The name's a bit lackluster, but we can assure you that there's nothing drab about this newly renovated 16-story hotel named for Rhode Island's founder. The modern rooms range from the simple, single-bed Superior Rooms and Japanese-inspired doubles where furnishings include shoji screens, to Garden Terrace rooms that have landscaped patios and great city views. All have special touches, whether it's a colorful quilt on the bed or a bright-blue armchair and orange bench in the corner. The unique Help Yourself Breakfast Pantry is a casual, buffet-style service where you can choose from New York specialties like croissants from Balthazar, bagels from H&H or just a complimentary newspaper in the morning. The Mezzanine Lounge is a little more formal, with a menu that changes as the day progresses.

Hotel Roger Williams Amenities:

• 193 rooms. Wireless Internet access. Complimentary continental breakfast. Restaurant, bar. Fitness center. Business center.