The past ten years Marriott has renovated or reused historic properties across the country that are all unique yet modern (i.e. San Diego Downtown Courtyard, The Hotel Minneapolis, Philadelphia Downtown Courtyard). The public spaces in the Lancaster Marriott take full advantage of the historic building while adding a hotel tower for the guest rooms. Valet parking in front can get crowded in a hurry. Adjacent public garage is a good alternative though it's long hike indoors through the convention center to that garage. Easy walking proximity to restaurants is a big positive.

Service: up to the usual Marriott standard which is pretty good (professional, knowledgeable, friendly)

Rooms: reflects current Marriott clean and contemporary design; room size is average; the center of downtown location means some street noise will be present (hey, it's downtown)

Concierge Lounge: below the usual Marriott standard; fortunately, the indoor market is kitty corner to the hotel

This hotel has a great location and excellent service. The staff was very helpful and polite. I read some other reviews about not many amenities, have to agree with this if traveling with family. A nice breakfast and free parking may ease the sting of the price, but this location is upscale and perfect for the business traveler. There are quite a few restaurants located within 1-3 blocks and the staff provides you with a list. Rooms are very comfortable and clean.

Stayed here last weekend (Nov 11, 2012) and found this to be a great hotel with an exceptional staff where everyone goes above and beyond to ensure you have a great stay. It started with the valet who wanted to park my car, however, I already knew I wanted to self-park. He told me how to get to the garage and how to get to the walk-way for the hotel and to bring my parking ticket back to have it validated. Check in was quick and smooth. I expected parking to be $16/day and was surprised when they told me it was $5/day (don't know if this had anything to do with being a gold elite member).

Another pleasant surprise is your room key is also your elevator key (you can only get to your floor which means no unwanted/uninvited people will be on your floor). I had a room on the 18th floor Concierge Level close to the Concierge Lounge which was very convenient.

The room was very nice with a very comfortable bed (had flexible reading lights), large flat screen TV, mini-fridge, computer desk and chair, very comfortable sitting chair, coffee maker, safe and robe. The bath room was also modern with plenty of towels.

If you are planning a visit to Amish Country this is an ideal place to stay and in a central location.

The Marriott has Lancaster locked up. You can't beat the location and they know it. There is nothing to complain about the hotel - nice room, very comfortable bed and steps away from the Central Market. There is a decent pool and fitness equipment. What is missing is everything else. The rooms are not inexpensive, but then parking will add on another $15 - $16 for each night you stay. Even more disappointing was a $13 charge for 24 hours of internet access.

Contrast that with the Arts Hotel just down the road which, for about the same price, provides free parking, free internet, free breakfast, turndown service, unique rooms in a fascinating former warehouse and a strong desire to please its guests. The only problem with it is its distance from Penn Square - a 10 to 15 minute walk.

We have stayed both places. If the weather is good, I strongly prefer the Arts Hotel, but on a cold November night, the Marriott has the edge.