Residence Inn Clearwater Downtown

Bold patterns and modern decor transform this hotel's public spaces from a cookie-cutter chain to a more boutique-looking property. The lobby is spacious and unfurls into the check-in area with a seating section and a large glass water wall. Abstract artwork that looks like computer screen savers adorns the walls. It's modern and fresh, but there's not much to indicate that the beach is nearby. A mod geometric design continues into the hotel's hallways, with bright patterns leading down clean dark carpets. The hotel sees a mix of business and leisure travelers, partially because of its proximity to St. Pete-Clearwater Airport (20 minutes away) and the Tampa Airport (30 minutes away). It's also a popular choice among extended stay travelers, due to its suite-style rooms.

The "downtown" in the name may be a bit misleading; this hotel is in a quasi-residential area, right on Route 60. On one side of the property there's a neighborhood of homes, on the other, a sun-baked pedestrian path runs along an open grass lawn past some nearby low-rise buildings. Even though the area is not urban in style, there are numerous restaurants within a five-minute drive from the hotel. Also nearby: a selection of supermarkets, which pairs well with the full kitchens and extended-stay offerings. The hotel is a 20-minute drive from St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport and 30 minutes by car from Tampa, so business travelers use it as a base. It's also about a 10-minute drive from Clearwater Beach, and two blocks from the Jolly Trolley shuttle to the beach. Leisure travelers can find a number of other beaches nearby, including Indian Rocks Beach and Madeira, about a 20-minute drive south.

The hotel's spacious rooms are equipped nicely for extended stay guests. Each unit is decorated similarly with a contemporary business-chic style. But there isn't a lot of Florida atmosphere here. Travelers looking for a stronger beach vibe should consider staying in Clearwater Beach, where hotels have more local-style decor.

All rooms come with open kitchens that have granite countertops, stainless steel appliances (including a full fridge, stove, and microwave), and dishwashers. There's a small table for two between the kitchen and the sitting area. The rest of the room extends from the kitchen: There's a desk and a sitting area around a coffee table and TV. Furniture, including a couch and upholstered chair, are set in neutral tones, as is most of the suite's decor. In each One-Bedroom Suite, the bathroom and bedroom are set off the main room and separated by a vanity and sink. The toilet and shower are separate from this sink area in a small, charcoal-walled room that's better suited for convenience than luxury. The bedroom has a large, plush bed, plus another TV and a closet (complete with ironing board). Two-Bedroom Suites are nearly identical to the one-bedroom units (down to the artwork), but the dining table seats four and each bedroom has its own attached bathroom. Note: The top floors are quieter and have views of the surrounding area.

It might initially sound out of place in sunny Florida, but the hotel's outdoor fire pit is one of its most popular features. It's part of the hotel's efforts to add a social element to guests' stays, as many travelers come here for business. Along those lines, the hotel hosts activities for guests throughout the week, including happy hour with free drinks and snacks, a weekly BBQ, and visits from local food trucks or restaurants.

Near the fire pit are umbrella-shaded tables, chairs, and a stainless steel BBQ for guests to use. The unadorned rectangular pool is surrounded by chaise lounges. It's separated from the fire pit and grilling area by a gate.

The hotel's free daily buffet breakfast is more robust than many continental breakfasts, with a varied menu of hot and cold dishes. There's a large breakfast room on the main floor, with tables to accommodate groups from one to six people. Guests who prefer to eat in their rooms can use the hotel's dinner delivery service and order from local restaurants. There's a 24-hour fitness room with two treadmills, a bike, an elliptical machine (all with individual TVs) and equipment like weights, yoga mats and balance balls. The room is spacious, and floor-to-ceiling mirrors on one wall make the space feel even larger. The business center is along one wall of the lobby and has two computers and a printer. Free Wi-Fi is available for all guests. The guest laundry is coin operated and has seven machines. A small "market" room off the lobby sells snacks and drinks.