To be fair, a very nice hotel. The Lobby is welcoming and furniture is comfortable.
The hotel is obviously set up for conferences or weddings, as they have ample meeting rooms for groups.
This hotel is seriously expensive, for no reason. It is billed as part of the Luxury Collection, and Marriott must have a wide range of properties in that category, as this property would barely be considered close to luxury. If you've stayed at a Ritz Carlton or St. Regis, those would be largely considered luxury (not every one, not every time ). This hotel is ranked 24 or 26 out of 204, for a reason. Many people complain about this property.
Apparently, there was a large scale vehicle break in, back in July. 18 or so vehicles were broken into in the parking lot, and nobody saw anything. Shouldn't they have more security than a typical Hampton Inn ?? You would think so ....
The hotel is a distance from the airport, 25 minutes without traffic, of which the trip could easily be 45 minutes or more.
There are only two front desk staff at check in, and there could easily be 15 or 20 people on line. They are dreadfully slow.
As an Ambassador Elite, for many years, I always expect some type of upgrade, given the loyalty that I have given Marriott over many years. As a thank you from this property, they shoehorned me into the smallest room on the floor, possibly 250 sq feet. If you look at the Fire Dept. map at the back of the door, you can see your room size. I was told I was getting a Junior Suite, but they obviously LIED about that. My room was the smallest category. I did complain at the front desk, but they gave me the "bait and switch act". Apparently, they have an idiot for a rooms controller.
The bathroom was equally small, with a single sink. The bathroom lighting is horrible, but I should be happy because in poor light, I always look more handsome. The shower was adequate, and there is also a bathtub in the bathroom. Towels are large size, and plentiful.
They have a nice restaurant on premises, The Gallery. Menu was very nice, upscale. Seafood items were scarce, but most of the menu was beef related. I ordered a filet, which was undercooked quite a bit. Accompaniments of wild mushrooms and mashed potato's were good. The asparagus were huge (the baby asparagus is much better)
The problem with the restaurant, is that you have to walk an eighth of a mile to get there. It is quite far off the lobby. You do need your exercise; walking is good for you.
They do have a Spa located in the hotel which is apparently a draw to the property. They also maintain an indoor pool and hot tub on the lower level, similar to Hampton Inn size. A lot of guests complain about the cleanliness of the hot tub and the pool facilities, but I have not tried it. I would however, be vigilant, before going in for a dip.
I am not familiar with the Ballantyne area, but apparently it is a fairly new "design" area, with limited shopping and fast food restaurants. The property bills itself as close to Southpark, but it is easily a half hour away.
In summation, I'm sure this hotel does an adequate job with area conferences and mini conventions. For a girls weekend getaway with spa, it is likely a popular spot. For an occasional business meeting, I think the Uptown hotels are more suited for that. For me, I wouldn't return. I think between the JW, Westin or Hilton properties in Uptown, I am much better suited to have a better stay with upgraded rooms. One, and done.
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