This hotel is actually more amazing than you think it is from the photographs. It is really really lovely and very impressive. We were allocated a canal view room with a balcony and I can honestly say that the bed was the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in - including my own.
The hotel is expensive but then so is Amsterdam these days. Even so, the hotel bar is worth a visit - very cool and classy - fabulous for a few cocktails before you go out.
Staff were very efficient and very friendly.
The location of the hotel is excellent - just off the Leidsplein square and about 500 yards from the tram stop.
We had a wonderful stay in the American and would definately go back.

Despite a mess-up with the hotel reservation system overbooking the rooms, I had to stay in the nearby Park hotel for the first night of my recent stay in Amsterdam instead of The American, where I've stayed several times before over the last 15 years. I'd never experienced any problems with booking a room in this hotel before, so it came as a shock. As it was entirely the hotel's computer system fault for the confusion, they made up for it all by offereing me a suite instead of the usual standard single room I'd originally booked and I was also offered complimentary breakfast! (usually an extra 19.95Euros), so the confustion actually worked out for the best and I ended up having one of the best stays I've ever had in Amsterdam! The suites are on the hotel's 1st floor and are very comfortable and spacious. Toothbrushes, razors, slippers and all necessary toiletries are already there in the bathroom, so it's not even necessary to bring them packed, as the hotel provide them free of charge. The one main reason why I always choose to stay in The American while in Amsterdam is because I have a lot of fond memories of socialising in the famous Bar American, plus the cocktails here are delicious and at 9Euros each, that is not all that expensive compared to the ridiculous prices we are charged for good cocktails at trendy bars in London. The drinks were as tasty as always, however, I was very disappointed with the food menu this time, 14Euros for a Caesar salad was too much for what it was. The bar itself has undergone a few changes over the years, but still remains the popular rock 'n' roll style hangout it's known for. I go to see bands at the local Melkweg music venue, which is just across the road at the back of the hotel and the Paradiso, another popular live music venue and club is just a stroll away. The Leidseplein area is always buzzing and the trams stop just across the road from the hotel. There is no spa, but luckily there is a very private sauna and gym on the lower ground floor which only guests can access by keycard.

I could not recommend staying at this hotel until the road / building works outside the hotel are complete. Check before booking.

Its a shame because the hotel itself is impressive in itself and in its location and its clear that the staff are dedicated and diligent.

We stayed for 5 days over christmas 2007 and had an excellent time, we are 2 couples aged between 25 and 32.
Me and my partner have stayed here on a few occasions during the last 4 years and the place just gets nicer.
The location is great in a nice more upmarket area of amsterdam close to good restaurants, shops, museums etc, the rooms we have had have been lovely art decor style and spacious, we had a lovely view of the canal this time, but on one visit we had a view of the courtyard which we are not bothered about but if you want to guarantee a good view it might be worth pre booking a canal view room.
The bathroom was quiet luxurious with nice toiletries topped up daily and kept spotless.
The beds are comfy i think we have always had a super kingsize and the bedding and towels are always changed regularly, you also get robes and slippers.
The staff are pleasent and attentative and the public areas of the hotel are kept very well.
The restaurant is very nice although pricey it is worth it and the bar has a great atmosphere.
We will stay here again and i would highly recommend it.