Where to Stay in Detroit
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
Stay in Midtown
Offers more affordable accommodation options like Hostel Detroit and a variety of budget-friendly eateries.
See full Detroit neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Detroit
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Corktown
Detroit's oldest neighborhood, blending historic charm with a burgeoning scene of trendy bars and restaurants.
Our top picks in Corktown
Midtown
A vibrant cultural and educational hub with museums, universities, and diverse eateries.
Our top picks in Midtown
Greektown
A historic, lively district known for its casinos, Greek heritage, and vibrant nightlife.
Our top picks in Greektown
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Corktown | Mid-range | Detroit's oldest neighborhood, blending historic charm with a burgeoning scene of trendy bars and restaurants. | foodiescouples |
Downtown | Luxury | The revitalized urban core, buzzing with business, entertainment, and historical architecture. | first-timersbusiness travelers |
Midtown | Mid-range | A vibrant cultural and educational hub with museums, universities, and diverse eateries. | culturefoodies |
Greektown | Mid-range | A historic, lively district known for its casinos, Greek heritage, and vibrant nightlife. | nightlifefoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Detroit
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Detroit
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Detroit. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Detroit
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Detroit
Corktown
Mid-rangeDetroit's oldest neighborhood, blending historic charm with a burgeoning scene of trendy bars and restaurants.
- +Historic architecture and character
- +Great independent restaurants and bars
- +More affordable than downtown
- -Public transport is less frequent
- -Can feel quiet outside of peak hours
Downtown
LuxuryThe revitalized urban core, buzzing with business, entertainment, and historical architecture.
- +Central location with easy access to attractions
- +Abundant dining and entertainment options
- +Excellent public transport links
- -Can feel corporate and less residential
- -Can be expensive
Midtown
Mid-rangeA vibrant cultural and educational hub with museums, universities, and diverse eateries.
- +Rich in cultural attractions and green spaces
- +Excellent restaurant and bar scene
- +Lively atmosphere with students and professionals
- -Parking can be challenging
- -Can be noisy due to university presence
Greektown
Mid-rangeA historic, lively district known for its casinos, Greek heritage, and vibrant nightlife.
- +Excellent dining, particularly Greek cuisine
- +Active nightlife and entertainment
- +Walkable to downtown attractions
- -Can be very crowded and noisy, especially on weekends
- -Accommodation options are limited and can be pricey
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 75/day
Hidden Gems in Detroit
Lesser-known spots the locals love
The Belt
FREEThis revitalized alleyway in the heart of downtown is an outdoor art gallery featuring vibrant murals from local and international artists. It also boasts several unique bars and restaurants, making it a lively spot for a stroll and a drink.
Eastern Market
FREEWhile known, many tourists miss the true essence of Eastern Market beyond the Saturday farmer's market. Explore the sheds filled with produce, flowers, and artisan goods on other days too, and discover incredible murals adorning the buildings.
Zingerman's Delicatessen
A legendary spot just outside Detroit in Ann Arbor, it's worth the short drive for food lovers. Zingerman's is famous for its incredible sandwiches, artisanal breads, cheeses, and overall food experience.
Lafayette Coney Island
A true Detroit institution, this no-frills diner serves up the city's iconic coney dogs. Locals and visitors alike flock here for the delicious chili, mustard, and onion topping on a natural casing hot dog.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Detroit
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Detroit Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Detroit on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Detroit Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Detroit with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Detroit: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Detroit's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Detroit: Scenic Excursion
Escape Detroit for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Detroit Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Detroit's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Detroit
Backpackers in Detroit: FAQ
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