Top 15 Cool and Fun in Hotels In Detroit 2023

Although it’s had some troubled times, the largest city in the midwestern state of Michigan is now attracting young city trippers looking to explore its hip neighborhoods and creative enclaves.

Head to Hitsville the birthplace of Motown Records, trendy Corktown which has seen many new restaurants crop up on its streets, Downtown for more mainstream attractions, and then stay in one of their quirky chic hotels.

From unique and intimate boutiques to fun, modern, and upbeat, here is a collection of cool and fun hotels in Detroit (in no particular order).

Our Top 3 Best Cool and Unusual Hotels
1.
Trumbull and Porter Downtown l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Instagrammable Decor
Trumbull and Porter Downtown
2.
Detroit Foundation l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Trendy Design
Detroit Foundation
3.
The Siren l Global Grasshopper – travel inspiration for the road less travelled
Best For Unique Stay
The Siren
Best For Instagrammable Design

Trumbull and Porter Downtown

Hip hotels in Detroit

Trumbull and Porter Detroit Downtown

Industrial chic hotel in Detroit

In the Corktown district, very close to the centre of Detroit, this trendy contemporary-styled hotel has a great vibe and is cleverly designed to make the spaces feel huge, modern and trendy.

There’s a good choice of room sizes and suites, even one used by the Rolling Stones in 1964 when fans stormed the hotel.

There are lots of great amenities at Trumbull and Porter including plenty of car parking, a laundry room, a fitness centre and bicycles you can borrow to tour the city.

There’s an excellent seasonal restaurant on-site and two bars, but it’s just a mile into Downtown if you want to get out and sample the full delights of Michigan hospitality, or less than a 10-minute walk to the riverfront – one of the only places in the US where you can look south into Canada!

Pros

Close proximity to downtown

Upscale amenities and parking

Fitness center

courtyard music venue and beer garden

Historic celebrity connection

Cons

Street noise possible

Can get booked up at peak times

The restaurant menu is a bit limited

Best For Trendy Design

Detroit Foundation

Instagrammable hotel in Detroit

Boutique hotel in Detroit

Unique hotel in Detroit

Between the Capitol City and the riverfront is the exceedingly lovely Detroit Foundation Hotel.

Set in the city’s circa-1929 old fire department headquarters, this sleek, fashionable hotel in Downtown is 4 miles from the Detroit Institute of Arts, 5 miles from Belle Isle Park (a 982-acre island park) and right across the street from the Huntington Place Center and Joe Louis Hockey Arena.

Chic, classically furnished rooms are adorned with local artwork, modern lighting and comfortable club-style interiors. Local art features strongly throughout the hotel with interesting pieces being regularly displayed.

On the ground floor, in the old apparatus room, there’s a really good restaurant and plenty of life in the immediate streets if you venture out.

Pros

Close to key attractions

Artistic Local Decor

Vibrant culinary experience

Historic Fire Department headquarters

Cons

Some rooms may be small

Limited on-site amenities

Parking is a little compact

Best For Retro Decor

The Siren

Funky hotel in Detroit

Themed hotel in DetroitFun party hotel in Detroit

Not far from the Grand Circus, Comerica Park, and Ford Field in the heart of Detroit is the majestic Siren Hotel in what used to be the Wurlitzer Building.

A quirky retro hotel decorated in a Parisian style and celebrating, at every opportunity, the art and music that is ingrained in the culture of Detroit.

The rooms are small and comfortable, but the experience here is the public spaces and vibrant city all around.

You will find a small coffee bar, a cute cocktail lounge, a fabulous classic American restaurant, a tiny haute cuisine restaurant for those who want to go posh, a piano bar, a vinyl record bar, and even a barbershop’ shop – before you have left the building.

Step onto the surrounding streets for a huge range of dining, entertainment, and sporting venues all serviced by the People Mover monorail which loops around Downtown until midnight every day.

Pros

Unique retro ambiance

Artistic Parisian decor

Variety of on-site bars

Easy Access to Entertainment

Cons

Some rooms can be compact

Street noise possible

Best For Great Breakfast

Hotel at The Detroit Club

Chic hotel in Detroit

Chic boutique hotel in Detroit

The oldest private members’ club in Detroit – this building is their second home, constructed in 1891 – The Detroit Club has 21 suites available for accommodation, just a stroll from the heart of Downtown.

Rooms are sumptuously dressed in an attractive refined style befitting the elegant building with plenty of warm oak and heavy drapery.

In the house there’s a thermal spa with treatments, a very smart restaurant, a swish cocktail bar, and a gentlemen’s cigar bar; unfortunately, all these facilities are only open from Wednesday to Saturday – not much use if you’re having a weekend city break, but definitely a very memorable experience if you can book during the days when it’s fully open.

Pros

Nestles near Downtown heart

On-site thermal spa treatments

Diverse dining options

Exclusive cigar lounge

Cons

Gets booked up at weekends

Limited modern amenities

The spa may occasionally be unavailable

Best For Boutique

Shinola

Shinola Hotel Detroit

Chic boutique hotel in Detroit

The Shinola Hotel is a thoughtfully curated, modern hotel in one of the best streets in Detroit. Rooms, suites and wonderful penthouses are deliciously presented with unique crafted furnishings that ooze retro styling and warmth.

The street, named Woodward Avenue, is an iconic boulevard reaching from the city of Pontiac in the north to Hart Plaza on the banks of the Detroit River, with its homage to the motor car.

The Shinola sits between Hart Plaza and the Grand Circus in the very heart of Detroit. This place reflects the eccentric, boom and bust entrepreneurial spirit of Detroit with delightful retro touches nestled alongside statement pieces.

The hotel even hosts its own small enclave of specialist shops, known as Parker’s Alley, a very good Italian restaurant and excellent American bar.

Pros

Prime Downtown location

Unique retro styling

Fitness centre and bar

Italian and American delicacies

Cons

Downtown parking can be limited

Some rooms are a little compact

Drinks can be a little pricey

Best For Swedish Spa

The Inn at 97 Winder

The Inn at 97 Winder - an old historic boutique hotel The Inn at 97 Winder - an old historic boutique hotel1 The Inn at 97 Winder - an old historic boutique hotel2

Detroit Gothic is a style in itself and the Second Empire mansion housing The Inn at 97 Winder is an excellent example.

The former home of philanthropist John Harvey was built in 1876 and abounds in quaint turrets and gables, crystal chandeliers, marble fireplaces, heavy woodwork and gilt mirrors and detailing.  

 Nearby, you’ll likewise find the best of Old Detroit, with historic Brush Park right across the street and the Fox Theatre a short walk away.

The interiors including the 10 guest rooms are furnished in period style with antique furniture, Persian rugs, rich fabrics and a quirky art collection from around the world. To round out a luxurious stay, a visit to the spa for a Swedish or hot stone massage is a must.  

Pros

Luxury Swedish spa massages

Central location in Old Detroit

Unique global art collection

Historic architectural style

Cons

Busy location

Spa reservations needed

Decor might not suit everyone

Best For Views

The Godfrey

The Godfrey Detroit, Curio Collection By Hilton - an ultra-design and elegant hotel The Godfrey Detroit, Curio Collection By Hilton - an ultra-design and elegant hotel1 The Godfrey Detroit, Curio Collection By Hilton - an ultra-design and elegant hotel2

Taking reservations for October 2023, this hip new hotel will join in the fun in the historic Corktown district along with all the lively restaurants, boutiques, bars, and breweries.

It’s also close to famed venues like Music Hall Center, Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall and the Gem Theatre. 

 Views of the city and Lake Michigan frame the interiors with their original design elements like with tall arched windows, gold accents and chandeliers.

The room decor recalls mid-century luxury with wood paneling, leather headboards, plush carpets, custom artwork and a soft, restful palette.  

 Guests can relax at the rooftop lounge and bar with stunning views, and enjoy a gourmet meal by chef Samy Eid at the Hamilton restaurant.  

Pros

Close to cultural venues.

Stunning city and lake views

Elegant luxury interior

Gourmet dining by Chef Samy Eid

Cons

Some rooms have better views than others

Potential noise from the lively district

Limited on-site parking

Best For On-site Dining

Westin Book Cadillac

Westin Book Cadillac Detroit - a high-end and lavish place to stay in Detroit Westin Book Cadillac Detroit - a high-end and lavish place to stay in Detroit1 Westin Book Cadillac Detroit - a high-end and lavish place to stay in Detroit2

Glamour and luxury are part of the history of Motor City and they’re making a big comeback at the newly renovated Westin Book Cadillac Detroit.

The historic hotel in the heart of downtown is located close to the Riverwalk promenade and the Henry Ford Museum. 

 The rooms and suites have clean, modern decor, signature Westin Heavenly beds, comfortable seating, and magnificent views of the city and lake. You can enjoy it all with high-speed wifi, a 55-inch flat-screen TV and a delicious meal via room service.  

 You can start the day with breakfast at the Boulevard Room, grab a coffee and snack at the Starbucks Reserve, and relax with a cocktail at the Motor Bar in the lobby, inspired by Detroit’s history.

The new Sullivan’s Steakhouse, opening in 2023, will have a classic menu of hand-cut steaks, seafood, and cocktails. 

Pros

Historic charm with refined decor

Various culinary experiences

Overlooks the Detroit River and the city

Indoor Swimming Pool

Cons

The downtown location may have noise

Rooms may be compact

Not for budget-friendly crowd

Best For Great Location

MGM Grand

Trendy hotel in Detroit

MGM Grand Detroit

The MGM Grand Detroit is an enormous resort hotel with every amenity you could want, and more, including a famous casino.

It feels more like something you might find in the mountains or Las Vegas, rather than Michigan, but here it is, just a 15-minute walk to Downtown Detroit. Close enough to feel connected, yet far enough away to enjoy the space.

There are endless variations on the 400 rooms and suites, with and without views across the city; all are big and dressed to slap you with colour rather than swamp the usual corporate browns.

The list of amenities is endless, with bars and restaurants, fitness, spa and wellness centers, a golf swing suite, shopping, even an entire concert arena and, of course, the casino with slot machines, poker, and table games. There’s even the occasional MGM lion lurking around.

Pros

Fun casino and party vibe

Luxury spa and indoor infinity-edge pool

Proximity to Downtown Detroit

Spa with cabana

hot tub

steam room and sauna

Cons

Potentially crowded casino

Not all rooms offer city views

Best For Longer Stays

Park Avenue Condos by Barsala

Barsala at City Club

Barsala at City Club is an aparthotel, which means few staff but plenty of space in the studio, one-bed or two-bed apartments. The modern spaces are bright, airy, and tastefully furnished with unfussy, colourful designs.

There’s an added bonus here of a small rooftop pool, fitness center, and sauna, and undoubtedly a great location off Washington Boulevard in the heart of Detroit with bars, clubs, and restaurants all around.

Not the sort of place to choose if you like being waited on, but perfect if you want the freedom to explore this magnificent city at your own pace.

Pros

Rooftop pool for relaxation

Central Detroit location

Spacious Apartments

Luxury sauna and fitness center

Cons

Small swimming pool

No hotel service

Best For Millennials and Gen Z’s

Aloft Detroit at the David Whitney

Fun hotel in Detroit

Looking out over the Grand Circus in the very epicentre of Detroit is Aloft Detroit at The David Whitney. Comerica Park, Ford Field, Detroit Opera House, and The Fillmore are all less than ¼ mile from the doors and the People Mover light railway stops right outside.

It is a neat, contemporary hotel with modern, friendly European interior styling and an impressive central grand atrium respecting the beautiful David Whitney building, constructed in 1915.

There’s a good choice of rooms, all bright and cheerful, a colourful little bar on site with a snack menu, and a good fitness center. A perfect balance of somewhere to sleep against getting out to the delights of Downtown Detroit.

Pros

Various dining options

Proximity to cultural venues

Modern European interiors

Accessible transit links

Cons

Compact fitness center

Some rooms may be small

Street noise possible

Best For Pet-friendly

Hotel Indigo Downtown

Hotel Indigo Detroit Downtown, an IHG Hotel

Modern design hotel in Detroit

Smartly located on a corner of Washington Boulevard with easy access to public transport and all the local venues is the Hotel Indigo Detroit Downtown. There’s a massive choice of 241 rooms and suites, a modern fitness centre, a good bistro and a nice bar.

Much of the hotel has been recently renovated to add a shot of colour and design, but still manages to retain the look and feel like you’d expect from a big IHG Hotel.

It’s just a short walk to the Huntington Place conference centre, Joe Louis Arena and picturesque Detroit Riverwalk with views across the Canadian border.

Pros

Variety of rooms available

Excellent dining experience

Nearby local venues

Stylish and modern interiors

Cons

Parking is a little compact

No swimming pool

Check-in can be slow

Best For Midrange

Atheneum Suite Hotel, Greektown

Luxury hotel in Detroit

Upscale hotel in Detroit

Adjacent to the famous Greektown Casino is the Athenium Suite Hotel. An indulgent hotel of 173 suites bedecked in slightly dated, yet honest hotel comforts.

Constructed in the 1920s on the site of an old seed factory, hints of art deco remain throughout the public areas and huge columns soar through the storeys uniquely cutting through many of the guest rooms.

Greektown is a vibrant district of Downtown Detroit, buzzing with nightlife, gaming, restaurants, bars, and of course, the finest Greek cuisine.

The Athenium is a genuine hotel with unpretentious quality confidently delivered in a booming neighbourhood. There’s the usual fitness centre and everything you could need, including an in-house barber.

Pros

Modern all-suite accommodations

Prime location near Greektown Casino

Authentic Greek cuisine nearby

Extensive fitness centre

Cons

Some amenities need updating

Early check-ins cost extra

Street noise possible

Best For Budget-friendly

Mint House Times Square

Cool aparthotel in Detroit

Fun and sociable hotel in Detroit

There are three Mint House aparthotels in Detroit, all centrally located. Don’t be fooled by the name on this one – Times Square is nothing like its New York namesake, it just happens to be the small street that runs past – However, it is a great location fully serviced by public transport and an easy walk to most of what Downtown Detroit has to offer, both the business and leisure districts.

Mint House has sharp, big, studio, 1-bed or 2-bed modernist (lots of white) apartments kitted out with everything you might need. There’s a small gym and shared space if you’re feeling sociable, otherwise just sensible, practical space to enjoy your stay.

Pros

Central business district location

Fully equipped modern apartments

Convenient public transport access

Reasonably Priced

Cons

Less upscale fitness amenities

Compact social areas

Self-catering

Best For Couples

The Cochrane House Luxury Historic Inn

Best hotels in Detroit

The Cochrane House Luxury Historic Inn

A delightful remnant of Detroit’s history, just across the freeway from Comerica Park and Ford Field, yet like stepping back in time to grander days.

This 19th-century mansion has been saved from ruin and updated to provide genuine, bright luxury accommodation with thoughtful modern facilities and more than a hint of Motown.

There are just three beautifully furnished rooms and suites for adults only, or you can book the entire building for a special event. The shared areas are sumptuous, but modern and creative, rather than antiquated.

This is Detroit as it should be seen, with twists of old and new colliding to make something precious and fun. And just a short walk to the Downtown buzz.

Pros

Exclusive Adult-Only Experience

Prime entertainment district

Homemade breakfast delivered to rooms

Historical luxury building

Cons

Limited room availability

Not Ideal for families

Street noise possible

Comparison of the Top 15 Hotels in Detroit

The table compares the top 15 cool and fun hotels in Detroit.

Hotel NameLocationPrice Range (per night)Fitness FacilitiesDistance to Attractions (km)Nearby Restaurants
Trumbull and Porter Downtown1331 Trumbull Street$180-$656Yes2.03
Detroit Foundation250 West Larned Street$335-$424Yes3.43
The Siren1509 Broadway Street$256-$480Yes2.73
Hotel at The Detroit Club712 Cass Avenue$455-$554Yes3.13
Shinola1400 Woodward$644Yes2.83
The Inn at 97 Winder97 Winder$264-$401Yes2.03
The Godfrey1401 Michigan Avenue$229-$321Yes2.03
Westin Book Cadillac1114 Washington Boulevard$413-$528Yes3.03
MGM Grand1777 Third Street,$286-$493Yes2.53
Park Avenue Condos by Barsala1400 Woodward Ave$644Yes2.83
Aloft Detroit at the David WhitneyOne Park Avenue$391-$581Yes2.73
Hotel Indigo Downtown1020 Washington Boulevard$217-$321Yes3.13
Atheneum Suite Hotel1000 Brush Avenue$275-$390Yes3.13
Mint House Times Square415 Clifford Street$154-$197Yes2.73
The Cochrane House Luxury Historic Inn1000 Brush Avenue$275-$390Yes3.13