I was in Toronto for a business meeting and took the opportunity to stay at the Marriott Downtown Toronto Eaton Centre, a property my sister frequently recommends. She’s a regular guest, and this time, we used her Bonvoy points to book a double room on the 17th floor. It was my first visit, and while our room faced an office building across the street, with just a glimpse of Toronto City Hall, being on a higher floor gave us easy access to the pool and fitness center located on the 18th.
This hotel is ideal for a wide range of travelers. Shoppers will appreciate being just steps from CF Toronto Eaton Centre and the buzz of Yonge-Dundas Square. Business travelers benefit from the location on Bay Street, right in the heart of the financial district. Meanwhile, theater lovers are within walking distance of several downtown venues.
Families will also find the location appealing. You can park the car and explore the area on foot: Nathan Phillips Square is nearby for summer festivals or winter skating/markets, and the adjacent Trinity Square courtyard often features family-friendly programming such as cornhole, oversized Tic-Tac-Toe, and a permanent labyrinth for kids. Parks and playgrounds are close at hand, making this an easy and entertaining downtown base.
First Impressions & Check-In
Check-in was smooth and efficient. We arrived early and were lucky to get into our room right away, although a late checkout wasn’t available. Noon checkout is still generous by today’s standards. The staff was polite and attentive — the kind of service I’ve come to expect from Marriott properties. We were also able to store our luggage after checking out, giving us time to explore the area before heading home.
The hotel lobby is clean, functional, and busy, with a mix of tourists, families, and business travelers coming and going. The vibe is professional and practical — not boutique-style glamour, but a lobby one would expect from a 4-star property.
Who Should Stay Here
This hotel is ideal for a wide range of travelers. Shoppers will love the literal steps to the CF Toronto Eaton Centre and nearby retail stores on Queen Street West. Business travelers will appreciate its location on Bay Street, close to King Street or University Avenue. Lastly, those who have doctor’s appointments or family members at Sick Kids, Princess Margaret, or Mount Sinai hospitals could also benefit from this location.
Theatre lovers will be pleased with its proximity to venues like The Ed Mirvish Theatre and The Elgin and Winter Garden. During TIFF(Toronto International Film Festival), it’s an easy stroll to screenings and celebrity-spotting near the TIFF Bell Lightbox. It’s also close to Nathan Phillips Square for skating in winter and festivals in the summer, and you’re only a 20-minute walk to Chinatown and about 30 minutes to the eclectic Kensington Market.
Rooms
Double Room at the Marriott Downtown Toronto Eaton Centre Photo Credit Margarita Ibbott
We stayed in a standard two-queen room with a large TV, desk, mid-sized bathroom, and a spacious closet. The décor was clean and simple, I’d say it’s due for a refresh in a couple of years. That said, it was spotless and surprisingly quiet despite being in the heart of the city.
The bedding was comfortable, but I’d suggest requesting firm pillows ahead of time. Ours were all feather-filled and too soft for my taste. The bathroom had a walk-in shower with good water pressure and Marriott’s standard toiletries.
Wi-Fi was reliable in both the room and public areas. There was also a small coffee and tea station, as well as an in-room fridge — helpful for storing leftovers or pastries from nearby bakeries.
Dining
Trois Bistro – Marriott Downtown Toronto Eaton Centre – Photo Credit Margarita Ibbott
Trios Bistro is the hotel’s on-site restaurant, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast isn’t included unless part of your booking package. Since we were so close to the Eaton Centre, we skipped the hotel restaurant and opted for quick bites elsewhere.
For breakfast or a snack, try The Danish Pastry House or Saint Germain Bakery inside the Eaton Centre. For a classic diner experience, Fran’s Restaurant and Bar has served patrons since 1940 and is open 24 hours (perfect if you get the late-night munchies), and is just a short walk away on College. For a diner-style breakfast, Eggsmart on Bay Street is another solid option.
Bar Volo – Toronto – Photo Credit Margarita Ibbott
Dinner was a highlight thanks to a visit to Bar Volo, a cozy restaurant/bar tucked away on St. Nicholas Street (about a 20-minute walk north on Bay). They offer a great selection of Italian beers on tap (who knew?) and a Sicilian twist on carbonara that was delicious. A Great affordable choice, which was undoubtedly a hidden gem worth seeking out.
Amenities & Services
The rooftop indoor pool and hot tub on the 18th floor is a nice attribute (though it feels like it needs a refresh), but the appeal to families is important. Not large enough to do laps, but it does have an outdoor lounge area that, during the summer, would be wonderful. There’s also a fitness center next to it with updated machines and extraordinary city views.
Pool, Hot Tub, & Fitness Centre – Marriott Downtown Toronto Eaton Centre – Photo Credit Margarita Ibbott
The business center is small but serviceable and located just off the lobby. A helpful bonus: there’s a microwave available for guests who want to heat up food before heading back to their rooms.
We used the valet service and found it efficient and friendly. The best part? You’re permitted to leave your car after checkout, which gave us a few extra hours to explore downtown without stress. It’s worth the upcharge — especially in a city where parking can be a hassle. That said, look for Green P Public Parking for the most cost-effective option. Since there are no electric vehicle chargers at the hotel, you will find them at the Green P Parking lots at Dundas Square or Nathan Phillips Square, a block away.
Pets are welcome at the Marriott Downtown Toronto, with a stay fee of $75 CAD and a maximum of two dogs per room.
What Makes the Marriott Downtown Toronto Eaton Centre Stand Out?
Yonge Street -Toronto – Photo Credit Margarita Ibbott
If you’re visiting Toronto and want to be near everything, this Marriott is a smart choice. While the rooms may not be ultra-modern, they’re clean, quiet, and comfortable. Whether you’re in town for shopping, theater, or a festival, this property puts you in the middle of the action. It’s also connected to the PATH system, so during winter months, you can explore much of downtown without stepping outside — a big plus if you’re visiting during a snowstorm or cold snap.
The staff is another highlight. Every interaction we had — from check-in to valet — was friendly, attentive, and professional.
Tip: Ask for a higher-floor room facing City Hall or the courtyard. Avoid rooms that look into the office building directly across — they feel a little exposed and lack privacy.
Rates: Expect to pay $325–$750 CAD per night, though this varies by season and day of the week. Use your Bonvoy points if you have them — it’s a solid redemption option in the heart of Toronto.
Check rates online at Expedia, Booking.com, Agoda, or Hotels.com.
Would I stay again? Absolutely. You’re in the epicenter of it all — and that’s exactly where you want to be.
PIN FOR LATER – Marriott Downtown Toronto Eaton Centre
