Michigan is no longer just a “drive-through” Midwest state. In recent years, it has quietly become one of the most diverse travel destinations in the U.S., offering everything from historic island resorts and Great Lakes views to stylish city hotels and comfortable budget stays. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a business trip in 2026, choosing the right hotel can completely shape your experience. After researching traveler reviews, location value, amenities, and real guest experiences, here are the top 15 best hotels in Michigan that stand out this year — covering luxury, boutique, mid-range, and value stays.
1. Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island (Best Overall Luxury Hotel)
Official website: Grand Hotel Mackinac Island
If there is one hotel that defines luxury travel in Michigan, it’s the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. Opened in 1887, this legendary property is famous for having the world’s longest front porch and a timeless elegance you simply don’t find elsewhere.
What makes the Grand Hotel truly special is the experience. There are no cars on Mackinac Island, so arriving by ferry and horse-drawn carriage instantly feels like stepping back in time.
Elegant rooms with classic décor and modern comfort
Award-winning fine dining, including formal evening dinners
Stunning views of Lake Huron from the porch and gardens
Live music, afternoon tea, and historic charm throughout the property
Things to know before booking
Dress code is enforced in the evenings (jackets for men)
Prices are higher during peak summer months
Ideal for slow, relaxing vacations rather than nightlife
- Best for: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, anniversaries, once-in-a-lifetime trips
2. Westin Book Cadillac Detroit (Best Luxury City Hotel)
Located in the heart of downtown Detroit, the Westin Book Cadillac blends historic grandeur with modern amenities. The building itself dates back to the 1920s, but the interiors are polished, contemporary, and built for comfort.
This hotel is especially popular with business travelers and weekend visitors who want to stay close to Detroit’s major attractions.
Spacious rooms with Westin’s signature Heavenly Bed
Walking distance to Comerica Park, Ford Field, and the Detroit Riverwalk
Indoor pool, spa, and fitness center
Multiple on-site dining and cocktail options
- The location is nearly perfect. You can walk to sports events, theaters, restaurants, and downtown nightlife without needing a car.
- Best for: Business trips, city breaks, luxury urban stays
3. Shinola Hotel, Detroit (Best Boutique Hotel)
Official website: Shinola Hotel
For travelers who care about design, local culture, and personality, the Shinola Hotel is one of Michigan’s most talked-about boutique hotels. Inspired by Detroit craftsmanship, this hotel feels stylish without being pretentious.
Every detail — from the furniture to the artwork — reflects the city’s creative revival.
Unique, thoughtfully designed rooms
Excellent on-site restaurants and coffee spots
Central location near shopping and cultural attractions
Personalized service that feels genuinely welcoming
Good to know
Rooms are smaller than traditional luxury hotels
Perfect for short stays or weekend trips
- Best for: Boutique hotel lovers, creatives, couples, first-time Detroit visitors
4. Royal Park Hotel, Rochester (Best Upscale Suburban Stay)
Located just north of Detroit, the Royal Park Hotel offers a peaceful, upscale alternative to city hotels. The property is surrounded by landscaped gardens and walking paths, making it feel like a retreat rather than a typical hotel.
It’s a favorite for weddings, events, and travelers who want refined comfort without downtown congestion.
Elegant European-style architecture
Highly rated on-site restaurant and bar
Quiet atmosphere with excellent service
Large rooms ideal for longer stays
- Best for: Romantic getaways, weddings, quiet luxury stays
5. Radisson Plaza Hotel at Kalamazoo Center (Best Value Hotel)
If you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and affordability, the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo is one of the best value hotels in Michigan. Connected directly to the city’s convention center, it’s popular with families, business travelers, and event attendees.
Large, comfortable rooms at reasonable prices
Multiple on-site dining options
Central location near downtown Kalamazoo
Consistently solid guest reviews for cleanliness and service
- Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, conferences, family trips
6. Amway Grand Plaza – Grand Rapids
Official Website: https://www.amwaygrand.com/
If you’re visiting Grand Rapids and want a hotel that feels grand in every sense, the Amway Grand Plaza is hard to beat. Originally opened in 1913, this historic hotel blends classic European-style architecture with modern luxury in a way that feels authentic rather than forced.
The property is split between the historic Pantlind wing and a newer glass tower, giving guests options depending on their style preference. Rooms in the tower tend to feel more modern, while the historic wing offers charm and character.
Prime downtown location within walking distance of museums, restaurants, and breweries
Multiple on-site restaurants, including a well-known steakhouse
Indoor pool, spa, and full fitness center
Large event spaces for weddings and conferences
- This hotel works especially well for couples on a weekend getaway or business travelers attending events in downtown Grand Rapids.
- Best for: City luxury, events, cultural trips
7. The Townsend Hotel – Birmingham (Metro Detroit)
Official Website: https://www.townsendhotel.com/
Located in the upscale suburb of Birmingham, The Townsend Hotel offers a quieter, refined alternative to downtown Detroit. It has earned multiple industry recognitions over the years and is often described as one of Michigan’s most elegant boutique hotels.
Rooms are spacious, calm, and thoughtfully designed, with high-end bedding and marble bathrooms.
Personalized, attentive service
Highly rated on-site restaurant, Rugby Grille
Peaceful location near boutique shops and cafes
Strong reputation for business and executive stays
- If you want a polished, low-key luxury stay without city noise, this is a solid choice.
- Best for: Executive travelers, romantic weekends, refined stays
8. Detroit Foundation Hotel – Detroit
Housed inside Detroit’s former fire department headquarters, this boutique hotel delivers one of the most unique stays in the state. The design keeps many original architectural details while adding modern comfort.
The atmosphere feels creative and energetic — very much in tune with Detroit’s revitalization.
Industrial-chic design with historic character
Excellent restaurant and cocktail bar
Walkable to downtown attractions
Friendly, locally knowledgeable staff
- It’s not the biggest hotel, but that’s part of its appeal. The experience feels personal.
- Best for: Boutique lovers, creatives, urban explorers
9. Mission Point Resort – Mackinac Island
Official Website: https://www.missionpoint.com/
If you love Mackinac Island but want something a little more relaxed than the formal Grand Hotel, Mission Point Resort is an excellent alternative.
Situated along the waterfront, the property offers wide open lawns, Adirondack chairs, and direct lake views. It feels more casual and family-friendly.
Large outdoor lawn space for kids
Bike rentals and easy island access
Multiple dining options
Spa and wellness facilities
- It’s ideal for travelers who want scenic beauty without the strict dress code atmosphere.
- Best for: Families, relaxed island vacations, summer travelers
10. MGM Grand Detroit – Detroit
Official Website: https://mgmgranddetroit.mgmresorts.com/
For travelers looking for entertainment, nightlife, and full-service amenities under one roof, MGM Grand Detroit is one of the most complete hotel experiences in Michigan.
Rooms are spacious and modern, and the hotel includes a casino, restaurants, lounges, and a full spa.
Large luxury rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows
On-site casino and nightlife
Indoor pool and spa
Strong security and modern facilities
- It’s a very different vibe from historic or boutique hotels — more energetic and entertainment-focused.
- Best for: Nightlife seekers, entertainment trips, adult getaways
11. The Inn at Bay Harbor – Petoskey
Official Website: https://www.innatbayharbor.com/
If you’re looking for lakefront elegance in Northern Michigan, The Inn at Bay Harbor is one of the most scenic stays in the state. Overlooking Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay, this Autograph Collection property feels peaceful, refined, and very “Up North.”
Rooms are bright and comfortable, many with balconies and water views. The sunsets here are unforgettable.
Private beach and marina access
Outdoor pool overlooking the lake
Golf courses nearby
On-site dining with panoramic views
- This hotel is especially popular in summer and early fall when the lake views are at their best.
- Best for: Romantic escapes, golf trips, relaxing waterfront stays
12. Hotel Walloon – Walloon Lake
Official Website: https://hotelwalloon.com/
Hotel Walloon is a boutique gem tucked along Walloon Lake. It’s smaller and more intimate than large resorts, which is exactly why many guests return year after year.
The atmosphere feels classic and cozy, with fireplaces, lakefront seating, and personalized service that makes you feel like more than just a reservation number.
Private lakefront access and dock
Complimentary breakfast
Thoughtful room details and warm décor
Quiet, small-town setting
- It’s not flashy — it’s charming. Perfect for unplugging.
- Best for: Couples, peaceful retreats, low-key luxury
13. Grand Traverse Resort and Spa – Acme (Near Traverse City)
Official Website: https://www.grandtraverseresort.com/
Just outside Traverse City, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa offers one of the most complete resort experiences in Michigan. With hotel rooms, condos, golf courses, pools, spa services, and multiple restaurants, it’s practically a vacation destination on its own.
It’s especially popular during cherry season and summer lake tourism.
Championship golf courses
Full-service spa and wellness center
Indoor and outdoor pools
Family-friendly atmosphere
- If you’re traveling with kids or planning a longer stay in Northern Michigan, this is a convenient and reliable option.
- Best for: Families, group vacations, golf lovers
14. The H Hotel – Midland
Official Website: https://www.thehhotel.com/
The H Hotel is one of Michigan’s most highly rated upscale hotels outside the major tourist hubs. Located in Midland, it’s known for consistently excellent service and modern design.
The property often receives recognition for hospitality quality and guest satisfaction.
Clean, modern rooms with upscale touches
Riverfront location with walking paths
Indoor pool and fitness center
Strong dining options on-site
- This is a great example of how Michigan offers high-end comfort even in smaller cities.
- Best for: Business travelers, comfortable mid-luxury stays, quiet getaways
15. Sugar Beach Resort Hotel – Traverse City
If you want something more budget-friendly without sacrificing a beachfront experience, Sugar Beach Resort Hotel in Traverse City is a smart choice.
Located directly on East Grand Traverse Bay, it offers private beach access at a more affordable price point compared to luxury resorts nearby.
Direct beach access
Indoor pool and hot tub
Free breakfast
Competitive nightly rates during off-peak seasons
- It may not be ultra-luxury, but for value-conscious travelers who want lake views, it delivers solid comfort.
- Best for: Budget travelers, families, summer beach trips
16. The Iroquois Hotel – Mackinac Island
Official Website: https://www.iroquoishotel.com/
Located right on the waterfront near the ferry docks, The Iroquois Hotel offers one of the best lake views on Mackinac Island. Unlike the more formal Grand Hotel, this property feels relaxed yet refined.
Rooms are charming and comfortable, many with balconies overlooking the Straits of Mackinac.
Prime waterfront location
Award-winning on-site dining
Personalized, attentive service
Easy walking access to downtown island shops
- If you want classic island charm without a strict dress code, this is a great option.
- Best for: Couples, scenic vacations, peaceful island stays
17. The Henry, Autograph Collection – Dearborn
The Henry is a sophisticated, art-focused hotel located in Dearborn, just outside Detroit. It blends contemporary design with high-end comfort and is especially convenient for visiting The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.
Large, stylish rooms
Indoor pool and fitness center
On-site restaurant and cocktail lounge
Close to major attractions and shopping
- It’s ideal for travelers who want upscale comfort without staying directly in downtown Detroit.
- Best for: Families visiting attractions, business travelers, modern luxury lovers
18. Bavarian Inn Lodge – Frankenmuth
Official Website: https://www.bavarianinn.com/
Frankenmuth is known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” and the Bavarian Inn Lodge fully embraces that theme. It’s colorful, fun, and especially popular with families.
While it may not be ultra-luxury, it delivers an entertaining and memorable stay.
Indoor water park and multiple pools
Unique Bavarian-themed décor
Arcade and family entertainment areas
Walkable to Frankenmuth’s famous chicken restaurants and shops
- This is a fantastic pick for a weekend family trip.
- Best for: Families, themed experiences, fun weekend getaways
19. Saint John’s Resort – Plymouth
Official Website: https://www.saintjohnsresort.com/
Saint John’s Resort has quickly become one of Michigan’s most impressive luxury properties. Completely renovated in recent years, the resort combines modern elegance with peaceful surroundings.
The architecture and landscaping create a high-end atmosphere that feels more like a destination resort than a suburban hotel.
Beautifully designed rooms and suites
Championship golf course
High-end dining options
Large event and wedding spaces
- It’s becoming a favorite for upscale weddings and romantic escapes.
- Best for: Luxury travelers, golf trips, wedding guests
20. The Delamar Traverse City – Traverse City
The Delamar Traverse City offers modern lakefront luxury right in downtown Traverse City. Recently developed, this boutique-style hotel combines sleek design with waterfront views.
Private beach area
Stylish, contemporary rooms
Rooftop or waterfront dining experiences
Walkable to downtown shops and wineries
- It’s one of the newer high-end options in Northern Michigan and perfect for travelers who want both city access and lake views.
- Best for: Couples, wine country visitors, modern boutique fans
Final Conclusion
Michigan’s hotel scene in 2026 offers far more variety than many travelers expect. From the timeless elegance of Mackinac Island’s historic resorts to Detroit’s modern luxury towers and Northern Michigan’s peaceful waterfront retreats, there’s truly something for every style and budget.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a golf trip, or a quick city break, choosing the right hotel can completely shape your experience. The properties listed above consistently stand out for their location, service, comfort, and overall guest satisfaction — making them some of the best hotels in Michigan this year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the most luxurious hotel in Michigan?
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is widely considered the most iconic and luxurious hotel in Michigan, known for its historic charm and lake views.
2. What are the best cities to stay in Michigan?
Detroit, Grand Rapids, Traverse City, and Mackinac Island are among the most popular places to stay due to attractions, dining, and scenery.
3. Are there family-friendly resorts in Michigan?
Yes, resorts like Bavarian Inn Lodge and Grand Traverse Resort offer pools, activities, and family-focused amenities.
4. When is the best time to visit Michigan hotels?
Summer (June–September) is peak season for lake and island travel, while fall offers beautiful foliage and fewer crowds.
5. Are Michigan hotels expensive?
Prices vary by location and season. Luxury resorts cost more during summer, but many mid-range and budget-friendly options are available year-round.
