Riviera Hotel

For individuals and families seeking a pragmatic and accessible accommodation option when searching for "Hotels Near Me" in Newark, New Jersey, the Riviera Hotel presents itself as a functional choice. Located at 169 Clinton Ave, Newark, NJ 07108, USA, this 2-star hotel offers a straightforward stay with essential amenities. You can reach them at (973) 824-6000 or via mobile at +1 973-824-6000.

The Riviera Hotel is situated in Newark, approximately 10 minutes' drive from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and about 2 miles from the bustling city center. While some online reviews note that the surrounding area can appear "strange" or "dangerous," it is important to acknowledge the hotel's role in providing accommodation, including for transient individuals. The hotel's history includes a period where it was purchased by Father Devine in 1949 and desegregated, reflecting a past of adapting to community needs. It is currently recognized for its efforts in providing temporary emergency housing, with space for a significant number of residents without permanent addresses, working to enforce sanitary and safety conditions in these situations. This context suggests that the hotel prioritizes providing shelter and basic amenities to a diverse clientele, which may include those in challenging circumstances. For travelers seeking a low-cost, no-frills option, especially those with immediate or urgent accommodation needs, the Riviera Hotel can be a solution.

The environment of the Riviera Hotel is best described as practical and no-nonsense. It is an older building that has been adapted to meet its current purpose. While it may not offer the aesthetic luxuries of higher-end hotels, it aims to provide fundamental comfort and shelter.

• Building Structure: The hotel is an eight-story brick building. While the exterior might show signs of age, the interior focuses on functionality.

• Lobby and Common Areas: The lobby serves as a waiting area, and some reviews highlight the presence of a bulletproof front desk, suggesting a focus on security. A shared lounge/TV area is available for guests to unwind.

• Room Setup: Rooms feature hardwood floors and a sitting area. While not luxurious, they are designed to be comfortable and provide a basic place to rest.

• Location Accessibility: The hotel's proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport (approximately 1.9 miles) and major transport hubs like Newark Penn Station (about 1 mile away, offering train access to Manhattan) makes it a convenient option for travelers. It's also close to landmarks such as the Newark Symphony Hall and City Without Walls Gallery, and a 5-minute drive from the Prudential Center and New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

• Parking: Self-parking is available on-site, though it is subject to charges (around $7.00 per day) and may involve navigating a tight entry to the parking lot behind the building.

The services at the Riviera Hotel are geared towards meeting basic guest needs efficiently. While not extensive, they cover key aspects of a hotel stay.

• 24-Hour Front Desk: The hotel offers a 24-hour reception, providing assistance at any time, as evidenced by the customer review where the staff accommodated a late-night arrival.

• Express Check-in/Check-out: For a smoother process, express check-in and check-out features are available. Standard check-in is from 2:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:30 AM.

• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the hotel, allowing guests to stay connected.

• Room Service: Guests have the option to order room service.

• Business Center: A 24-hour business center is provided for guests needing to work or access computer facilities.

• Luggage Storage: Luggage storage is available for guests who need to store their belongings before check-in or after check-out.

• Concierge Services: A concierge is available to assist guests with information or arrangements.

• Fitness Center: The hotel offers a fitness center for guests who wish to maintain their exercise routine.

• On-site Store: There is an on-site store for convenience, though specifics on its offerings are limited.

• Fax and Photocopying Services: These services are available for guest use, catering to business or administrative needs.

• Housekeeping: Daily housekeeping is provided to ensure room cleanliness.

The Riviera Hotel's features are designed to provide a straightforward and comfortable stay, focusing on functionality over luxury.

• Guest Rooms: The hotel offers 205-208 well-appointed rooms, including options with one or two queen beds. Rooms typically include a refrigerator, flat-screen TV with premium channels, and blackout drapes/curtains.

• Private Bathrooms: Each room has a private bathroom with a shower/tub combination, complimentary toiletries, and a hair dryer (upon request).

• Air Conditioning/Heating: Rooms are equipped with air conditioning and heating for guest comfort.

• Coffee Shop/Café: There is an on-site coffee shop/café where guests can purchase cooked-to-order breakfasts for a fee (approximately $4-$7 per person), served daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.

• Meeting Rooms: The hotel provides meeting facilities for various gatherings.

• Designated Smoking Areas: For guests who smoke, designated smoking areas are available.

The Riviera Hotel's appeal often lies in its competitive pricing and its readiness to provide accommodation in a practical manner, especially for those in need.

• Affordable Accommodation: Compared to other 2-star hotels in Newark, the Riviera Hotel is often cited as a more affordable option, making it suitable for budget-conscious travelers.

• Support for Transient Guests: As highlighted in customer reviews and local news, the hotel plays a role in housing transient individuals and those needing temporary emergency shelter. This highlights a commitment to providing a place to stay, which can be invaluable in challenging situations.

• Convenient Location for Airport Access: Its close proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport makes it a practical choice for layovers or early morning flights, offering a convenient stopover.

• Accessibility to Public Transportation: Being near Newark Penn Station allows for easy access to regional train services, including routes to Manhattan, which is beneficial for guests looking to explore beyond Newark.

• Basic Needs Met: The hotel focuses on providing fundamental necessities such as a place to sleep, a private bathroom, and internet access, ensuring a functional stay for guests whose primary need is simple lodging.

In conclusion, for local users searching for "Hotels Near Me" in Newark, NJ, the Riviera Hotel stands as a utilitarian choice. It may not offer luxury, but it provides essential services and accommodations, particularly for those prioritizing affordability and accessibility to transit and the airport. Its role in the community, including assisting transient populations, speaks to its foundational purpose of providing shelter. While potential guests should be aware of its functional nature and the feedback regarding the surrounding area, the Riviera Hotel serves as a pragmatic solution for a straightforward stay in Newark.