TownePlace Suites by Marriott Dallas Downtown

Ankeet was really polite when I called to say our delayed flight had been cancelled and we wouldn’t arrive until the next day. When we checked in the following day, he remembered the call and was friendly and helpful about the area. I also found the hotel’s history interesting.

The room was very comfortable and super clean, and checkout was quick and easy. The valet attendant was kind and brought my car around fast. Keelan, I think that was the name of the person who checked us in later in the afternoon, was so sweet and helpful too. It was our first stay and we absolutely loved it. Parking is valet only, or you have to use off-site or street parking, which wasn’t my favorite, though that’s not the staff’s fault. Breakfast was standard hotel fare, but it did the job before a long travel day.

Scott from maintenance really made the stay for me. My digital key wouldn’t let me into my room on the sixth floor, and when I went down there was a long check-in line. I didn’t want to cut in, so I asked Scott, who was in the lobby, if he could help me get a physical key. He did, with a smile, apologized for the hassle, and even offered me something from the hotel “pantry” store. The front desk staff were kind and cheerful too. The room is basically one large converted loft, which is a pretty interesting design. It’s also just a short walk to restaurants and downtown shops. I appreciated the service so much that I’ll stay here again next time I’m in Dallas. Thanks, Scott, and thanks to whoever manages this team. You set a high standard by example.

The breakfast was really poor. There were flies around the food, and when we brought it up, the staff didn’t seem concerned. Some guests might even find the way they responded rude. Marriott needs to improve breakfast standards at its second- and third-tier properties. The one real upside to staying here is that it costs less than nearby places. It’s acceptable if you don’t plan to eat breakfast.