El Moore Lodge & Residences

My wife and I planned a trip to visit the Diego Rivera murals at the Detroit Institute of Arts. We booked a room at El Moore for a couple of nights and it made the whole trip a pleasure. We’ve stayed in hotels all over the country, many more expensive, and El Moore is the best of the lot. Everything about it was excellent for us, from the location to the very comfortable bed. This is a unique rehab of an historic building, part of a larger effort to conscientiously contribute to the revitalization of a neighborhood. The grounds include gated parking, and an un-gated community garden and a fine little cafe/grocery. Each room in the hotel is unique. All have access to a nice parlor, complete with a collection of Detroit-themed books and a simple breakfast bar. The staff were amazing, friendly and acting more like hosts than employees. Our room was sparkling clean and well equipped with everything we needed. The bathroom was huge, including a walk-in shower that could accommodate a crowd (no, we didn’t try to recruit anyone!) As for location, the museum is within walkable distance. There are many restaurants, bars, bakeries and cafes within blocks. The free Q line trolley downtown is two blocks away. Take in a Tigers game, or some live music! In sum, El Moore represents a tremendous value, and sets the standard against which we will judge future hotel stays. We look forward to returning.

Our stay in the Moonbeam Cabin at the El Moore Lodge was an unforgettable experience. Even waking up to the soft sound of rain made the rooftop cabin feel extra cozy and peaceful, like our own private retreat above the city. The cabin itself is beautifully designed, blending rustic charm with modern touches and thoughtful eco-conscious details. Watching the storm clouds roll over the Detroit skyline from bed was surprisingly calming and made us appreciate the space even more. The location in Midtown is ideal, close to great food, culture, and local spots, yet up in the cabin, it felt like we were in a world of our own. The staff were welcoming and clearly care about creating a great guest experience. We’ll definitely be back. The Moonbeam Cabin is truly something special, perfect for anyone looking for a unique, inspiring, and peaceful escape in the heart of Detroit.

Loved our stay! Wish we'd have been able to stay longer to really enjoy the place. Very clean and comfortable. Love the window seat and the atmosphere in the parlor. If we come back to Detroit we will definitely plan a longer stay in one of their bigger rooms with a balcony as it is very relaxing here. The main thing I looked for was somewhere we would feel safe/secure and not be too far from downtown. The gated parking with a code and secure entry to the building were spot on. They even made it easy to come and go whenever. Additional breakfast options would be our only suggestion but completely understand as this is a smaller business and you don't see as many people as big hotels. We were still able to eat and enjoy coffee and it really felt like it was just us here. Staff was very nice! They were also very understanding and accommodating as our travel plans unfortunately slid to the right a few hours. We ended up arriving a little after check in hours. I kept them updated through text and they provided a smooth self check-in process.

Very happy we booked here. We received a warm and friendly welcome. I think her name was Henrietta (my English isn't so good). The place is charming and very clean. Very quiet too. We felt safe. The room, 'The Varney,' was incredible with its old-fashioned style. The neighborhood is safe, and we went for a walk to see Canfield Street, which has retained its historic character. However, the breakfast was simple; I would have added muffins.|Very happy with our choice.

Years later, I finally leave a review. For that, I apologize. I will be staying at the El Moore again. It is really that simple. The staff were fantastic. The location was walking distance from some great places.. food and otherwise. If I did have to drive further for anything, it was very reasonable/ affordable. I came for music and sports. What a great room. It was like staying in my own apartment. Loved everything so much, including the secure parking lot. Stay here. You’ll love it. Promise.

We can’t wait to return! We came in for a lacrosse game and booked this place even though it was 30 minutes from the field - it looked (and is!) that charming. We were only disappointed that we cut ourselves short on time and barely were able to enjoy our stay. We are already planning when we can go back! Service is over the top helpful! Head’s up, they do have set hours for service, so if you need to check in after 7 pm, make sure you call ahead and make arrangements. The location was easy to get to, gated & complimentary parking on site. Lots of great places to eat within walking distance. Plan to grab a coffee/tea and breakfast bites from them in the morning - you can sit in the outside greenhouse looking building or at the window seat table in their common area - which is charming. Loved the spacious room with window seats, and felt very private. Also worth noting, not always easy to find a bathtub, and this room had the combo as well as a generous closet. I’ve taken a photo of the name of the room for reference. Can’t wait to go back!

The restoration done on El Moore is fabulous. The employees were obviously proud of their facility. We were in one of the small , less expensive rooms, and it was fine. Everything was well thought out and felt cozy. The continental breakfast was very good with some fine home baked goodies|The gated parking is a plus. There is a park and amazingly well stocked store located on the property. The Cannfield Qline station is only about three blocks away.

The El Moore was wonderful! Great views and such a pleasant lobby and check-in experience with Harriet. It is also within walking distance to so many places that it really helps your stay in Midtown come alive. We would love to stay there again.

After a red eye, we were exhausted and had a few hours before check-in. Called to see if we could perhaps check in early. The person on the phone was courteous, said our room was available, and instantly became our hero! We made it to the lodge and were greeted by the most genuine, courteous staff. Our room, The Varney, was so clean, cute, and comfortable. We felt like we were staying at someone's house - it doesn't feel like a hotel at all more like a home away from home. The folks who run this place are super nice, and the vibe is great. They are full of recommendations for the surrounding area and offer a generous continental style breakfast. Would wholeheartedly recommend.

The El Moore is absolute gem inside and out. The grounds are beautiful (nice touch with the bird feeder), gated parking and the rooms and lodge were spotless. The parlor offers a nice spot to mingle and grab breakfast. The staff were some of the nicest people ever, who were excited to share places to check out in Detroit. El Moore is located in Midtown, with options for coffee, breweries, dinner, and we even walked to a Detroit Tigers game. The lodge was a quick drive to the Eastern Market, Riverwalk, Belle Isle, and the iconic Buddy's pizza. El Moore also had a public garden next door and a small grocery store with delicious food options. When, not if, we come back to Detroit, we would hands down stay at the El Moore again.

Really awesome place to stay in Downtown Detroit. Prices are very competitive and accommodations are excellent. The staff are very welcoming. The patio area is unbelievably cool. It's very spacious and we have beautiful views. I saw this place on "Under The Radar" and it did not disappoint. My only complaint (and reason for only 4 stars) is the lack of a coffee maker in the room. I love the kitchenette in the room but I really need a coffee maker.

Friendliest of staff. Peaceful environment and well located close enough to downtown. Would come back most definitely.

Nice smaller hotel/lodge just outside of downtown Detroit. Friendly staff, clean room. Felt more welcoming than the typical hotel. I stayed in the CW Moore Suite, which has a living room and kitchen, with a fridge, oven, kitchenware, and utensils. It's a minimum three night stay, but if you are staying that long, then the suite is a good choice. Perhaps most importantly, room rates at El Moore are roughly 50%-75% the price of downtown hotels. The lodge is within walking distance of several stores, restaurants, and bars in the Midtown neighborhood. You can also walk to Woodward Ave, either to check out the museums, theaters, and nightlife, or to take the Q-Line downtown or to the Lions, Tigers, or Pistons/Red Wings stadiums (or you can walk, they're only a little more than a mile away).

wonderful place to stay. all the main hotels were booked up due to a Lions game, so decided to stay here. it's so beautiful inside and out. it's in midtown so great for going to the museums and library and cost for a uber to the arena area (cadillac square) is not bad. i stayed in the Holly room which has 2 beds, the mattress was comfortable and large enough to fit a person 5.6". Very quiet too. my only complaint is i found the pillow too hard (personal preference) and light filters in as the sun rises. the stay also includes continental breakfast- delicious coffee, cakes, and bread along with fresh fruit and cereals. i will definitely stay again if coming to the city.

Lives up to the hype! Very nice people, comfortable rooms, great grounds. Location is perfect. Grew up here, great spot to visit the city.

Oh my goodness, what a treasure in our midst here in Detroit! From the moment i made the reservation for an upper level Sunrise Cabin to the morning we left as truly satisfied patrons, the experience was simply a cut above in smart design, environmental sustainability, professionalism and meticulous care. Not only did i receive email regarding my reservation specifics and check-in process, but the email was followed closer to our arrival date with a phone call. The moment i heard Harriett's caring voice, i just knew we were going to love the experience! Located in mid-town Detroit, The El Moore is easily accessible from Alexandrine. Gated parking on-site is complementary and secure. You don't get in without the passcode. The Reception salon is beautifully restored. Coffee/tea are available 24/7. The morning coffee is excellent! Continental breakfast features locally-sourced delights. Thank you Michael for the extra information you shared re: the space and the surrounding area, including the El Moore's newly opened, Seasons (grocery) Market adjacent to the lodge. Our 5th floor Sunrise Cabin was accessed by stepping out on to the rooftop. It definitely lent itself to ski lodge appeal as we entered the rustic cabin. With floor to ceiling windows to gave us a gorgeous panoramic city view, i expected the room to be very cold. I was wrong. It was cozy, comfortable and spacious. The bed was comfy. Bathroom was well-sized, and the shower was lovely. Be aware that city sounds are audible. A Fire Station is located up the street. If one is otherwise comfortable with the sounds of city life, then the El Moore just might be the place for you on a visit to downtown Detroit.

Spent a wonderful night in the Varney room with my husband after seeing a band at the Majestic on a Saturday night. Very clean, well decorated, and kindly staffed. The building is excellently restored with modern touches, and breakfast, though no savory options/carb-based, was thoughtfully sourced from local/organic bakers, etc. Good value/fun location--would return.

My boyfriend and I chose those place for a romantic one night get away. We stayed in the sunrise rooftop cabin and it was beyond beautiful! The cleanliness of the entire building is worth 10 stars. Our room was so clean and so perfect in its appearance and the design aspect. The staff was beyond our expectations as well. Harriet was so kind and helpful through the booking process and our stay. Definitely recommend the rooftop cabins to anyone who loves a good view and simplicity!!

I was lucky enough to stay in the Varney for 4 nights and loved my time there! The building itself is beautiful and the renovation was clearly done with an eye for attention to detail. It has the perfect combination of modern and historic touches. This hotel checks all the boxes: great location, safe, clean (spotless actually!), comfortable, awesome breakfast, unique, and excellent customer service. As if that wasn't enough, the people are what makes El Moore so special. Every single person I encountered, from staff to residents, was friendly and made me feel like family. Michel went out of his way every morning to get breakfast out early to accommodate my work schedule. I spent my last night/day there during a snowstorm and the property manager (Jason) was kind enough to clean all the snow off my rental before I came out. I can't say enough great things about el Moore Lodge. You guys are the best and run your business very well!! I can't wait to come back when it's warm to see the garden this summer.

My review is solely based on the customer service (or lack thereof) I was provided by El Moore. The thing to know about El Moore is that, in the year 2021, they have a preposterously strict check-in policy: you have to check in between the hours of 3-7pm, no exceptions. My wife and I already had our flight to Detroit booked and were scheduled to land at 8 pm, and so realistically we could arrive at the hotel by 9. I called before booking to ask if the hotel could accommodate a 9 pm arrival--nope. If we couldn't arrive by 7pm, then there was nothing they could do. Two separate staff members told me the same thing: if I can't make it by 7pm, don't bother. That's their prerogative, I suppose, and they offered some vague explanation regarding "safety issues"--but their demeanor was certainly in sharp contrast to what is explicitly stated right on their website when you go to book: "With prior notice WE WILL DO OUR BEST TO ACCOMMODATE LATE ARRIVALS, but please note that on the day of arrival only, and out of courtesy to other guests, no one will be admitted AFTER 11PM." That's written on their website when you go to book. But I did not find that anybody at El Moore was willing to "do their best" to accommodate our late arrival. They basically just said, tough luck. And note that we would be arriving around 9 pm, well before the 11 pm cutoff written on their own website. If arriving at 9 pm is unacceptable, then they should state that instead of 11 pm. Personally, it seems rather antiquated--in the current age of passcodes, keyless entry, etc.--that a human has to even be present to check us in, but I guess they're still trying to figure out that technology. At any rate, I would encourage El Moore to be more up front and honest about their check-in policy and completely drop their line about "doing our best to accommodate late arrivals", which is a falsehood: they have clearly decided they'll do nothing to accommodate late arrivals. As for the hotel experience itself, you can read the other reviews here. It looks like a lovely place to stay--provided your travel plans are known with certainty. But if there is any doubt that you might not make it by 7pm, then don't bother booking, because they won't let you in the building.

Everyone at the El Moore made our first visit to Detroit awesome. From early morning conversations, guiding our daily adventures, to sharing history and then welcoming us home at the end of the day. I never wanted to leave.

Great location, comfortable, modern vibe. The pictures on the internet reflect exactly what you will find. We stayed at the Twilight cabin - really nice!

My husband surprised me for a Valentine's Day overnight stay here. It was so relaxing and beautiful. We stayed in the starlight room and the views were enchanted with the floor to ceiling windows. Even in the middle of winter the trip is well worth it. P.S. The customer service was great. Ms Harriett was such a pleasure to deal with.

We stayed in the Benedict and have already booked our next two trips to stay at the El Moore again. The staff is sooooo friendly and helpful. It's like staying with your best friends. They are so knowledgeable of everything in the area and have so many great recommendations. My wife and I loved the location. Just minutes from downtown but all of the perks of not being in the bustling areas. The lodge is sooooo safe. The gates and the doors are all protected by passcode. When we walked into our room, we were just stunned by the beauty and simplicity. There is a real effort to be eco friendly but there isn't any sacrifice in quality. The rooms are beautiful. It's the perfect balance of historic charm and bright modern. We had planned on staying downtown in a few months but cancelled our reservations and made new ones with El Moore while there. Words can't really describe how happy we were to have found this place.

I hesitate to share this total rave review because I plan to keep coming back to El Moore: I hope to always be able to get a room. The local is perfect for the hip, fun Cass Corridor. The lodge is beautifully updated with a few different room types. I've stayed in The Holly - 2 mega comfy bunk beds and the Cass - queen bed and a bathroom with a tub. The lodge's living room is stocked with tea, usually a fruit basket, and lots of great books. Breakfast is served daily. Lovely quiches etc. Michele greeted me so kindly and the various older women residents who worked the front desk on shifts were each more lovely and gracious than the previous. Can't rave enough. Love. This. Place.

We were truly impressed by all the kindness and welcoming spirit of the staff and everyone that we had the pleasure of meeting. They were all very knowable and helpful during our stay in Detroit. Our room was amazing -- we stayed in "The Holly" which was the right size for us. Everything in our room was "top notch" the bedding, pillows, towels, soap, etc. was the best that I have EVER seen/or used in ANY place that I have stayed -- They Have It Together!! I was also very impressed and pleased by the GREEN Factor of the Lodge-- they use solar panels, motion activated lighting, water saving (toilet, shower head) and that they recycle as well as compost their food waste for their gardens-- (which are absolutely beautiful -- A MUST SEE). The breakfast selection was wonderful and delicious -- plenty of fresh coffee, organic tea, juice, milk, fresh fruit, oatmeal, bagels, almond butter, cream cheese, real butter as well as China Plates, Silverware, cloth napkins. I can't say enough about the area and the graciousness of every person that met during our first stay in Detroit. We had no idea that the area was so beautiful and the people here were so welcoming and happy-- this dispelled a lot of our notions about the City of Detroit. :) I HIGHLY RECOMMEND EL MOORE and hope to visit again in the future to further explore YOUR BEAUTIFUL CITY!! Thank You So Much!! Dorothy Britt and Linda Van Brabant (Duanesburg NY and Albany NY) :)

Absolutely loved our stay!! We were checked in by a wonderfully patient gentleman (we were running late to check in). My husband were celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary, and we enjoyed every minute. We were very comfortable, the cabin was cozy, clean, and quiet (the rooftop view is amazing too). And because of those reasons, we have found our new getaway!! 5 stars for the El Moore!!

Our stay in the Twilight Cabin at the El Moore Lodge was delightful in all respects. The Twilight Cabin is a corner room on the top floor with floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony for viewing beautiful Detroit. Our reservation included free parking and a small breakfast. The building is located within walking distance of lovely restaurants and shops. The entire building and the room are immaculate and impressively decorated. The bed and couch in the room are the epitome of comfort. Upon check in, Harriet provided us with a tour of the building and helpful suggestions for exploring the neighborhood. This experience warrants 10 stars. I love the El Moore Lodge and look forward to staying there again.

This was a fantastic place to stay, very surprising find. The room was nice, the breakfast tasty and I felt very safe. I walked to restaurants and downtown with no problems. Thanks!

It is one of the best hotels I've stayed in, super clean, super safe and the staff are good and welcoming. I stayed there for two days, the room was amazing, the showers and everything was clean and world class standard. I would recommend this to anyone the neighborhood is safe and close to lots of cool and nice places and museums as well. One of my best experiences

Location was excellent, walking distance to the museum, restaurants and bars. Breakfast was welcome, featured local fare, staff made check in easy despite some lateness on our part. Building is an old castle and pretty cool

The rooftop cabins are so lovely. I felt like I was sleeping in an adult tree house. The El Moore is a treasure!

I loved this place! Beautiful old building with a sensitive and luxurious renovation. We stayed in the CW Moore suite, which is a lovely suite to use as a family base. The staff were wonderfully kind and welcoming. I typically left some items in my room when checking out and they reached out and volunteered to send them along, which they did very quickly. Everything was beautifully presented, pristine and welcoming. LOVE!

This place!. Booked a rooftop cabin in April. Stayed. Probably the best experience I have had with a business, thus far. I waited this long to post, simply because I am selfish. My review may interfere with my future bookings. My conscience got the best of me! This place! This fucking place makes me swear! It will make you forget your life! Arrive in a gated lot with a code from your booking to make the gate open. Code again to get in the door. Greeted by the sweetest lady Evaahh!,( she lives there) lobby closes early. I loved that too, privacy. I'm so bad with names! Takes you up, walks you out. Explains everything, especially the card you have, The elevator won't even go up without it! (Security, top notch)lights work in room with card as well. You leave the building through a door and walk. You know you on the roof! There are a couple doors on each side as you walk.. When you go in your door, she explains everything! You are literally in a cabin on the roof of the building! It is beautiful! Windows! Windows ! What a beautiful sight of the city but a cozy cabin feel. It is clean with lighted ship lap behind the bed. All the original, yet modern touches It is second to none. It was Clean, chill , ( I fear hotel rooms)and cozy , and the best place I've ever stayed. So there you have it, and I'm hard to please.

Stayed here over the 4th of July weekend with the wife and the place was amazing. Due to bookings we had to move rooms each night we were there which actually was great as it allowed us to experience the uniqueness and charm of various rooms. We started our stay in the Varney, a beautiful room with massive Windows and dripping in period appropriate charm. Then we moved up to the cabins on the rooftop! We loved it so much we stayed a 3rd night in another cabin! Jason, Michel, Carlos, Harriet were all super personal, helpful and treated us like guests in there home which is how it feels. And the location in midtown is walking distance to some of the hippest restaurants, boutiques and art galleries in the D.

The 'El Moore' is a gem in Midtown. From an environmental impact standpoint, the grounds and mission of this place is insightful; the facility is gorgeous and the rooms are top-notch! The investors have kept so much of the original integrity of the building, and that is only part of what makes the place so worth a visit. Rustic charm, fantastic location, warm staff, and killer views. If we had been able, we would've stayed another night. Shame, but we will definitely be back!

We are only seeing the early potential of what the El Moore will become, and already it is beyond special. In its first year it has deftly managed to morph into a gorgeous inn consisting of rooftop "lodges" as they are named. These are an oasis. The owners have appointed, customized, and designed with great care a space that is unlike anything in Detroit. This is so much better than a B&B, in my opinion, because the privacy is more secured, but a guest still has the option to go downstairs into the lobby/ reception to shmooze, meet staff, snack on treats and coffee. But this place has a bigger picture in mind, and currently houses some permanent residents, is creating a garden, hosts movies and meals for its little communal world in its greenhouse, and is tucked away in the walkable, charming, historic Cass Corridor. The guest feels warmth, luxury, privacy and the feeling they've discovered something unique. I will be following this project with great anticipation and delight. What a treat.

We stayed at the El Moore to celebrate my sister's wedding (and get ready there for the big day) and I cannot think of a more perfect location. Outside of the gorgeous rooftop cabin, the staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming. The location and convenient parking provided a perfect backdrop for photos, as well. I've been recommending the El Moore to everyone I know!

The staff is attentive, helpful and cheerful. The details are well thought out. The lodge is modern and yet keeps the character of the old building. The challenge of that is with the 2 basement rooms. Although cozy, the squeaky floor in the lobby will prevent sleeping past 7 or 7:30am in those 2 rooms.

We had one night to spend in Detroit and as always, we were looking for something unique. The big box hotels just don't have much interest for us. We initially called another inn which was booked but they suggested the El Moore. We were really happy with the choice for a number of reasons. FIrst of all, it was easy to get to. Midtown does not have the chaos of downtown so driving to the property was a breeze. Second, they provide secure free parking. Third, the home is a beautifully renovated Gothic revival home. We stayed in the Varney room on the first floor which was spacious, had a good queen bed with beautiful white linens. The bath is updated and clean. In my opinion, the renovation was done to perfection. They kept the charming features of the house but updated the rest. Fourth, the folks working the desk were knowledgeable about the neighborhood, restaurants, and getting around. Lastly, the location was great. A quick walk to the new free qline which is a fast ride to downtown with lots of restaurants within walking distance. Oh and the bonus was, great continental breakfast in the morning. Yum!