Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
A historic downtown gem blending classic elegance with modern luxury, offering stunning views and a prime location.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical Christmas atmosphere
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
Best Time
Magical Christmas atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic downtown gem blending classic elegance with modern luxury, offering stunning views and a prime location.
"This hotel exceeded all of my expectations! ✨ #grandrapids #grandrapidsmichigan #hotels #fancyhotel"
🎯 Book a River View Room
For unforgettable sunset views, opt for a room overlooking the Grand River.
🍽️ Dine at MDRD
Experience Spanish cuisine with stunning cityscapes from the 27th floor. Reservations recommended!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Lobby & Architecture
Main Lobby
Step into a world of opulence with grand chandeliers and intricate historic design. A true visual feast!
MDRD Rooftop Restaurant
27th Floor
Savor modern Spanish cuisine with breathtaking city views. A must-visit for a romantic evening.
River View Rooms
Guest Rooms
Wake up to stunning sunsets over the Grand River. The views alone are worth the stay.
Christmas Ambiance
Throughout the Hotel
During the holidays, the hotel transforms into a winter wonderland. Magical festive decor!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Grandeur
Location is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a River View Room
For unforgettable sunset views, opt for a room overlooking the Grand River.
🍽️ Dine at MDRD
Experience Spanish cuisine with stunning cityscapes from the 27th floor. Reservations recommended! +1
✨ Embrace the History
The hotel's historic charm is a major draw. Appreciate the classic decor and architecture.
🚗 Parking Hassles
Valet parking is available, but can be pricey. Consider nearby public parking options if budget is a concern.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a River View Room
For unforgettable sunset views, opt for a room overlooking the Grand River.
🍽️ Dine at MDRD
Experience Spanish cuisine with stunning cityscapes from the 27th floor. Reservations recommended! +1
✨ Embrace the History
The hotel's historic charm is a major draw. Appreciate the classic decor and architecture.
🚗 Parking Hassles
Valet parking is available, but can be pricey. Consider nearby public parking options if budget is a concern.
🧼 Room Expectations
While beautiful, some rooms may show minor wear. Manage expectations regarding bathroom cleanliness.
🏊♀️ Pool Perks
Enjoy adult-only swim hours for a more relaxed experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel for its stunning historic architecture, prime downtown location, and the exceptional views from its rooftop restaurant, MDRD. While many enjoy the grand ambiance and convenient amenities like the pool and dog-friendliness, some note minor issues with room cleanliness and bathroom size, suggesting expectations should be managed for a historic property.
"This is a great hotel. My wife and I have stayed here several times over the years, mostly for work conferences. The location is perfect for shopping of exploring different restaurants downtown. If you are a runner or like taking walks along the river front, this is a perfect spot. I highly recommend the river view rooms for the view of the sunset alone. The rooms have small bathrooms and the towels were not as plush as would have expected, but the view is amazing."
Daniel Morris
"Really great hotel with lots of amenities. Duck pin was fun and is located inside the hotel. They also have a few different bars and restaurants. Easy to walk to other places in the city and there is a park a couple blocks away. They were also super dog friendly! Breakfast could be improved and didn’t have any espresso drinks which was disappointing."
Megan Labato
"Cons: they charge you $25 to use a microwave. Our toilet didn't flush well… but we were only there one night so just dealt with it. The place was so busy, we had a hard time figuring out how to check in. Staff didn’t ask how our stay was when we checked out.
Pro:
Pool hours between 10-11pm are adult only! Bathroom soaps were nice. View of the river from our room was good too.
Would i recommend this place to others? No, you can get a nicer room for less just down the street."
Melissa K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel is located at 187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI. It's easily accessible by car and is a central point for exploring downtown Grand Rapids. Many visitors arrive via car, utilizing valet or nearby parking. It's also conveniently connected to DeVos Place via a skyway, ideal for conference attendees.
Yes, the hotel offers valet parking. While convenient, it can be an additional cost. Some guests opt for nearby public parking garages if they prefer.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) is approximately a 20-30 minute drive from the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, depending on traffic. Taxis and rideshares are readily available.
Absolutely! The hotel is in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, making it a perfect base for walking to many restaurants, shops, museums like the Grand Rapids Public Museum, and the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
The hotel does not typically offer a shuttle service. However, taxis and rideshare services are readily available for transportation to and from the airport or other destinations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel is a public hotel, and you do not need tickets to enter the lobby, common areas, or its restaurants and bars. Entry is free for all visitors.
The hotel itself is open 24/7 for guests. Individual amenities like restaurants, bars, the spa, and the fitness center will have their own specific operating hours, which can be found on the hotel's official website or by contacting them directly.
While there aren't official public tours, the hotel's historic architecture and grand lobby are a sight to behold. Many visitors explore these areas freely. For specific events or group bookings, inquiries can be made with the hotel's event services.
The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel frequently hosts events, conferences, and even special themed gatherings like the 'Celestial Summit' for fans. It's best to check their events calendar or social media for upcoming happenings.
There is no admission fee to enter and explore the public areas of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. You only incur charges if you book a room, dine at the restaurants, or use specific services.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel offers a wide range of amenities, including an indoor pool, fitness center, spa services, multiple restaurants and bars, free Wi-Fi, and event spaces.
Yes, the hotel features an indoor pool. Guests can enjoy adult-only swim hours between 10-11 PM for a more tranquil experience.
The hotel boasts several dining options, including MDRD, a rooftop restaurant serving modern Spanish cuisine, and other on-site eateries and bars offering various culinary experiences. +2
Yes, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel is very dog-friendly, making it a great choice for travelers with canine companions.
The hotel provides free Wi-Fi for guests, ensuring you can stay connected during your stay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
MDRD, located on the 27th floor, is highly recommended for its Spanish cuisine and spectacular city views. The hotel also has other on-site dining and bar options. +2
Yes, breakfast is available at the hotel's dining establishments. However, some reviews mention that espresso drinks might not be available, and the breakfast quality could be improved.
It is highly recommended to make reservations for MDRD, especially for dinner or during peak times, to ensure you get a table and enjoy the experience without a long wait.
While specific menus can vary, most upscale restaurants like MDRD are usually accommodating of dietary restrictions. It's best to check with the restaurant directly when making your reservation or upon arrival.
Dining at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, especially at MDRD, can be on the higher end due to the upscale experience and views. Expect mid-range to fine dining prices.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand lobby with its chandeliers and historic architecture is a prime photo spot. The views from MDRD on the 27th floor are also spectacular. Don't forget the elegant bathrooms for unique shots! 
Yes, you are welcome to take photos in the public areas of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. For professional photoshoots, especially in guest rooms or private event spaces, you may need to inquire with hotel management.
For the lobby, daytime offers natural light, while evenings can be dramatic with the chandeliers lit. For river views, sunset is ideal.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas or during events. Always be mindful of other guests' privacy.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for the lobby and MDRD in the evening. A wide-angle lens can help capture the grandeur of the architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the hotel is very dog-friendly, it's worth noting that some of the more upscale dining options might be less ideal for very young children. However, the general atmosphere is welcoming, and the spaciousness of some rooms can accommodate families. Consider booking a room with a view to keep little ones entertained.
💼 Business Travelers & Conference Attendees
The hotel offers essential business amenities like free Wi-Fi, well-appointed rooms, and on-site dining options for quick meals or business meetings. The historic ambiance also provides a unique backdrop for corporate events and stays.
💖 Couples Seeking a Romantic Getaway
+1Opting for a river view room enhances the romantic experience, especially during sunset. The hotel's atmosphere is described as unmatched, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion or a relaxing escape together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Visitors often remark on the hotel's classic and grand atmosphere, with mentions of opulent lobbies, intricate architectural details, and a sense of stepping back in time. This historical character is a significant draw for many guests seeking a unique lodging experience.
While the hotel retains its historic elegance, it also offers modern comforts and amenities, creating a unique juxtaposition that many guests appreciate. The Curio Collection by Hilton affiliation further highlights its distinctive character and historical significance.
Culinary Delights with a View
+1Beyond MDRD, the hotel provides other on-site dining and bar options, catering to various tastes and preferences. These can range from casual spots to more formal settings, ensuring guests have convenient choices without leaving the property. The hotel's connection to DeVos Place also means attendees of events there have easy access to refreshments.
While many praise the food and views, some reviews suggest that breakfast offerings could be enhanced, and certain amenities like espresso machines might be missing. However, the overall dining experience, particularly at MDRD, is consistently lauded for its quality and the memorable atmosphere it provides.
Room Comforts and Views
While the rooms are generally well-appointed, some guests have noted that the bathrooms can be on the smaller side and that the overall cleanliness, while generally good, might occasionally have minor issues like dust or hair in corners, which is something to be aware of.
Despite these minor points, the comfortable beds, nice bathroom soaps, and the overall quietness due to good insulation contribute to a pleasant stay. The hotel also offers luxury tower suites for those seeking an elevated experience.
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