Now part of the Ramada chain, the rather plush 
Ojibway Hotel (240 W. Portage Ave., 906/632-4100, www.waterviewhotels.com [1], $99–179 d) has the nicest accommodations in town, and the best location, too, overlooking the St. Mary’s River and the locks. Ask for an upper-level, north-facing room. The elegant 1928 building has been well restored, with large rooms, an indoor pool, a whirlpool, and the Freighters restaurant. Ask about packages for a better deal.
For the same good location but for less money, try the Longships Motel (427 W. Portage Ave., 888/690-2422, www.longshipsmotel.net [2], $59–99 d), a clean and comfortable mom-and-pop-style motel with a fine spot across from Locks Park. There are plenty of chain hotels near I-75, but they are nowhere near the locks or other downtown walking attractions.
Start your day at Cup of the Day (406 Ashmun, 906/635-7272, www.cupoftheday.com [3], 7:15 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Sat., $4–6) for good coffee drinks, a juice bar, and sandwiches and salads at lunchtime.
In the Ojibway Hotel, Freighters (240 W. Portage Ave., 906/632-4100, www.waterviewhotels.com [1], 8 a.m.–9 p.m. daily, $4–24) offers a wall of glass overlooking the locks and a very nice menu featuring steaks and seafood, especially local fish. This is a great spot for a good breakfast, too.
Links:
[1] http://www.waterviewhotels.com
[2] http://www.longshipsmotel.net
[3] http://www.cupoftheday.com