Hotel Review: SF Marriott Marquis

The Lo Down
Feb 6
3 min read

Updated: Feb 6

Welcome to my review of the San Francisco Marriott Marquis! This hotel is one of my top picks for anyone traveling to San Francisco, whether for business or leisure. Below, I’ll break down my experience, covering everything from check-in to amenities and overall value.

Detailed Review

1. Booking and Check-In ExperienceThe check-in experience was smooth and enjoyable. The hotel offers a dedicated check-in line for loyalty members, which is a thoughtful touch. At the time of my stay, I had Gold status and was fortunate to receive an upgrade to a corner room. The lady at the check-in desk was incredibly kind and helpful, setting a positive tone for the rest of my stay.

2. Room Quality: The room was clean and spacious, especially for a city hotel. Corner rooms are always a favorite of mine, particularly when they offer added privacy. While the room's design was fairly standard, the bed was one of the most comfortable I’ve ever slept in. However, the windows could have been cleaner, which would have enhanced the overall experience.

3. Amenities and Facilities: The gym was a standout feature—it felt like a commercial gym due to its size and extensive equipment. Anyone staying here for a week would appreciate the well-maintained business centers and meeting rooms. One unique feature I loved was the hotel's driveway. Unlike many hotels in cities like San Francisco or New York, this one offers a spacious area for guests to unload luggage without feeling rushed. The bell desk staff was also very helpful.

4. Dining Experience: During this visit, I only had Gold status and didn’t get to try the breakfast. However, I did enjoy the beautiful rooftop bar. Watching the sunset with a drink in hand was a memorable experience. The bar service was excellent, and the hotel’s ground floor also features multiple shops and a lounge, adding convenience and variety for guests.

Silhouette of a person gazing out a large curved window at a city skyline. Inside, people sit at a bar. Warm light fills the space. — The view at The View

5. Staff and Service: The staff at the check-in desk and rooftop bar were fantastic—friendly, efficient, and attentive. Although the valet service was slightly understaffed, the team was kind and managed all my requests efficiently. Overall, the service exceeded my expectations, especially given that I didn’t have high expectations for service in San Francisco.

6. Location and Accessibility: The hotel is located near downtown San Francisco, making it close to shopping areas and many attractions. However, it’s also near some of the city’s less desirable neighborhoods, which is worth keeping in mind. Despite this, the hotel is easy to access and well-situated for both tourists and business travelers.

7. Value for Money: In my opinion, this hotel offers good value if the room rate is under $250 per night, unfortunately, I don't think that happens often, as many corporations choose this as their main business hotel. The spacious rooms, excellent service, and top-notch gym make it stand out among other San Francisco hotels. That said, room rates can become quite steep during city-wide conferences, so plan accordingly.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Overall, the SF Marriott Marquis is one of my favorite hotels in the city. I’ve stayed at several hotels in San Francisco for work, staycations, and family trips, and this one consistently delivers. It’s perfect for business travelers and for those who are familiar with the city’s dynamics.