If you’re thinking about visiting Ann Arbor—whether to catch a football game at the University of Michigan, visit your adult kids who recently started classes at the university, or explore “Tree Town” —you’ll need a great place to stay. I visited Ann Arbor in June and stayed at the newly opened The Vanguard. It blew me away. Just 45 minutes from DTW, The Vanguard offers a peaceful retreat from city life while delivering top-tier hospitality and service.
Pros:
- Convenient located located near the University of Michigan
- Modern aesthetic with top tier hospitality
- Spacious rooms that are pet-friendly
Cons:
- Limited on-site dining options
- No pool
SheBuysTravel Tip: Take advantage of the complimentary car that can shuttle you to locations within a five mile radius.
The Vanguard Hotel Location
You’ll find The Vanguard in downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan, as part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. It opened in June and sits just steps from the University of Michigan and a few miles from Michigan Stadium. While its exterior might not scream “full-service hotel,” the interior tells a different story. As soon as I walked in, I entered a stunning, modern space with an open-concept layout and vibrant design, brought to life by the DLR Group. As the first full-service hotel in downtown Ann Arbor, The Vanguard brings a fresh energy to the community.
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Rooms at The Vanguard
The property offers 188 rooms, including two king suites and two presidential suites. I stayed in the premium double king suite, which featured two king beds, 1.5 bathrooms, a living area, and a small kitchenette equipped with a coffee machine, sink, and mini refrigerator. The room immediately struck me as chic and sophisticated, with lavish and elegant furniture. The beds felt incredibly comfortable, giving me plenty of space to stretch out after a long day. I especially loved the master bathroom—and discovering a Dyson Airwrap there took the experience to the next level.
The only downside? The curtains weren’t blackout, so sunlight streamed in each morning. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but if you’re sensitive to light, consider bringing an eye mask or choosing the bed farthest from the window.
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The price point for the rooms at The Vanguard depend on the room type and time of year, however, the standard price range can be anywhere from $323-$370 per night. Plus, the hotel is pet-friendly with a non-refundable pet fee for $150 for the duration of your visit.
Amenities at The Vanguard
The hotel packs in plenty of amenities: a lobby bar open daily from 3 PM to 11 PM, a well-equipped fitness center, an on-site restaurant, room service, meeting space, digital check-in, free Wi-Fi, valet parking ($38 per day), and even a complimentary car service within a five-mile radius. I didn’t get a chance to use the gym, but it looked impressive—with plenty of machines and free weights. The gym also has its own set of elevators, so you can skip the lobby and head straight to your room post-workout.
Food at The Vanguard
The hotel’s on-site restaurant, La Serre, serves French bistro classics—think shrimp cocktail, assorted French cheeses, a warm goat cheese tart, steak frites, French onion soup, and Faroe Island salmon. I ordered the salmon, and it came out flaky and perfectly cooked. For dessert, the chocolate sabayon cake stood out as rich, moist, and incredibly decadent—easily my favorite bite of the entire trip.
Things to Do Near The Vanguard
Ann Arbor offers plenty to do and popular attractions just beyond the hotel doors. Start with a football game at Michigan Stadium to dive into the spirit of this energetic college town. Not into football? Explore the local food scene. Don’t miss Zingerman’s where you’ll find delicious sandwiches, fresh breads, sweet treats, and some of the friendliest service around.
When the evening rolls in, head to Blue Llama Jazz Club & Restaurant on Main Street. The venue serves up live jazz alongside Cajun-inspired food. You might even spot one of the legendary Miles Davis’s three trumpets on display.
Read More:
- Touchdowns, Town Tours, Museums and More: Your Guide to the Best Things to Do when Visiting the University of Michigan
- How To Combine College Visits With Family Vacations
- Michigan’s Best Weekend Escapes: Adventure and Relaxation Await!
- Hit the Road: Epic Midwest Road Trips You’ve Gotta Try
- Belle Isle – Get Outdoors in the ‘Jewel of Detroit’
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