Are you stuck choosing between TownePlace Suites and Fairfield Inn for your next trip? As two of Marriott’s most popular hotel brands, both offer comfortable accommodations but cater to slightly different traveler needs.
In this guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at the key differences between TownePlace Suites and Fairfield Inn. We’ll compare everything from room amenities and free breakfast offerings to pet policies and typical nightly rates.
By the end, you’ll have all the information needed to decide which Marriott hotel brand better suits your travel style and budget. Let’s dive in!
Overview of TownePlace Suites and Fairfield Inn
What are TownePlace Suites?
TownePlace Suites is an extended-stay hotel brand part of the Marriott family. TownePlace hotels feature residential-style suites with full kitchens, living areas with pullout sofas, and separate bedrooms.
Other TownePlace amenities include:
– Free breakfast (grab-and-go style)
– Free Wi-Fi
– Fitness room
– Outdoor pool (at some locations)
– Pet-friendly rooms
– On-site laundry facilities
– 24/7 staffing
TownePlace Suites markets itself towards families, long-term travelers, and anyone needing the extra space and kitchen amenities of suites.
What is Fairfield Inn?
Fairfield Inn is Marriott’s limited-service hotel brand for short-term stays. Rooms are traditionally smaller than suites but still provide essential amenities like:
– Free hot breakfast
– Fitness center
– Indoor pool (at most locations)
– Workstations in rooms
– Free Wi-Fi
– 24/7 staffing
Fairfield Inns have a simpler design and fewer frills than other Marriott brands. However, they are consistent quality hotels perfect for business travelers and those taking short vacations.
Head-to-Head Comparison of TownePlace Suites vs Fairfield Inn
Now that we’ve covered a quick overview, let’s compare TownePlace Suites and Fairfield Inn head-to-head in key areas:
Room Size and Amenities
TownePlace Suites has a clear advantage here with larger suites that have separate living/sleeping areas and full kitchens. Fairfield Inn rooms are smaller with just a sleeping area and bathroom.
Free Breakfast
While both offer free breakfast, Fairfield Inn gets the edge with a hot breakfast including eggs, meat, waffles and more. TownePlace just offers grab-and-go items like muffins and granola bars.
Fitness Centers and Pools
You’ll find fitness centers at both hotel brands. However, Fairfield Inns are more likely to have an indoor pool while TownePlace Suites favor outdoor pools (or no pool at all).
Pet Policies
Both are pet-friendly hotels, but Fairfield Inn charges pet fees around $75-100 while TownePlace Suites just charges a $75 fee for 1-6 nights or $150 for 7+ nights.
Typical Nightly Rates
TownePlace Suites is usually the more affordable option, especially for longer stays of 5+ nights. Rates can be $20-50 less per night compared to Fairfield.
Best For Families vs Business
With the extra living space, kitchens, and low rates, TownePlace Suites is better suited for families taking longer trips. While business travelers may prefer the consistent rooms and free hot breakfast at Fairfield.
Pros and Cons of Staying at TownePlace Suites
Pros of TownePlace Suites
– Spacious suites with separate living/sleeping areas
– Full kitchens in every suite
– Lower nightly rates, especially for longer stays
– Free breakfast included
– Pet-friendly rooms with reasonable fees
Cons of TownePlace Suites
– Exterior entrance rooms (like motels)
– Breakfast is just grab-and-go items
– Some older properties feel dated
– Limited amenities like no room service or restaurants
Pros and Cons of Staying at Fairfield Inn
Pros of Fairfield Inn
– Consistent room quality across all properties
– Free hot breakfast with more variety
– Interior entrance rooms (not exterior like motels)
– On-site small markets/convenience stores
– More modern room decor
Cons of Fairfield Inn
– Smaller standard rooms
– No kitchens or kitchenettes in rooms
– Higher nightly rates
– Pet fees are steeper ($75-100)
What Do Travelers Say?
One of the best ways to get an unbiased take is to check online reviews from fellow travelers. Here are some real reviews from Reddit comparing the two:
“I’ve stayed at both TownePlace and Fairfield locations. For me, the deciding factor is always the room type I need. If I’m just doing a day or two, I’ll go to Fairfield for the free hot breakfast. But for longer stays of 5+ nights, I pick TownePlace Suites for the kitchens and separate living/sleeping areas.”
“The Fairfield Inn breakfast is definitely better than the TownePlace Suites grab-and-go, but I don’t mind the trade-off for bigger suites and a kitchen, especially when traveling with kids.”
“The downsides to TownePlace are some of the properties can feel pretty old and dated. So I’d recommend checking recent reviews before booking a specific location. I’ve had great stays at brand new TownePlace hotels.”
“For business travel, I prefer Fairfield over TownePlace just because I don’t really need a full kitchen. The rooms are nice and always reliable at Fairfields.”
Our Recommendation Based on Your Travel Needs
So which Marriott brand should you choose – TownePlace Suites or Fairfield Inn? Here are our recommendations based on different travel situations:
Best for Families: TownePlace Suites. The extra living space, kitchens, and lower pricing makes TownePlace a smart pick for families, especially for trips over 5 nights.
Best for Business Travel: Fairfield Inn. The streamlined rooms, free hot breakfast, and consistency across properties make Fairfield Inn ideal for solo business travelers.
Best for Extended Stays: TownePlace Suites. With kitchens and separate living areas, TownePlace is hands-down the better choice for extended stays of a week or more.
Best Overall Value: TownePlace Suites. While Fairfield may have newer decor and better amenities, TownePlace offers unbeatable value through low nightly rates and suite-style accommodations.
Tips for Getting the Best Rates
No matter which brand you choose, be sure to take advantage of these tips for saving money:
– Join the Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program: Members get the lowest rates, free nights, and other perks.
– Book in Advance: Rates are cheaper the further out you reserve. Don’t wait until the last minute.
– Stack Deals and Promotions: Check for discounts like AAA, senior, government, and any current promotions like free night offers.
– Use Marriott’s Best Rate Guarantee: If you find a lower rate elsewhere, Marriott will match it and provide additional discounts or points.
The Verdict: TownePlace Suites vs Fairfield Inn
Ultimately, you can’t go too wrong with either TownePlace Suites or Fairfield Inn as both provide comfortable, affordable accommodation and solid amenities.
For many travelers, the decision may come down to how much living space you need and whether you’ll utilize a full kitchen or not. Fairfield Inn is perfect for those needing basic, no-frills lodging. While TownePlace Suites’ residential-style suites and kitchens cater better to families and extended stays.
No matter which brand you choose, be sure to take advantage of Marriott Bonvoy rewards, promotions, and smart booking tips to get the very best deal!
What’s your preferred hotel brand between TownePlace Suites and Fairfield Inn? Let me know in the comments below!