MGM Grand Hotel - Detroit, MI: Many people will say that there aren't any good hotels in Detroit, or that there isn't any good reason to visit this predominantly working class city known for its automotive industry, Motown music, and not much else. But after visiting the MGM Grand, I would say that these are misplaced assumptions. Opened in 2007, this magnificent and colossal $800-million structure, which took eight years to build, brings the spirit of Vegas right in the heart of downtown Motor City. Located just 20 minutes from the airport, the MGM Grand is no doubt the center of entertainment in Detroit.

First Impression/Lobby: When we pulled up at the MGM Grand, I almost forgot we were in Detroit. The place was simply stunning—a true five-star, luxury hotel complete with sharply dressed bellmen that greeted and welcomed us as we got out of the car, offered us valet parking, and helped us with our luggage.

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The lobby of the hotel, while a bit understated compared to the MGM in Vegas, was still undoubtedly impressive. From the entrance, the casino was off to the right, and to the left, behind a security guarded door, was the fashionably styled living room/lobby strictly reserved for the use of guests. Straight ahead was the grand-looking front desk.

Reception: Checking in was efficient and a pleasant experience. The front desk staff was professional, courteous well-trained, and really made us feel as if we were in an exceptional, one-of-a-kind place.

The Suite: Our room, an Executive King, was spacious and magnificent as you would expect from an MGM executive room—sleek and modern chic with a light and bubbly ambiance. The contrasting earth tone furniture and candy color accents balanced a contemporary and a conservative feel perfectly.

The king-sized bed was covered with 300-thread count lush linens and lavishly fluffy pillows, while 360-degree picture windows provided a panoramic and cinematic view of the cityscape.

The room was well-equipped with the latest technology, including a 42-inch plasma screen TV, high-speed wireless internet access and an MP3 docking station. The bathroom was equally impressive and luxurious, fitted with a huge bathtub and an oversized shower with a dual rain showerhead.

Room Service: The 15% service charge plus a $2.00 delivery charge made room service unreasonably expensive.

The menu was typical of any five-star chain hotel—soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches and a nice variety of main dishes.

The taste was decent but the price for the food, plus the additional charges, were simply not worth it.

Housekeeping: We only stayed one night at the MGM Detroit so we did not get to experience the housekeeping’s full service. Upon arrival, however, I can say that the room was impeccably spotless.

Restaurant: MGM Grand Detroit had a number of restaurants including Java Coast, a 24-hour coffee shop; MGM Grand Buffet, which is probably the biggest and grandest buffet in Detroit; Lion’s Roar Sports Bar and Grills, an American Sports Bistro; Hollywood Brown Derby, which serves seafood and prime rib; and the famed Wolfgang Puck Grille, which features California-style cuisine created by the celebrity chef himself.

Pool/Spa/Activities: Perhaps there is no other casino in the city that rivals the MGM Grand with its more than 4,500 slot machines and video poker, and over 90 table games including Poker, Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette, and many more. In addition, guests could opt for the hottest nightlife happenings in town including high-energy dance clubs and sophisticated piano bars.

The MGM also has one of the most luxurious spas in the area, Immerse Spa, which features the award-winning 6 salon and fitness center.

Overall Impression While I’m glad to have the option of staying in a superb five-star accommodation in downtown Detroit, the MGM Grand is not a hotel that impressive that I would purposely make a special trip to Detroit just to check-in there. While it definitely is satisfying, this five-star hotel offers nothing special that cannot be found at other luxury hotels in the metro area. Rating for the MGM Grand in Detroit, Between Bombastic and Not.

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