Marriott Bonvoy offers properties for every type of family traveler — here are 3 to try
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.
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.
TPG featured card
Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.