The Best Boutique Hotels in Detroit, Michigan

12 Cool Boutique Hotels In Detroit, Michigan

Detroit, Michigan is arguably one of the most underrated cities in the US. Many travelers make the mistake of dismissing the city for its “rough around the edges” reputation. But those who do pay a visit to Motor City are sure to fall head over heels for this up-and-coming destination! 

You can easily spend your days perusing Detroit’s world-class museums, cycling along the scenic Detroit River, or sampling local craft beers at one of the many breweries. Plus, with its historic roots in art and music, there’s always something exciting happening in Detroit. 

You can catch a concert at the iconic Fox Theatre or learn about the city’s musical heritage at the Motown Museum. Art lovers will want to check out Diego Rivera’s famous Detroit Industry Murals at the Detroit Institute of Arts

If you’re a sports fan, you can cheer on the Lions at Ford Field and root for the Tigers at Comerica Park. And foodies will definitely want to eat their way through the bustling Eastern Market, Mexicantown, and Greektown

Plus, it’s no secret that Motor City is best known for its historic role in auto manufacturing. If this is your first visit to the city, you’ll definitely want to pay a visit to the Henry Ford Museum and the Automotive Hall of Fame.

Another cool thing about this revitalized city is that it’s brimming with incredible hotels. Detroit boasts all sorts of luxurious historic hotels, art-filled boutique hotels, and charming bed and breakfasts. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Detroit to help you plan your perfect getaway!

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Where to Stay in Detroit 

Where to Stay in Detroit, Michigan: Cool Boutique Hotels

If this is your first visit to Detroit or you’re short on time, you’ll definitely want to base yourself in the downtown area. Downtown is home to some of the city’s best historic hotels. Plus, you’ll be able to walk to a range of restaurants, museums, and sports stadiums. 

West Village is ideal if you want to be a bit removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown. The area is home to some incredible hotels and excellent boutique shopping and fine dining options.

History buffs will love staying in Corktown, which is the oldest neighborhood in Detroit. Located just outside downtown, you can stroll along the area’s cobblestone streets, marvel at the historic homes, and brunch with the locals at one of the many trendy cafes. 

Eastern Market is a great neighborhood to stay in for its incredible art galleries, restaurants, and shops. Midtown is also a popular area to stay. The area is easily walkable and brimming with world-class museums and famous concert venues.


The 12 Best Hotels in Detroit, Michigan

1. Shinola Hotel

Best Hotels in Detroit, Michigan: Shinola Hotel
Photos: Shinola Hotel

Set in the historic Woodward shopping district, Shinola Hotel is just minutes from the Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts and Comerica Park. But with so many cool amenities, bars, and restaurants, you’ll never have to leave this luxurious hotel if you don’t want to!

This one-of-a-kind boutique hotel is housed in two restored buildings – the former T.B. Rayl & Co. sporting goods and hardware store and an old Singer sewing-machine store – and three new Detroit-style buildings. Expect top-notch customer service, carefully curated decor, and the most forward-thinking of amenities.

You’ll love unwinding in the beautifully designed mid-century modern rooms. Expect thoughtful touches like custom mattresses with Italian cotton sheets, HDTVs with Chromecast and Apple TV, Shinola Bluetooth speakers, and minibars filled with local snacks and drinks. Some rooms boast deep soaking tubs, private terraces, and Shinola turntables with classic records. 

James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini is the man behind the hotel’s popular bars and restaurants. You can sip handcrafted cocktails in the Living Room or Evening Bar, dine on Southern Italian fare at San Morello, or socialize over craft beers and Penny Red’s fried chicken at The Brakeman. Or, if you’re feeling lazy, you can always throw on your plush bathrobe and order room service!


2. Detroit Foundation Hotel

Cool Detroit Hotels: Detroit Foundation Hotel
Photos: Detroit Foundation Hotel

If you want to stay in the coolest boutique hotel in Detroit, look no further than the Detroit Foundation Hotel. Set in a former 1920s fire station, right in the heart of downtown, you’ll be able to walk to some of Detroit’s most trendy boutiques, eateries, and music venues. 

Step inside the hotel, and you’ll immediately notice a perfect blend of 1920s throwbacks and modern touches. One of the coolest things about this historic hotel is that it incorporates the firehouse’s original brick façade, giant fire engine doorways, and fire poles into the design!

This place is all about celebrating local spirit, art, and culture. The impeccably decorated rooms all feature decor and products from local companies, including iron-welded door handles from Smith Shop, leather trays from Douglas & Co., wallpaper from the Detroit Wallpaper Co., and minibars stocked with local goods. Plus, you’ll love lounging around the ultra-comfy bed and luxuriating in the spa-like bath.

Explore the property, and you’ll find a state-of-the-art gym, a chic bar and lounge area, and a small shop selling local products. The hotel is also home to local foodie favorite, The Apparatus Room. The restaurant is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Thomas Lents, who dishes out innovative new American fare all day long.  


3. The Siren Hotel

Boutique Hotels in Detroit, Michigan: The Siren Hotel
Photos: The Siren

When it comes to historic boutique hotels, Detroit is doing everything right. The Siren is yet another gem of a hotel set in a beautifully renovated 1920s Wurlitzer Building. The entire hotel was renovated in 2018 so expect everything to be brand new and top of the line. 

One of the standout features of the hotel is its coveted restaurant, Albena. If you’re lucky enough to snag a spot at the restaurant’s 8-seat bar, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable tasting menu prepared by James Beard nominee Chef Garrett Lipar. 

In the mornings, you can grab freshly roasted coffee at The Siren Cafe, sip quirky cocktails at the pink-hued Candy Bar, and dine on American classics at Karl’s. There’s also an on-site barbershop, hip boutique shop, a new and used record store, and a rooftop bar boasting epic city views. 

You can choose from a variety of picture-perfect rooms. If you’re traveling with a friend, The Hideout features bunk beds with luxe ensuites. Whichever one you choose, you’ll love the hand-loomed blankets, curated selection of local snacks, and custom-made toiletries.

Or, if you want to go big, the loft-style Penthouse features a double-height glass window overlooking Comerica Park, lavish living and dining rooms, and beautiful baths with custom terrazzo tiles. This is the perfect pick if you’re in town for a bachelor or bachelorette party!


4. Aloft Detroit at The David Whitney 

Unique Detroit Hotels: Aloft Detroit at The David Whitney
Photos: Aloft

If you’re looking for a pet-friendly hotel in the heart of town, Aloft is an excellent choice. Grand Circus Park, the Detroit Opera House, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit are all just steps away. Plus, the friendly staff will even greet your pups with a swag bag full of beds, treats, and toys!

The stylish rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay. You’ll love the nine-foot ceilings, modern furnishings, and plush pillow top beds. You can catch up with emails at the ergonomic workstation, brew your morning cup of joe with the in-room coffeemaker, or have a movie night with the flat-screen TV. 

The vibrant W XYZ bar is the perfect place to socialize over cocktails, light bites, and music. And if you want to keep up with your workout routine, Aloft has a fully outfitted gym with everything from bikes to free weights. The on-site convenience store is handy if you want to pick up snacks or drinks.


5. The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit

Cool Hotels in Detroit, Michigan: The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit
Photos: The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit

Built in 1924, this historic building is set on Washington Avenue (aka the “Fifth Avenue of the Midwest”) and a short stroll from Comerica Park and Campus Martius Park. The building fell into disrepair in the ’80s but has since been restored to its former glory!

Whether you’re in town for work or play, you’ll love relaxing in the contemporary rooms. Like all Westin hotels, all rooms boast Westin Heavenly Beds with 10 layers of bedding and Westin Heavenly Baths with custom Westin White Tea Heavenly Bath Products. 

You can get your day started with a leisurely breakfast at The Boulevard Room or if you’re in a rush, grab a cup of coffee and a pastry downstairs at the Starbucks Reserve Café. At the end of an action-packed day, the hotel’s Motor Bar is the perfect spot for after-dinner drinks and boasts striking views of the Detroit skyline.

And be sure to have at least one dinner at the hotel’s upscale ROAST Steakhouse. The posh eatery is run by celebrity chef Michael Symon and is one of the best restaurants in town! 


6. The Inn at 97 Winder

Cool Detroit Hotels: The Inn at 97 Winder
Photos: The Inn at 97 Winder

If big hotel chains aren’t your thing, The Inn at 97 Winder might just be the perfect pick! The Queen Anne-style cottage was built in 1876 and still stands proud as one of the most unique hotels in Detroit. This architectural gem was even added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991!

You can choose from 10 luxurious rooms adorned with antique furnishings and curated art. The Presidential Suite is definitely the most unique room in the house. The loft-style suite boasts beautiful artwork, a lavish sitting area, and a spiral staircase leading to a second cozy sitting area that looks out over the city.   

You’ll love all of the pampering amenities. Before heading out for the day, fill up on the complimentary breakfast spread, which has everything from delicious pastries to fresh fruit. If you don’t feel like driving, the hotel offers a limousine service so you can cruise around town in style! After a long day, head over to the on-site spa, where you can get a relaxing massage or foot rub!


7. Hotel Indigo Detroit Downtown

Best Hotels in Detroit, Michigan: Hotel Indigo Detroit Downtown
Photos: Hotel Indigo

Hotel Indigo is all about celebrating local pride. Explore the property and you’ll find public spaces filled with artwork created by local artists and rooms outfitted with Motown-themed decor. 

The sophisticated rooms have all been recently renovated so expect everything to be modern and new. You’ll love crashing out on the plush bed, having movie nights with the 55-inch flat-screen, and luxuriating in the modern ensuite. The Keurig coffeemaker, microwave, and mini-fridge are handy extra features. 

The hotel’s Trolley Room Restaurant pays homage to the tea trollies of the 1950s and Detroit’s historic trolley line. The restaurant specializes in locally inspired and sourced dishes, from Lonesome Pines Perch Sliders to John Henry Farms Pork Belly. If you’re in the mood for a tipple, you can choose from an impressive list of craft cocktails and local craft brews. 

The hotel also boasts a fully outfitted gym where you can fit in your daily workout. And in case you plan on traveling with your furry friend, this hotel also happens to be pet-friendly!


8. The Detroit Club Hotel

Unique Detroit Hotels: The Detroit Club Hotel
Photos: The Detroit Club

The Detroit Club is a luxurious option if you want to stay in one of the most unique boutique hotels in Detroit. This 5-star hotel is located right in the heart of town but with so many exclusive amenities you won’t ever want to leave the hotel! 

As the name implies, the Detroit Club has been home to the city’s premier social club since 1882! As a guest, you’ll enjoy access to all of the club’s amenities, even if you’re not a member. Be sure to pay a visit to the impressive wellness center, where you can soak in the grotto’s saltwater Jacuzzi, take a steam in the dry sauna, work out in the gym, and get a massage or manicure at the spa. 

If you’re a cigar aficionado, you’ll love the hand-picked cigar selection and extensive beverage program at The Uralli Cigar Bar. Or, if you prefer to enjoy your cocktails without the smoke, head over to the opulent Library. For upscale dinners, Bohemia boasts a curated selection of locally inspired dishes and fine wines. 

If that’s not enough, the impeccably decorated rooms are some of the best Detroit has to offer. For special occasions, the Premium Suites are well worth the splurge for their elegant white decor, beautiful four-poster beds, and in-room standalone soaking tubs.


9. The Henry

Unique Hotels in Detroit, Michigan: The Henry
Photos: The Henry

The Henry is set in the heart of Dearborn, but it’s well worth the 20-minute drive to Detroit to stay in this luxurious hotel. Plus, you’ll be close to Dearborn’s star attractions, including the Henry Ford Museum, the Henry Ford Estate, and the Dearborn Historical Museum. 

One of the reasons visitors keep returning to The Henry is the outstanding customer service. Expect to feel like royalty during your stay. Step inside the elegant lobby and you’ll immediately be impressed by the ultra-attentive staff and the extensive collection of contemporary artwork. 

The rooms and suites have all been designed to create the most comfortable stay possible. You’ll love the custom-designed mattresses, the colorful and artsy decor, and the luxe marble bathrooms. The Presidential Suite is the most luxurious option with its Club Lounge access, spacious living area, and sweeping views of the Detroit skyline.

When you’re not out exploring, you can swim laps in the indoor pool, soak in the hot tub, get a massage at the spa, or work out in the fitness center. The Henry is also home to the excellent American brasserie, TRIA.


10. Atheneum Suite Hotel

Best Detroit Hotels: Atheneum Suite Hotel
Photos: Atheneum

If you’re looking for a home away from home during your trip to Detroit, Atheneum is one of the best hotels in Detroit. This all-suite hotel is nestled right in the middle of the Greektown District, so you’ll be surrounded by all sorts of Greek restaurants! Plus, there’s a People Mover light rail station right next door, so getting around town is a cinch.

All suites boast mid-century modern furniture and decor, stylish living areas, and oversized marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. Upgraded suites are outfitted with deluxe extras, from lavish living rooms with wet bars to spa-like baths with marble whirlpool tubs. 

Before you head out for the day, you can fill up on the complimentary continental breakfast during the weekdays. Or, if you feel like sleeping in, you can stay in your bathrobe and have all the breakfast classics delivered right to your room.

It’s no surprise that Atheneum is just steps away from one of the best traditional Greek restaurants in the neighborhood. The family-owned Pegasus Taverna has been serving up huge portions of all the Greek classics for over 40 years!


11. Trumbull and Porter

Where to Stay in Detroit, Michigan: Trumbull and Porter
Photos: Trumbull & Porter

Trumbull & Porter is yet another hip boutique hotel that is just brimming with local pride. Local artisans created all of the hotel’s massive murals, edgy artwork, and handcrafted furniture. 

Located in the super-local Corktown area, downtown Detroit is just a mile away. One of the cool things about staying in this part of town is that you’ll be surrounded by all sorts of non-touristy bars and restaurants.

This funky hotel was actually a run-of-the-mill Holiday Inn in the 1960s. But the entire building was given a massive and artsy makeover. With colorful murals covering the hotel’s facade, this place is impossible to miss! 

It’s no surprise that Trumbull & Porter features all sorts of hipster amenities. You can grab artisan coffee drinks made with locally roasted beans at the on-site coffee shop, sip creative cocktails at the popular Evening Bar, and dine on innovative American dishes all day long at Red Dunn Kitchen. 

You’ll love relaxing in the quirky art-filled rooms. The Rolling Stones Suite is the most in-demand room at the hotel. You’ll love the record player and collection of Rolling Stones vinyl, the custom hand-painted murals, and the Insta-worthy living area and kitchenette.


12. Element Detroit at the Metropolitan

Cool Detroit Hotels: Element Detroit at the Metropolitan
Photos: Element

Element is the perfect pick if you plan on making the most of your time in Motor City. Fox Theatre, Ford Field, and Comerica Park are all just a short stroll away. If you want to cruise around town on two wheels, just hop on one of the hotel’s free loaner bikes! 

One of the things that makes this hotel stand out from the rest is that all rooms are outfitted with kitchenettes so you can prepare basic meals and snacks in your room. Upgraded 1-bedroom suites are worth paying a bit more for. You’ll love having movie nights in the stylish living room, cooking gourmet meals in the fully stocked kitchen, and resting up on the signature Heavenly Bed.

Before heading out for the day, you can enjoy complimentary continental breakfasts at the hotel. There’s also an on-site convenience store where you can pick up snacks and drinks. There may not be a hotel restaurant but explore the area, and you’ll find all sorts of excellent bars, restaurants, and breweries!

That completes our list of the 12 best Detroit hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Detroit? Comment below so we can add them to the list!


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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Detroit hotel for foodies?

James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini is the man behind the Shinola Hotel’s popular bars and restaurants. You can sip handcrafted cocktails in the Living Room or Evening Bar, dine on Southern Italian fare at San Morello, or socialize over craft beers and Penny Red’s fried chicken at The Brakeman. Or, if you’re feeling lazy, you can always throw on your plush bathrobe and order room service!

What hotel in Detroit is pet-friendly?

If you’re looking for a pet-friendly hotel in the heart of town, Aloft is an excellent choice. Grand Circus Park, the Detroit Opera House, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit are all just steps away. Plus, the friendly staff will even greet your pups with a swag bag full of beds, treats, and toys!

What is the best historic Detroit hotel?

If big hotel chains aren’t your thing, The Inn at 97 Winder might just be the perfect pick! The Queen Anne-style cottage was built in 1876 and still stands proud as one of the most unique hotels in Detroit. This architectural gem was even added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991!

What is the most luxurious hotel in Detroit?

The Detroit Club is a luxurious option if you want to stay in one of the most unique boutique hotels in Detroit, with so many exclusive amenities you won’t ever want to leave the hotel! As a guest, you’ll enjoy access to all of the club’s amenities, even if you’re not a member. Be sure to pay a visit to the impressive wellness center, where you can soak in the grotto’s saltwater Jacuzzi, take a steam in the dry sauna, work out in the gym, and get a massage or manicure at the spa.

What is the best relaxing hotel in Detroit? I

f big hotel chains aren’t your thing, The Inn at 97 Winder might just be the perfect pick! You’ll love all of the pampering amenities. Before heading out for the day, fill up on the complimentary breakfast spread, which has everything from delicious pastries to fresh fruit. If you don’t feel like driving, the hotel offers a limousine service so you can cruise around town in style! After a long day, head over to the on-site spa, where you can get a relaxing massage or foot rub!


About the Author:

  • Justine Lopez

    Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust!

    In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond.

    When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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