When visiting Detroit, the best areas to stay are in the downtown and midtown neighborhoods, which offer a mix of entertainment, culture, and convenience, with top options including Downtown Detroit, Midtown, Corktown, Eastern Market, Rivertown, Lafayette Park, and New Center.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top areas, here's a detailed breakdown:
Downtown Detroit (Detroit)
Best For: Business / Luxury
Vibe: Downtown Detroit is the heart of the city, with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of entertainment options, including sports stadiums, theaters, and restaurants. The area is also home to many major businesses and convention centers.
Price Range: $150-300/night
Pros: Convenient location, plenty of amenities, easy access to public transportation
Cons: Can be noisy and crowded, limited parking options
Midtown (Detroit)
Best For: Families / Artists
Vibe: Midtown is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood, known for its street art, independent shops, and restaurants. The area is also home to many cultural attractions, including the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
Price Range: $100-200/night
Pros: Unique character, plenty of cultural attractions, relatively affordable
Cons: Limited parking options, can be noisy at night
Corktown (Detroit)
Best For: Backpackers / Foodies
Vibe: Corktown is a historic neighborhood, known for its Irish heritage and lively atmosphere. The area is home to many bars, restaurants, and cafes, as well as the famous Michigan Central Station.
Price Range: $80-150/night
Pros: Affordable, plenty of dining options, unique character
Cons: Limited amenities, can be noisy at night
Eastern Market (Detroit)
Best For: Foodies / Shopaholics
Vibe: Eastern Market is a bustling neighborhood, known for its historic market and vibrant atmosphere. The area is home to many shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a weekly market selling fresh produce and local goods.
Price Range: $80-150/night
Pros: Unique character, plenty of dining options, affordable
Cons: Limited amenities, can be crowded on market days
Rivertown (Detroit)
Best For: Luxury / Waterfront
Vibe: Rivertown is a upscale neighborhood, located along the Detroit River. The area is known for its beautiful views, upscale restaurants, and luxury amenities.
Price Range: $200-400/night
Pros: Stunning views, upscale amenities, convenient location
Cons: Expensive, limited parking options
Lafayette Park (Detroit)
Best For: Families / Nature Lovers
Vibe: Lafayette Park is a quiet and picturesque neighborhood, located near the Detroit River. The area is known for its beautiful parks, walking trails, and historic homes.
Price Range: $100-200/night
Pros: Peaceful atmosphere, plenty of green space, relatively affordable
Cons: Limited amenities, can be far from downtown
New Center (Detroit)
Best For: Business / Convenience
Vibe: New Center is a bustling neighborhood, located near downtown Detroit. The area is known for its convenient location, plenty of amenities, and easy access to public transportation.
Price Range: $120-250/night
Pros: Convenient location, plenty of amenities, easy access to public transportation
Cons: Can be noisy and crowded, limited parking options
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $30-60 | Budget/Social | Limited options, but affordable and social |
| Guesthouses | $80-150 | Mid-range/Local | Unique character, relatively affordable, but limited amenities |
| Hotels | $120-300 | Comfort/Business | Convenient location, plenty of amenities, but can be expensive |
| Boutique Hotels | $150-400 | Experience | Unique character, upscale amenities, but can be expensive |
| Resorts | $200-500 | Relaxation | Upscale amenities, beautiful views, but can be far from downtown |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $80-200 | Long stays/Families | Affordable, plenty of space, but can be far from downtown |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance to secure the best rates, especially during peak season (June to August)
- Use online booking platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, or Airbnb to compare prices and find deals
- Consider staying in a guesthouse or hostel for a more local experience and affordable rates
- Look for hotels or resorts that offer packages or discounts for longer stays
- Be sure to read reviews and check the location before booking
- Negotiate the rate if possible, especially for longer stays
- Be aware of seasonal pricing, with rates tend to be higher during summer and festivals
Safety & Location Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas
- Stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially in downtown and midtown
- Avoid areas with high crime rates, such as some parts of the east side
- Use public transportation or ride-sharing services instead of walking alone at night
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Eastern Market
- Be mindful of traffic and construction, especially in downtown and midtown
- Consider staying in a hotel or resort with 24-hour security for added safety
Quick Facts
Be sure to explore the city's many cultural attractions, including the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and the Motown Museum.