We loved it. HOWEVER, check the schedule of the convention center across the street before you book. There was a late night rave when we stayed. We could just about feel the heart pumping thud-thud-thud of the base.

We recently stayed at this beautiful renovated art deco inspired hotel (circa 1920) while trying to escape Hurricane Sandy. We had to change our plans and start driving from VT West instead of our planned trip to Washington DC. Luckily, the beginning of our unplanned adventure turned into a great 2 night stay at The Giacomo. We arrived on a very stormy night and were greeted by a very friendly and accommodating young man who was running the charming hotel that evening. We were one of the few guests that night and he made our experience great. We were given a warm and cozy room and once settled in, we ventured down to the hotel bar where the hospitality continued and we ended up enjoying a nice evening with a handful of guests some of which were locals who provided us with lots of suggestions of things to see the next day rain or shine. We got a great night's sleep in a very comfortable bed and with the unpredictable weather and a long drive behind us, we decided to stay another night and visit the Falls and get acquainted with the area. The Falls and Goat Island are stunning and we luckily had much nicer weather the next day. Lots of history in the surrounding charming towns of Lewiston, Youngstown and Lockport where the Erie Canal can be visited. Not to be missed--Be sure to go up to the 19th floor of the hotel in the evening as there is an amazing view of Niagara Falls totally lit up in pinks and oranges. We had a great experience and would definitely stay here again if we return to Niagara Falls. Note: pass on the complimentary breakfast as its very average.

SO glad we stayed here! Exceeded expectations! :) The staff has been friendly and helpful. Everything is within walking distance. The skyview lounge was an unexpected surprise. Free wifi and great complementary breakfast.

With one last section of the famous Erie Canal (one of four New York State Canals, all with water & boats) Trail to check before writing the fourth edition of "Erie Canal Bicyclist & Hiker Tour Guide" (Cyclotour Guide Books), I rode the Trailways bus to Niagara Falls with my folding bicycle. The next morning I bicycled from Niagara Falls, New York to a small village, Middleport, New York and then to Buffalo, New York to board a Greyhound bus to return to my home in Rochester New York.

Olga and Ashley, The Giacomo's receptionists warmly welcomed me and my bicycle. I asked for and received a few large plastic bags to place under my bicycle so as not to soil the carpet in my room.

It was a delightful room with a view overlooking one section of the Falls. Not only did it have the usual desk, chair, dresser, TV, bed but also a small couch and an electric fireplace. The decor was sophisticated, cosmopolitan and certainly not garish. A well appointed roomy bathroom. The bed was firm but not like a board; soft but not squishy, very comfortable. Interestingly The Giacomo's decorator placed a light in the middle of the headboard. The light could be moved as well as precisely aim for clear reading. The shower head provided a superb spray of endless hot water.

When staying at The Giacomo don't forget to go to the 19th floor lounge for a magnificent view of both the American and Canadian Falls. The "Falls" are are lit at night, even during the winter.

The Giacomo does not have a restaurant. The Niagara Falls Culinary Institute operates a sandwich/salad deli and a pastry shop on Old Falls Blvd. a half block away from the front door.

The Giacomo has a lounge on the first floor where you can obtain beverages, alcoholic and soft. You can then use the elevator to travel up to the 19th floor for a view rivaling all others on either side of the border.