Stayed here in Jan 2021. Wonderful hotel, friendly staff, great location, beautiful architecture. Will definitely return. Note that if you don’t get a “city view” room, the views out your window will be fairly limited. Conversely, the “city view” rooms have stunning views of the city, so well worth the upgrade if that is important to you.

In addition to the Element Detroit, I have also stayed at the Westin and Aloft in Detroit. All three were excellent. As far as which to pick, all have the respective Westin/Aloft/Element “feel”, and thus I would suggest choosing whichever brand best suits you. All three have great locations, great architecture, and are very nice properties, and I would be happy to stay in all three again.

The Element has the Monarch Club on the top
floor, which has outstanding city views. You may need a reservation though. Across the street is Parker’s Alley, which has several foodie stands including homemade pretzels, and an ice cream/broth stand. Madcap coffee is pretty good as well.

If you are driving in on your own and want to
avoid the valet, my suggestion would be to park in the nearby Z parking garage (1 block away) and make the short walk in. That garage has security, was reasonably priced, and seem very safe.

Overall, the Element Detroit was a beautiful old building converted into a lovely hotel. Excellent overall stay. Two thumbs up.