Once known as Furniture City and River City, the Michigan city is now officially America’s Best Beer City and even a Top 20 U.S. Foodie City with fresh, local food galore. There’s also quite the creative and arty vibe in the city which is also evident in their accommodation options which range from luxury riverfront hotels to charming boutique B&Bs. Many of them are also pet-friendly too. To help you choose, here are my favorite cool and trendy hotels in Grand Rapids…
Canopy By Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
One of my favorite places to stay while visiting the beer city’s Ale Trail is The Canopy By Hilton. Nestled right downtown, this hotel is a gem for anyone looking for a luxurious and comfortable vacation. Surrounded by over 80 local breweries, it’s a paradise for beer enthusiasts like me.
I love this hotel for its mid-century architecture and posh interiors. When I stepped inside, I was captivated by the exquisite furniture and handcrafted furnishings, a true reflection of Grand Rapids’ reputation as the “furniture city.”
During my stay, I experienced the opulent suites with sweeping views that left me in awe. The upscale rooftop bar was the perfect place to unwind, and the modern amenities provided all the convenience I needed.
But what truly impressed me was the hotel’s location. It’s right at the center of all the action and tourist attractions. I had easy access to popular places like the Frederik Meijer Gardens and the Riveredge Trail, making my visit even more memorable. The Canopy By Hilton is ideal for anyone exploring Grand Rapids in style. One of my favorite experiences here was enjoying a craft beer from a local brewery while taking in the views from the rooftop bar.
Pros
Mid-century architecture
Posh interiors
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum nearby
Cons
Slightly pricey
Breakfast not included
AC Hotel Grand Rapids Downtown
Planning a lavish vacation, I found myself at the AC Hotel Grand Rapids Downtown, one of my favorite places to revel in old-world European charm right in the heart of a bustling metropolis.
While visiting, I couldn’t help but admire the marvel of 19th-century architecture that this hotel is. The European-themed interiors created a delightful environment for an ambient and comfortable stay. I love that the hotel has one of the best libraries, perfect for passionate bibliophiles like me.
During my stay at the place, I tried the posh AC Lounge, which is famous for its signature G+T cocktails, and I must say, they were a treat for the palate. Staying at the AC Hotel is a luxurious way to pamper yourself and position yourself in the heart of all the fun and entertainment of the raging Grand Rapids nightlife. It truly was an unforgettable experience. One of my favorite memories here was sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail at the AC Lounge while enjoying a good book from their library.
Pros
Chic and unique design
European-style decor
Cannonsburg ski area
Cons
Bit noisy at nights
Little pricey
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Amway Grand Plaza, a part of the Curio Collection By Hilton, is one of my favorite places worldwide. I love this luxurious hotel, and while visiting, I experienced an intensely indulgent stay that perfectly blends old-world charm with modern luxuries.
Nestled alongside the stunning Grand River, the Amway Grand Plaza immerses you in a world of cultural and historic charm. My stay in one of the suites was beyond comfortable, with opulent interiors and European-themed décor that truly stood out.
I tried the hotel’s eight fine-dining restaurants and bars, each offering a delightful culinary experience. With the convenient skywalk access, I had the opportunity to explore popular attractions across downtown with considerable ease. My time at the Amway Grand Plaza was nothing short of extraordinary. One of my favorite moments here was dining at one of their exquisite restaurants while enjoying the picturesque backdrop of the Grand River.
Pros
Skywalk access to Van Andel Arena
Opulent interiors
Picturesque backdrop of Grand River
Cons
Rooms can be soundproofed
Microwaves can be provided
The Parsonage Inn B&B
If you’re seeking a homely, comfortable, and earthy abode to enjoy homely comforts in the heart of the bustling metropolis, you’ll love the Parsonage. While visiting this charming establishment, I immediately noticed the elegant interiors that greeted me as I entered the lobby and toured the rooms.
The Parsonage Inn quickly became one of my favorite places to stay. This Queen Anne mansion, erected back in 1882, holds a special place in my heart. Its fascinating history and unique charm make it stand out as one of the most beautiful and authoritative architectural heritage sites on the iconic Heritage Hill. As a history buff, I couldn’t resist staying here to experience and revel in its legacy. One of my favorite aspects of the Parsonage Inn was waking up to the aroma of a delicious homemade breakfast, a true highlight of my stay.
Pros
Traditional bed and breakfast
Elegant interiors
Grand Rapids Art Museum nearby
Cons
Pets are not allowed
Smoking is prohibited
Home2 Suites By Hilton Grand Rapids North
Home2 Suites by Hilton is one of my favorite places, especially for dog parents like me who love to travel with their furry friends. While visiting this hotel, I experienced a sublime and home-like comfort that truly lives up to its name. The earthy vibe and indulgent opulence of the suites and rooms made my stay exceptional.
The housekeeping staff here is fantastic, diligently attending to your needs. I had access to world-class amenities during my stay, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and a business center. I love this place for its fine dining establishments, bars, and indoor pool, which added to the overall experience.
What I enjoyed the most was the easy access to multiple attractions, including the Fish Ladder Park, Voigt House Victorian Museum, and Heritage Hill. Staying at Home2 Suites by Hilton is an experience I won’t forget, especially for those traveling with their four-legged companions. One of my favorite moments was taking my furry friend for a long walk in the nearby nature trail.
Pros
Nearby Gerald R. Ford International Airport
Nature Trail for hiking
Earthy vibes
Cons
Beds are a little stiff
Need bigger coffee cups
Leonard at Logan House
I love charming and homely inns, and my stay at Leonard at Logan House was a delightful experience. This enchanting little inn, nestled in the heart of Heritage Hill, quickly became one of my favorite places to visit.
While staying at the place, I discovered its rich and powerful history. Constructed in 1914, Logan House was once the residence of the esteemed Harry C. Leonards, one of the most affluent families in Grand Rapids. The house’s history added a layer of fascination to my stay.
The mid-century architecture and tasteful interiors of the house gave it an enchanting appeal. I couldn’t help but appreciate the artisanal elegance that resonated throughout the property. It truly felt like a journey back in time, and I immersed myself in this historic gem’s charm. One of my cherished memories here was sitting by the fireplace in the cozy common area and chatting with fellow guests.
Pros
Quirky-chic B&B
Mid-century architecture
Historic neighborhood
Cons
Lighting could be improved
Breakfast menu is not diverse
Embassy Suites By Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
The Embassy Suites by Hilton is one of my favorite places, inviting you to a luxuriously lavish accommodation tucked at the northern tip of Grand Rapids downtown, right across the scenic backdrop of the Grand River.
While visiting this beautiful hotel, I love that it’s an apt choice for travelers who want to enjoy the energy of downtown without feeling overwhelmed by the crowdedness of the site.
During my stay at the Embassy Suites, I experienced the complimentary evening reception and the action-packed events calendar, and I can’t stop raving about them. It’s the perfect spot for foreign tourists like me, looking to make friends and find like-minded travel buddies.
One of the things I tried was easy access to multiple popular attractions, including DeVos Place, Grand Rapids Public Museum, and several Michelin-starred restaurants. The location couldn’t be better for a tourist like me! My favorite memory was mingling with fellow travelers during the evening reception and sharing stories about our adventures.
Pros
Scenic backdrop of Grand River
Charming urban style
Accessible to Michelin-starred restaurants
Cons
Pool closes early
A little pricey
Park City 2-bedroom condo in Grand Rapids
One of my favorite places to stay while visiting Grand Rapids is the Park City condominium. I love this lavishly furnished 2-bedroom apartment with elegant furniture and rich textures, which perfectly reflects Grand Rapids’ reputation as the iconic “furniture city.”
While staying at this state-of-the-art condo, I experienced the joy of a well-equipped kitchen, a spacious living area, and a welcoming dining space, making it an ideal choice for travelers, honeymooners, and groups looking to embrace the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
This centrally-located gem positioned me right in the heart of all the action and adventure. I could easily explore the popular attractions within proximity and enjoy spectacular views of the glitzy skyline. It was the perfect place to stay connected to the rip-roaring social scene. My favorite moment here was hosting a dinner party in the spacious dining area with friends while admiring the city views from the balcony.
Pros
Home-like comforts
State-of-the-art kitchen
Views of the glitzy skyline
Cons
Occasional loudness
WiFi can be spotty
Hilton Garden Inn Grand Rapids East
The Hilton Garden Inn is one of my favorite places. I love this hotel’s enchanting warmth with its opulent mid-century décor, cozy fireplaces, and elegantly furnished rooms.
While visiting, I was immediately struck by the luxurious comfort of each suite. Rooms are decked with flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, deluxe bedding, and lovely balconies with sweeping city views.
While staying at the place, I found it tucked just 4 miles away from Reeds Lake and around 5 miles away from the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. The Hilton Garden Inn offers the best of Grand Rapids, minus the overwhelming crowds and mainstream touristy chaos.
During my stay, I tried out the hotel’s fitness room and took a dip in the Michigan-shaped pool. The hot tubs were a great way to relax, and the patio was a fantastic spot where guests could set up a fire pit to enjoy summertime BBQs and pool parties. It was a truly memorable experience. One of my favorite moments was leisurely swimming in the unique Michigan-shaped pool and then relaxing in the hot tub.
Pros
Walking distance from Calvin College
Michigan-shaped pools
Opulent mid-century décor
Cons
Overwhelming crowds
Complimentary breakfast
2BR 2B Condo
Looking for a rewarding summer experience in downtown Grand Rapids? Well, I certainly found mine! I love this 2BR 2B condo right in the heart of the bustling downtown scene.
While visiting, I discovered that this accommodation is perfect for both business and luxury travelers, just like me. The fully air-conditioned condo offers all the comforts of home. I experienced the elegant bedrooms, a satellite flat-screen TV, a dining area, and a fully-equipped kitchen – not to mention the comfy linen and bedding.
Moreover, the site also gives you access to a state-of-the-art fitness center. And I couldn’t get enough of the balcony with sweeping views of the city skyline; it’s truly breathtaking.
While staying at this place, I was thrilled to find that popular attractions like the Van Andel Arena, Devos Hall, and the Grand Rapids Art Museum were all within walking distance. It made my summer unforgettable! My favorite memory here was enjoying a glass of wine on the balcony while taking in the mesmerizing city skyline at sunset.
Pros
Home-like comforts
Popular attractions like Van Andel Arena
Sweeping views of city skyline
Cons
Check-in is a hassle
Nearest airport is 22.8 km
Best Hotels in Grand Rapids Compared
We have made this comparison table consisting of the top 10 cool and trendy hotels in Grand Rapids.
Hotel Name Location Price Range (per night) Fitness Facilities Distance to Attractions Nearby Restaurants
Canopy By Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown 131 Ionia Avenue SW $413-$427 Yes 1.0 3
AC Hotel Grand Rapids Downtown 50 Monroe Avenue NW $286-$309 Yes 2.3 2
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel 187 Monroe Northwest $355-$465 Yes 2.2 2
The Parsonage Inn B&B 423 Madison Avenue Southeast $440 No 1.4 3
Home2 Suites By Hilton Grand Rapids North 330 River Ridge Dr. NW $229-$252 Yes 6.0 3
Leonard at Logan House 440 Logan Street SE $391 No 1.6 2
Embassy Suites By Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown 710 Monroe Avenue NW $367-$390 Yes 2.6 2
Park City 2-bedroom condo in Grand Rapids No Info Available No Info Available No 0.3 5
Hilton Garden Inn Grand Rapids East 2321 East Beltline Ave SE $221-$290 Yes 6.0 3
2BR 2B Condo in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids Downtown, GR -- Yes 5.3 5
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Scott Balaam – writer and photographer
Scott started his travelling life back in 1999, when he headed off on a solo jaunt to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia with just a backpack, a camera and a spirit for adventure. After that, the travel bug bit hard and now he is always seeking to head off somewhere new. Over the years he has lived in Italy, Qatar, Australia, Ireland, UK and the USA but his spiritual home will always be Rome as this is the city which most satisfies his unrelenting thirst for culture, good food and great football. In his spare time Scott loves nothing better than to be behind the camera and also runs his own blog and Instagram page. He also counts Melbourne, the rest of Italy, Amsterdam, USA, Athens, Cape Town and Tel Aviv among his favourite places. Find Scott on Linkedin, Instagram, or Twitter.
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