REVIEWS OF HOTEL EXECUTIVE CLUB LOUNGES, KIDS CLUBS AND MORE.
Staying fit while travelling as a family can be a challenge, but the gym at the JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort made it effortless—and enjoyable. Located on the mezzanine level (Floor M), this state-of-the-art fitness centre proved to be one of the surprise highlights of our stay. It wasn’t just a place to work out—it was a place where we, as a family, connected over shared passions and personal routines, especially for our kids who are both dedicated long-distance runners back home in England.
From the moment we stepped into the gym, we were impressed by how modern, spacious, and immaculately kept it was. The first thing that caught our eye was the long row of Life Fitness treadmills, each with its own screen and a stunning view out across Anaheim. For our kids, who are used to running outdoors in varying British weather, this was paradise. They jumped onto the treadmills with excitement, dialling in their distances and pacing themselves just like they do in training back home. Watching them run side by side with big smiles on their faces was a wonderful moment—proof that the hotel caters brilliantly not just to adult fitness enthusiasts but to young athletes as well.
The gym layout is one of its best features. Everything is spaced out generously, allowing multiple people to use equipment at the same time without feeling crowded. Whether you’re doing cardio, weight training, or functional fitness, there’s ample room to move freely and comfortably. For families like ours, this really mattered—we didn’t feel like we were in anyone’s way, and the kids had the freedom to move between equipment with ease.
Beyond the treadmills, the gym features a wide selection of ellipticals, stationary bikes, and strength machines. There’s also a large free weights area with neatly racked dumbbells, benches, and resistance machines, all in pristine condition. My partner and I took turns lifting while the kids ran, and everything felt clean, polished, and intuitive to use. It’s evident that the gym is well-maintained and thoughtfully curated with premium equipment.
The attention to detail goes further. There are multiple TVs strategically placed around the gym, giving the space an upbeat and motivating atmosphere. The lighting is bright but warm, and the interiors, with dark wood accents and mirrors, give the space a sleek, high-end feel. It’s the kind of gym that makes you want to work out—even on holiday.
What made the experience extra comfortable for us was the dedicated seating area tucked into the corner, featuring a soft leather L-shaped couch and a large wall mural of an athlete mid-sprint. This little lounge space allowed us to rest in between sessions, sip water, and take a break as a family. For parents who might be keeping an eye on children while they train, or for family members taking turns using equipment, this was a thoughtful touch that really stood out.
Accessing the gym from our room was straightforward. A quick elevator ride to the Mezzanine Level (Floor M) took us right to the gym entrance. There’s also a Zen Room next door, which added to the calm and wellness-focused atmosphere of the space. The Zen Room, with its tranquil interior and minimalistic design, seemed perfect for yoga or stretching—though our kids were far more interested in clocking kilometres on the treadmills!
One of the standout features for us was how inclusive and welcoming the gym felt for all ages. Not every hotel gym caters well to children, and it’s often unclear if kids are welcome. Here, we never felt out of place. The staff we encountered on-site were friendly and offered a warm nod of encouragement to our kids as they powered through their runs. As a family, that feeling of being truly welcomed and accommodated made all the difference.
Over the course of our stay, the gym became a daily ritual. It was where we started or ended our day depending on our schedule. Whether we were prepping for a day at Disneyland or winding down from sightseeing, the gym provided a consistent, calming, and energising space to refocus. For our children, it was a continuation of the routine they love—and for us, it was a chance to unwind and feel recharged.
The JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort, is often praised for its luxury and service—but for active families, its fitness centre is a hidden gem. It’s rare to find a hotel gym that ticks every box: cleanliness, equipment variety, space, ambience, and most importantly, suitability for families. Ours is a family that values fitness as a lifestyle, not just a holiday afterthought—and this gym allowed us to continue that lifestyle seamlessly.
In a city full of excitement and entertainment, this quiet corner of the hotel provided a perfect balance. Our children left feeling proud of the miles they had logged, and we left grateful for a hotel that takes wellness as seriously as it does hospitality. Whether you're a parent looking to keep your routine on track, or travelling with young runners who just love to move, the gym at JW Marriott Anaheim is a fantastic part of the stay—and one we would definitely return to.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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