AC Hotel Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront

For those searching on "Hotels Near Of Me" with a desire for a modern, sleek, and centrally located experience in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the AC Hotel Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront presents a compelling option. Situated at 299 Vaughan St, this hotel merges a contemporary urban vibe with its seaside heritage, offering a stylish and amenity-rich stay in the heart of the city.

The AC Hotel Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront boasts a highly desirable location, making it "very walkable" to Market Square and the rest of the downtown area. This prime positioning means guests are just steps away from Portsmouth's bustling waterfront, charming historic streets, and a vast array of "adorable shopping locations, and restaurants." Landmarks such as Strawbery Banke Museum, Prescott Park, The Music Hall, and Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club are all within easy walking distance. Select rooms offer "scenic vistas of the Piscataqua River and Old Harbor," enhancing the quintessential Portsmouth experience. Despite its central location, guests have noted that the hotel is "not close enough that it was noisy," providing a comfortable balance of accessibility and tranquility. The hotel's unique design incorporates elements that pay homage to its seaside location, offering a refreshed perspective on the historic city.

The AC Hotel, a Marriott Bonvoy brand, focuses on providing a streamlined and efficient experience with a European-inspired aesthetic. The staff are frequently described as "friendly and helpful," striving to ensure a positive stay. The hotel operates a 24-hour front desk to assist guests at any time. Valet parking is available for a daily fee, including EV charging, which is a convenient service in a downtown area where parking can be challenging. For those preferring alternatives, street parking is often plentiful and free during certain hours, and the ParkMobile app can be used for paid periods, as highlighted by a savvy guest.

The hotel offers a comprehensive suite of amenities designed for both relaxation and productivity:

• Stylish Rooms and Suites: The rooms are consistently described as "beautiful" and "modern and clean," offering a contemporary design with comfort in mind. While some guests have noted that the mattresses can be "very firm," the overall quality and aesthetic are highly praised. Rooms include amenities such as flat-screen TVs with premium channels, refrigerators, coffee/tea makers, in-room safes, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Hypo-allergenic bedding is also available.

• Dining Experiences: The hotel features multiple on-site dining options:

  • AC Kitchen: Offers a "European-inspired breakfast" (available for a fee) with fresh-baked croissants, Spanish egg tarts, Iberico prosciutto, cheese, fresh fruit, and barista coffee. Guests describe the breakfast as "fabulous with different options" and "delicious."

  • AC Lounge: A lobby bar serving tapas, local craft beers, and signature cocktails, providing a sophisticated space for evening relaxation and "enjoyable in-house evening entertainment."

  • Rooftop at The Envio: A standout feature, this "European inspired lounge and rooftop restaurant" offers "stunning water views," "signature hand crafted cocktails, local craft beers, and local seasonal eclectic cuisine." It's a "trendy progressive atmosphere" and a "fun rooftop bar/restaurant," providing a memorable dining and social experience.

• Fitness Center: A "24-hour gym" that is "clean and had a lot of great equipment," including cardio machines and free weights, allowing guests to maintain their fitness routines.

• Lobby Amenities: The lobby area is inviting, featuring a gas fireplace, comfortable seating, and "coffee by the lobby bar each morning," along with "water and sometimes hot chocolate in the same area during the day." Guests also appreciate thoughtful touches like free lavender sachets.

• Meeting and Event Spaces: The hotel boasts over "8,000 sq ft of versatile meeting space," including a 4,390-square-foot ballroom that can host up to 300 guests, making it a "premier wedding destination" and suitable for conferences and special events.

• Pet-Friendly: The AC Hotel welcomes pets, with a non-refundable pet fee per stay and certain weight and number limits, making it a convenient option for travelers with animal companions.

The AC Hotel Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront distinguishes itself through its sleek, modern design that is infused with European sensibility and local influences. The "beautiful" rooms and common areas reflect a commitment to contemporary aesthetics. The "Rooftop at The Envio" is arguably the hotel's signature feature, offering not just exceptional food and drink but also panoramic water views, creating a dynamic and desirable social hub. The integration of local art and design elements throughout the property further enhances the guest experience.

The hotel is designed to create a sense of community and sophistication within its spaces, from the inviting lobby with its fireplace to the bustling rooftop. This focus on curated experiences, rather than just functional accommodation, appeals to travelers seeking an elevated stay. The hotel is also committed to providing accessibility features, with wheelchair-accessible units and various in-room accessibility options.

The AC Hotel Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront generally receives very positive reviews, particularly for its "great location," "cleanliness," and "friendly and helpful" staff. Many guests highlight it as a "super nice hotel" and appreciate the "modern" facilities. The rooftop bar is a consistent favorite. While some guests have noted issues with very firm mattresses or the high cost of valet parking, these are often outweighed by the overall positive experience and the hotel's prime location.

It is important to note the specific incident described in one review regarding a plumbing malfunction and the subsequent handling of the situation. While accidents can occur, prospective guests should be aware of such feedback regarding service recovery. However, this appears to be an isolated and extreme event not reflective of the majority of reviews which praise the hotel's service.

For individuals or groups searching "Hotels Near Of Me" in Portsmouth who value a modern aesthetic, vibrant on-site dining and social spaces, and excellent walkability to city attractions, the AC Hotel Portsmouth Downtown/Waterfront is a strong contender. The hotel’s phone numbers, (603) 427-0152 and +1 603-427-0152, are available for direct inquiries and reservations. Given the popularity of its rooftop bar and its prime location, booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak seasons or for specific events.