This motel is listed as a cheap option for Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers, who pass north of Marion as they trek northward. This is a typical 70's-style motel that is in need of some intensive maintenance. The little things have been neglected and it has evidently changed hands recently, having been called, the Virginia House in my Thru-Hiker's Handbook. Employee morale seems to be low and in my room the phone didn't work well (perhaps a bad handset/cord and a messed-up dial). The ice machine sticks and oftentimes needs a kick or other 'secret handshake' to yield your bucket of ice. The outdoor pool wasn't open when I spend two nights, so I can't comment on that. Perhaps you might consider paying $10.00 more per night and stay at the Best Western, where our breakfast was served with a meal ticket and where they have HBO and probably telephones that work... With some routine maintenance, this could be a nice motel.