Marriott Hits a Century of City Express Hotel Signings Across U.S. and Canada

Marriott’s City Express Brand Expansion in North America

Marriott International has recently achieved a significant milestone by signing 100 agreements for its City Express by Marriott hotels in the U.S. and Canada. This was reached just over a year after the brand’s launch in these markets. With several properties already operational in 2025 and more planned to open by year’s end, the City Express portfolio is rapidly expanding, addressing a growing demand in the midscale accommodation sector.

City Express by Marriott caters to budget-savvy travelers seeking streamlined, dependable stays. Typically, these properties provide modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, high-speed internet, and amenities tailored for both leisure and business guests. Owners appreciate the brand’s quick market entry model and the opportunity to integrate with Marriott’s renowned loyalty program, Marriott Bonvoy.

Key Locations for New City Express Properties

The brand’s recent signings highlight strategic placements in well-connected areas:

• Kissimmee, Florida: Near Orlando’s entertainment attractions, this 197-room hotel offers ease of access for leisure travelers.
• Dulles, Virginia: Adjacent to Dulles Airport and under an hour from Washington, D.C., this 90-room hotel will be fully renovated before joining the City Express brand.
• Amarillo, Texas: A 73-room hotel serving regional visitors and road-trippers passing through the Texas Panhandle.
• Sandusky, Ohio: With 50 guestrooms, this hotel is near Lake Erie and family-friendly attractions like water parks and amusement areas.
• Carson City, Nevada: An 86-room property positioned to serve both business professionals and tourists visiting the state capital.

A Glimpse into City Express by Marriott’s Global Reach

Originally rooted in the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA) region, City Express by Marriott has broadened its horizons beyond these territories. The brand has also signed agreements for new properties in the Asia Pacific, excluding China, with plans in cities like Osaka, Japan. This strategic growth reflects Marriott’s mission to scale regional brands for global audiences.

What Sets City Express Apart?

Focused on efficiency and value, City Express properties compete in the midscale market by offering essential comforts that travelers prioritize without unnecessary frills. This appeals especially to those who look for modern accommodations with easy access to local points of interest, whether traveling for business or pleasure.

Historical Context of Marriott’s Growth

Marriott International stands as one of the world’s largest hotel operators, underpinned by decades of growth from a humble start as a root beer stand in 1927. The company quickly expanded into family dining and then motel operations, becoming a powerhouse in the food and lodging industry. Today, Marriott operates thousands of properties globally with a workforce in the hundreds of thousands, serving millions of guests annually.

Growth strategies have consistently included acquiring and developing brands that fill niche markets and geographic gaps. City Express represents Marriott’s push into the midscale segment in diverse regions, building on a legacy of delivering reliable hospitality with a global network and loyalty incentives.

Implications for the Travel and Tourism Industry

The surge in City Express openings points to a robust demand for accessible accommodations that balance quality and affordability. This trend is notable in the U.S. and Canada, where travelers often seek options that combine connectivity, value, and modern amenities.

For tourism at large, particularly in coastal and lakeside destinations, expanding midscale brands can boost visitor numbers by making stays more economically attractive. Resorts and seaside towns may see increased foot traffic as travelers choose reliable, well-branded hotels as their base for local explorations.

Table: City Express by Marriott Expansion Highlights for 2025

Looking Ahead: The Role of Midscale Hotel Growth in International Tourism

The expansion of brands like City Express signals a shift towards more versatile and budget-friendly accommodation in key markets. As more travelers seek balance between cost and comfort, the presence of such hotels could shape travel patterns, encouraging longer stays or repeat visits.

Although City Express primarily targets urban and well-connected areas, the ripple effect in tourism is tangible. For regions combining beaches, lakes, or popular tourist draws, having accessible hotels enhances visitor options and diversifies the appeal. This is particularly relevant for destinations with vibrant boating and sailing cultures, where travelers may pair hotel stays with coastal or waterfront activities.

Benefits for Boating and Sailing Destinations

• More midscale hotels near marinas and waterfronts can draw sailing enthusiasts who prefer affordable, reliable accommodations.
• Family-friendly properties close to lakes and seaside attractions support multi-generational trips that include water-related leisure pursuits.
• Business travelers attending maritime events or sailing conferences gain access to convenient lodging near ports and harbors.

Wrap-Up: A Bright Horizon for Hospitality and Recreation

Marriott’s milestone of 100 City Express signings in the U.S. and Canada reflects a growing appetite for well-positioned, midscale hotels that address the needs of diverse travelers. With properties opening in leisure hotspots and transit hubs alike, City Express is carving out a vital segment in the hospitality market, offering quality and value that resonate with today’s traveler.

For destinations popular in the yachting and boating community, the emergence of such hotels means improved accommodation choices for sailing enthusiasts, captains, and guests alike. Enhanced lodging options contribute to richer travel experiences by supporting nearby activities on the sea, lakes, and gulf areas.

To explore these expanding hotel opportunities alongside a wide selection of yachts and sailing boats for rent, consider visiting GetBoat.com, the international marketplace offering a comprehensive array of boat charters tailored to every taste and budget. Whether planning a coastal adventure or a serene lake getaway, combining a midscale hotel stay with access to boats and water activities creates unforgettable moments on the water and ashore.