Being the most populated and largest city in the state of Michigan, Detroit is a major cultural center for music, art, architecture and design. Nestled amid Lake Huron, Erie, Detroit River and Lake St. Clair, Detroit is replete with restaurants, shops and interesting neighborhoods, which attract thousands of tourists throughout the year. Whether coming with friends of family, there are several things to do here. Art lovers can pay a visit to the Detroit Institute of Arts, where they will come across over 65,000 works of art with unique pieces from Africa, Oceania, medieval Europe and America. Families with children can head to the Detroit Zoo, which is home to more than 2,400 animals. Travelers can explore various exhibits including reconstructions of old Detroit streets, model railways and dioramas at the Detroit Historical Museum. A favorite of sports lovers is Comerica Park, which is a combination of a theme park, ballpark and baseball museum. It is also the home of the Detroit Tigers baseball team. Climb to the observation deck on the 72nd floor of the Renaissance Center, which offers stunning views of this amazing city. No trip is complete without a relaxing stay in one of the luxury hotels that offer a scenic view of the riverfront. Here is a look at the best riverfront hotels in Detroit, Michigan.
Events to look out for
One of the most popular annual events in Detroit is the Detroit Jazz Festival, which is celebrated downtown during the Labor Day weekend. Did you know that it’s popularly known as the world’s largest jazz music festival and is completely free?
Car lovers cannot miss the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), which will be again held in January after being shifted to September since the last two years.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to views. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 19, 2025.
About Detroit River
Forming a boundary between the state of Michigan in the United States and the Canadian province of Ontario, the Detroit River connects the west end of Lake Erie with Lake St. Clair. It houses several islands, including Belle Isle, the largest of all, and Grosse Ile, a residential area. While these two are in Michigan, the third island, Fighting Island, is in Ontario.
According to Detroit News, the river witnesses a footfall of around three million visitors a year. One of the popular activities on Detroit River is fishing as the river has abundant muskie, steelhead swim fat, bass, and walleye. You can rent a boat or visit one of the parks by the river and enjoy fishing for hours.
Tips for visiting:
The Belle Isle Park is known for its cultural and historical significance apart from its natural beauty. Some of the places you cannot miss out on visiting here are the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, Belle Isle Aquarium, Ralph Wilson Gateway, and other cultural attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts can swim on the beaches, paddle, ride bicycles, and indulge in other activities.
Be sure to carry your passport if you plan to cross the river to visit Windsor, Ontario. The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel and the Ambassador Bridge are the main crossings.
Recommended tours:
Hotels with views of Detroit River
1. Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center (from USD 297)
An ideal holiday retreat for tourists looking for an accommodation with stunning views of the Detroit River, this property is located in downtown Detroit. Guests can choose among the various room options featuring a 49" flat-screen TV with plug-in technology and a seating area. Burn some calories at the in-house gym. Guests can relish yummy delicacies at the three onsite restaurants – Motor City Pantry, Volt, and Starbucks. If you are on a business trip, the in-house business center and the banquet hall will be made available at an additional charge. Travelers with disabled family members need not worry, as auditory guidance, visual aids, braille, lower bathroom sink, and other facilities are provided here. As an explorer, I am thrilled to try new activities while traveling. If you’re like me, engage in some activities in the neighborhood such as snorkeling, diving, bowling, cycling, hiking and tennis at an extra charge. Catch a live performance at Detroit Opera House, which is only 1.1 km (0.68 miles) away from here.
Best room with a view of Detroit River: Hospitality Suite, 1 Bedroom Executive Suite, 1 Bedroom Junior Suite, 1 King Bed Guest room, 2 Double Bed Guest room
Alternative room with views: 1 King Bed Guest room, 2 Double Bed Guest room, 1 Bedroom Executive Suite, Hospitality Suite (city views)
On-site locations to check out: FUELL (on-site restaurant offering a view of the downtown skyline); Fitness center (located on the 40th floor and offers breathtaking city views)
What guests are saying about the view:
“Located right off of the Detroit River giving a perfect aerial view of the water and Canadian neighbors” - by Google reviewer, T Roberts
Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center
2.51 km (1.6 mi) from MotorCity Casino Hotel
2. Roberts Riverwalk Urban Resort Hotel (from USD 140)
Located in the River Place District, this luxurious property offers richly decorated rooms with rich wood accents and warm colors, along with a marble bathroom. Head to the onsite Roberts Riverwalk Bistro and Lounge, where you can enjoy breakfast on the riverfront patio while admiring the landscape. Fitness freaks can visit the in-house fitness center, or can take a relaxing dip in the swimming pool after a strenuous workout. Cash withdrawal, laundry service, and dry-cleaning facilities are also available here to make sure guests have a comfortable stay.
As an avid traveler, I love to explore the popular attractions of the place I am visiting. If you’re like me, you’ll be happy to know that the Old St. Mary’s Catholic Church is only 2 km (1.24 miles) away from here, where you can admire the twin towers and an ornate interior with granite columns while offering your respect. Guests can also pay a visit to the greenhouse and a botanical garden stationed in Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, which is located 1.67 km (1.03 miles) away from the hotel.
Best room with a view of Detroit River: Presidential Suite, Queen Room with Two Queen Beds - River View, King Room - River View, River View Deluxe I King Bed
What guests are saying about the view:
“We wanted something different, it has a vintage feel with a beautiful view of the river…” - by Google reviewer, Tiffany Reese
Roberts Riverwalk Urban Resort Hotel
4.26 km (2.7 mi) from MotorCity Casino Hotel
3. Fort Pontchartrain Detroit, a Wyndham Hotel (from USD 191)
Enjoy a relaxing and comfortable stay at this amazing hotel, which is only a few blocks away from the Detroit Riverwalk and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Guests can enjoy the morning tea in the comfort of their own bedroom while reading the free newspaper provided here. Get yourself toned at the in-house fitness center and then just sit back and relax by the indoor pool. The onsite Urban Cellars restaurant serves American cuisine, and guests can also enjoy multiple cocktails and beverages in the lounge area. If you are on a business trip, there is nothing to worry as the business centers will be made available to you on prior notice. Guests can also gather gifts for friends and family members back home from the in-house gift shop. If you are tired after a hectic day in the city, relax and rejuvenate yourself in the sauna and hot tub. Music Hall Center is only 1 kilometer (0.6 mi) away from here, where you can witness musical, theater and dance performances.
Best room with a view of Detroit River: Deluxe 1 King Bed, Master Suite 1 King Bed, Suite 1 Queen Bed, Deluxe 1 King Bed, Deluxe 2 Double Beds
Alternative room with views: Deluxe 1 King Bed, Deluxe 2 Double Beds (views of the city)
On-site locations to check out: Top Of The Pontch (offers beautiful views of the downtown skyline)
Fort Pontchartrain Detroit, a Wyndham Hotel
2.06 km (1.3 mi) from MotorCity Casino Hotel
4. Quality Inn Detroit Downtown (from USD 118)
Nestled in the heart of central Detroit, this family-owned and operated motel features comfortable and exceptional service. Ideal for business and leisure travelers, this property boasts rooms with a mini refrigerator, coffee and tea makers. If you are not in the mood to eat out, head to the onsite restaurant – Clique Diner. Availability of a free Wi-Fi connection will keep you updated and help locate nearby hotspots for local sightseeing. Travelers with cars need not worry as free parking space is made available on the premises on their arrival. I would love to visit the Riverwalk boardwalk, a few blocks away from here, and admire the Detroit River when I am in the city. Greektown Casino is only 600 meters (1968 feet) away from this property, where you can try your luck with cards and slots.
Best room with a view of Detroit River: Double Suite with Two Double Beds - Non-Smoking
Quality Inn Detroit Downtown
2.89 km (1.8 mi) from MotorCity Casino Hotel
Hotel near Detroit River
5. Trumbull and Porter - Detroit Downtown (from USD 178)
Situated in the historic Corktown neighborhood, this boutique-style hotel boasts an artistic flair and a friendly staff always at your service. Only a few blocks away from the river, you can enjoy an inspiring workout session in the in-house spacious fitness center, interact with other guests by the outdoor fireplace, or just sit back and relax in the terrace region while gazing at the night sky. Travelers are also allowed to bring their pets with them on prior request and at an additional charge. Various other activities like live music performance, happy hour and movie nights are arranged for guests in the courtyard and the garden region to keep them entertained during the entire trip. While traveling, I love to sample the local dishes of the place I am visiting. If you’re like me, head to Black Ginger (formerly known as Red Dunn Kitchen, the onsite restaurant where you can relish American cuisine if you are not in the mood to go out. Hit the MGM Grand Detroit Casino or the MotorCity Casino to try your luck with cards, which are located within a 2 km (1.24 miles) radius from here.
Alternative room with views: Double Room with Two Double Beds - Non-Smoking, King Room - Non-Smoking, Deluxe Junior Suite, Double Room with Patio, King Suite with Balcony, King Room with Balcony, King Room with Spa Bath (view of the inner courtyard)
Trumbull and Porter - Detroit Downtown
1.32 km (0.9 mi) from MotorCity Casino Hotel
Enjoy a riverfront stay in Detroit
Detroit is a popular tourist destination and travelers can unwind at some spectacular hotels in the city, which offer a riverfront stay. There are plenty to explore and do when in Detroit such as a visit to Belle Isle, which is home to Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, Dossin Great Lakes Museum. Those with children will enjoy a day out to the Belle Isle Aquarium and Belle Isle Nature Zoo. There’s something for everyone and travelers will enjoy a getaway to Detroit.
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