We ended up at the Rodeway Inn, since it was the only room available near Effingham during the Vette Fest. I would rate it higher had I enjoyed the usually low room rates ($45-$60) that most travelers pay for this one-star property. However, due to demand, we paid $129 and it obviously doesn't merit those prices.

To be fair, though, I'll judge it at face value given the circumstances. It's what you'd expect from a one-star Rodeway. Attempts have been made to brighten it up (new paint in the room and bathroom, albeit sloppy), and clean enough sheets, etc. Towels were threadbare, there was trash in the parking lot and I avoided walking around the room barefoot. Oh and bring your own toiletries, as the shampoo and conditioner come in little ketchup-like packets, not even trial size bottles. That being said, it was the perfect location for a one-night stay with our dachshund along for the trip and the beds were actually pretty comfortable. We even booked already for next year because you never know if we can get a room for this event, let along one that accepts dogs!

The best part? It's right behind Niemerg's Steak House. Don't get fooled by the name, it's more like a Shoney's than a steak house -- basically a diner serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. We ate there for all three meals in the course of 24 hours (seriously!) and couldn't get over the value and the quality of the food for the price. Don't miss the homemade desserts.....this is very near Amish country and the pies and cakes certainly attest to that. Great service, too. Only complaint was that there's no real division between smoking and non-smoking, so when they're packed (which was every time we went, especially breakfast), it could get smoky. Obviously a local favorite, as they far outnumbered the "tourists" and they're open late, too!

So, all in all I would recommend the Rodeway if you're on a budget and can get the room for what it's worth -- no more than $65/night -- or you need a place to stay and it's the only place that's available!