The Academy Plaza Hotel is a seven-story red brick property that sits on a busy street in the heart of Dublin’s city center. The hotel is cosmopolitan, with contemporary design and modern, clean rooms. The large, airy lobby features a mix of brown leather chairs and fuchsia velvet seating on vibrantly colored print rugs. The bold and loud hues continue throughout the hallways and public areas of the busy hotel, which can get quite loud with a mix of young travelers and families. One of the on-site restaurants features a high ceiling painted in an outdoor motif, accented by grand chandeliers and large picture windows.est

The hotel is located north of the river in downtown Dublin, off of the busy thoroughfare of O'Connell Street. It's within walking distance of popular nightlife spots such as the Temple Bar area, which is about a 15-minute walk away. Right next door is The Living Room, which boasts Europe’s largest outdoor TV screen. The international shopping district, James Joyce Centre, Dublin Writers Museum, and Trinity College, among other tourist sights, are also easily accessible to guests who might enjoy exploring the city by foot. Dublin's tram system is a short walk away, and the airport bus service stops outside of the hotel.

Rooms have navy and red plaid carpeted floors and funky furniture decorated in bold designs. The contemporary decor looks a little forced and contrived, but it’s better than the average run-of-the-mill hotel chain. Flat-screen TVs hang on the wall and tea/coffeemakers are available, though there are no mini-fridges. Bathrooms are simple and clean with walk-in showers or bath tubs and a decent amount of counter space.

Family Rooms have one full-sized bed and two twin beds. Standard rooms are tiny, but bigger suite-style rooms are available for an extra fee. Noise tends to travel well between the thin walls. Some rooms have views of the busy street; spaces on the higher floors are quieter.

Oscar’s Restaurant serves a traditional Irish breakfast buffet for a fee. The quality of the food is average at best. Sir Harry's Bar & Bistro serves traditional dishes for lunch and dinner. With so many dining options nearby, many guests choose to explore restaurants in the city rather than eat average hotel food.

There’s an on-site gym and spa featuring a menu with massages, facial treatments, manicures, and pedicures -- reservations are required. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel (though service can be spotty in some rooms) and free newspapers are available each day in the lobby. Conference spaces are on hand for business travelers as well.