Fodor's Expert Review Toronto Downtown Marriott at CF Eaton Centre

A shopper's delight, the Marriott's flagship hotel downtown is connected to the Eaton Centre through an aboveground walkway. For a hotel in the heart of downtown, it boasts stunning urban views from the guest rooms, from the indoor rooftop swimming pool, the gym and the on-site restaurant. Rooms were recently renovated with sectional sofas and snazzy work desks. It won't win any design awards, but it's modern enough. Families like that it isn't too fussy for small children.

Attention Netflix addicts! The televisions are Netflix capable, ready for you to log into your account and keep binging. Plus, Wi-Fi is included in your room rate if you join the free Marriott loyalty program. Otherwise, Wi-Fi is $10.95 per day.

Photo: Our luxurious and spacious rooms will allow for the most restful sleep to have you will be refreshed and ready to experience Toronto

room

Congratulations to the Marriott for installing edgy, cool carpet in the hallways and the rooms. Well done. Likewise for the gray corner sofas. Room renovations are now complete, featuring pillow-top beds, pivoting desks, ergonomic chairs, black-out drapes, soundproofing, connectivity panels and wooden headboards. Ask for a room with a fridge when making your reservation.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Despite the renovation, the rooms are a little colorless. One blue accent pillow is not enough, folks.

Photo: Our luxurious and spacious rooms will allow for the most restful sleep to have you will be refreshed and ready to experience Toronto

Photo: Newly renovated bathrooms provide bright light and the option for stand up shower or bathtub to suit your need

bathroom

The renovated bathrooms have soft, kind lighting around the large mirror. Ivory-hued, ample counters and modern taps keep things chic, as do the THANN body products. Some rooms have walk-in showers and separate soaker tubs.

Photo: Newly renovated bathrooms provide bright light and the option for stand up shower or bathtub to suit your need

lobby

Ignore the building's clunky facade, with the dated glass pyramids over the entryway. Be grateful for such an expansive driveway and drop-off zone in the middle of downtown Toronto. The lobby is bright, but hasn't been renovate yet, so turn a blind eye to the swirly rugs and dated floral displays. However, there is a round fireplace and ample seating.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The salmon-hued accents in the lobby's "design" say it all--this is an outdated reception area howling for a makeover.

pool

Found on the 18th floor, the pool area is bright, clean and well supervised.

YOU SHOULD KNOW While the pool is a good size, it's square in shape, and therefore not conducive to swimming full laps.

Photo: Located on the 18th floor, our work out facilities provide superior views of the city while working out. Enjoy a chilled towel at the end of your workout to relax and unwind

gym

Inspirational sayings--"Nothing worth having comes easy"--are stenciled at the top of the walls in this airy, bright, 24-hour gym. Cardio machines face outward, with great views of the city. There are free weights, a rowing machine, exercise balls and mats, too. You have no excuse.

Photo: Located on the 18th floor, our work out facilities provide superior views of the city while working out. Enjoy a chilled towel at the end of your workout to relax and unwind

dining

Trios Bistro, the lobby restaurant, is surprisingly dramatic--from the twinkly chandeliers and striped booths to close-up views of the Church of the Holy Trinity. The floor-to-ceiling glass walls allows sunlight to flood the dining area and glint off the Art Deco light fixtures. The menu is international. Buffet breakfast isn't included in the room rate, unless you have a package, so expect to pay $30 to visit the morning omelette bar.

Best to order two plates of crab cakes, a favorite among regulars and staff.

drinking

Mingling at the Marriott's bar is a contact sport, as the after-work crowd gathers to flirts and sip classic cocktails. Dramatic decor and stunning views of the church next door are easy conversation starters.