndham Ridgecrest is a budget, two-star motel-style property in the Mojave Desert town of Ridgecrest, California, set along N China Lake Blvd. Guests reach their rooms via exterior corridors typical of classic roadside motels, and units are furnished simply with minifridges, microwaves, complimentary Wi-Fi, and cable TV. On-site conveniences include a casual cafe and a small business center, with free parking available for road-tripping guests. The hotel sits less than a mile from the Maturango Museum and China Lake Museum Foundation, and is about four miles from Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake. A cluster of local restaurants -- including Midway Cafe, Roxanne's Cafe, Tokyo House, Charlie's Pub and Grill, and Lugo's Grill -- sit within a short walk, along with nearby bus stops for getting around town. It's an unpretentious, no-frills base for exploring the Indian Wells Valley and nearby desert landmarks.
Best for
This hotel suits budget-conscious travelers, road-trippers, and visitors with business at the nearby Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake who want an affordable, functional base. Museum-goers will appreciate being under a mile from both the Maturango Museum and China Lake Museum Foundation, and the on-site cafe plus walkable restaurant options make it convenient for guests without a car for meals.
Travel tips
A car is recommended since the nearest airport, Meadows Field, is roughly 79 miles away, though local bus stops (including one right outside near Walgreens) offer some in-town mobility. Breakfast and dinner options are within a five-minute walk, including Midway Cafe practically next door and Roxanne's Cafe just down the block. If traveling in winter, confirm in-room heating is functioning at check-in, as this has reportedly been an issue for some guests during cold desert nights.
What guests say
Many guests describe the property as clean and comfortable despite its dated, old-motel style rooms, frequently praising friendly, attentive staff -- including one host who went out of the way to prepare breakfast for guests. In-room touches like coffee makers and quiet nighttime conditions were also noted positively. However, at least one detailed negative account describes a serious heating failure during a cold December night, alleging the room lacked working heat, staff response was dismissive, and management refused a refund despite offering only a portable heater. This suggests inconsistency in maintenance and complaint handling despite generally positive cleanliness and service impressions.
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