Survey: Birmingham’s Townsend Hotel best in Mich.
Since opening nearly 30 years ago, the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham has offered guests a taste of luxury: traditional English décor, marble fireplaces, crystal chandeliers, even afternoon tea with scones.
That sophistication has impressed enough visitors to convince Travel + Leisure readers to crown the upscale property the best hotel in Michigan.
Responders to the World’s Best Awards survey ranked American hotels “for value, service, location, amenities and attention to detail,” the publication said.
Feedback showed why the Townsend topped the list for the Wolverine State.
“A five-star hotel on the outskirts of Detroit that offers the best service, accommodations, restaurant, and surroundings in Michigan,” one reader wrote.
Another simply called it “the best place to stay in Michigan, period!”
Called a “gem of European elegance,” the Townsend has 150 rooms and suites with Frette Egyptian cotton linen, custom Frette Italian-made duvets, deep soaking tubs and Fresh Amenity Collection spa features, according to its website.
The Ballroom at the hotel, which underwent extensive renovations from 2014-15, hosts many celebrations and charitable events, officials said. Last year, supporters held a fundraiser for Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and it’s long been a draw for touring musicians.
Last fall marked the unveiling of the Clancy Room, a new 2,000-square-foot private dining and event area with art deco styling and Baker blown-glass chandeliers.
Its Rugby Grille, which serves upscale American fare also gained attention in 2016 for a juicy $55 burger with foie gras.
“Our guests expect the best of everything,” said managing director Steven Kalczynski in a statement on the website. “And it’s our pleasure to do our best to exceed their expectations at every visit.”
Besides the T + L honor, Townsend has also earned other accolades, including Forbes Four Star and AAA Four Diamond designations as well as Conde Nast naming it among the Top 15 Hotels in the Midwest.