Residence Inn by Marriott Columbus Downtown

The restoration of this worthy old building is beautiful. The rooms and elevators are both going through changes, and parking is an issue, so plan for that. My room was clean and the bed was comfortable. The price felt high for the off season, but the comedy show was within walking distance.

The downstairs restaurant was lovely, but the rest of my stay was miserable. I had to ask repeatedly for three days for fresh towels, blankets, and sheets, even though they’d assured me these would be refreshed every two days. The sheets and blankets didn’t arrive, and the room was noisy from construction, which woke me several times. They provide pots for the kitchen but no sponges, and the pots are too big for the tiny stovetops. Breakfast was consistently bad, with food put away before the hours ended, so you had to arrive early to get anything hot. I’d pay a little more somewhere else for basic amenities.

Once the renovations are finished, I’d come back to see how the place turns out. It has plenty of potential, the staff have been friendly and accommodating, and the location alone makes another try worthwhile. The old bank lobby is gorgeous, with its classic look, though quite dark. The rooms are large, clean, and comfortable, and the hotel is close to everything. Construction is making things messy and inconvenient right now. The fitness room is unavailable, but they give you a temporary pass for a gym down the block. Parking is a pain unless you pay $40 a night for valet, and the attendant was missing about half the time, so I parked around the block myself. Breakfast was disappointing and basic for a downtown hotel, though the lobby bar has a great vibe and is a nice place to hang out.

The room felt like home, and I got the best sleep I’ve had in a while. It was a much-needed escape from the Xmas gouls. The building was built by freemasons and had a learned theoretical design of grandeur. Great location, with plenty of food nearby. I’d recommend staying here.