Econo Lodge

Econo Lodge is the premier economy brand within the Choice Hotels International portfolio, recognized as one of the most trusted and widely recognized names in the economy lodging segment. Designed to simplify travel, the brand delivers clean, comfortable accommodations at an affordable price point, making it a reliable choice for value-conscious travelers across the United States and beyond.

Origins and Scale

The Econo Lodge story began in 1969 in Norfolk, Virginia, when developer Vernon Myers Sr., his son Vernon Myers Jr., and local businessman Lloyd Tarbutton founded the first property as "Econo-Travel". The concept was built on providing budget-friendly lodging with a focus on essential comforts. Over the decades, the brand expanded rapidly, and in 1990 it was acquired by what is now Choice Hotels International. Today, Econo Lodge operates as the second-largest brand in the Choice Hotels system, with more than 800 properties open across the United States.

The Guest Experience

Econo Lodge properties are designed around a simple promise: an easy stop on the road where guests can find a great place to stay at a great rate. Every location offers a consistent set of practical amenities, including:

• Free continental breakfast to start the day conveniently

• Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel

• In-room refrigerators and conveniently located electrical outlets for charging devices

• Premium movie channels for in-room entertainment

• Pet-friendly options at many properties across the nation

The brand has also invested significantly in modernizing its guest rooms. A multi-year Guestroom Improvement Program introduced upgrades such as luxury vinyl tile flooring, flat-panel televisions, new bedding, ergonomic desk chairs, and modern lighting fixtures—ensuring that Econo Lodge stays competitive within the economy segment while maintaining its value proposition.

Loyalty and Value

Guests staying at Econo Lodge can participate in the Choice Privileges® loyalty rewards program, which has been recognized by USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards and U.S. News & World Report. Membership is free and offers fast rewards, instant perks, and exclusive member rates when booking directly through Choice Hotels.

Brand Positioning

Econo Lodge targets value-driven demand across both regional and metropolitan markets, offering franchisees a clear, easy-to-position brand that prioritizes affordability, convenience, and straightforward stays. Within its segment, the brand is known for cleaner and safer rooms and limited but meaningful amenities—a combination that has sustained its relevance for more than five decades.

With its trusted reputation, nationwide footprint, and commitment to essential comfort, Econo Lodge remains a dependable "easy stop on the road" for travelers seeking a good night's rest without stretching their budget.

Econo Lodge is Choice Hotels’ flagship economy brand, offering clean, affordable accommodations with amenities like free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) refers to the movable, non-structural items specified for a hotel interior, covering everything from guestroom casegoods to public-area furnishings. For Econo Lodge, typical FF&E includes guestroom items such as headboards, nightstands, bed bases, TV units, luggage benches, ottomans, mirrors, artwork, lamps, and wardrobes, as well as public-space furniture like dining chairs, reception sofas, and front desks. Choice Hotels has also introduced a “Room In A Can” program that provides franchisees with fabric, finish, and casegood samples along with full FF&E specifications to streamline procurement.