New Wyndham Microtel opens in Ephrata, welcomes guests ahead of schedule

EPHRATA — A new Wyndham Microtel has officially opened its doors in Ephrata, offering travelers a modern place to stay while marking a major milestone for a local family behind the project. 

The 81-room hotel, located just off State Route 17 near Walmart, began accepting guests late last week – roughly two months ahead of its original schedule. The project, led by local businessman Dave Canfield and his family, represents both a business investment and a personal legacy rooted in the community. 

“What we really tried to do is create something nice,” Canfield said. “With the stonework and everything, we tried to do something a little bit different.” 

The Microtel is a family-run venture, something Canfield said made the project especially meaningful. 

“This is a family affair,” he said. “Our family owns this together, so this is a big deal for us. For me, being born and raised here, my kids being born and raised here – this is home.” 

That sense of local pride shaped the hotel’s development, from construction to design decisions. While Wyndham brand standards guided much of the interior – ensuring consistent layouts and furnishings across all Microtel locations – Canfield said the family focused on adding thoughtful touches where possible. 

“This is something we’re extremely proud of,” he said. “We’re proud of the extra detail we put in this one that hasn’t been put in some of the others.” 

Construction on the hotel moved quickly, thanks in large part to the work of the building team. Originally expected to open sometime in late summer, the hotel is now operational well ahead of that timeline. 

“We were due to open first to mid-August,” Canfield said. “And we’re about two months ahead.” 

He credited the construction crew for the accelerated timeline. “They’re phenomenal,” Canfield said. “They put their heart and soul into this.” 

While the hotel is now open, a few items are still being finalized. Most notably, the elevators are awaiting certification after being delayed at the factory. 

“That’s the only real issue left, and it’s completely beyond our control,” Canfield said. “We just have to wait.” 

Until then, staff are assisting guests as needed, particularly those staying on upper floors. 

“Our staff will be carrying a lot of luggage until the elevator is up and going,” he said. “Our guests do not carry luggage up the stairs.”  

The hotel’s soft opening wasn’t without its challenges. A brief issue with hot water forced a temporary closure shortly after opening, though the problem has since been resolved. 

“The first night not having hot water was not popular,” Canfield said. “But since then, we’ve had nothing but accolades.” 

Canfield said the early feedback from guests has been overwhelmingly positive, with visitors complimenting the hotel’s design and atmosphere. “We’ve been blessed,” he said. 

The Microtel includes a variety of amenities aimed at both travelers and locals. While it does not include a pool – due to the high cost of modern indoor pool construction – the hotel features a fully equipped fitness center. 

“We went all out,” Canfield said. “Top-of-the-line equipment, free weights – you don’t find that in most Microtels.” 

The property also offers a lounge-style bar and dining area open to the public, serving what Canfield describes as “elevated lounge food.” 

“We’re not a steakhouse; we’re not a grill,” he said. “We wanted to do something a little more upscale than just your normal bar menu.” 

An outdoor patio is expected to be a popular feature, providing a relaxed space for guests and community members alike. 

“We want a place where people in the community can come, relax in a quiet setting, have top-notch service and enjoy themselves,” Canfield said. 

In keeping with its family-oriented vision, the hotel includes unique room configurations such as family suites with separate sleeping areas for parents and children. The layout provides privacy while still maintaining safety. 

“It’s nice for parents to have the ability to decompress,” Canfield said. “Even though the kids are right there.” 

The hotel also features a small market area, a breakfast space and flexible common areas where families can gather. “We’re really trying to make it family-friendly,” he said. 

While the project adds new lodging options for travelers – particularly during busy seasons at the nearby Gorge Amphitheatre – Canfield emphasized that the hotel was built with the local community in mind. 

“This isn’t about fame,” he said. “I’ve already had my career. This is about the community and posterity.” 

He said the goal was to create something lasting that future generations of his family – and the broader Ephrata community – can take pride in. 

“The grandkids know this is theirs,” Canfield said. “That was the intent all along.” 

A formal grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for June 25, with Wyndham officials expected to attend. Canfield said the event will celebrate not just the hotel’s completion, but the collective effort behind it. 

In the meantime, the hotel is gradually ramping up operations and bookings, especially as summer travel picks up. 

“We’re excited,” Canfield said. “A little bit scared, sure, but we’re doing great.” 

Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham Ephrata 

405 Diamond Dr., Ephrata 

509-587-3401 

    The new Wyndham Microtel has a lounge-style bar, including indoor and patio seating for guests. The restaurant is also open to those who are not staying in the hotel.
  

    A look at one of the king suites offered at the new Wyndham Microtel in Ephrata.
  

    Microtel owner Dave Canfield said the pool was not feasible; however, they included high-end exercise equipment.