Let's talk about Detroit, an awesome city known for its rich history and incredible spirit. Nestled in the heart of Michigan, Detroit is a place that has seen it all. From the rise and fall of the automotive industry to the emergence of Motown music, this city has left an indelible mark on American culture. Today, Detroit is undergoing a remarkable revitalization, with its downtown bustling with art, music, and culinary scenes. Its iconic landmarks, like the Renaissance Center and the Detroit Institute of Arts, showcase the city's resilience and artistic flair. Detroit truly embodies the spirit of reinvention, and it's a place that promises endless exploration and surprises around every corner.
We’ve curated a short-list of moderately priced boutique hotels perfect for your next girls’ weekend.
Note: some of the boutique hotels we recommend have a nightly amenities fee for some awesome extras included in your stay. Be sure to read about what’s included to take full advantage!
Located in a beautifully restored historic firehouse, The Detroit Foundation Hotel offers a blend of contemporary design and industrial charm. The rooms and suites are chic and luxurious, featuring modern amenities and thoughtful touches. The Detroit Foundation Hotel also houses an upscale restaurant and lively bar, creating a vibrant and sophisticated ambiance.
Located in downtown Detroit, The Siren Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel with a vibrant atmosphere. The rooms and suites are tastefully designed with vintage-inspired decor and modern amenities. There's a retro cafe, a trendy cocktail bar, and a high-end restaurant seating 8 guests only. It's a great choice for a trendy and fun girls' weekend.
Situated in the Corktown neighborhood, Trumbull and Porter is a trendy boutique hotel that combines industrial aesthetics with modern comforts. The hotel features an outdoor courtyard, providing a chic and relaxing setting for guests. The rooms are stylishly decorated and offer a unique and comfortable stay. Trumbull and Porter also has a restaurant and bar on-site, serving delicious food and drinks. The state of the art fitness room is open 24/7.
Recommending restaurants can be tricky – there are so many choices! Here we have recommended a few of our favorites, but be sure to check out our local search links below if you are looking for something specific. Bon Appétit!
Buddy’s Pizza is an absolute must on any Detroit girls‑weekend itinerary because it’s the birthplace of Detroit‑style pizza and a true piece of food history. Founded in 1946 at the original Six Mile & Conant location, Buddy’s created the iconic square pizza baked in blue‑steel pans, known for its thick, airy crust, crispy caramelized cheese edges, and sauce layered on top. It’s casual, nostalgic, and incredibly satisfying. If you want to say you’ve truly eaten Detroit, Buddy’s is non‑negotiable
Eatóri is a laid‑back, local‑favorite stop that’s perfect for a girls weekend when you want something casual, welcoming, and very Detroit. Located in Capitol Park, Eatóri blends a neighborhood market, bar, and restaurant into one cozy space, with a menu centered on Mediterranean‑inspired dishes meant for sharing. It’s the kind of place that works just as well for an easy lunch, a relaxed dinner, or a low‑pressure evening drink. Warm, approachable, and community‑driven, Eatóri is a great choice anytime.
Located in Capitol Park, this modern Lebanese restaurant blends the warmth of traditional Middle Eastern hospitality with a sleek, urban setting. You’ll find high ceilings, floor‑to‑ceiling windows, and an open kitchen turning out fresh wood‑fired pita. The menu is built for sharing, with mezze like hummus, muhammara, batata harra, falafel, and grilled meats, plus vibrant cocktails and wine.
Mad Nice is a high‑energy, stylish girls‑weekend standout in Midtown Detroit, perfect when you want great food and great vibes. This modern Italian restaurant leans coastal and California‑inspired, with naturally leavened pizzas, house‑made pastas, wood‑fired dishes, and spritz‑forward cocktails served in a gorgeous mid‑century, coastal‑chic space.
Townhouse is a glam, high‑energy girls‑weekend staple right in the heart of downtown Detroit. Located on Woodward Ave near Campus Martius, it’s known for its striking glass‑atrium dining room, outdoor terrace, and a scene that feels equal parts upscale restaurant and social hub. The menu focuses on modern American comfort food with elevated twists (think shareable plates, brunch favorites, burgers, seafood, and a strong craft‑cocktail program) while the atmosphere stays lively, especially at night and during weekend brunch. If you want a place that feels buzzy and photogenic, Townhouse fits perfectly. Check the website for theme events like Disco Fridays and Hangover Brunch Sundays!
Want to see more options? We’ve included our favorite search links for this destination below. Use them for research or bookmark this site to use them on the fly when you want to search nearby.
Campus Martius Park is basically Detroit’s go‑to hangout spot, the kind of place where you and your girlfriends can instantly soak up the energy of the city. It’s not just a local favorite, either. USA Today named it the No. 1 public square in the entire country, and it’s won tons of awards for its design, events, and all‑around good vibes.
Right in the heart of downtown, this is Detroit’s official “Gathering Place,” built in 2003 exactly where the city’s original point‑zero marker once stood. So yes, you’re literally standing at the heart of history while sipping a latte or taking cute pics.
In the winter, The Rink at Campus Martius Park transforms the space into one of the most iconic outdoor skating spots in the U.S, think sparkling lights, big city skyline, and that perfect cozy‑winter‑girls‑trip moment. But in the summer? Total transformation. The Beach fills the park with 400,000 pounds of soft sand, bright lounge chairs, and a relaxed, tropical energy. It becomes the downtown destination for sunshine, live music, spontaneous fun, and those “we didn’t plan this but it’s perfect” afternoons.
If your group is in the mood for a little art‑girl energy, the Detroit Institute of Arts is absolutely the place to go. With more than 65,000 works, it’s recognized as one of the top art collections in the entire country, and you can feel that the second you walk in.
One of the must‑see highlights is Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry murals, which he considered his greatest masterpiece. Standing in that room feels like stepping right into the heart of Detroit’s story. And don’t miss the museum’s treasured Van Gogh Self‑Portrait. Fun fact: it was the very first Van Gogh painting ever to land in a U.S. museum.
What makes the DIA extra special is how beautifully diverse the collection is. You’ll find everything from American and European classics to Modern and Contemporary pieces, plus powerful works from African, Asian, Native American, Oceanic, Islamic, and Ancient art traditions.
And if your group loves discovering new voices and stories, make time for the General Motors Center for African American Art, created in 2000 to expand and spotlight the museum’s incredible holdings from African American artists. It’s the kind of place where you wander, chat, get inspired, and come out with a new favorite artist (or five).
If your crew wants a mix of fresh air, waterfront views, and cute places to explore, the Detroit Riverfront is basically the ultimate vibe. Stretching from Gabriel Richard Park near the MacArthur Bridge all the way down to the new Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park, this riverfront covers about 100 acres of parks and green spaces linked by more than eight miles of gorgeous Riverwalk. It’s perfect for a long stroll, an easy bike ride, or just soaking in those “we’re definitely taking a photo here” views.
One of the must‑visit spots is Cullen Plaza, which has so many fun little gems: the Cullen Family Carousel, a giant inlaid map of the Detroit River, a glass sculpture of the St. Lawrence Seaway, playful fountains, and tons of lush landscaping. You’ve also got the Cullen Café & Tiki Bar for snacks and drinks, plus Wheelhouse Detroit, where you and the girls can rent bikes, join a tour, or just browse. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, Diamond Jack’s River Tours leaves right from the plaza — perfect for a breezy cruise down the river.
Another highlight is the Dequindre Cut Greenway, a nearly two‑mile below‑street‑level pathway that connects Eastern Market to the riverfront. It has wide lanes for walkers and bikers and is famous for its colorful murals and graffiti — so basically, it’s an open‑air art gallery with skyline views. In the summer, don’t miss The Freight Yard, a super cool hangout built from repurposed shipping containers, complete with a wine and beer garden, food trucks, and live entertainment.
If your group loves music, nostalgia, or just a seriously good story, the Motown Museum is an absolute must‑see. Founded in 1985 by Esther Gordy Edwards (Motown insider, trailblazer, and sister of Berry Gordy) this museum is home to the legendary Hitsville U.S.A., the famous Studio A, and an incredible collection of Motown outfits, photos, and artifacts that feel like stepping straight into music history.
It’s one of those places where you walk in and instantly feel the energy of every superstar who ever recorded there. The museum celebrates how Motown grew from a tiny house into the “Sound of Young America,” shaping decades of music and culture.
It’s a spot that brings people together across generations, perfect for a girls’ trip where you can laugh, sing along to your favorites, and get inspired by the creativity and dreams that built the Motown legacy.
The Belt is basically Detroit’s coolest alley makeover, a hidden, art‑soaked hangout spot right in the middle of downtown. Once part of the old garment district (hence the name), this reimagined alley stretches between Broadway and Library Street, linking Gratiot and Grand River with color, energy, and creativity everywhere you look. The whole space was dreamed up and curated by the Detroit‑based Library Street Collective, so it’s packed with murals, installations, and pieces from more than a dozen different artists.
It’s the kind of place where you and your girlfriends can wander for hours — one minute sipping a drink, the next snapping photos, the next stumbling on a new piece of art you swear wasn’t there a second ago.
Right in the middle of it all is The Skip, an open‑air cocktail bar with breezy island vibes and playful, delicious drinks that feel like vacation in a cup. And if you’re in the mood for something moodier and more intimate, slip through the curtains at Standby on the Gratiot side. It has that secret‑bar, speakeasy feeling with a modern twist — perfect for craft cocktails and a little bit of “main‑character energy.”
Savor the sweet side of Downtown Detroit on this guided donut and pastry tour. Starting at a local bakery, this tour takes the hassle out of planning, with tastings and stops arranged for you. Sample Detroit’s best donuts, artisanal chocolates, and more. Along the way, you’ll listen to insider facts and explore hidden gems you might struggle to find on your own. Choose from morning and afternoon tours.
Take an unforgettable walking bar tour along Detroit’s legendary Woodward Avenue, where you’ll explore 3-4 well traveled watering holes. From sleek cocktail lounges to time-honored dive bars, this experience blends the best of Detroit’s nightlife with its rich, gritty, and fascinating history. Led by a fun, knowledgeable local guide, you’ll hear tales of Prohibition, the evolution of Detroit’s legendary bar scene, and the city’s musical and industrial roots—all while sipping craft cocktails, local brews, or whatever suits your taste. Along the way, we’ll stop for photo ops at landmarks like Hart Plaza & The Spirit of Detroit.
Eastern Market isn’t just a place to shop, it’s an experience! One of the oldest continuously running markets in America, it offers something new to discover around every corner. As you wander the colorful blocks, you’ll pass vibrant art murals, browse fresh produce stands, sample baked goods, sip coffee, and admire handmade art. The bustling energy and endless variety make it the perfect spot to shop, snack, and enjoy a fun, inspiring day out.
Bring your walking shoes! This is the ultimate destination if you are ready to shop ‘til you drop. As Michigan’s largest outlet shopping center, it stretches more than a mile with endless stores, restaurants, and attractions to explore together. Inside this fully enclosed complex, you’ll find anchors like Nordstrom Rack, Bass Pro Shops, and Primark, along with outlets for favorites such as Banana Republic, Nike, Coach, Kate Spade, and so many more. It’s the perfect place for a full day of browsing, laughing, and scoring great finds.
Woodward Avenue is the perfect place to spend the day shopping, strolling, and discovering new favorites. This walkable stretch is lined with a blend of national brands and standout local boutiques, especially in the Downtown and Midtown areas. Downtown you can browse shops like Shinola, H&M, Bonobos, lululemon, and Free People. Just up the avenue in Midtown, the vibe shifts to chic, independent boutiques such as The Black Dress Co., Peacock Room, and Flo Boutique Co. With its mix of fashion, accessories, and locally inspired finds, Woodward Avenue sets the scene for a fun, stylish girls’ shopping outing.
For those of you looking for a fun night out on your girls’ getaway, we’ve got your back. Whether it’s dancing the night away or girl talk over delicious cocktails, we’ve got options. We’ll help you find the right fit with our favorite local search links below.
Boogie Fever is a high‑energy throwback dance club located just outside Detroit in Ferndale. The venue centers around a large, light‑up dance floor and leans heavily into Top 40 hits and nostalgic throwbacks from multiple decades, with DJs keeping the party going late into the night. The space includes VIP booths and multiple bars, and it’s known as a spot for birthdays, bachelorette parties, and full‑on dancing rather than cocktails and conversation.
Candy Bar is an intimate, ultra‑stylish cocktail lounge hidden inside The Siren Hotel in downtown Detroit. Known for its candy‑pink interior, tufted banquettes, red velvet seating, a custom Italian glass chandelier, and a glittering disco ball, the space feels playful, glamorous, and intentionally over‑the‑top. The cocktail program is craft‑driven and inventive, with expertly made classics and creative seasonal drinks. Due to its small size, reservations are strongly encouraged!
Motor City Wine is a beloved Corktown wine bar and bottle shop that blends a relaxed, community‑driven vibe with nightly music programming. The space features a rotating selection of wines from around the world priced retail with a small corkage fee if you drink them on‑site. Inside is cozy and intimate, while the back patio opens into a lively outdoor hangout where DJs, live jazz, and dance‑friendly sets keep the energy going well into the night.
The Monarch Club is a glamorous rooftop lounge perched atop the historic Metropolitan Building in downtown Detroit. Inspired by Detroit’s mid‑century rooftop era, the space blends old‑school elegance with modern polish featuring jewel‑toned interiors, intimate banquettes, outdoor firepits, and sweeping skyline views. The cocktail program is refined and creative, paired with shareable small plates, making it as much about atmosphere as it is about what’s in your glass.
ZuZu Upstairs Lounge is a high‑energy, ultra‑luxurious lounge and club located above Zuzu on Woodward Avenue in downtown Detroit. The space leans bold and immersive, blending Detroit’s techno roots with a vibrant, anime‑inspired visual aesthetic. As the night progresses, the lights dim, the music turns up, and live DJs take over with a top‑tier sound system that transforms the lounge into a full‑on nightlife experience.
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