I need to return to Michigan. My only visit thus far was to Detroit, where my brother insisted that we go to 8 Mile Road to see the place Eminem grew up. It was a memorable trip, but Detroit probably wouldn’t be my top pick if I were to return. Rather, I’d want to go to Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor. In this entry, we’ll explore the best accommodations and attractions in those cities.
Things to Do in Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is a beautiful city with an impressive historic district. It’s home to several buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and offers access to nearby lakes, rivers, and nature preserves.
What are the best attractions in Grand Rapids? The Frederick Meijer Gardens include miles of walking trails surrounded by beautiful flowers and outdoor sculptures. The Grand Rapids Public Museum features educational exhibits in a retired flour mill. Millennium Park is a sprawling nature area with multiple beaches.
Stay Downtown: The Holiday Inn
The Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown will give you easy access to the major attractions of the city. In fact, it’s just a 15-minute walk to three of the city’s most famous museums. What’s more, this affordable hotel also features several key amenities. All guests receive free Wi-Fi, access to the pool, and a room with a flat-screen TV.
Things to Do in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is like Detroit’s more attractive cousin. It features all the metropolitan attractions you could hope for, but it happens to be located amidst a sprawl of beautiful nature areas.
Many of the best attractions in Ann Arbor are museums. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum lets kids learn and play at the same time, the Michigan Museum of Modern Art features one of the best American art collections, and the University of Michigan Natural History Museum is a great destination for nature lovers.
Stay Near the University: Bell Tower
If most of the sights you’re interested in are near the University of Michigan, then the Bell Tower Hotel is the ideal place to stay. This top-rated hotel features luxurious amenities like concierge service, a full-range spa, valet parking, and evening turn-down service.
Stay Near the Nature Areas: Weber’s
If you’re more drawn to the natural areas throughout Ann Arbor, like the Dolph Nature Area and the Bird Hills Nature Area, then Weber’s Hotel & Restaurant is the right place for you. This family-owned hotel features a top-rated restaurant in addition to a number of key amenities like valet parking, a same-day dry cleaning service, and a 24-hour business center.
Stay Near Arborland Center: Lamp Post Inn
If you’re staying in Ann Arbor for a sporting event or for the shopping, then the Lamp Post Inn is the perfect hotel. It’s in the stadium district, giving you easy access to a number of sporting events, and it’s just a few blocks from shopping at the Arborland Center. The hotel itself features spacious rooms and must-have extras like free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking.
What about you? What are your favorite sights and stays in Michigan? Do you have any advice for those planning a trip to the region? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
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