Teeming with artistic attractions and a bustling downtown, Grand Rapids, Michigan, aka America’s Best Beer City, attracts tourists to its safe, affordable, dynamic destination.
Amway Grand Plaza / Photo Courtesy of AHC Hospitality
Growing in popularity as a Midwest destination, in no small part because of the memorably unique accommodations market, Grand Rapids has an expanding hospitality industry with properties both historic and new that are transforming the downtown. It has some of the country’s oldest and most historic properties, while new boutique hotels are making their mark downtown. We compare five properties from two that set the bar for luxury stays and three smaller, boutique properties offering experiences from off-beat to trendy.
Amway Grand Plaza
The Amway Grand Plaza is an iconic luxury hotel in the heart of Grand Rapids. With its rich history and timeless elegance, the Amway Grand Plaza stands as a prominent symbol of hospitality in the region with some even crediting its renovations with revitalizing the city’s importance as a destination. This historic hotel blends the charm of the past with modern comforts and amenities. Guests are welcomed by a grand lobby adorned with chandeliers, deep mahogany, iconic artwork and intricate details. The hotel offers a wide range of accommodations, from well-appointed guest rooms to spacious suites with stunning city and river views. Its dining options are equally impressive, with multiple restaurants and bars, serving a variety of cuisines and beverages. There is even a hidden speak-easy overlooking the city street that you must have the emailed code to enter. The Amway Grand Plaza is a hub for events, boasting extensive meeting and event spaces. They recently cut ribbon on a wellness floor that includes a full-service salon and spa, rooftop pickleball courts and an aquatics and fitness center. From $187 a night.
JW Marriott Grand Rapids
JW Marriott Grand Rapids / Photo courtesy of AHC Hospitality
The JW Marriott Grand Rapids is a distinguished and upscale hotel nestled in the bustling downtown area. Exemplifying modern luxury, the JW Marriott Grand Rapids boasts contemporary design and world-class amenities, making it a premier destination for travelers seeking sophistication and comfort. With its sleek and stylish interior, the hotel provides a chic and inviting atmosphere. Guests can choose from a variety of well-appointed rooms and suites, each designed to offer a peaceful and relaxing retreat. The hotel’s dining options are equally impressive, offering a range of culinary experiences that cater to diverse tastes. From French fine dining to a breakfast that can’t be beat, the JW Marriott Grand Rapids ensures a delightful culinary journey. Moreover, it serves as a dynamic venue for meetings and events, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and impeccable service. The Seraphina Spa welcomes guests to enjoy wellness services at its full-service facility. The spa connects to its lengthy heated pool, complete with an attached sauna and steam room. From $259 a night.
Leonard at Logan House
Leonard at Logan House / Photo courtesy of Booking.com
For those looking for a more intimate lodging experience, Leonard at Logan House is a charming and distinctive bed and breakfast located in the heart of the city. This quaint and welcoming establishment offers guests a unique experience in a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion. The Leonard at Logan House exudes a sense of old-world charm with its period-appropriate decor, antique furnishings, and meticulous attention to detail. Built in 1914 by a refrigerator magnate, it is located in the largest urban historic district in the U.S., which invites guests to walk the architecturally diverse neighborhood. Each room is thoughtfully designed, with features such as heated floors in all the bathrooms. The bed and breakfast prides itself on its warm and personalized service. The innkeepers serve daily gourmet breakfasts and there is a snack area open 24/7. The location is perfect for exploring the cultural and historic sites of Grand Rapids, and the Leonard at Logan House is an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil and romantic getaway, complete with the grace of a bygone era. From $186 a night.
The Finnley Hotel
The Finnley Hotel / Photo courtesy of Booking.com
Equally intimate is The Finnley Hotel, a property with only five boutique rooms designed to deliver an upscale original experience. The owner was investing in downtown Grand Rapids condos when he purchased the property, unsure of what to do with it. He soon decided it needed to be a hotel, one where his whole family could get involved in the experience. Focusing on clean comfort, each of the rooms welcome guests with an attention to detail from its luxury furnishing to its vintage touches. The owner encourages guests to bring their own vinyls to play on the retro record players found in each room. Meanwhile they can seek out the hidden astronaut in each room. Named after the owner’s daughter, The Finnley offers rooms that are filled with luxury from the linens to the cocktail mixing sets to the hand-picked artisan décor. The rooms are also a space that welcomes business travelers and those seeking modern conveniences such as Smart TVs, work space and fast internet. The Finnley motto is that a one-of-a-kind city deserves a one-of-a-kind hotel. From $117 per night.
CityFlatsHotel
Bedroom at the CityFlats Hotel / Photo courtesy of Booking.com
Known for its contemporary and eco-friendly design, the CityFlatsHotel is a stylish and sustainable property that offers a unique and upscale experience for guests. CityFlatsHotel incorporates modern design elements, with a focus on sustainability, using environmentally friendly materials and practices in its construction and operations. They call it “eco-chic meets boutique.” Guests can choose from a variety of well-appointed rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed with a sleek and urban aesthetic. No two are alike, reflecting the uniqueness of their guests. The floors are cork, the lighting and pluimbing is energy-efficent and the linens are made with a hypoallergenic bamboo. The hotel’s commitment to eco-friendliness extends to its amenities and services, providing an environmentally conscious stay without compromising on comfort. CityFlatsHotel features a trendy and inviting on-site restaurant, the CitySen gastropub, offering farm-to-table cuisine. Step into their Parlour and indulge in a wide range of salon experiences, all while enjoying wine, craft beer or coffee. From $144 a night.