The Armadillo is a really cool, new (in name and ownership) spot that is on the backside of the Mountain at Canton (First Monday). It's the perfect spot to stay, for a low price.
First, let me say this. "Hotel" is more like "Bed and Breakfast" in this instance. There are about 8 rooms at the Armadillo, all with a unique charm. If you don't want a place where you will regularly interact with strangers, this may not be the place for you.
Next, the owner Denise is a hoot. She painted the art on the building, and is so funny. When you call The Armadillo you seemingly get her cell, and she is chatty in the best ways. When I called she stated that the weekend I was going to be there was, coincidentally, the first weekend that they would be open as The Armadillo, and they were going to remain at 25% capacity due to COVID. I needed a spot to stay in to visit family during 4th of July weekend, so I snagged it quickly. She informed me that it was $125 a night, but if I paid cash I could pay $100 a night (COVID deal, she said). That rate is standard for the area.
When you get here - DON'T PAY TO PARK AT 1ST MONDAY. you can't reach it from that parking lot (generally speaking). What you want to do is drive down 17 to the backside of the mountain and you can park there. From here, walking to "The Mountain" is doable. I did it 4 times no problem.
The room was clean, but certainly lacked many creature comforts. The first night I met the other couple in our hotel while we were at the Stage on the Mountain and she said that if you look around the place you can find a fan somewhere. In the summer you need it, especially in an upstairs room because the AC isn't strong strong. It's central upstairs, and window units downstairs. Also, they don't have any TVs at all.
The aesthetic is Wild West downtown outside. Denise owns many of these and the innkeepers, Stewart and Sonja (Delightfully chatty folks) showed me the Hummingbird ($140 a night and GREAT A/C), and told me about her other property, "Cadillac Ranch" (Soon to open).
At 8 each night there is a small stage at the Mountain (a short walk) that holds free concerts (seats about 12-15 people) and you can bring your drinks. Forget your drinks? Follow the Daqauri' s To-Go signs and they have some great ones you can walk back with.
I had a great experience here, and would suggest it to anyone looking for a unique experience, if you don't mind the lack of creature comforts that come with the charm. read more