Detroit changes fast. You walk down Woodward Avenue today and it looks nothing like it did ten years ago. But tucked away in the East Ferry Avenue Historic District, there is a pocket of the city that feels like it’s holding its breath, preserved in a state of late 19th-century Victorian elegance. I'm talking about the inn on ferry street michigan. It isn't just a hotel; honestly, it’s more like a collection of restored mansions that somehow survived the city’s wildest ups and downs. If you’re tired of the glass-and-steel minimalism of modern "boutique" hotels, this place is basically the antidote.
It’s real. That is the first thing you notice.
The creak of the floorboards isn't a sound effect. The heavy wood paneling wasn't installed by a corporate design firm three years ago to look "vintage." These are four restored mansions and two carriage houses that date back to the 1880s and 1890s. When you stay at the inn on ferry street michigan, you’re staying in the former homes of Detroit's early industrial titans, seed merchants, and professionals who built the city before the first Model T even rolled off an assembly line.
What Most People Get Wrong About the Location
A lot of visitors think that if they aren't staying right in the middle of Campus Martius or the shiny new Hudson’s site development, they’re missing out. That’s a mistake. The Inn is located in Midtown, which is arguably the intellectual and cultural heartbeat of the city. You are literally steps away from the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). You can walk out the front door, stroll a few blocks, and be staring at Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals.
People often ask if the area is walkable. Yes. It’s actually one of the few parts of Detroit where you can ditch the car for a while. You have the Wayne State University campus nearby, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and the Michigan Science Center all within a very short radius. It’s quiet, too. Unlike the loud, booming bass of the downtown nightlife districts, Ferry Street feels like a residential sanctuary.
The Architecture is the Main Event
Let’s talk about the houses. This isn't a single building with a lobby and a row of identical rooms. Instead, you have this cluster of distinct structures. The Roehm House, the Scott House, the Pungs House—each has its own personality.
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If you’re a fan of Queen Anne style architecture, you’ll probably lose your mind here. We are talking about massive stone porches, turret rooms, and intricate slate roofs. Inside, the restoration work is incredible. Many of the rooms feature original fireplaces (though most are decorative now for safety) and deep soaking tubs. It’s the kind of craftsmanship that simply doesn't exist in modern construction because it would be way too expensive to replicate.
I’ve seen rooms where the ceilings are so high they feel cavernous, and others—especially in the carriage houses—that feel cozy and tucked away. It’s a roll of the dice in the best way possible. No two rooms are the same. You might get a room with a curved wall because it’s inside a turret, or a room with a massive bay window overlooking the street’s canopy of trees.
Why The Inn on Ferry Street Michigan Almost Disappeared
History in Detroit is never a straight line. By the middle of the 20th century, many of these grand homes had been converted into boarding houses or office spaces. Some were falling into serious disrepair. The neighborhood was at a crossroads.
The revival of these properties wasn't an accident. It was a massive undertaking by University Cultural Center Association (now Midtown Detroit, Inc.) and other stakeholders who realized that if these homes were lost, a piece of Detroit’s soul would go with them. They didn't just slap a coat of paint on the walls. They did a full-scale historic restoration. They sourced materials that matched the original 19th-century specs. They treated it like a museum piece that people happened to be allowed to sleep in.
There was a brief period recently where the Inn actually closed its doors, causing a bit of a panic among loyal fans. People were worried it would be carved up into private condos or, worse, sit empty. Thankfully, it was acquired and reopened, preserving its status as a cornerstone of Detroit hospitality. It’s a testament to the fact that people still value "old world" charm even in a city that is currently obsessed with "the new."
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The Vibe: It's Kinda Like Time Travel
Staying here feels different than staying at a Westin or a Hilton. There is no massive, bustling lobby with people on laptops drinking $9 lattes. Instead, you check in and you’re given a key to a house.
- The breakfast is usually served in a common dining area that feels like a grandmother’s very fancy dining room.
- The staff generally knows the history of each building.
- The lighting at night is soft, reflecting off the dark wood interiors.
- Parking is tucked away behind the houses, so you don't have to deal with the stress of street parking.
It is surprisingly romantic. If you’re looking for a place for an anniversary or a quiet getaway, this is it. But it’s also great for solo travelers who want to feel "grounded" in the city’s history. Honestly, it’s one of the few places in Detroit where you can actually hear yourself think.
Practical Realities of Staying in a Historic Building
I want to be transparent here: historic inns aren't for everyone. If you need a 24-hour high-tech gym with 50 treadmills, you might be disappointed. If you expect an elevator that moves at the speed of light, remember that these buildings were designed before elevators were a standard household feature (though they do have them in the main houses).
The plumbing is modern, thank goodness, but the layout of the rooms can be quirky. You might have to walk through a bit of a maze to find your door. The Wi-Fi is generally good, but thick stone walls from the 1890s can sometimes be a challenge for signals. These aren't "problems"—they’re just the reality of staying in a building that has stood for over 130 years. You trade the predictable, cookie-cutter layout of a Marriott for the character and "soul" of a Victorian estate.
What to Do While You’re There
You’re in the heart of Midtown, so don't just sit in your room, as tempting as those beds are.
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First, walk to the DIA. It’s one of the best art museums in the country, period. The courtyard is a great place to just sit and exist.
Second, check out the local food scene. Selden Standard is nearby if you want high-end seasonal small plates. For something more casual, Jolly Pumpkin Pizzeria and Brewery is a solid choice. And you absolutely cannot miss Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails—it’s right across from the DIA and the food is as beautiful as the art in the museum.
Third, use the QLine. It’s a streetcar that runs right down Woodward Avenue. You can hop on it near the Inn and take it all the way down to the riverfront or up to the New Center area. It’s an easy way to see the city without having to worry about finding a parking spot every time you move.
Navigating Your Stay at The Inn on Ferry Street Michigan
When you book, try to ask about the specific history of the house you’re staying in. Each building has a "pedigree." The Scott House, for instance, was built for an investment banker named William Scott. Knowing that you’re sleeping in a room where Detroit’s elite once discussed the future of the industrial age adds a layer to the experience that a standard hotel just can't match.
Making the Most of the Experience
- Request a room in a specific house: If you want a more "stately" feel, aim for the main mansions. If you want something that feels a bit more secluded, the carriage houses are fantastic.
- Explore the parlors: Don't just go straight to your room. Spend some time in the common areas. The woodwork and stained glass in the parlors are stunning.
- Ask about the shuttle: Historically, the Inn has offered a shuttle service within a certain radius. Check if that’s running during your stay; it’s a lifesaver for getting to dinner without a car.
- Check the event calendar: Because of its beauty, the Inn is a huge spot for weddings. If you want a super quiet stay, you might want to check if there’s a massive event happening on the weekend you plan to visit.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Detroit Trip
If you’re planning a visit to the Motor City and want to experience the inn on ferry street michigan, here is how you should handle it:
- Book directly if possible: Historic inns often have better flexibility and can give you more details about specific room layouts if you call or use their direct site.
- Plan your museum days: The DIA and the Wright Museum often require or highly recommend timed entry tickets. Since you’re so close, book these in advance so you can just walk over at your leisure.
- Pack for walking: Midtown is very walkable, but Detroit sidewalks can be uneven in historic districts. Bring comfortable shoes.
- Look beyond downtown: While the revitalization of the downtown core is exciting, places like the Inn on Ferry Street remind you that Detroit’s history is spread out. Take the time to explore the residential streets of Midtown and the nearby Canfield Street (which has incredible cobblestones and shops like Shinola).
The Inn on Ferry Street is a survivor. It represents a version of Detroit that was nearly lost—a city of craftsmanship, wealth, and architectural ambition. Staying there isn't just about a bed for the night; it’s about supporting the preservation of the city's physical history. It’s quiet, it’s elegant, and it’s arguably the most authentic stay you can find in Michigan.