Photographs July, 2005: Courtesy of Bob Venditti
 
Portage, Indiana -- 6161 Melton Rd
 
The Portage complex was one of several that served the Chicago area. Opening in 1971, the Motor Lodge remained a Howard Johnson into the 1990s until it was converted into a Days Inn. Upon conversion and subsequent remodeling, Portage lost its signature Gate Lodge and Restaurant and its guests buildings received the mansard wall-looking feature shown in the photos on this page.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

While Bob's top floor King-single room featured a Pamper Panel, and cathedral ceiling, it did not sport beams as were shown in the 1970s postcard view of a double room.

Mr. Venditti noted that there was nothing exceptional or objectionable about his stay except that for what you got as a Days Inn it was "quite pricey."
 
 
 
 
Postcard circa 1970s