The Hawthorne, first and foremost, has pleasant staff and overall makes efforts worth the average $80 per night.

The continental breakfast was certainly adequate, perhaps not the freshest bread selections (bagels, english muffins, sliced bread), but had yogurt cups, whole fruit, coffee/juice, and a waffle maker.

Free wireless and free printer access was a plus. The small gym room and outdoor pool (while not used) are also nice offerings.

There were a few negatives, however. The non-smoking room smelt heavily of smoke, the carpet had obviously not been vacuumed, and a towel we received was full of hair.

I'm don't consider myself a fussy guest, but my largest request is simply cleanliness - which could have been better tended to.

In all, I will investigate other properties for my next trip near the Newington/W.Hartford area first, but would not terribly object to returning to the Hawthorne.

This was the third time that we have stayed at the Hawthorne Inn. This place feels very homey, like staying at Uncle Ed and Aunt Alma's house. A friendly St. Bernard named "Max" welcomes you--as do all of the very friendly staff. The rooms are very clean and well-appointed, in typical motel style. The breakfast is terrific--freshly baked coffee cakes, assorted yogurts, freshly cut-up fruit, homemade waffles (with waffle iron), english muffins, bagels, cream cheese, cereal, oatmeal, juices and coffee/tea, etc. In the living/eating area are jig-saw puzzles (in progress), daily newspapers--as well as comfortable sofas and chairs. We used the work out room--it's small but it has a treadmill, stair stepper, stationary bike and a gym machine. All in all, it was a wonderful experience!

My husband and I just spent a romantic weekend at the Hawthorne Inn with our dog (golden retriever). We were greeted by the biggest, friendliest St.Bernard, Max! The place was a gem. We had a package deal, great breakfast at the hotel and dinner next door,( very upscale) all for a great price. The rooms have pillow top mattresses! and are double sheeted. (I'm fussy about that). We enjoyed sitting by the pool. The manager was very friendly and our dogs got along great.
I was worried when I realized this wasn't a chain, you never know, but we got much more than we expected. I highly recommend it and Max!

If you're planning a trip to the Hartford, CT area, then consider the Hawthorne Inn in Berlin, CT. It's a great place to spend a quiet night or two. Rooms are clean and comfortable. Rates are certainly fair. The continental breakfast is more than adequate and will surely keep you going until lunch. The staff is very courteous and friendly.