New York Marriott Marquis

Profile

Thanks to its nearly 2000 rooms, a Times Square location, and the familiar reputation, the Marriott Marquis has become a popular tourist destination, particularly for the Broadway bound. The 49-story hotel towers over Times Square and features 16 stomach-churning glass elevators and several floors of convention space. The hotel’s recognizable brand guarantees that basic standards are met, along with a few extras: non-descript bed linens, coffee makers, high-speed Internet access and dual-line telephones are all featured amenities. Fully stocked marble bathrooms, complete with oversized counter space and wall-to-wall mirrors, help sweeten the deal. Guests can get toned at the hotel’s impressive, glass-ceilinged health club, grab a cocktail and kick back in the lounge overlooking Times Square, or get tickets to a Broadway show at the Marquis Theater located inside the hotel. Perhaps the best feature at the Marquis is The View, a sky-high bar that slowly rotates, offering spectacular 360-degree views of the city. — Chris Strauss

Times Square location; in-house Broadway theater; The View bar.

Cons
The huge volume of guests creates a highly impersonal, chaotic atmosphere; overpriced rates.