Central Motel Ipswich

Central Motel Ipswich is a budget motel on the corner of Limestone and Thorn streets, a short walk from the Ipswich CBD, and it takes dogs in the rooms. The headline for dog owners is the fee: at the time of writing there is no extra charge for pets, which is rare enough at any price point. Rooms are straightforward three-star, with a microwave and minibar in each, and a communal barbecue area out the back.

Dogs at the motel

Dogs are allowed to stay in the rooms, and the policy does not list a firm size limit, though it is worth confirming your dog's size when you book. Check your dog in at reception on arrival. Dogs must be on a lead when moving through the property, and you are responsible for cleaning up after them. Motel pet policies change without much notice, so confirm there is still no pet fee for your dates before you commit.

Max: no pet fee is the draw here, but ring ahead and ask which rooms they put dog owners in. It costs nothing and avoids a surprise on arrival.

Worth knowing

Guest reviews describe tidy rooms, a laid-back feel and a helpful owner. Some mention ambulance noise, so if your dog is sound sensitive or you are a light sleeper, ask for a room away from the street side when you book. Bring your own dog bedding and bowls so your dog stays off the furniture, and the barbecue area gives you an easy outdoor feed without leaving the dog alone in the room.

Out and about

Being central, the motel puts you within walking distance of the CBD cafes and Queens Park for an on-lead stroll. For coffee, Seed Coffee and Cafe Tulmur both welcome dogs, and the Off Leash Dog Park at North Ipswich is a short drive for a proper run. If the motel is full, Ipswich Caravan Village at Tivoli is a dog-friendly caravan park about four kilometres out.

More options are on the Queensland pet friendly stays guide and the Ipswich destination page.