Hundreds of invited guests were treated to a tour of Valdosta’s newest hotel Tuesday with the grand opening of the Drury Inn.

Located off Exit 18 beside Interstate 75, the hotel is part of a multi-parcel development that includes Olive Garden, with additional development expected.

The seven-story hotel features 180 guest rooms and numerous amenities: a heated indoor/ outdoor pool, fitness center, plus wireless Internet, a microwave and refrigerator in every guest room, daily breakfast, and nightly “Kickback” events.

“Kickback is an early evening, light meal served in our dining area,” said Drury’s Regional Sales Manager Kenneth Alcott. “Every night features different menu items and beverages, all complimentary for our guests.”

Alcott said the hotel features three types of guest rooms: the standard room with two queen beds, the standard room with a king-size bed, and a suite with a king-size bed, and separate living room with fold-out couch. Prices start at $99 per night, with various discounts offered for military, government, senior citizens, etc.

Valdosta Mayor John Gayle attended the event, saying he was pleased to see the city’s newest addition.

“This is a beautiful hotel. I am very familiar with the Drury Inn brand as I used to travel a lot to other areas, and they are very nice and accommodating.”

Gayle said he hopes to see additional businesses in the development soon, and thanked the hosts from Drury Inn for their hospitality.

“We are really glad they’re here in Valdosta,” he said.

Drury Hotels Company is a Missouri-based, family-owned and operated hotel system with more than 130 hotels in 20 states.

“We are proud to open our new Valdosta hotel; it represents an important part of our expansion into the Southeast,” said Chuck Drury, president and CEO, in a provided statement.

In addition to the entrance off St. Augustine which is currently the only way in or out of the property, a side entrance will open soon, leading to a new street and traffic signal on St. Augustine.

For more information about Drury Inn, visit www.druryhotels.com.