W Atlanta - Downtown

The W Atlanta Downtown is a neighborhood hotspot with trendy, modern decor and a sexy vibe. The social center of the hotel is the "Living Room" -- the flashy lobby bar and lounge featuring high floor-to-ceiling windows, huge silver mobiles, "branches" that climb to the ceiling, and giant tree-ring rugs encircled by leather couches. The other hotspot here is the rooftop infinity pool with partial glass walls offering exceptional city views. The pool becomes a rooftop bar in the evening (though it's closed in the winter) and is open to the public with a live DJ some nights. Despite the common-area decor, it's worth keeping in mind that under the boutique trappings, this W is still an outpost of a mega-chain, and lacks the intimacy of smaller properties. But it's a well-oiled machine, attracting business guests on weekdays and, with live DJ entertainment on weekends, couples and party-ready tourists. There are some family friendly amenities, but the hotel isn't really geared toward kids.

The property is located downtown, near corporate office buildings and condos, with tourist attractions, shops, restaurants, and public transit in easy walking distance. The thick of restaurants and shops along Peachtree street are about a 10-minute walk, and several attractions are within a seven- to 10-minute walk, including the Georgia Aquarium, the Children's Museum, the World of Coca-Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park. For sights farther out, the Civic Center MARTA station (the city’s public transit train) is just a six-minute walk. Access to Atlanta's airport is easy from there; it's 20 minutes' travel time with no transfers necessary. Philips Arena and Georgia Dome are both about a mile away -- walkable in around 18 to 22 minutes, though guests often take a taxi or public transit.

Rooms are spacious and modern with sexy, luxe details typical of the W brand. Gray wall-to-wall carpeting is paired with floor-to-ceiling windows (many with great views over Atlanta), rich purple accents, and trendy silver light fixtures (the moody, modern lighting isn't for everyone -- some guests complain it's too dark). Modern bathrooms feature glass-encased "voyeur" showers -- great for couples, not so much for families or business companions. Comfy beds are a W-brand staple: pillow-top mattresses, goose down pillows and comforters, and 350 thread count sheets. Electronics include plasma TVs with DVD players and iPod docking stations, but Wi-Fi costs an extra fee unless guests are members of the hotels loyalty program or willing to join (for free). Minibars, mini-fridges, and coffee/tea service aren't standard, though courtesy trays include (pricey) snacks and drinks and room service is available 24 hours. Bathrooms are equipped with magnifying mirrors, hairdryers, robes, and posh Bliss-brand individual toiletries. Other amenities include electronic safes, umbrellas, irons and ironing boards, and extras like pet beds or cribs upon request. Suites can be particularly spectacular, adding luxurious huge walk-in showers, wet bars, or living room or dining areas. 

This W hotel offers up the kinds of amenities guests expect from a high-end hotel, including a few atmospheric extras. The nightlife-ready ambiance is set by three on-site bars, including an exclusive bar for meeting and events, a chic lobby bar and lounge, and a seasonal rooftop bar by the pool. Live DJ entertainment is provided on some nights. The outdoor rooftop pool is a trendy hangout spot with open glass walls and great views over Atlanta, though it can get crowded. There's an on-site restaurant, though guests should note that it is no longer a BLT Steakhouse. Breakfast is available but costs an extra fee, and room service is offered 24/7. Free coffee and ice water are available in the lobby.In addition the outdoor pool, the 16th floor includes a FIT gym and spa. The gym is no after-thought -- it's open 24 hours, has floor-to-ceiling windows with city views, weekly classes, and modern weight-lifting and cardio equipment, including treadmills with individual screens. The spa offers everything from massages to facials, wraps, and manicures, all using Bliss-brand products.Service is exceptional and includes the hotel brand's trademark "Whatever/Wherever" service (essentially: if you ask for it, and you can pay for it, you can have it). Case in point: there's a helipad on-site. The PAWS program welcomes pets for an extra fee, and pet beds and other pet-friendly extras are available. Guests are also offered free car service to anywhere within a two-mile radius of the hotel. But there are extra fees for parking and in-room Wi-Fi, unless guests are members of the hotel's SPG loyalty program or willing to join (membership is free).