can't connect to courtyard marriott wireless but my laptop can??? any ideas??

The iPad needs a router that has the latest firmware (usually older routers can be a problem). Without the newest firmware or the right router, the iPad may not connect even though other computers can. This could be the problem.

Many public WiFi networks only allow certain "user agents" to connect to their networks. The point of this is to prevent non-guests from leeching off their WiFi with a mobile device.

Had a similar problem at the Courtyard Marriott in Paige, AZ. Moving closer to the center of the hotel helped... The rooms were like concrete bunkers so wifi signal was hard to get.

Okay, so you were not able to see the network under WiFi Settings. And these hotels take a lot of measures to prevent leechers.

I have used both my iPad & my MBP at several Courtyards with no problems. I can usually get in by opening up a Safari page & the wi-fi page for the Courtyard then pops up. Just follow the instructions from that point on.