Curtiss Hotel

For local users seeking an unparalleled lodging experience in the "Hotels Near Of Me" category, the Curtiss Hotel stands as Buffalo's distinguished 5-star boutique hotel. Located at 210 Franklin St, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA, and readily accessible by phone at (716) 954-4900 or mobile at +1 716-954-4900, the Curtiss Hotel, an Ascend Hotel Collection member, promises a blend of historic grandeur, ultra-modern luxury, and unique amenities.

The Curtiss Hotel is nestled within the meticulously renovated historic Harlow C. Curtiss building, a landmark dating back to 1913. This transformation has preserved its ornate architecture while infusing it with contemporary sophistication, creating an environment that is both opulent and welcoming. The hotel's prime location in downtown Buffalo offers guests immediate access to the city's vibrant cultural and entertainment scene. It is within a short walking distance of key attractions such as Shea's Performing Arts Center (a 3-minute walk), the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center (0.3 km away), and numerous downtown restaurants, bars, and shops. Its proximity to public transportation, with Fountain Plaza Station (0.4 km away) and Lafayette Square Station (0.4 km away) just a few minutes away, makes exploring the wider city effortlessly convenient.

Beyond its urban surroundings, the Curtiss Hotel distinguishes itself with several unique on-site features that enhance its environment. The VUE Rooftop Lounge, open year-round, provides breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Buffalo, Lake Erie, and even the Canadian shoreline, offering a spectacular setting for cocktails and social gatherings, complete with fire pits and heated enclosed bar areas. Another standout feature is the "Urban Hot Springs," an oversized, mineral-infused hot tub heated to 102 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius), offering a year-round outdoor relaxation experience that feels like a tranquil oasis amidst the city buzz. While generally praised, one past guest noted some green algae-like buildup in the hot springs, suggesting a need for more consistent deep cleaning, though this did not significantly detract from their overall positive experience. The hotel also features a grand entrance and a stylish lobby, contributing to an overall sense of luxury from the moment guests arrive.

The service at the Curtiss Hotel is a consistent highlight for many guests. The staff are frequently described as "friendly and attentive," "polite and helpful," making guests feel welcome from check-in to check-out. The hotel operates a 24-hour front desk, ensuring that assistance and information are always available.

A complimentary continental breakfast is offered daily from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM. While some reviews mention issues with the breakfast quality, such as lack of milk or spoons, hard pastries, stale granola bars, and a slow toaster, others still consider it a valuable inclusion. The hotel also hosts a free daily manager's reception, providing an opportunity for guests to socialize.

Other notable services include:

• Complimentary self-parking and valet parking, a significant perk in a downtown location.
• Complimentary wired and wireless internet access available in both public areas and guest rooms.
• A full-service Harlow Spa offering deep-tissue, hot stone, and Swedish massages, as well as HydraFacial treatments (open daily by appointment). Guests staying at the hotel have complimentary access to the gym and hot springs area from 3 PM on arrival day until 11 AM on departure day.
• A 24-hour fitness center (powered by G&G Fitness).
• 24-hour business center and meeting rooms, including two private dining rooms for events.
• Concierge services, luggage storage, and express check-in/check-out.
• Laundry facilities and dry cleaning/laundry services.
• Multilingual staff (English and Spanish are spoken).
• Hair salon and gift shop/newsstand on site.
• Wedding services are available, with the hotel offering luxurious spaces for events.

The Curtiss Hotel boasts 68 individually furnished and decorated ultra-luxurious, high-tech rooms spread across 8 levels. Each room is designed to provide a sophisticated and comfortable stay, featuring:

• Pillowtop beds with Frette Italian sheets and premium bedding. While generally comfortable, one review noted an "uncomfortable" and "uneven" bed, indicating this might be an occasional issue.
• High-tech enhancements, including an iPad-type control at the bedside for various room functions, Toto toilets, and programmable steam/aromatherapy showers in some suites.
• LED televisions with premium digital channels and pay movies.
• Complimentary wired and wireless internet access, along with iPod docking stations.
• In-room refrigerators and coffee/tea makers, plus free bottled water and a minibar with some complimentary items. Microwaves can be requested.
• Private bathrooms are particularly lauded, often described as "amazing," featuring rainfall showerheads, bathrobes, designer toiletries, and bidets.
• Air conditioning and heating for climate control.
• Laptop-compatible safes for security.
• Connecting/adjoining rooms are available for families or groups.
• Highchairs and travel cots (cribs) are available, and up to two children under 17 can stay free when using existing beds.

Dining options at the Curtiss Hotel are a significant draw. Chez Ami Restaurant, a 200-plus seat casual upscale American cuisine restaurant, features Western New York's only revolving bar and year-round patio seating along West Huron Street. It serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and light fare, with happy hour specials and a children's menu. The VUE Rooftop Lounge also offers American cuisine for brunch, lunch, dinner, and light fare, with a bar and happy hour. Buffalo Chophouse, another on-site fine-dining restaurant, specializes in local cuisine and serves dinner only.

As part of the Ascend Hotel Collection, the Curtiss Hotel participates in the Choice Privileges loyalty program, allowing guests to earn points and access member-exclusive rates and offers. It's always advisable to check the official Curtiss Hotel website or contact them directly at (716) 954-4900 for the most current promotional packages. They offer a "Buffalo Staycation Package," which includes a one-night stay, dinner at Chez Ami, unlimited use of the Urban Hot Springs, 24-hour fitness center access, a gift certificate for Buffalo Chophouse, and free parking, with special pricing for Sunday-Thursday and Friday night stays. This package is available through the end of April 2025 and requires direct booking by phone. Suite upgrades with air jet aroma tubs or steam showers are also available for a small additional charge.

Important considerations for prospective guests, based on customer feedback, include:

• Breakfast Quality: While complimentary, the continental breakfast has received mixed reviews regarding its variety and availability of items.
• Bed Comfort: One review mentioned an uncomfortable and uneven bed, which could be a concern for some travelers.
• Hot Springs Maintenance: While generally well-received, a note about algae buildup suggests that the hot springs may occasionally require more thorough cleaning. Guests under 16 years old are only allowed in the hot springs with adult supervision, and guests under 18 years old are not allowed in the spa area. The hot springs are open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
• Check-in/Check-out: Check-in is at 3:00 PM and check-out is at 11:00 AM. Minimum check-in age is 21. Early check-in and late check-out may be available for a fee.
• Pets: Pets are not allowed, with the exception of service animals.
• Damage Deposit: A damage deposit of USD 150 per stay is collected by credit card upon arrival.
• Noise: While not as frequently mentioned as some other hotels, some guests have noted potential noise disturbances, so it's advisable to inquire about potential noise levels, especially during events.

In conclusion, the Curtiss Hotel offers a genuinely luxurious and distinctive experience in downtown Buffalo. Its unique combination of historic elegance, high-tech amenities, an outdoor Urban Hot Springs, and a vibrant rooftop lounge makes it a compelling choice within the "Hotels Near Of Me" category. While minor issues like breakfast consistency or hot springs maintenance have been noted, the overwhelming sentiment from guests highlights exceptional staff, clean and modern rooms, and a truly memorable stay. It is highly recommended for those seeking a premium and amenity-rich hotel experience in Buffalo.