The hype
Travelers universally praise the river views and the 'comfortable' beds, but many feel nickle-and-dimed by the parking and breakfast costs.
Jw Marriott Grand Rapids
$260-450/ night
Book this if You want the undisputed heavyweight champion of Grand Rapids luxury—connected to the convention center but swanky enough for a romantic weekend.
Why People Love It
- Floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views of the Grand River
- Direct indoor skywalk connection to DeVos Place (zero winter exposure)
- The Jdek outdoor patio is the city's premier summer sunset spot
Quick Take: It’s a corporate power-suit of a hotel that surprisingly knows how to loosen its tie at the bar.
Reviewed by @beautyandthebumpnyc: I checked into the JW Marriott Grand Rapids for a business trip and honestly, that river view was the perfect stress reliever after meetings. The room felt super professional but cozy, and having a separate tub was a total win. Solid choice for work travel.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'soundproof' windows block city noise, but they don't block the hallway noise or the neighbors—thin walls are the most common complaint.
- You are attending a conference at DeVos Place and refuse to walk outside
- You are a Marriott loyalist who expects consistent, high-end service
- You want a full-service spa and pool on-site
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Daily service is consistent and thorough. Guests rarely report missed spots.
- Bathroom hygiene: Immaculate. Marble surfaces are well-maintained, grout is clean.
- Maintenance: Top-tier. This is a flagship property and it shows; broken items are fixed immediately.
- Linens & towels: Plush, high-thread-count linens and thick towels. No scratchy poly-blends here.
- Odors & scents: Lobby has a strong signature scent; rooms are generally fresh and neutral.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway conversations due to thin doors
- Elevator dings in rooms near the lift bank
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel is connected to the 'Skywalk' system, linking you to Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place without stepping outside.
- Valet and self-parking are nearly the same price ($4 difference), so just treat yourself to valet.
- Breakfast at Margaux is not included in standard rates and costs ~$29/person.
What to pack
- Swimsuit for the heated indoor pool (open 6am-11pm)
- Dressier casual clothes—the lobby bar and Margaux have a polished vibe
Room Genie
Best picks
- River View King (floors 15+) for the best sunsets
- Corner rooms (often ending in roughly 01/02) for dual-aspect views
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms directly adjacent to the elevator bank (constant dinging)
- City view rooms on lower floors (mostly view of concrete)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a high-floor room facing the Grand River, as far from the elevators as possible to minimize hallway noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a resort fee?
No, this property does not currently charge a destination or resort fee, but parking and breakfast add up fast.
Is the pool open year-round?
Yes, the indoor pool and hot tub are open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Can I walk to Van Andel Arena?
Yes, it's a very short walk (about 5-7 minutes) and largely accessible via the enclosed Skywalk system.
Is there free breakfast for elites?
Platinum and above usually get lounge access or a breakfast credit, but recent reports suggest the lounge offering is meager (continental only).
How far is the airport?
Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) is about a 15-20 minute drive (13 miles) away.
Are pets allowed?
No. This is a strict no-pet property. Service animals only.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Jdek' patio has fire pits in the winter, making it a usable outdoor spot even in Michigan chill.
- ✨
You can rent a private room inside the Executive Lounge for small meetings if you need a quiet workspace with a view.
- ✨
Walk to 'Madcap Coffee' (0.4 miles) for your morning brew instead of the hotel Starbucks—it's world-class.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators are fast but can be noisy if your headboard shares a wall with the shaft.
💡The 'City View' is often just a view of the Amway Grand Plaza or a parking garage.
💡Room service uses eco-friendly packaging that can feel a bit like takeout rather than fine dining.
💡The lobby scent is a custom 'Rooted' fragrance (sycamore and sage) that you'll either love or find overpowering.
💡You can hear the faint rumble of trains from some river-facing rooms, though most find it soothing.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Jw Marriott Grand Rapids is located and what's nearby.