Miami changes fast. One minute a neighborhood is a sleepy office district, and the next, it's the "Manhattan of the South" with skyscrapers so tall they touch the clouds. In the middle of all that noise sits the JW Marriott Miami on Brickell Avenue. Honestly, if you aren't paying attention, you might walk right past it. It’s not the flashy, neon-drenched tower people expect from Miami.
But that's exactly why it matters.
People often confuse this property with its younger, bigger cousin—the JW Marriott Marquis. Don't make that mistake. The Marquis is all about NBA-sized basketball courts and high-tech flair. The original JW Marriott at 1109 Brickell Avenue is different. It’s a seasoned pro. It’s the hotel for people who want to be in the heart of the Financial District without feeling like they’re sleeping in a nightclub.
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The Reality of 1109 Brickell Avenue
Location is everything here. You've got the Metromover right outside, which is basically a free ticket to explore downtown. You’re a short walk from Brickell City Centre. If you need a $20 cocktail or a designer bag, you’re covered.
The hotel itself is 22 stories of classic luxury. It was actually the first JW Marriott built outside of Washington, D.C., which gives it a bit of historical weight in the Marriott portfolio. There are 296 rooms. That sounds like a lot, but it feels surprisingly intimate for a business hotel.
Here is the thing most travelers miss: the "stainless steel" pool.
Located on the 7th floor, it’s not just a place to swim. It’s an architectural choice that reflects the Miami sun in a way that’s actually quite striking. It’s a "rooftop city oasis" that feels tucked away from the frantic energy of the streets below. While everyone else is fighting for a spot at a South Beach pool club, you’re up here with a view of the skyline and some actual peace and quiet.
Rooms, Suites, and the "Mildew" Rumor
Let's get real for a second. If you look at recent reviews from late 2025 and early 2026, you’ll see a divide. Some people swear by the service—shoutout to the concierge staff who seem to know every back alley in Miami—while others complain about the age of the rooms.
It’s true that the hotel was built in 2000 and had its last major overhaul around 2013. In Miami years, that’s a lifetime.
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- The "Inspired" Rooms: These are the ones you want. They’re updated and feel much more in line with 2026 standards.
- The Traditional Rooms: These can feel a bit "old school" corporate. If you’re sensitive to that "Florida humidity" smell, always ask for a room on a higher floor or one that has been recently refreshed.
- The View Factor: Rooms facing the bay offer a glimpse of the water between the newer skyscrapers, but the city view is actually better if you like watching the lights of the Financial District at night.
Honestly, the soundproofing is better than most of the newer glass towers. You’re on Brickell Avenue, which is a cacophony of Ferraris and construction. Inside? Mostly silence.
Dining Without Leaving the Lobby
You don't stay at a JW just for the bed. You stay for the convenience.
Drake’s Bar is a weirdly charming British-style pub right in the middle of Miami. It feels like a time capsule. It’s dark, wood-paneled, and serves a solid Scotch. It’s where the local bankers go to hide after a rough day on the markets.
Then there’s La Terraza Cafe & Bar. It’s more "Miami"—al fresco dining overlooking Brickell Avenue. It’s great for people-watching while you eat a Mediterranean salad. For breakfast, you’ve got Isabela’s. It’s bright, filled with light, and serves a buffet that actually justifies the price tag if you’re planning to skip lunch.
Why Business Travelers Keep Coming Back
With 25,000 square feet of meeting space, this place is a machine during the work week. It has 18 meeting rooms, including a Grand Ballroom that can hold 1,000 people.
But it’s the little things. The 24-hour business center actually works. The Wi-Fi is fast enough for a 4K video call without lag. The staff understands that when you say you need a 4:00 PM checkout because your flight to London is delayed, you aren’t asking for a favor—you’re asking for a solution.
What to Do Before You Check In
If you’re heading to the JW Marriott Miami on Brickell Avenue, do these three things to ensure you actually enjoy the stay:
- Join Marriott Bonvoy (for real): This hotel is known for being strict with late checkouts for non-members. Even Silver or Gold status can be the difference between a noon exit and a 2:00 PM grace period.
- Request a North-Facing Room: The south side of the building is getting crowded with new construction. The north side generally offers a more expansive view of the skyline toward the Miami River.
- Check the Event Calendar: If there’s a massive conference in the Grand Ballroom, the lobby can get hectic. If you want quiet, check if your dates align with major local events like Art Basel or the Boat Show.
Brickell isn't just for business anymore. It’s a lifestyle. And while the JW Marriott might be one of the "older" kids on the block, it still knows how to handle the Miami heat better than most.
Practical Next Steps:
Check the Marriott Bonvoy app for "Inspired Suite" availability rather than standard king rooms to ensure a modernized experience. If you're arriving from Miami International Airport (MIA), skip the rental car; the hotel is a 15-minute Uber ride away, and valet parking in Brickell is notoriously expensive and slow across the entire district.