That's why I love Choice hotels, huge chain, with many affiliates. They aren't dives, but aren't resorts either. However, they are clean, affordable, everywhere, and an included breakfast. I also earn points, which often gets me free stays.
Because we work so far away, sometimes, it's nice to just stay overnight in the city we work in (vs. driving home, as long as someone can mess with the horses, usually a boarder). So, it's kind of nice. (and saves two hours of driving time).
We also go to somewhat local events, but instead of driving home, it's nice to grab a hotel, I can actually drink, then Uber back to the hotel and sleep it off, etc. If a costumed event (we like to cosplay at conventions, etc.), it's good to get ready in a nearby hotel and Uber there, vs. driving in costume or getting ready at the Con, etc.
In a way, our hotel memberships are a kind of a prep (as they also enable us to get rooms without reservations, on short notice, etc.). We stayed at a hotel after a few days of no power after Irma, just to have some AC to sleep in, lol.