Marriott Bonvoy offers properties for every type of family traveler – The Points Guy
Sometimes traveling with your family or young children in tow requires a different set of needs from your hotel. For example, if staying on budget is important, you may value free parking more than room service. And on the other hand, if you’re looking to splurge on spa or babysitting services, you’ll find yourself looking for accommodations with those amenities instead.
Thankfully, Marriott Bonvoy has a property to suit every family’s needs, thanks to a portfolio that encompasses over 30 brands with more than 8,500 hotels and resorts across nearly 140 countries. From budget-friendly properties with in-room kitchens to high-end luxury resorts with every amenity imaginable, you’re certain to find one to make your next family vacation a memorable one.
And of course, you can use Marriott Bonvoy points at these locations to save money — or earn points toward a future stay.
Here are three Marriott Bonvoy hotels to consider for your next family trip.
Budget-friendly: Residence Inn Washington, DC Downtown
The Residence Inn brand of hotels offers complimentary breakfast, kitchens and spacious guest rooms. Families can save money or avoid hectic restaurant dining by cooking in their hotel room, and the larger floor plans provide much-needed space for multiple people to sprawl out.
And if you’re planning a trip to our nation’s capital, consider the Residence Inn Washington, DC Downtown, an all-suite, pet-friendly property that features on-site laundry and a fitness center.
You’re just a few blocks from the White House and close to other major attractions, such as the Smithsonian museums.
Related: The perfect 1-day field trip in Washington, DC, for travelers of all ages
Redeem free nights at the Residence Inn Washington, DC Downtown starting at 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
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Premium: Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass
Wild Horse Pass is a tourist destination near Phoenix and is a perfect gateway to many of the area’s destinations and attractions — and that’s where you’ll find the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass.
The property is a reflection of the local Indigenous community, with architecture, art and design inspired by the heritage of the Gila River Indian Community. Kai, the resort’s AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star restaurant (the only one in Arizona), features a locally inspired menu curated to create a memorable culinary experience for guests. You can also indulge in a treatment at Aji Spa, which blends contemporary luxury with the traditional healing practices of local tribes.
And thankfully, travelers have plenty of time to enjoy these amenities thanks to the array of family-friendly activities to keep kids entertained.
The Adventure Club offers daily, seasonal activities for all ages, like movie nights, crafts and nature walks.
Young travelers ages 6-12 can enjoy Quail Kids Day Camp, offering a five- or seven-hour custom day camp along with amenities like an indoor rock climbing wall. Parents can even request an evening camp if they want to enjoy a quiet dinner alone.
The property also hosts a daily “Land of the Mustangs” experience, allowing guests to enjoy a meet-and-greet photo-op with a wrangler and mustang while learning more about these magnificent creatures and life on a ranch.
Related: Road tripping from Phoenix? Here are 6 destinations to set your sights on
When it’s time to escape the heat, families can head for the resort’s pool area, featuring a waterslide inspired by the ancient Casa Grande ruins as well as a shallow children’s pool, all with magnificent views of the picturesque desert. Aside from Kai, travelers can look forward to multiple other dining outlets or indulge in room service — which is perfect to enjoy on your balcony or patio (a feature in all guest rooms).
Redeem free nights at Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass starting at 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, and enjoy complimentary self-parking (valet parking is available for an additional $22 per night).
Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes offers a perfect blend of family-friendly offerings and luxury amenities. Occupying 500 acres of beautiful land (including 11 lakes), the hotel is centrally located to Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World and features a variety of accommodations — including luxury residences that can accommodate up to 10 guests. There’s even a working farm on the grounds of the resort, including gardens, apiaries and a chicken coop.
And there are plenty of on-site activities to enjoy as well.
Related: How to use points to save money at Universal Orlando
Your kids will love the on-property water park, featuring a lazy river, exhilarating waterslides and a splash cove ideal for the youngest travelers. Families can splurge for a luxury cabana rental along the tranquil lagoon pool, part of the $30 million renovation in 2021 that also overhauled the hotel’s guest rooms and club lounge.
Experiences to be had at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes include Arrow’s Edge Archery Experience, allowing guests of all experience levels to try their hand at the ancient sport. You can also view local wildlife on a sunrise safari, book a guided eco-tour of the headwaters of the Florida Everglades in a canoe or kayak, and experience the majesty of the falcon in the interactive falconry experience.
Other amenities include a spa, 24-hour room service, turndown service and an on-property, championship-level golf course designed by Greg Norman. There are over a dozen dining options to choose from, including the Michelin-starred steakhouse Knife & Spoon. Kids will especially enjoy Knife Burger, where they can dine on burgers and shakes.
And finally, The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes also features the brand’s signature Ritz Kids program. Options include a full or half-day program and Kids Night Out, and while you must reserve a spot for your children in advance, you may find it hard to tear them away at pickup time.
Redeem free nights at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes starting at 52,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Bottom line
With more than 30 brands in its portfolio, Marriott has a hotel for every traveler’s needs, including family travelers.
If you’re budget-conscious, consider a stay at a Residence Inn or TownePlace Suites, where you’ll enjoy complimentary breakfast and additional space to spread out. When you’re in need of more luxury, check out The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis properties, where you can enjoy fine dining, on-site spas and other high-end amenities. And lastly, if you’re somewhere in between, try a Sheraton, Westin or Marriott property that has a little bit of everything for you and your family’s needs.
Ready to plan your next family getaway? Click here to explore Marriott properties around the world.