You hear the word Marriott and there are things that immediately come to mind. You know without a doubt we are talking about a hotel, a home away from home, a place to rest your head. But after a recent visit to the JW Marriott in Grand Rapids, Michigan, we realized it was so much more than this! Here are 7 things we bet you didn’t know you could do at the JW.
Enjoy the Sunset
Located on the banks of the Grand River, the jdek offers visitors one of the best seats in the house to catch a Michigan summer sunset. Sit back, relax, enjoy the warm weather and a cocktail to match as you watch the sun sink beneath the horizon and the sky explode with colors unparalleled.
Be Inspired
Each JW hotel is partnered with sister cities around the globe. At the JW in Grand Rapids, each floor is themed after a different sister city and the photography in the halls and rooms reflects that. Photographer, Dan Watts, was hired by the JW to visit the sister cities in Poland, Japan, Mexico, Ghana and Italy to capture inspiring images and upon entering your room, you will see he did just that.
This venture was one of Dan’s last major projects as shortly after, he lost his sight. Not only are the photos beautiful and captivating because of their content, the story about the man behind the camera is too.
Test Your Fear of Heights
The JW rises 25 floors above the city of Grand Rapids and the Grand River below. If you are a guest, take the elevator up as high as you can go, walk straight out to the railing and look down. The design and build of this section of the hotel make this view not only a WOW but a WOOOOOAAAHHH too! Keep your eyes peeled for paper airplanes resting on the window sills that weren’t able to complete their flight path.
Host a Meeting with the Best Views in Grand Rapids
The Executive Lounge at the JW is a special place. Typically reserved for members, however, there is a room that can be rented to host meetings of up to 8 people. With west-facing floor-to-ceiling windows and complimentary libations, we’d dare say you won’t find a better location to talk business.
Avoid the Crowds and Lines
2020 changed many things about the way businesses and people function. Hotels adapted to this by creating technology that allows guests to create the stay they want and feel most comfortable with. By downloading the Marriott app, you can skip the front desk entirely by checking in online and using your phone to access your room with keyless entry. There is also a chat feature that connects guests to hotel staff for live responses regarding requests for toiletries, to pull your vehicle up when you’re ready to depart, to check out and more.
Try Foods Inspired by Countries Around the World
Margaux, the JW’s on site French-inspired restaurant is adding something unique to their menu offerings this summer. Each month, a rotating menu is presented with dishes inspired by different countries and cuisines from all over the world. Stop in during the month of July for a taste of the French West Indies!
Perk Up
Did you know that there is a Starbucks inside the lobby of the JW?! If not, you are not alone. I had no idea until I walked in to explore the property. If you are in need of a pick me up, whether you wake up in a room 10 floors above or are passing by on your way to work, know that the JW has you covered!
Be Well
Coming soon!!! The JW is upping its wellness game and completely renovating its third floor. This 3.5 million dollar renovation will allow hotel guests and Grandrapidians alike to take advantage of services focused on caring for the whole you. The renovation will change the look and feel of their current spa as well as add a relaxation room, couples massage options, updates to the locker rooms, fitness center and pool areas and a secret place to relax and rest your mind as you gaze out over the river.
