John P.
Yelp
My wife grew up in Dearborn and loves this place and has stayed here several times on business trips. This was the second time that she brought me, her husband, along.
The hotel has a classic feel from the early to the middle of the last century, and an ambiance to match. The hotel sits right on, and along, the river walkway, and the Detroit River - with Canada clearly visible a mere mile away.
The staff is very friendly, informative, helpful, and accommodating. When my wife had made our reservation, she was not able to secure a room on the side overlooking the river. When checking in, she asked the desk clerk whether we might be given a room on the river side. The request was immediately granted - and the room was just two doors down the hall from the front lobby.
One gentleman working - Aaron - was incredible: he assisted me in carrying our suitcases up the front ten or so steps, he helped us check in, he unlocked the front door when we returned late; whenever we needed a hand, it always seemed that he was there to offer one.
If I had any complaint about the hotel at all, it would not be about the facility itself or any of the staff, it would be about their check-in policy. The front desk does not open until 4:00 PM to check guests in, regardless of whether you have a pre-paid reservation.
Even here, however, the staff is helpful. When my wife first brought me here about a year and a half ago, we arrived at about Noon or 1:00 PM, luggage in tow, and were informed about the 4:00 PM policy. The desk clerk then showed us to a storage area where we were permitted to leave our luggage until check-in time, allowing us several hours to explore the downtown and river environs.
All things considered, this is a classic, relaxing hotel - with vintage decor and furniture - overlooking the Detroit River as freighters, ferries, and pleasure boats from both the United States and Canada ply the border waters (we even watched from our room yesterday afternoon as a bold pair of jet-skiers raced down the river hitting large and small waves, flying several feet into, and through, the air); and with an absolutely wonderful hotel staff.
Who could ask for more? Or would want to?
I will insist that my wife bring me along more often.
Actually, there is one more thing that a person could legitimately request: proximity to the Atwater Brewing Company. And this wish is also granted by the hotel's location - a short leisurely walk from the brewery, which to my mind is one of the best in the Detroit area.
Living far North near Mackinac Bridge, we don't get here as often as we might like, so we will need you to check it out in our stead.
John Patterson