Visibility, access, and frontage are critical site selection criteria that support the branding, operational efficiency, and occupancy performance of hotel and extended-stay developments. Hotel brands—whether limited-service, boutique, or extended-stay—use strict site evaluation standards to ensure the property can attract guests, meet logistical needs, and support long-term profitability. These factors directly influence brand placement, market competitiveness, and franchise approval.
1. High Visibility from Major Roads or Arterials
- Hotel brands require clear line-of-sight visibility from freeways, highways, or major arterial roads to attract transient traffic.
- Properties located at or near intersections with signalized access and high daily traffic volumes (25,000+ VPD) are most desirable.
- Unobstructed signage visibility from multiple approaches, including elevated or monument signage, supports brand recognition.
- Brands prefer corner parcels or sites with dual frontage for enhanced exposure to both commuter and leisure traffic.
- In urban environments, street-level visibility paired with proximity to landmarks (stadiums, hospitals, business districts) is equally important.
2. Convenient and Safe Access for All Vehicle Types
- Hotels must allow for safe ingress and egress for cars, service vehicles, delivery trucks, and shuttle buses.
- Access points should accommodate two-way movement, turning lanes, and potential right-in/right-out restrictions.
- Full access to the site from both frontages is preferred, especially if near a median-divided road.
- Shared access or driveways through adjacent commercial centers are acceptable if they offer clear traffic flow.
- Easy access for ride-share, drop-offs, and emergency services is also a brand requirement.
3. Sufficient Frontage for Brand Signage and Entry Presence
- Most hotel brands require at least 100–200 feet of street frontage, depending on the brand tier and building footprint.
- This frontage accommodates primary signage, landscaping buffers, and a formal entry drive.
- Extended-stay and full-service hotels often demand more frontage to separate guest, service, and parking entrances.
- Adequate frontage also ensures setback compliance and allows for porte-cochère or lobby drop-off lanes.
- Narrow or constrained parcels may limit eligibility for certain national brands or require variances.
4. Proximity to Demand Generators and Complementary Uses
- Visibility and access must connect to nearby demand drivers such as office parks, airports, hospitals, universities, or entertainment districts.
- Corner lots near mixed-use zones, business parks, or retail anchors are highly preferred for extended-stay formats.
- Strong surrounding land uses support consistent occupancy and brand alignment with market segments (business, leisure, group).
- Accessibility to adjacent restaurants, convenience retail, or public transit further supports brand standards and guest experience.
5. Minimal Physical Barriers and Site Obstructions
- Parcels with no obstructions such as utility poles, grade changes, or vegetation blocking views or signage lines, are preferred.
- Clear vehicular sightlines into the property and unobstructed pedestrian access are required.
- Brands assess visibility not only from the main approach road but also from nearby interchanges or signal lights.
- Poor visibility or difficult access due to medians, narrow curbs, or backlot positioning can disqualify a site.
