So you're spending the night in Detroit but you don't want a fancy pants hotel. You maybe want something cheaper, more social, or more unique. Well here's a list of alternative options and a few crazy ideas for the brave. Have fun and be safe! Know about more such places to stay? Message me at jerryp@gmail.com.
This is one of the wildest looking places to stay that I've seen in Detroit. Why? Because it's a tiny, quaint looking old-fashioned motel directly (and I mean directly) facing the ruins of the Packard Plant (the largest industrial ruin in North America). I've always been curious about what happens here. If you're feeling adventurous, check it out and please report back. It has only one Yelp review, but it's generally positive: http://www.yelp.com/biz/packard-motel-detroit photo by Gordon Dean:
Detroit's finest and only hostel. There are very cool people running and staying here, and it's in an interesting centrally located urban rural neighborhood. http://www.yelp.com/biz/hostel-detroit-detroit
From http://innonferrystreet.com: "Located in the East Ferry Street Historic District of Midtown Detroit, The Inn On Ferry Street sets the standard for elegant guest quarters and dedicated service. Just steps from the state's finest museums, acclaimed Detroit Medical Center and Wayne State University, the Inn is a relaxing change of pace from the standard business hotel. Four restored Victorian homes and two carriage houses abound in sophisticated luxury. The Inn evokes a strong sense of history that provides the perfect atmosphere for weddings, receptions and other social events. Whether you visit for a weekend, conduct a business meeting, or rent an entire house for a special occasion The Inn On Ferry Street is aptly accommodating. Don't forget to take our complimentary shuttle to theatres, stadiums, and all downtown restaurants located a mere 1.5 miles from the Inn."
Located in the Corktown neighborhood just west of downtown, this is one of the finest places to stay in Detroit, with incredibly friendly hosts, via Airbnb: http://www.airbnb.com/rooms/92858
Another Airbnb hit right next to Eastern Market: http://www.airbnb.com/rooms/72119
From http://honorandfolly.com: "A small-scale, design-focused Detroit inn, Honor & Folly is reminiscent of the way folks used to travel: a few beds above the village pub or restaurant with a hearty breakfast. You'll be immersed in the oldest neighborhood of Detroit - smack in the middle of one of the most thriving blocks in the city. You'll sit next to locals at the bar downstairs—or the coffee shop—and learn about the city from people who live here. Detroiters are a pretty friendly lot. There's plenty to absorb inside, too. Decorated with Detroit and Midwest-made goods (much of which is also for sale), the space tells a story about the designers, artists and artisans who helped bring it to life."