Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo

For New Yorkers searching for accommodation options in the Bronx, particularly those interested in stays near popular attractions like the Bronx Zoo, understanding the current operational status of various establishments is crucial. The Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo, located on Webster Avenue, has historically served as a hotel but, based on recent customer feedback, its function has significantly evolved. This article aims to provide a clear, factual overview of the Rodeway Inn's current nature, helping locals navigate their accommodation choices in the area.

It is important for New Yorkers to have accurate information when planning any stay, whether for leisure or temporary housing needs. The Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo, while previously operating as a conventional hotel, is now primarily functioning as a shelter. This significant change in its operational model means that its services, environment, and suitability for various types of stays have also shifted. Customer reviews explicitly state, "Used to be a great place to rent for the weekend and take your kids to Bronx zoo but now it’s a shelter. So I don’t know how the shelter is running it but it’s no longer a hotel." Another review from a family placed there by a management company during a lead abatement further clarifies its use as temporary housing, highlighting that it was "supposed to be for a week." This context is vital for anyone considering the Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo, as it is no longer serving typical tourist or short-term leisure stays. Instead, it fulfills a crucial role in providing temporary shelter. Understanding this distinction is key to setting appropriate expectations and making informed decisions about accommodation in the Bronx.

The Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo is strategically located at 3070-72 Webster Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, USA. This address places it within a busy commercial and residential corridor of the Bronx, offering proximity to various local amenities and transportation hubs. Its name suggests a direct connection to the world-renowned Bronx Zoo, which is indeed a relatively short distance away, making it historically appealing for visitors to that attraction.

Accessibility to the Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo is generally convenient for New Yorkers utilizing public transportation. Webster Avenue is a major thoroughfare in the Bronx, well-served by several MTA bus routes. Buses running along Webster Avenue and intersecting streets provide direct connections to various parts of the Bronx and beyond. For subway access, the 4 train and D train have stations in the vicinity, such as Fordham Road, which is a major transit hub. From these subway stations, a short bus ride or a walk would typically lead to the hotel's location. The immediate area around the hotel is characterized by urban development, including other commercial establishments and residential buildings. Parking, as indicated by a customer review, appears to be limited with "8 spaces for about 20 to 25 rooms," suggesting that "first come first serve" parking might be a challenge for guests with vehicles. This is an important consideration for anyone planning to drive to the location. The establishment's position on a main artery like Webster Avenue ensures its visibility and general ease of reach for those navigating the Bronx.

Given the current operational status of the Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo as a shelter, the services offered are tailored to meet the fundamental needs of individuals and families requiring temporary housing, rather than traditional hotel amenities. Based on customer feedback, the services primarily focus on providing basic accommodation. It is important to note that expectations for a full range of hotel services should be adjusted accordingly.

• Basic Room Accommodation: The primary service is providing a room for temporary stay. Reviews indicate these are "tiny rooms," suggesting a focus on basic shelter rather than spacious comfort.

• Linens and Towels: Standard for any accommodation, basic linens and towels would be provided for guests.

• Bathroom Facilities: Rooms would include private bathroom facilities, though the condition and amenities within them are not specified in available reviews.

• Heating/Cooling: Basic climate control (heating and potentially air conditioning) would be expected to ensure a habitable environment.

• Front Desk / Management Presence: There would be staff present to manage operations, check-ins, and address immediate guest needs, though their capacity might be geared towards shelter management rather than hospitality services.

• Housekeeping (Limited): While not explicitly detailed, basic upkeep of rooms would be expected, though extensive daily hotel-style housekeeping might not be a standard service.

• Security: As a shelter, some level of security measures would be in place to ensure the safety of residents, though specific details are not public.

Based on the provided customer reviews, the Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo, in its current capacity as a shelter, presents a different set of features and highlights compared to a conventional hotel. It's crucial for New Yorkers to understand these characteristics to set accurate expectations.

• Current Function as a Shelter: The most significant highlight is its current operational status as a shelter. This means its primary feature is providing temporary accommodation for individuals and families, rather than serving as a tourist hotel. As one review explicitly states, "it’s no longer a hotel." This shift impacts all other features.

• Proximity to Bronx Zoo (Historical Context): While no longer functioning as a typical hotel for zoo visitors, its address still positions it relatively close to the Bronx Zoo. This historical context might be a legacy feature, but its current use means it's not catering to this demographic.

• Compact Room Sizing: Reviews indicate "tiny rooms," which is a notable feature. This suggests rooms are designed for basic occupancy rather than offering spacious living or leisure areas, which is typical for shelter accommodations focusing on essential needs.

• Non-Smoking Policy (Challenged): The facility states it is "non-smoking." However, a review directly contradicts this, stating "the entire place smelled like a giant cigarette." This highlights a potential gap between stated policy and actual environment, which is a critical feature for potential occupants.

• Limited Soundproofing: "Thin walls" are cited as a feature, indicating poor sound insulation between rooms. This directly impacts the quietness and privacy of the accommodation, creating "not a pleasant environment."

• Limited Parking Availability: The parking situation is a key feature: "Not enough parking spaces; first come first serve--- 8 spaces for about 20 to 25 rooms." This limited capacity can be a significant challenge for residents who rely on personal vehicles.

• Basic Amenities (Lacking Desired Enhancements): The reviews suggest a lack of "proper amenities" desired for a more comfortable stay, such as "a fridge, microwave, coffee maker or even kitchenettes." This indicates that the current setup focuses on basic shelter rather than extended-stay conveniences.

Given the Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo's current operational status as a shelter, traditional "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense (e.g., discounted rates, loyalty programs, vacation packages) are not applicable. Its primary function is to provide temporary housing, often through referrals from government agencies or social service organizations. Therefore, the "offers" it provides are more in the realm of social services and basic accommodation, rather than competitive hotel deals.

The "promotions" from the perspective of its users (individuals and families placed there) would be centered on the immediate availability of shelter. These are not commercial promotions but rather the direct provision of essential services:

• Provision of Emergency/Temporary Housing: The main "offer" is the availability of a roof over one's head for those in need of immediate or temporary shelter. This is a critical service, often accessed through specific city programs or referrals.

• Basic Accommodation for Families: For families, the "offer" is a room that can accommodate children, albeit one reviewer noted it was "not appropriate for the family, we have children," indicating concerns about suitability despite the provision.

• Basic Facilities: It offers the fundamental amenities necessary for shelter, such as a bed and a private bathroom, which are essential for individuals experiencing housing instability.

• Proximity to Bronx Resources: While not a promotional offer by the establishment, its location in the Bronx provides relative proximity to public transportation, essential services, and potentially the Bronx Zoo, which might be a consideration for families placed there, though its current use isn't geared towards leisure visits.

It is important to reiterate that any stay at the Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo in its current capacity would typically be facilitated by external organizations or government programs, and not through direct consumer bookings or promotional deals.

For direct communication regarding the Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo, whether for inquiries related to its current operations, or for organizations coordinating temporary housing, the following contact information is provided:

Address: 3070-72 Webster Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, USA

Phone: (718) 654-5500

Mobile Phone: +1 718-654-5500 (This is the same primary contact number for the establishment.)

Given the information that the establishment is currently functioning as a shelter rather than a traditional hotel, it is highly advisable for New Yorkers to understand that direct consumer bookings for leisure or typical travel purposes may not be available. For individuals or families seeking temporary housing, they would typically be placed here through city agencies, non-profit organizations, or other social service programs, and should direct their inquiries to those organizations first.

Organizations working with temporary housing needs, or individuals who are being referred for shelter services, would use this number to coordinate logistics or clarify details regarding placements. It is important to set expectations that the phone line may be managed for the purposes of shelter operations rather than customer service for hotel guests. For any broader questions about shelter services in the Bronx or NYC, contacting the relevant city agencies (e.g., Department of Homeless Services) would be the most appropriate course of action.

Based on the provided information, the Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo, in its current operational state as a shelter, is primarily suitable for locals in New York who are in need of temporary housing, often facilitated by city agencies or external management companies. It is crucial for New Yorkers to understand that this establishment is no longer functioning as a conventional hotel for leisure or business travelers, and therefore its suitability must be evaluated within the context of its current purpose.

From the perspective of providing immediate shelter, it fulfills a critical role for individuals and families experiencing housing instability. It offers a roof over their heads and basic accommodation, which is an essential service in a densely populated city like New York. The fact that management companies place families there for needs like "lead abatement in our apartment" underscores its function as a temporary solution for local residents facing specific housing challenges.

However, it is equally important to acknowledge the limitations highlighted by previous occupants. Reviews explicitly state it is "not family oriented" and "not appropriate for the family, we have children," citing "tiny rooms," a persistent "smelled like a giant cigarette" despite being non-smoking, "thin walls," and "not a pleasant environment inside nor out." The limited parking spaces are also a practical challenge for those with vehicles. These aspects suggest that while it provides a basic roof, it may not offer the comfort, space, or amenities that families or individuals would typically seek in a traditional hotel stay, and certainly not a "pleasant environment."

In conclusion, the Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo is suitable for locals in New York who are in the specific situation of requiring basic, temporary shelter, as facilitated by relevant agencies. It serves a functional need within the city's housing support system. However, for any New Yorker seeking a hotel for leisure, family vacations, or comfortable short-term stays, particularly those expecting typical hotel amenities, a different accommodation option would be far more appropriate. The current reviews clearly indicate it does not align with the expectations of a family-friendly hotel and lacks the investment in renovations and amenities that would make it a desirable choice for conventional hotel guests.

Rodeway Inn Bronx Zoo

3070-72 Webster Ave, Bronx, NY 10467, USA