The Amway Grand Plaza is the best-known hotel in Grand Rapids and the city's traditional address for special occasions. It combines two buildings that give the property its character: the older Pantlind wing, dating from the early twentieth century, with its ornate lobby, marble and period detailing, and a modern glass tower added in the 1980s that rises over the Grand River. Rooms vary by wing and view, so the experience can range from classic hotel elegance to contemporary comfort with sweeping river and skyline outlooks. The hotel has several restaurants and bars, a spa and fitness facilities, and a central location that puts the Ford museum, the Public Museum, the Art Museum and the riverfront within a short walk. A skywalk connects it to the convention centre, which makes it a favourite for events as well as for leisure stays. Part of the Hilton Curio Collection, it blends brand reliability with local flavour. The honest notes: it is a large hotel with the bustle that implies, parking is charged in most downtown hotels and rooms differ widely in age and style between the two buildings, so it pays to ask for what you want when you book. Fit: couples marking an occasion, culture-focused visitors and anyone who likes a historic hotel at the centre of the action.
The hotel's history is part of its appeal. The original Pantlind opened in 1913 and was a grand hotel for the city's lumber and furniture magnates; the later tower expanded capacity and gave the skyline a modern landmark. Over time the property has been renovated and rebranded, but the historic lobby and public rooms retain the sense of occasion that made it a civic institution. Walking through the lobby, with its high ceilings, chandeliers and polished surfaces, is an event in itself.
The stay craft
Ask for a high floor with a river view in the tower if you want skyline vistas, or request a room in the historic wing if character matters more than outlook. Plan a drink in one of the bars, a meal in the main restaurant and a stroll across the Blue Bridge in the evening. In winter, the nearby Rosa Parks Circle ice rink and holiday lights add to the atmosphere. If you need to work, the business facilities and skywalk to the convention centre are practical.
Practicals
The hotel is at 187 Monroe Avenue NW, in the heart of downtown. The airport is about a twenty-minute drive away, parking is on site for a fee, and many of the city's attractions can be reached on foot. Check current room categories, spa options and restaurant hours before booking, as offerings change. Book early for major events, graduation weekends and festivals, when prices rise. Compared with newer brand hotels nearby, this is the choice for history and a sense of place.
If you are choosing between the historic wing and the tower, think about how you plan to use the room. Couples marking an occasion often prefer the character of the older building, with its high ceilings and period feel, while visitors who spend most of the day out and want a crisp, modern room with a view tend to prefer the tower. Either way, it is worth walking through the historic lobby even if you stay elsewhere.
Why stay here
- ✓Historic Pantlind lobby
- ✓Modern river-view tower
- ✓Skywalk to convention centre
- ✓On-site restaurants and bars
- ✓Fitness center
- ✓Spa services
- ✓Walk to museums
- ✓Parking on site (fee)
Good questions
Is the Amway Grand Plaza near the main sights?+
Yes. The Ford museum, the Public Museum, the Art Museum and the riverfront are within a short walk.
What is the difference between the historic wing and the tower?+
The older wing has classic character and period detail, while the tower offers modern rooms and wide river views. Ask for your preference when booking.
Does the hotel have parking?+
Yes, on site, usually for a fee. Confirm the current rate when you book.
