Residence Inn by Marriott Columbus Downtown

This hotel, uniquely housed within a historic bank building, offers guests a distinctive stay, blending architectural charm with a highly praised service experience. Its friendly staff, excellent breakfast buffet, and highly efficient valet service are consistently highlighted, complementing its central downtown location. The hotel is ideal for sightseers and business travelers due to its proximity to key attractions and the convention center, while families appreciate the spacious room layouts. To enhance your stay, be aware that while the service is exceptional, some rooms may show signs of age, so managing expectations regarding room modernity is advisable.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently note issues with the elevators, as often only one is operational, leading to significant wait times and frustration, especially during busy periods. The fitness center is described as being off-site or having limited and outdated equipment, which can be inconvenient for guests looking to work out on-premises. The hotel's bar is highlighted as a cool spot for drinks with an extensive bourbon selection, though it offers a limited food menu primarily consisting of snacks rather than full meals. Many rooms feature convenient kitchenettes equipped with full refrigerators and stovetops, providing flexibility for longer stays, although some guests have reported cleanliness issues with these appliances. Additionally, some TVs in the rooms are considered outdated.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
While some guests find their rooms to be clean and comfortable, a significant number report that the accommodations are outdated and show considerable wear. Common issues include peeling wallpaper, holes in carpets, dented refrigerators, and worn furnishings, contributing to a dingy or dreary atmosphere. Some reviews mention specific cleanliness issues such as stains on curtains or couches, unpleasant odors, dirty dishes, or mold in bathrooms and around appliances. Feedback on beds is mixed, with some finding them comfortable while others describe them as old or the sofa beds as uncomfortable. Bathroom concerns include slippery tub surfaces and shower issues, along with a lack of privacy for the sink area in some layouts. Noise levels from outside or within the building can also be a concern.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast buffet consistently receives high praise from guests, often described as excellent with a wide variety of options, including hot dishes, fresh items, and a good selection of pastries. Many guests appreciate the unique setting of the breakfast area, which is located in the old bank vault. While most reviews are positive, some guests have noted occasional issues with items running out or hot breakfast items being served cold, indicating inconsistencies in stocking and temperature control. The hotel's bar is highlighted for its cool ambiance and extensive bourbon selection, making it a popular spot for evening drinks, though it primarily offers snacks rather than full meals.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location in downtown is a major advantage, placing guests within easy walking distance of key attractions such as the Palace Theatre, the convention center, and numerous restaurants and bars. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the city on foot. The parking situation is a significant point of discussion, as the hotel exclusively offers valet parking, which can be expensive. Some guests have experienced delays or difficulties finding space, especially when the valet service is full due to the attached restaurant. Despite the cost and occasional inconvenience, many guests appreciate the convenience and efficiency of the valet service.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff is overwhelmingly praised for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. From the front desk to the valet service and breakfast staff, many individuals are highlighted for going above and beyond to assist guests with requests, provide local recommendations, and ensure a smooth stay. The valet service in particular is frequently commended for its efficiency and courteousness, often having cars ready promptly. While most interactions are positive, a few guests have reported less helpful experiences with some front desk personnel or inconsistencies with housekeeping services, such as rooms not being cleaned daily or issues not being fully resolved.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel operates on a specific cleaning policy, where room service is typically provided upon request or every two to three days, rather than daily. The unique nature of the historic building features, such as the front door requiring a specific push-and-buzz technique, can sometimes be less intuitive for new arrivals. Some guests have also noted concerns regarding slippery shower surfaces in bathrooms, advising caution. Additionally, while the hotel embraces its historical charm, some aspects like the lack of USB charging ports in rooms reflect its older infrastructure, which might be a consideration for tech-reliant travelers.