Ellis Hotel, Atlanta, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott

I’d stay here again. My room was clean and well maintained, although on the small side, and the bathroom and shower felt modern and nice. The staff were friendly and pleasant, always smiling and making eye contact as I passed. Special mention to Walter at the front desk, who was especially welcoming.

The room was clean enough, but small and dated, and not what I expected from a four-star hotel in downtown Atlanta. The AC hotel down the street was much better. Maybe I caught this place on a bad weekend, because the reviews I read seemed misleading. The key card system was down when I arrived, so I had to be escorted to my room and let in each time. Valet costs $55 per day, but they didn’t tell guests it stops at midnight. I went out and then couldn’t get my car. Even after they couldn’t valet it, the front desk tried to get the key from the valet manager, who didn’t know the password for the key box. That’s troubling.

After a late rave or even a midday walk back for a nap, this hotel was exactly what we wanted. Service was great, and they send a sort of “legacy” email to past-stay members for the next year’s DragonCon. We’re looking forward to staying again. My partner, a friend, and I were here for DragonCon 2025 and loved it. The staff and other people seemed just as hyped for the Con, so it felt like a host-but-not-host hotel. It’s right by the action, with such an easy, short walk that barely counts as a walk, without the usual Atlanta quirks. The rooms were quiet, the elevators were always available, and having a mini-fridge was great. The rooms aren’t huge, but they’re cozy and have enough storage. The café has some nice food options, though nothing groundbreaking, and there were a few DCon themes. The Ritz is across the street, restaurants are close, and MARTA is right there if you need it.

What really made our stay lovely was the staff. Everyone we met went out of their way to help. James the valet brought our car around several times, and each time he picked up our earlier conversation and treated us like family. The Ellis is a small, unassuming boutique hotel through Marriott, with a history going back 110 years. It was the first high-rise in downtown Atlanta. The rooms are smaller, but well appointed, quiet, and finished with a touch of luxury. Ours had a beautiful downtown view. Treat yourself to a little history and luxury, and stay with “friends” at the Ellis.