Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Detroit-Dearborn

Hosting several business functions and social events, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Detroit-Dearborn stays busy during the week. The bright, spacious lobby has an open layout that’s highlighted by a cascading, multi-level fountain framed by natural stone and reddish-brown wood paneling, and striking cream-colored, marble-tile floors. The same materials are used for a series of arches that separate the lobby from the restaurant and bar -- a popular spot for watching sports in the evening. A cluster of tables and chairs are perched on a platform overlooking the fountain, and several sectional sofas and benches at the opposite end provide comfortable seating in a circular formation. All in all, this Doubletree provides a pleasant and comfortable stay that's totally in keeping with expectations for the chain.

The hotel is located in a busy area of Dearborn, roughly between the Detroit Metropolitan Airport and downtown Detroit. It’s right off the Southfield Freeway and near where Interstates 94 and 96 intersect. Several Ford Motor Company facilities are in the immediate area, and a few other hotels are nearby as well. A couple of restaurants are within walking distance, but it’s advisable to drive or take the hotel shuttle, which runs within a 15-mile radius that includes the airport but excludes downtown Detroit. The Fairlane Town Center is six minutes by car or shuttle, and it has a cinema complex, several restaurants, and lots of shops. The Henry Ford Museum is a 12-minute drive away. Depending on traffic, the airport is approximately 20 minutes away by car or shuttle, and downtown Detroit is about a 15-minute drive. Ann Arbor and the campus of Michigan University are approximately 45 minutes driving.

The 347 spacious rooms should offer few, if any, surprises to DoubleTree regulars. They are decorated in pleasing earth tones, with light-gray walls and dark-striped carpeting. Dark-wood furniture includes work desks and large headboards.  Pale patterned wallpaper adds a little trendy touch, and contemporary art provides a dot of color. Bathrooms include roomy tan-granite vanities, shower/tub combos framed by sand-colored tiles, and magnifying mirrors; basic toiletries are provided. Standard Rooms have either king or double-beds, and some larger King Rooms have sleeper sofas. Suites also have sleeper sofas, as well as whirlpool tubs large enough for two, wet bars, and microwaves. All rooms include mini-fridges, coffeemakers, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms are generally quiet, but views are unspectacular.

This DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Detroit-Dearborn is typical of the chain. Its full-service restaurant -- the Grille39 restaurant and bar -- serves meals throughout the day, including breakfast and lunch buffets. Its bar has several TVs, and is a popular place to watch sports. Upon check-in, guests receive the brand’s free signature chocolate-chip cookies. An on-site gift shop sells sundries, food, and drinks for snacks between meals.

Approximately 12,000 square feet of meeting space is available on-site -- a boon for business travelers -- and the business center is open 24/7. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel as well. Active guests can make use of the fitness center or a small indoor heated pool and whirlpool. Shuttle service to the airport and other locations is offered within a 15-mile radius, but it’s not 24/7 and doesn't go downtown. Other features include concierge services, with valet dry cleaning and laundry, and paid parking in a gated lot.