TL;DR

Mix of styles: Combines Gen-X, modern, and classic luxury in Birmingham, MI.
Upscale suburb: Birmingham offers calm surroundings just outside Detroit.
Chic design: Red brick 80s exterior, sleek modern interiors, English estate vibe.
Ideal for relaxation: Suits guests seeking pampering rather than eclectic flair.
Check prices here

The Townsend offers an unusual mix of Gen-X, modern, and classic luxury in Birmingham, MI, a comfortable, sensible suburb of our beloved Motor City, Detroit.

Birmingham feels like the younger sibling of a former child star that just became a real estate agent and found true happiness with two homes and a hot tub.

Detroit is trying to stay out of the tabloids, while Birmingham argues with their conservative spouse about inviting them to Thanksgiving.

The hotel itself is set on a chichi street in the center of Birmingham in a red brick and glass 80s building that looks a little like your university psych building, if each office had a balcony.

Bellboys stationed at the entrance add a bit of glamour.

Inside, the confidence is completely justified, as here familiar luxury kicks in. Sleek upholstery and glass-topped tables give a modern feel, while the dark wood and fireplace add classic elegance.

There is a hint of English country estate in the whole affair, with zero pastiche.

If you want vintage lace, eclectic antiques or hip murals, this is probably not your place, and we’d direct you downtown.

If you want calm surroundings and a proper pampering, this is the spot.

What are the rooms like?

Number of rooms: 150 in total.
Classic décor: White linens, gray curtains, dark wood accents.
Luxury bathrooms: Sandy gray tile, vanity lighting, plush robes.
Range of sizes: From cozy Kings to sprawling suites and penthouses.
See each room in detail here here.

Rooms are classic luxury, with sparkling white linens, soft gray curtains and striped ottoman benches that add delicate color.

Bathrooms have sandy gray tile, bright vanity lighting, plush robes, and enough mirrors to please Sir Walter Elliot.

They start at cozy Kings with plush armchairs and dark wooden furnishings that feel delightfully rich.

Doubles and ADA Kings are similar, followed by a roomy Luxury Suite that is easily worth the separate sitting room. Many have balconies as well.

Other suites, from Executive to Penthouse, offer kitchens, meeting rooms, and oversized tubs. These are generally bookable through the property.

All rooms offer sizeable TVs, Bose radios and Soundspa machines, mini-bars, Nespresso machines, Frette linens and in-room climate control. Fridges and microwaves are available on request for rooms without kitchens or kitchenettes.

Take a tour of the Presidential Suite here:

What are prices like?

Check prices here

And what’s the food like? Any facilities we should know about?

Onsite dining: Rugby Grille serves award-winning American classics.
Afternoon tea: Elegant experience with pastries, tarts, and fine teas.
Local flavors: Highlights Michigan’s craft brewery scene.
Wellness: 24-hour fitness center plus in-room spa treatments.
Family friendly: Dedicated children’s menu available.

The onsite restaurant, the Rugby Grille is an award-winning spot serving American classics.

Many ingredients are locally-sourced, and its as good a spot as any to explore Michigan’s top-notch brewery scene.

A real highlight, and a nod to the Country Estate vibe, is the afternoon tea. If you want it, book it, as reservations must be made a week in advance.

Look forward to lemon tarts, macarons, a mouthwatering salmon pastrami, and gorgeous loose-leaf teas.

They also have a separate children’s menu for our pickier eaters.

The 24-hour fitness room offers cardio and weight equipment. If you feel sore afterward, the list of in-room spa services includes a sport massage.

How is the neighborhood? Anything interesting nearby?

Charming suburb: Birmingham offers parks, shopping, golf, and markets.
Detroit access: 30-minute drive makes day trips easy.
Food scene: Excellent restaurants, including Phoenicia for Lebanese.
Cultural highlights: Museums, galleries, and outdoor events nearby.
Walkable downtown: Explore shops and trails close to the hotel.

Birmingham has parks, a shopping district, golf, a farmer’s market, you get the idea.

It’s a great spot to stay out of the bustle and enjoy Detroit as a series of focused day trips rather than an immersive experience.

Downtown Detroit is relatively walkable, and there are many transportation options once you’re inside the city.

The drive is under half an hour from Birmingham, so all you have to do is park the car and start the adventure.

We wouldn’t want you to miss the Birmingham itself, however. Often suggested as a day trip for people staying Detroit, it’s famous for a lively shopping district and many, many parks.

The midwestern big-city suburbs are also well-known for superb restaurant scenes, and this is no exception.

James Beard-nominated Phoenicia has been serving up exquisite Lebanese cuisine for over thirty years, and will not disappoint.

Even the culturally-minded will find something to enjoy. Across from the hotel you’ll find a string of art galleries, while the Birmingham Museum safeguards local history and connects to some lovely walking trails.

An extensive series of outdoor music and cultural events populate the parks during the summer.

And what about the reviews? What did other guests think?

”The Townsend did not disappoint. We chose the propose celebrate our anniversary. They had waiting in the room champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, and a nice card. Well done! We will be back!…”

”I stay at the Townsend often and it never disappoints! The food, the service is always top tier! Great area side shopping and wonderful restaurants!!…”

> Read all the reviews right here