Spend 48 Aesthetically Appealing Hours in Detroit
Shinola Hotel, Detroit, MI. Photo: Shinola Hotel
Detroit is a city where history meets innovation, where creativity is woven into the fabric of every space, and where aesthetic lovers will find themselves completely enthralled. For Opulist, Detroit holds an even deeper significance—Candy Bar, one of the city’s most stunning cocktail lounges, played a role in the very inception of Opulist. Our pilgrimage to Detroit last September was more than just a research trip; it was a milestone, marking our first team gathering and solidifying our vision of curating the most aesthetically compelling destinations. This guide is a love letter to Detroit’s unparalleled ambiance, offering a two-day itinerary that prioritizes design, mood, and experience over everything else
Stay
Detroit Foundation Hotel, Detroit, MI
Photo: Detroit Foundation Hotel
Set within the former Detroit Fire Department headquarters, the Detroit Foundation Hotel is a testament to architectural preservation done right. Exposed brick walls, soaring ceilings, and oversized windows bring an old-world charm, while modern furnishings and carefully placed lighting elevate the overall aesthetic. This is the kind of hotel that doesn’t just serve as a place to rest but actively contributes to the experience of the city. The lobby, with its high-design lounge area, is the ideal spot to sip a cocktail and soak in the city’s energy before heading out for the evening.
Photos: Detroit Foundation Hotel
Shinola Hotel, Detroit, MI
Photo: Shinola Hotel
Shinola Hotel is the epitome of Detroit’s modern elegance, a space that blends industrial sophistication with warm, inviting details. The rooms are a study in thoughtful design—leather headboards, custom-made furniture, and marble-clad bathrooms make for a refined stay that feels both luxurious and intimate. The lobby and common spaces exude a relaxed, social energy, with plush seating areas and curated art pieces creating an atmosphere that feels effortlessly chic. The evening glow from the floor-to-ceiling windows casts the perfect light for unwinding after a day spent exploring the city.
The Siren Hotel, Detroit, MI
Photos: Opulist
The Siren Hotel is a dreamscape—whimsical, dramatic, and dripping in vintage charm. Its interiors are a maximalist’s fantasy, with jewel-toned velvets and ornate chandeliers creating a cinematic atmosphere. Every detail, from the arched windows to the intimate seating nooks, is designed to transport guests into a different era. Whether you’re sipping a drink at the hotel’s in-house bar or simply lounging in your room, The Siren makes every moment feel like an aesthetic experience worth savoring.
Photo: Opulist
Coffee & Breakfast
La Ventana, Detroit, MI
Photos: La Ventana
La Ventana offers a sun-drenched respite from the city’s hustle, with its airy, plant-filled interiors and soft neutral palette. The combination of rustic textures and modern touches makes the space feel like an intimate retreat, perfect for slow mornings spent with a beautifully crafted latte in hand. The interplay of natural materials and delicate decorative elements creates an atmosphere that is both grounding and transportive—ideal for starting your day with an infusion of beauty and serenity.
Cafe Sous Terre, Detroit, MI
Photos: Cafe Sous Terre
Cafe Sous Terre is a subterranean hideaway with an effortlessly cool, underground vibe. The space is moody yet welcoming, with soft lighting, dark wood finishes, and carefully curated art adorning the walls. The aesthetic is deeply intentional, making it feel less like a typical coffee shop and more like an exclusive creative hub. The energy shifts throughout the day—quiet and contemplative in the morning, lively and dynamic as the day progresses—making it the perfect stop at any hour.
Photo: Opulist
Mad Nice Goods, Detroit, MI
Photos: Opulist
A space that feels more like a designer’s personal studio than a café, Mad Nice Goods is a beautifully curated blend of coffee culture and minimalist artistry. Natural light pours through large windows, illuminating sleek wood accents and sculptural ceramics. This is the kind of place where you want to linger—whether you're flipping through an art book or people-watching over an oat milk cappuccino. Every corner of the space has been considered, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate the intersection of design and daily ritual.
Photo: Opulist
The Siren Cafe, Detroit, MI
Photo: Opulist
Located within The Siren Hotel, The Siren Cafe exudes a quiet kind of glamour, with its marble countertops, vintage-inspired furnishings, and impossibly photogenic coffee cups. The intimate setting, coupled with a playlist that always seems to be just right, makes it an easy favorite. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick espresso or settling in with a book, the ambiance alone is worth the visit.
Drink
Bad Luck Bar, Detroit, MI
Photos: Opulist
A hidden gem in the truest sense, Bad Luck Bar is all about moody elegance. The bar is tucked away behind an unmarked door, setting the tone for a night of discovery. The intimate, dark, candle-lit space exudes mystery and exclusivity, with its sleek black marble bar and avant-garde glassware adding to the intrigue. Every drink here is an experience, presented with meticulous detail and dramatic flair.
Photo: Opulist
The Aladdin Sane, Detroit, MI
Photo: Opulist
Tucked beneath the historic Book Tower, The Aladdin Sane is an intimate cocktail lounge that feels like stepping into another world. With a bar program rooted in the precision of Japanese bartending, every drink is a masterful balance of flavors, crafted to highlight the essence of the spirits used. The space itself is intentionally mysterious—just big enough for whispered conversations and late-night indulgence.
Candy Bar, Detroit, MI
Photos: Opulist
The space that played a role in Opulist’s very beginning, Candy Bar is pure magic. The pink velvet booths, softly glowing chandeliers, and retro-futuristic details create a dreamlike setting that feels both nostalgic and otherworldly. The lighting is impossibly flattering, the atmosphere is intimate yet electric, and the entire space feels like an invitation to step outside of reality for a while.
Photo: Opulist
Evening Bar, Detroit, MI
Photos: Opulist
Hidden in the Shinola Hotel, a place where sophistication meets warmth, Evening Bar is a study in rich textures and low-lit intimacy. Plush seating, gleaming brass accents, and a fireplace that casts the perfect golden glow make it the ultimate destination for an evening drink that feels as indulgent as the space itself.
Photo: Evening Bar
Standby, Detroit, MI
Nestled within a transformed alleyway, Standby in Detroit is an effortlessly cool bar with an industrial-chic design, ambient lighting, and a sense of exclusivity that makes every visit feel special. The atmosphere is sleek and sophisticated, with carefully curated decor that blends modern and vintage elements to create a stylish, intimate setting. The bar offers a welcoming experience, whether you're enjoying a drink with friends or settling in for a quiet evening. With its hidden, tucked-away location, Standby feels like a secret gem, offering a perfect escape from the usual nightlife scene. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a unique, elevated spot to unwind in the heart of Detroit.
Kamper’s Rooftop, Detroit, MI
Photo: Kamper’s Rooftop
Kamper's Rooftop offers an elevated escape with panoramic views of the city’s skyline. The space is designed with a relaxed yet chic ambiance, featuring comfortable seating and lush greenery that create a welcoming atmosphere. With its open-air concept, the rooftop offers an ideal spot to enjoy the fresh air while soaking in the vibrant energy of Detroit. The design effortlessly blends modern elements with cozy touches, making it the perfect place to unwind or catch up with friends. Whether you're looking to take in the sunset or simply enjoy the city’s skyline, Kamper’s Rooftop provides a stunning backdrop for any occasion.
Photo: Kamper’s Rooftop
Eat
Ash—Bar, Detroit, MI
Photos: Opulist
Tucked inside The Siren Hotel, Ash—Bar’s interior is a masterclass in understated elegance. The dark wood tones, soft leather banquettes, and carefully balanced lighting create an atmosphere that is both intimate and refined. The entire space is designed to encourage lingering, with a moody, cinematic glow that makes every moment feel special. This is where you go when you want the setting itself to be part of the experience.
Photo: Opulist
BARDA, Detroit, MI
Photo: Opulist
BARDA is bold, modern, and infused with an undeniable edge. The industrial-inspired interiors, complete with exposed beams and raw textures, contrast beautifully with the warm glow of the open flame cooking at the heart of the space. Every detail feels purposeful, from the hand-thrown ceramic plates to the avant-garde light fixtures that create an ever-changing play of shadows and illumination. It’s a place that feels alive with creative energy.
San Morello, Detroit, MI
Photo: Opulist
San Morello channels effortless Italian sophistication, with floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light and interiors that strike a perfect balance between modern and timeless. Soft leather seating, terrazzo tabletops, and an open kitchen contribute to an atmosphere that feels lively and convivial. The thoughtful design extends to every detail, creating a space where you want to stay long after the meal is over.
Photos: San Morello
Le Suprême, Detroit, MI
Photos: Le Suprême
Stepping into Le Suprême feels like stepping into a Parisian dream, with its grand brass fixtures, intricate tile work, and plush velvet seating. The air is filled with an old-world charm that makes every detail—from the ornate mirrors to the artfully arranged seating—a feast for the eyes. It’s the kind of place that encourages a slow, indulgent experience, best enjoyed with good company and a deep appreciation for ambiance.
Photo: Le Suprême
Fitness
HOT BONES, Detroit, MI
Photo: HOT BONES
Recently featured on our roundup of “The Most Aesthetic Fitness Studios Around the U.S.”, don't miss HOT BONES, a stunning fusion of design and wellness. This heated Pilates and yoga studio, paired with a bone broth bar, merges sculptural minimalism with an invigorating atmosphere. The warm lighting and sleek design create a serene yet energizing environment, making each workout feel as beautiful as it is effective.
HOT BONES champions inclusivity, with a name that reminds us we're all made of the same matter—our bones. The studio offers a welcoming, sacred space for every body, and its community-focused approach fosters connection and support. Whether you're stretching or sipping bone broth, this place proves that fitness can be a harmonious blend of beauty, vitality, and soul.
Detroit is a city of contrasts—historic yet forward-thinking, raw yet refined, industrial yet deeply artistic. Spending 48 hours here is an immersion into spaces that tell a story through design, ambiance, and the unique energy of the city itself. Whether you're sipping coffee in a sun-drenched cafe, settling into a velvet-clad bar, or waking up in a room that feels like a work of art, every moment here is an experience in aesthetics. For lovers of beauty in all its forms, Detroit is an undeniable must-visit.
All locations featured here are Opulist picks and can also be found when searching for the city of Detroit. Use the search page to help plan your weekend itinerary ahead of time, or pull it up while you’re visiting to remind yourself of all the beautiful locales nearby. Enjoy your getaway and happy #opulistgem scouting.
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Head to Opulist’s search page to discover the most beautiful and aesthetic places to travel to throughout Detroit and beyond.
