Omni Hotel at CNN Center050

Although it's known as a business hotel, families have plenty to love about the Omni Hotel at CNN Center, right in the middle of the downtown action. Connected to the Georgia World Congress Center, the 1,067-room hotel, spread across two towers, pays plenty of special attention to little travelers. The hotel has a Sensational Kids' Program that serves up lots of goodies. Upon arrival little guests receive a bag filled with treats to stimulate all the senses, including a kaleidoscope, a kazoo, jacks, a scented bracelet, and candy. (The sensory experiences can be fun for young explorers to continue throughout the hotel; near each elevator is a small water feature that makes getting off more attractive than staying to play with the buttons!) A kids' cup given at check-in can be filled up with beverages at all Omni restaurants and snack bars (all have selections for kids) during a stay. Other little person perks include cable television and Nintendo 64 in each room, and milk and cookies at turndown. For quiet times, check out a suitcase at the front desk filled with books, games, and other fun activities. The staff is remarkably friendly and eager to help kids make the most of their stay. Meet any Omni employee - from check-in to an elevator ride - and chances are that they'll ask how your day is and what they can do to make it better. "Wow," our little guest commented. "Everybody wants to be friends here!" A small outdoor heated swimming pool at the top of the south tower offers some spectacular sunset views, and is rarely used by convention-goers at the hotel - you might have it all to yourself! Standard rooms are well-appointed, with exceptionally comfortable beds and a nice-sized bathroom with tub/shower combo. Suites and junior suites are available for larger families, and views of downtown are pretty great. Cribs are available upon request at no charge. Valet parking can be a bit pricey - $25 per night in the hotel covered lot. The on-site restaurant, Prime Meridian, has an excellent breakfast buffet with organic cereals, yogurts, and sausage in addition to conventional choices like eggs, carved meats, fruits, and other breakfast items. Kids under five eat free. Packages: The hotel offers a variety of packages linked to area attactions, and seasonal promotions appeal to families, as well. Check the website for the most current offerings. The Omni is adjacent to the CNN Center Studio Tour, overlooks Centennial Olympic Park, and is easy walking distance to the Georgia Aquarium, and Imagine It! The Children's Museum of Atlanta, as well as the New World of Coca-Cola.