Vibrant, charming, and famous for its days as the heart of the automotive industry, Detroit has retained its moniker, Motor City. Nowadays, it is bursting at the seams with life and culture, and has unexpectedly become a foodie’s paradise. One of its oldest surviving neighborhoods, Corktown, has everything from breakfast joints and eateries, to fine dining restaurants.
Planning your perfect trip to Detroit requires checking your budget and making the best of it. Fortunately, there are plenty of choices for everyone with cost-effective hostels. Not only are they perfectly safe and convenient, but they give you the opportunity to mingle with other travelers.
Keep on reading to discover the best hostels in Detroit.
Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Detroit
- Best Overall Hostel in Detroit – Hamtramck Hostel
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What to Expect from Hostels in Detroit
Much like the city’s culinary situation, there is also no shortage of cool activities to do in Detroit, and the city has so much history. Fortunately, Detroit can be easily done on a budget. You can stay in a comfortable place and still have enough money for sightseeing and sampling the best dishes.
Hostels are excellent choices if you want to save money, and meet other backpackers and like-minded people. Staying in one doesn’t automatically mean sharing a room, as most hostels today have private rooms.
Fun and laid-back, hostels in Detroit welcome all types of travelers. How much can you expect to shell out when staying in a hostel? See the prices below:
- Private room with shared bathroom – $42 to $72
- Mixed dorm – $42
Wondering where to find the best hostels? You need not look any further than HostelWorld. Look at the photos, read the description, and peruse the review section to ensure that you are getting exactly what you want when it comes to accommodations.
Best Hostels in Detroit
Now its time to take a look at the best hostels in Detroit!
Best Overall Hostel in Detroit – Hamtramck Hostel
- $
- Nearby bars and restaurants
- Complimentary luggage storage
- Complimentary coffee and tea
There’s so much to love about Hamtramck Hostel. For one, it is centrally located in one of Detroit’s most vibrant communities, so to say that it’s interesting is an understatement. You’ll come across people of all nationalities, backgrounds, and ethnicities. A stay here will definitely spice up your vacation.
The downtown area is within easy reach meaning you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get there. Just a few minute’s bike ride and you will be able to see some of the city’s most interesting landmarks such as Ambassador Bridge and the Masonic Temple. If you’re into sports, you should check the calendar to see if anything is happening at Ford Field or Little Caesars Arena. You are already in the area so might as well catch a game, right?
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Daily housekeeping
- Linens and towels
- Free street parking
The hostel has 30 rooms to choose from, all of which have been updated for the comfort of guests with options of private rooms or dorm rooms. Enjoying hanging out meet fellow backpackers in the common areas, and around the huge backyard pit that is lit up when the weather allows. Netflix is available on the premises so you can catch your favorite TV shows if you have the time and opportunity.
Regardless if you’re staying with others or by yourself in a private room, there’s daily housekeeping to ensure cleanliness. Additionally, the laundry facilities ensure you will have clean clothes . Free street parking is available for those bringing their vehicles.
Be sure to ask the staff for recommendations on what to do, where to go, and the best bars and restaurants. The friendly tean will be more than happy to point you in the right direction, they aim to please.
Most Epic Hostel in Detroit – Base Camp Detroit
- $
- Self-check-in
- Near bus stop
This hostel is located in a 1920s mansion that is still being brought back to life. The property welcomes travelers of all types – solo, couples, or groups. There’s a room to fit your needs here at Base Camp.
The property has many common spaces where you can introduce yourself and mingle with other travelers. There is a beer garden with seating and lounge, as well as a shared community living room. You can have fun perusing travel resources there or playing with board games, if you’re up for a challenge.
Although not exactly located downtown, there is a bus stop near the hostel making getting in and out of downtown Detroit shouldn’t be a problem. If you don’t fancy taking the bus, there’s always Uber and Lyft that can come to your rescue. Although breakfast is not provided, guests can help themselves to coffee and homemade bread in the kitchen each morning.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free WIFI
- Security lockers
- Laundry facilities
- Luggage storage
Cabins in the shared dorm rooms are equipped with USB/electrical plugs, personal light, and lockers where you can store valuables, but remember to bring your own padlock! Private rooms have locking doors, desks and chairs where you can do your work comfortably even while on vacation.
A little distance from the hostel are places where you can grab some food. There’s a famous pie place which is a must-try, as well as a small but nice café. If you’re willing to walk a bit, you will find a few restaurants too.
Laundry facilities and luggage storage are available in the hostel. Please note that smoking is not allowed on the premises and payment is only through PayPal or cash.
Base Camp Detroit is one of our favourites in Detroit but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Detroit – Detroit International House
- $
- Quiet and laid-back
- Located on major bus lane
- Bicycle hire
Originally an abandoned house which was given a new lease on life, this hostel has so much character and history. One of its major advantages is that it’s located on a major bus lane so getting to different parts of town shouldn’t be a problem. You can easily move and find your way around the city.
This quiet and laid-back hostel gives you value for your money. Bicycle hire is available for those who would like to cycle their way in the nearby areas. Several common spaces are available where guests can relax or plan their day while mingling with and getting to know other international travelers.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free WIFI
- Laundry facilities
- Free parking
Laundry facilities are available on the premises so you need not worry about not having clean clothes to wear. Those who are driving to the area will be happy to know that free parking is available. Catching up work need not be a problem too as there’s reliable WIFI.
Grocery stores are nearby where you can purchase food, as well as other needs. Guests are free to use the kitchen equipped with basic necessities, should they wish to prepare meals for themselves.
Detroit International House is one of our favourites in Detroit but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Other budget accommodations are available in the area and although they may not be hostels, they are in the same price range and will make your stay just as comfortable.
Great Airbnb for Couples – Log Cabin in East English Village
- $$
- In safe neighborhood
- 5 minutes away from Grosse Pointe
This unique budget room is part of a lovely 1940s home. The most unique thing is that it was created entirely by hand by the home’s original owner. If you and your loved one want to stay in a place with a lot of history and personality, this is perfect for you. The room is stylishly furnished with time-appropriate pieces to transport guests back in time. How would you like that?
Parking is free on the premises and the kitchen is fully-stocked with appliances for cooking. Laundry facilities are available for guests to use, too. Just remember to bring an extra pair of slippers when staying during winter to keep your feet warm.
Lighting in the room can be easily adjusted to suit your preference so the room can be as bright as you want it to be or super romantic. You make the choice.
Most Affordable Motel in Detroit – Viking Motel
- $$
- Free WIFI
- Free parking
Situated just off Interstate 75, getting from this motel to the city can be done in just five minutes. The Motor City Casino is less than five minutes away. If you fancy changing your luck with some gambling, that’s the spot to do it! Other nearby attractions worth checking out are The Fillmore Detroit, Fox Theater Building, Masonic Temple Theater, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall.
Wi-Fi is free throughout the premises, so there’s no reason to be disconnected from friends and family.
This affordable spot offers ultimate comfort without the huge price tag.
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Best Private Room in Detroit – Hostel Detroit
- $$
- Bicycle rental
- Near bars and restaurants
- Close to downtown area
This social abode run by an educational non-profit is a great place to meet new friends. Located in a century-old building that is within a neighborhood of innovation and urban farms, there are so many interesting things to see and experience. The downtown area is a 20-minute stroll away.
The kitchen space, laundry facilities, and common areas are free for guests to use anytime. They are also great places to meet and chat with fellow travelers who have much to learn about the city.
You will never get bored while staying at Hostel Detroit as it’s within walking distance to Corktown’s restaurants, bars, and shops. Do keep in mind, however, that public transportation is not easily accessible.
Epic Airbnb for Digital Nomads in Detroit – Private Room Close to Restaurants
- $
- Free parking
- Close to everything
- Safe and quiet neighborhood
This warm and cozy space in a residential home is available for those who would like privacy and need to do some work while traveling. The best thing about it is that its price is comparable to a dorm room!
It’s in proximity to the most happening places. Shops, restaurants, and bars are nearby, as well as a couple of parks if you fancy taking a walk in the morning after downing your first cup of coffee. The room comes with a dedicated workspace, and fast Wi-Fi is available.
There’s a second refrigerator for guests, and they are welcome in the home’s shared spaces such as the dining and living areas.
Private Room Close to Restaurants is one of our favourites in Detroit but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Airbnb for Large Groups in Detroit – Apartment with an Amazing View
- $$$
- Pool and gym
- High-rise balcony
- Next door to restaurants
If you’re traveling with a group of friends, it’s best to stay together in one place so you can save money and enjoy a few extra amenities. This apartment is an excellent choice as not only does it have a gym and a massive shared pool, it also boasts magnificent views of downtown Detroit which you won’t get enough of.
Plenty of restaurants are within walking distance where you can grab some food with friends whenever you’re hungry. Eve’s Market is just next door to purchase groceries and prepare meals in the kitchen equipped with cooking basics, if you don’t want to spend too much money on meals.
The apartment is located downtown so a lot of parking spaces are available, however, keep in mind that parking across the street has a charge.
Apartment with an Amazing View is one of our favourites in Detroit but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Detroit Hostels FAQ
Travel Safety Tips for Detroit
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Final Thoughts
Detroit is a happening place to be and for the last few years, it has been on the upswing. The food scene is bursting! Every day, new and trendy restaurants are opening. Pleasant street art abounds and the city is abundant with history and various other points of interest.
Make the most of your money and time by seeking out the best hostel in Detroit. Regardless of where you are going, don’t waste or ruin your time by staying in a hostel that leaves a lot to be desired. We have done the hard work for you so you can focus on your vacation.
If you can’t decide which hostel to book, pick Hamtramck Hostel. Located centrally it’s within easy reach of all the most happening places.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
