Knights Inn

Curiosity tugged at me as I stood before the Knights Inn. This wasn’t the medieval castle its name might suggest. Yet, the story of Knights Inn is a journey through time, echoing the rise and fall of empires, albeit in the hospitality world. Knights Inn began its quest in 1974 in Columbus, Ohio. Cardinal Industries, a company known for prefabricated buildings, envisioned a chain of motels with a touch of Tudor charm. Imagine these early Knights Inns, single-story structures, arriving piece by piece on the backs of trucks, ready to be assembled like fortresses of comfort. Landscaping flourished around them, creating an inviting oasis for weary travelers. Knights Inn even experimented with different levels of lodging. There was the “no-frills” Arborgate Inn and the more upscale Knights Stop, catering to a range of budgets and tastes. But like many kingdoms, Knights Inn faced its challenges. In 1989, the chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. It was a turbulent time. Many Knights Inns switched allegiance, rebranding themselves under the banners of Motel 6, Travelodge, and Days Inn. Then, in 1991, Hospitality Management Systems (HMS) acquired the Knights Inn franchise. This marked a turning point. The strict architectural standards were relaxed as HMS brought other properties into the Knights Inn fold. Cendant entered the scene in 1995, purchasing Knights Inn and eventually merging it with the Villager Inn brand. Wyndham Worldwide took over in 2006. For a while, Knights Inn was part of their realm. Finally, in 2018, Knights Inn found a new home with Red Lion Hotels Corporation. The Knights Inn before us today is a testament to this journey. It’s a reminder that even in the ever-changing landscape of hospitality, the spirit of providing a comfortable rest for travelers endures.