I have reluctantly stayed at the Ashland House 4 times while visiting the East Peoria in-laws, simply because it's (relatively) new and conveniently located, but I'll never do it again.

The place is dreary and depressing, with bad lighting and Motel 6 linens. The toilet seat might be so loose it slips off, or maybe the shower will emit a high-pitched scream. Or maybe your shoes will turn the dirt from the carpet into mud on the bathroom floor, which the housekeeper won't mop up. I have never had a room with a window that locks. That's a very serious safety issue I've complained about twice, but evidently they haven't taken it seriously.

The cheap, stale breakfast buffet makes Denny's look like a Sunday brunch at the Ritz-Carlton. One visit and it was off to the Cracker Barrel, which is just across the street, every morning.

In my opinion, this property is fine if you're passing through and need a place to crash for the night. I think it's an awful place for more than a single night. Others obviously disagree, since they seem to be very busy on weekends. There always seem to be high school students staying at the property while competing in sporting events, and there are lots of outdoor weddings on-site (the bride and groom have a great view of a Super Wal-Mart while they're saying I Dos).

If you're a woman traveling alone, confirm that the window locks.