The Suburbs

For those who’d prefer not to stay overnight in downtown Detroit [1], the city’s suburbs offer a number of lodging options. Hampton Inn (20061 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, 313/436-9600, www.hamptoninn.com [2], $117–155 d) has a terrific location, overlooking Greenfield Village. The 119 simple but comfortable guest rooms also make this chain a good bet for the budget-minded. Amenities include an indoor pool, free local calls, a continental breakfast, and in-room coffee makers.

Also in Dearborn [3], the Hyatt Regency (600 Town Center Dr., 313/593-1234, www.dearborn.hyatt.com [4], $109–229 d) is a large steel-and-glass monolith with more than 771 rooms. It’s one of the largest in the Hyatt chain. The hotel restaurant, Giulio & Sons, has a lavish Italian-style buffet that’s a real bargain.

Not far away, the Ritz-Carlton Hotel (300 Town Center Dr., 313/441-2000, www.ritzcarlton.com [5], $249–479 d) was built by Ford money, which still drives this understated 308-room hotel. It attracts power brokers from across the country as well as a few understated rock stars and visiting celebrities. The clubby Grille is known for its excellent, if pricey, continental cuisine.

In Bloomfield Hills [6], Radisson (39475 N. Woodward Ave., 248/644-1400, www.radisson.com [7], $110–229 d) is a AAA four-diamond property in a prime location.

In nearby Birmingham [8], the Townsend Hotel (100 Townsend St., 248/642-7900, www.townsendhotel.com [9], $300–500 d) is the posh—if pretentious—European-style hostelry where Paul McCartney stayed when he performed in Detroit [1] on his last tour. Nothing but the best is good enough here—Belgian linens, pillows of the fluffiest down, yards of marble in the baths, and a restaurant staffed with world-class chefs who cater to the guests’ every whim. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into a Ralph Lauren ad. Located near Birmingham’s fashionable shops and galleries, it’s also a favorite stop for afternoon tea, served every afternoon.