For sports fans, there’s nothing more exciting than March Madness. The cooler temps are officially gone, and everyone is spending their time at sports bars with a cold beer in hand and their brackets and bubble teams ready. With the countdown to one of the biggest sports events started, it’s time to think about getting that vacation on the calendar–especially when it comes to your hotel. Rather than run around stressing about getting the perfect accommodations for the world-famous basketball tournament, Hoken is doing the work for you and rounding up your guide to all things March Madness.
The History of March Madness
If you’re a basketball fan, you may already be familiar with the history of March Madness. Hundreds of teams all over the United States fight for a spot in the single-elimination competition in this high-stakes tournament that dates back to the late 1930s. However, it wasn’t universally known until 1982 when a CBS Sports reporter used the term to describe the NCAA competition. The name has stuck since!
The March Madness 2023 Schedule
This year, the games take place around the country, with games in Dayton, Sacramento, Denver, and Greensboro. From there, the winning teams will make their way to Las Vegas, New York, Louisville, and Kansas, before ending in Houston. This means that no matter where you are in the country, there’s a good chance you can catch a game. That’s where Hoken comes in.
We give you the ability to book epic rooms now before demand increases, and prices skyrocket. And if you find out that the team you’ve been rooting for since you were a child doesn’t make the cut, you can sell the room on the Roomfolio marketplace in just a matter of minutes. Who knows, you may even end up making a little extra money too.
Best Hotels To Stay For March Madness 2023
Las Vegas
Wynn Las Vegas
This iconic Vegas staple–owned by famed casino tycoon Steve Wynn–sits right on the strip, giving you easy access to all things Sin City. The plush rooms of the Wynn include floor-to-ceiling windows will killer views and flat-screen TVs, making it hard to want to leave the room. But it’s definitely worth it to check out the two luxe spas, the pools and hot tubs, and the 18-hole golf course. Not to mention the countless gourmet restaurants you can enjoy. Oh, and the game, of course.
The Venetian Resort and Palazzo
Who says you have to take a trip to Italy to experience the culture and delicious food? Stay at The Venetian Resort and Palazzo, and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported halfway across the world. Take a gondola ride down the Grand Canal or do some high-end shopping at one of the many stores on property. Music lovers will also appreciate TAO Nightclub, one of Vegas’s hottest clubs, where you’ll find live music from world-famous DJs and celebrities alike.
Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino
Fans of The Hangover will appreciate a stay at Caesars Palace–one of Vegas’s most well-known landmarks. Originally opened in 1966, the hotel is home to 3,960 rooms and suites split among six towers. It also has a wide variety of restaurants, including Amalfi and Gordon Ramsay’s Pub & Grill. And, of course, we have to mention OMNIA, a 75,000-square-foot seductive nightclub with some of the hottest acts in town. A stay here means you’ll never need to leave.
Dayton
Marriott at the University of Dayton
Dayton has a rich aviation heritage, and the Marriott at the University of Dayton celebrates this by honoring Orville and Wilbur Wright’s first plane design. Located just moments from downtown, this 399-roomed hotel is a comfortable stay that’s close to everything you could need when visiting the city.
Garnet House B&B
We understand that big chain hotels aren’t for everyone. Sometimes you just want something smaller, with a lot more charm. That’s where the Garnet House B&B comes in. Sitting approximately twelve blocks from downtown Dayton, the Victorian home is 2-stories, with classic decor, a quaint patio, and owners who want to do everything in their power to ensure you have a cozy, welcoming stay. Plus, it’s extremely affordable.
Birmingham
Elyton Hotel
It’s not often that you get to stay in a hotel that is as architecturally rich the way that Elyton is. That’s why it’s one of the South’s best-known architectural landmarks. Built in 1909, the 16-story hotel acts as a symbol of Birmingham’s golden era. That’s why it was named after one of the city’s earliest entrepreneurs–to serve as a tribute to the past and a nod to the future. A stay here allows you to be in the heart of the financial district, where you’ll find galleries, unique boutiques, and a culinary scene that is definitely worth trying.
Redmont Hotel Birmingham
As the oldest running hotel in Birmingham–having been built in 1925–the Redmont Hotel is yet another hotel that will have you feeling as if you’ve stepped back in time. Although there are plenty of nods to the past, just like the Elyton, the rooms are contemporary with a hint of luxury. The downtown rooms are within five blocks of the theater district and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. Not to mention that there’s also a rooftop bar where you can enjoy a cocktail and the city skyline.
Drury Inn & Suites Birmingham Grandview
For the best bang for your buck, turn to Drury Inn & Suites. There’s a reason that it’s the number one rated hotel on TripAdvisor, after all. It’s located near I-459 and Highway 280, just 17 minutes from downtown. Enjoy the complimentary breakfast before taking a dip in the indoor and outdoor pool or heading out for a day on the town.
Des Moines
Des Lux
Centrally located downtown, Des Lux offers some of the largest rooms in Des Moines. Some of the rooms and suites even include fireplaces and whirlpools. There’s also complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a 6,000-square-foot fitness center. And the best part is that all of these luxurious amenities that are included don’t come with a hefty price tag, so you won’t break the bank to stay in style.
Surety Hotel
What was once the Hippee building, the Surety Hotel is a Beaux-Arts gem that went from a financial building to one of the hippest hotels in Des Moines. Here you’ll find midcentury decor combined with art deco nods to the hotel’s roots. Kick back and relax at the Mulberry Street Tavern or grab a quick cup of joe at the all-too-cool Surety Lounge Coffee Shop before heading to watch your team move onto the next round.
Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines Downtown
Boasting a central location off the I-35, the Hampton Inn & Suites Des Moines is the perfect no-frills spot for those who want close proximity to the state capitol and Wells Fargo Arena. Each room includes a flat-screen TV, a mini fridge and microwave, and comfortable beds that you’ll love kicking back and relaxing in once the day is over.
Orlando
This award-winning hotel is located in the heart of Orlando, giving you easy access to everything from theme parks to shopping to dining and more. Take advantage of the Florida sunshine in one of the two pools (which feature a water slide and waterfall), or kick back and relax under one of the rentable cabanas. And when it’s time to eat, you can enjoy one of the five full-service restaurants, which include two bars, an Italian steakhouse, a diner, and a grab-and-go market.
Best Western Orlando Gateway Hotel
For those who want to be close to the theme parks and attractions of Orlando but don’t want to pay an arm and a leg to do so, check out the Best Western Orlando Gateway Hotel. It’s minutes from Universal Studios and less than ten miles from Walt Disney World. But it won’t break the bank. With rooms starting at as low as $65, you’ll save money while still being able to enjoy the cable satellite TVs, free high-speed internet, fitness center, laundry, and outdoor heated pool.
Aloft Orlando Downtown
Because Orlando is so well-known for its theme parks, many hotel options are located in that general area. However, if you’re looking to skip out on Disney World and are there solely for the game, you may want a little more peace and quiet. That’s where staying downtown comes in. Aloft Orlando Downtown is further away from the parks but closer to Dr. Phillips Center, the Amway Center, Camping World Stadium, and Orlando City Stadium. The rooms feature ultra-comfortable pillow-top beds, walk-in showers, mini-fridges, and coffee makers. You may end up with a killer view of the city, too.
Louisville
The Brown Hotel
The Brown is arguably one of Louisville’s most famous hotels–and for a reason. Located in downtown Louisville, it’s beloved by guests for its Georgian-Revival exterior and modern-day comfort. That’s why it’s been named the top hotel in Kentucky by Conde Nast and Southern Living. The 294 guest rooms are decorated with mahogany beds, elegant wallpaper, and, of course, the hotel’s signature hand-woven throw. You will feel as if you’ve begun a European vacation from the moment you arrive.
Aloft Louisville Downtown
Perched on the historic Whiskey Row, the Aloft Louisville Downtown has unparalleled access to some of the city’s most popular destinations (think some of Kentucky’s finest bourbon distilleries and the KFC Yum! Center). When you’re not exploring the lively city, you can relax in your spacious, apartment-style guest room that features plush bedding, ample workspaces, and HDTVs.
21c Museum Hotel Louisville
For those who want to stay somewhere unique–and we truly mean unlike anything you’ve ever seen before–stay at the 21c Museum Hotel Louisville. The contemporary art museum doubles as an award-winning 91-room boutique hotel that’s also home to the acclaimed Proof on Main restaurant. With high ceilings and large windows, the spacious rooms feel like an art exhibit themselves.
Final Thoughts
Hoken is the perfect travel companion if you’re heading to March Madness 2023. With us, you can book and/or sell your room to ensure you’re getting the best deal when it comes time to watch your favorite team. Simply visit our “Featured Events” section to find your dream hotel and get it booked months in advance, so you aren’t overpaying.
To get started:
● Visit the website
● Scroll down to the highlighted events area
● Pick the March Madness hotel of your dreams
● Choose the days you’ll stay
● Check out
That’s right–it’s that simple. And if you decide to sell your stay because your team didn’t make it, don’t sweat it. Selling it using the Roomfolio marketplace is just as easy!
