Once at the heart of the USA’s industrial boom, Detroit famously struggled at the beginning of the 21st Century. Now, this historic music and automobile hub is undergoing a serious regeneration, attracting a cool and creative crowd and making it an increasingly exciting destination for visitors. Accommodation options include heritage B&Bs and swish city hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Head downtown for art deco buildings, warehouses-turned-distilleries, edgy cafés and live music bars — many of which are within walking distance of the best places to stay in Detroit.

Unravel the metropolis’ roots, the possibilities of the future, the potential risks and rewards of gentrification, and everything from urban gardens to community music initiatives with a knowledgable guide on a walking or cycling tour. Architecture buffs will adore spotting the imposing, 40-storey Guardian Building, the Fisher Building, Michigan Central Station and the Renaissance Centre, amongst other big-hitters.

Key art hubs include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit and the Scarab Club. Admire outdoor murals, graffiti and sculptural pieces at the City Sculpture Park, Lincoln Street Art Park and the wacky Heidelberg Project. Detroit grew wealthy as the home of much of the US automobile industry, and the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is now an excellent museum — complete with Henry Ford’s preserved 1908 office. To delve into Detroit’s iconic musical heritage, try the Motown Historical Museum. Look out for top-notch live gigs and community events at Beacon Park and Hart Plaza during the summer months.

Finally, check out the thrumming Eastern Market and venture out onto the Detroit River for kayaking, walking and zoo visits at Belle Isle Park. The riverfront — right on Michigan's Canadian border — is also well worth a wander. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends and family or for business, the best places to stay in Detroit promise something for everyone.

The Best Places to Stay in Detroit

For Boutique Chic

• The Detroit Club was established in the late 19th Century as an exclusive members' club, and now features 21 lavish guestrooms and suites with indulgent marble bathrooms, big beds with carved wooden headboards and thoughtful touches. The Club boasts a soothing spa, library, cigar bar and restaurant. Super sophisticated.
• The Cochrane House is a 19th-century mansion in Detroit’s historic Brush Park, with three spacious, contemporary guestrooms. Stay here for a romantic couples' retreat or book the whole house if travelling as a group — it's a brilliant event space. Think generous breakfasts in bed, and wine and cheese platters on arrival. Private, understated luxury.
• The Inn at 97 Winder has 10 sumptuous guestrooms in downtown Detroit, offering an intimate stay in a Second Empire-style home. Pick this upscale B&B for its proximity to arts and theatre venues, as well as the period interiors and small size.

For Downtown Design Hotels

• Detroit Foundation Hotel was formerly a firehouse. This imposing red-brick building now houses slick rooms and suites, a bustling bar and eatery, and a series of modern events spaces. Work by local artists takes centre stage; this is a great choice for creatives, couples and business travellers. Well-located downtown.
• The Siren promises a glamorous stay in whimsical, dusky pink rooms and suites with velvet upholstery, Italian linens and terazzo-floored bathrooms. Brilliant for romantic couples, families — little ones will love the bunk beds — or quirky visitors in the city for work. The Candy Bar is a delight.
• Shinola Hotel is a graceful, design-focused property in downtown Detroit. Pick this hotel for the beautiful mid-century interiors, fabulous food and drink and memorable events venues. It's a terrific choice for a wedding in the heart of the city! For art and design lovers.
• Trumbull & Porter is a trendy hotel with an industrial feel — polished concrete floors, exposed piping and the like — in the revitalised Corktown district, close to downtown Detroit. Retro rooms showcase the city's musical heritage, and the award-winning Red Dunn Kitchen is sure to keep late-night revellers entertained.

For Surburban Style

• The Dearborn Inn features 23 landscaped acres of grounds — formerly part of the Fort Motor Company — on the outskirts of Detroit. Standalone lodges and cottages are a great option for families or groups, who will love the two restaurants, swimming pools, fitness centre and vast gardens.
• The Henry sits 20 minutes from downtown Detroit, with luxurious interiors and contemporary art aplenty. A lovely choice for a slightly quieter stay within easy reach of the city, the hotel has expansive meeting facilities and a wonderful restaurant-bar. Ford's headquarters and the The University of Michigan are just nearby.

For Longer Stays

• Sonder - Gabriel Richard is a great value choice for longer stays. Modern studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments are self-catering, with sixties-inspired furniture, well-equipped kitchens and original architectural features. The downtown building also has a shared gym. Good for couples, friends, families or business travellers.
• Sonder - The Randolph also offers sleek studios and apartments for self-catering stays, just a couple of streets away in the Downtown area. Expect discounts for longer bookings (7+, 14+ or 30+ nights) and space for friends or families travelling together. Those in the city on business will find light, bright workspaces.
• Element Detroit at the Metropolitan is a smart downtown hotel in a grand heritage building. Modern rooms are comfortable and well-equipped for guests of all ages, plus pets are welcome. Self-catering studios are ideal for longer stays, there's a welcoming lounge, a striking rooftop terrace, a gym and extensive event spaces.

FOR AN APARTMENT

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Detroit?

• Fly to Detroit Metropolitan Airport, 21 miles from the city, and travel into the centre by bus or taxi.
• Alternatively, catch an Amtrak train or bus from nearby cities, including Chicago or Toronto.
• Michigan is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between June and September for sunshine and warmer weather.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Grand Rapids.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Michigan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Detroit