Typical Downtown Marriott
There's nothing wrong with this hotel but there's nothing really speacial about the hotel either. It is the typical older style dowtown hotel and is in definate need of updating. The lobby area is fine but the hallways to the rooms are somewhat dark. I had a corner room on the tenth floor and it was very clean, quiet and good sized. It had a very comfortable king sized bed, desk, and sitting area. The bathrooms however are tiny. You can barely turn around in them without bumping into something; door, toilet, counter. The view is of other tall buildings.
The location is very good being 3.5 blocks from the convention center and 2 blocks from the 16th st mall area. The fitness center has a decent selection of cardio machines and a seperate section in the pool area with free weights and other equipement. There is also a large hot tub, sauna and steam room.
The breakfast buffet at Alli's is the usual fare you find in downtown hotel restaurants near a convention center. Good but overpriced. I was able to eat in the Concierge Room on my last day and it was quite good. In my few dealings with the staff I found them to be friendly and helpful.
In short, if you're a Marriott rewards member then I certainly recommend this hotel. However, there are nicer, newer hotels closer to the convention center at a similar price.