Where to Stay in Detroit: 10 Unique Short Term Rentals Recommended by HomeBase Stays
Where to Stay in Detroit: 10 Unique Airbnbs Recommended by HomeBase Stays
Discover historic mansions, art-filled Victorians, stylish city apartments, and neighborhood gems in this locally inspired guide to Detroit.
Detroit is a city best experienced through its neighborhoods.
Of course, there's plenty to love about Downtown Detroit: The restaurants, professional sports, live music, and incredible architecture. But some of the city's most memorable experiences happen when you venture beyond the downtown streets.
They're found in the historic homes of Boston-Edison, the musical legacy of La Salle Gardens, the creativity of Mexicantown, and the independently owned restaurants and gathering places that give neighborhoods like Corktown and the North End their personality.
At HomeBase Stays, we believe where you stay should be part of the experience, not just somewhere to leave your suitcase.
While we're proud to welcome guests into our own thoughtfully designed historic Detroit home, we also appreciate the incredible variety of accommodations throughout the city.
That's why we've put together this collection of ten distinctive Detroit Short Term Rentalss. Each has something special to offer, whether it's remarkable architecture, creative interiors, generous gathering spaces, or a location that makes exploring Detroit easier.
Whether you're coming for a family gathering, a concert, a weekend getaway, or simply to discover Detroit for the first time, we hope this guide helps you find a place that feels right for your visit.
Welcome to Detroit. Let's find your HomeBase.
1. HomeBase Stays: Historic Detroit Charm Near Boston-Edison
Neighborhood: Boston-Edison area
Best for: Families, friends, extended stays, and travelers who appreciate historic architecture.
There's something special about staying in a Detroit home that's been part of the neighborhood for more than a century.
Built in 1922, our HomeBase Stays property brings together the character of historic Detroit with the comforts of a thoughtfully furnished modern getaway.
Located just a block from the Boston-Edison Historic District, this spacious home offers more than 2,400 square feet of living space, making it an inviting retreat for families, friends, and visitors who appreciate having room to settle in.
From the moment you walk inside, you'll notice the details that make older Detroit homes so distinctive: beautiful crown molding, generous windows, architectural character, and rooms designed for spending time together.
The welcoming living room features large bay windows, while a formal dining room provides the perfect setting for shared meals and conversations that stretch late into the evening.
There's also a sunny enclosed porch, a separate television room, and a fully equipped kitchen for guests who enjoy preparing meals at home.
Thoughtfully chosen furnishings, artwork, and decorative touches bring warmth and personality to the interiors without losing the home's historic charm.
With four listed bedrooms, three full bathrooms, an additional half bathroom, and accommodations for up to seven guests, it's a practical choice for groups who value both comfort and privacy.
What Guests Are Saying
Our favorite part of hosting is hearing about the experiences guests have during their visits.
HomeBase Stays has earned a 4.97-star Airbnb rating, with guests consistently recognizing the cleanliness, comfortable accommodations, spacious interiors, and responsiveness of the hosts.
Visitors also appreciate the home's character and thoughtful design. For families and groups, having separate gathering spaces and multiple bathrooms can make a real difference during a multi-day stay.
We believe the little details matter, and it's encouraging to see that reflected in the feedback we receive.
A HomeBase Local Tip
One of our favorite nearby places to recommend is The Congregation, a former church transformed into a neighborhood café and gathering space.
It's a wonderful example of Detroit's ability to give historic buildings a new purpose while preserving what makes them special.
Grab a coffee, spend some time appreciating the architecture, and explore the surrounding residential streets.
For visitors interested in Detroit history, the Boston-Edison area is particularly fascinating. Its grand homes and early-20th-century architecture offer a glimpse into an important chapter of the city's development.
The Motown Museum is also nearby, while Downtown Detroit's sports venues, restaurants, and entertainment districts are a short drive away.
Why We Love This Stay
HomeBase Stays offers a chance to experience Detroit from a residential neighborhood while remaining connected to the city's major attractions.
It's a place where you can explore during the day, gather around the dining table in the evening, and enjoy the comforts of having an entire historic home to yourselves.
We would love to welcome you.
Aretha Franklin’s childhood neighborhood, La Salle Gardens
2. Historic Eagle House: A Comfortable Retreat in La Salle Gardens
Neighborhood: La Salle Gardens
Best for: Small families, couples traveling together, visiting professionals, and extended stays.
Not every memorable Detroit accommodation needs to be a sprawling mansion.
Sometimes the perfect stay is a thoughtfully renovated neighborhood apartment where you can settle in, unpack, and feel comfortable for a few days—or a few weeks.
That's what makes the Historic Eagle House appealing.
This renovated two-bedroom flat in La Salle Gardens combines the character of an older Detroit property with modern furnishings and practical amenities.
You'll find beautiful hardwood floors, an updated kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, and welcoming living spaces designed for everyday comfort.
With three beds and accommodations for up to six guests, the property works well for smaller groups who want more flexibility than a traditional hotel room.
There's also a dedicated workspace and backyard access, both useful features for longer visits.
The location is convenient for exploring Midtown, visiting Wayne State University, and spending time around the Henry Ford Hospital area.
What Guests Are Saying
Guest feedback highlights the property's cleanliness, comfortable layout, and attentive hosting.
Visitors also appreciate its convenient location and well-equipped accommodations.
For travelers staying more than a weekend, those practical details can be especially valuable.
A HomeBase Local Tip
La Salle Gardens is one of those Detroit neighborhoods where it's worth spending a little time simply appreciating the architecture.
Its historic residential streets reveal a side of Detroit that visitors might miss if they focus exclusively on downtown attractions.
Pair a neighborhood drive or walk with a visit to the Motown Museum for a memorable introduction to the area.
Why We Love This Stay: A comfortable, approachable option for experiencing historic residential Detroit, especially for visitors who want a practical home base.
Explore the Historic Eagle House on Airbnb
3. Historic Detroit Mansion: A Grand Stay in La Salle Gardens
Neighborhood: La Salle Gardens
Best for: Large families, friend groups, architecture enthusiasts, and Motown fans.
If you're drawn to Detroit's grand historic homes, this beautiful 1916 mansion in La Salle Gardens deserves a closer look.
With approximately 3,500 square feet, four bedrooms, and accommodations for up to ten guests, the home offers generous living spaces that make gathering with family or friends feel effortless.
Original architectural features, including a carved fireplace and formal dining room, give the property its historic personality.
The interiors also include contemporary comforts, a full kitchen, entertainment spaces, and a wet bar with a speakeasy-inspired atmosphere.
It's an appealing combination of old Detroit character and modern conveniences.
But the location may be even more interesting.
La Salle Gardens has deep connections to Detroit's musical history, and this home sits across from Aretha Franklin's childhood home. The legendary Motown Museum is also nearby.
For visitors interested in the city's extraordinary musical legacy, that makes this stay particularly meaningful.
What Guests Are Saying
Guests frequently highlight host Brittany's helpfulness and responsive communication.
The spacious layout, cleanliness, and convenient location are other positive themes in the reviews. Larger groups especially appreciate the opportunity to stay together in one historic home.
A HomeBase Local Tip
Don't visit this neighborhood without making time for the Motown Museum.
The story of Motown Records is inseparable from Detroit, and visiting the original recording location provides a fascinating perspective on the artists and music that helped define generations.
We recommend checking tour availability ahead of your visit.
Why We Love This Stay: It brings together generous gathering spaces, historic architecture, and an extraordinary connection to Detroit's musical heritage.
Explore the Historic Detroit Mansion on Airbnb
4. The Historic Zacharias House: Room for Everyone in Virginia Park
Neighborhood: Virginia Park Historic District
Best for: Family reunions, multigenerational trips, larger groups, and historic-home enthusiasts.
Detroit's early-20th-century residential architecture is remarkable, and the Historic Zacharias House is a wonderful example of the scale and character of homes built during that era.
Constructed in 1909, this substantial residence offers approximately 5,400 square feet of living space.
With five bedrooms and accommodations for up to fourteen guests, it's one of the largest properties in this collection.
There are multiple living areas, two kitchens, and a finished basement with a pool table and space for games.
Outside, a private yard, patio, and fire pit provide additional opportunities for gathering.
For large families or groups visiting Detroit together, having that much room can make the stay feel more relaxed and enjoyable.
What Guests Are Saying
Guests particularly appreciate the spacious layout and the home's suitability for gatherings.
Cleanliness, comfort, and the property's historic character are also recurring positive themes.
Several guests note that the home makes a strong impression in person.
A HomeBase Local Tip
One of the best nearby architectural experiences is the Fisher Building in New Center.
Even if you're not seeing a performance at the Fisher Theatre, step inside to admire its magnificent Art Deco lobby.
It's one of Detroit's most memorable interiors and a reminder of the city's extraordinary architectural legacy.
Why We Love This Stay: It offers the grandeur of a historic Detroit residence with the gathering spaces larger groups need.
Explore the Historic Zacharias House on Airbnb
5. A Grand Historic Home With a Garden Oasis in the North End
Neighborhood: Historic North End
Best for: Food lovers, groups, architecture enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate outdoor space.
Detroit's North End has a distinct neighborhood personality, and this historic home offers an opportunity to experience it in comfort.
Built in 1898, the residence combines impressive architectural proportions with updated interiors and modern conveniences.
Spread across three floors, the home includes spacious bedrooms, comfortable gathering areas, and a chef-friendly kitchen equipped for preparing meals together.
But one of the biggest surprises is outside.
The property features two large, private fenced yards filled with greenery, creating a peaceful setting for morning coffee, afternoon conversations, or a little downtime after exploring the city.
It's an appealing contrast to the energy of nearby Woodward Avenue.
What Guests Are Saying
This property has earned exceptionally strong guest ratings.
Hospitality is one of the most frequently praised aspects of the experience, with visitors highlighting host Tyson's attentiveness and responsiveness.
Guests also appreciate the spacious interiors, comfortable accommodations, and outdoor areas.
A HomeBase Local Tip
Come hungry.
The North End offers convenient access to several notable Detroit dining destinations.
Consider Baobab Fare for East African cuisine, Freya for a special dinner, or Milwaukee Caffè for coffee.
The nearby QLINE streetcar also provides another option for exploring parts of Midtown and Downtown.
Why We Love This Stay: Historic architecture, generous outdoor space, and access to some of Detroit's interesting dining destinations.
Explore the Historic North End Home on Airbnb
Mexicantown, Detroit
6. Grand Pinky: An Artist's Victorian in Mexicantown
Neighborhood: Mexicantown
Best for: Art lovers, design enthusiasts, architecture fans, and travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind stay.
Some accommodations are memorable because of their location.
Others are memorable because the home itself feels like an experience.
Grand Pinky is definitely in the second category.
This beautifully restored 1907 Victorian in Detroit's Mexicantown neighborhood is a celebration of art, imagination, and historic preservation.
Artist and designer Kimberly Robin has transformed the property into a distinctive retreat filled with hand-painted details, original architectural features, vintage furnishings, and creative touches.
Stained-glass windows, decorative woodwork, murals, and a sun-filled room give the home its unmistakable personality.
Modern kitchens and bathrooms add comfort without taking away from the character of the original house.
With three bedrooms and accommodations for up to six guests, it's an especially memorable setting for friends or families who enjoy creative surroundings.
What Guests Are Saying
Grand Pinky receives outstanding guest ratings, with visitors consistently praising its remarkable design.
Comfortable beds, thoughtfully curated interiors, and attentive hospitality are additional highlights.
Guests frequently describe the property as more than an ordinary place to sleep.
A HomeBase Local Tip
Make time to explore Clark Park and the surrounding Mexicantown neighborhood.
Southwest Detroit is full of cultural character, neighborhood businesses, restaurants, and creative spaces.
Rather than planning every minute, leave some time to discover what makes the area distinctive.
For music lovers, check the schedule at El Club, an independent venue known for hosting live performances.
Why We Love This Stay: Grand Pinky is a wonderful example of Detroit's creative spirit and the potential of thoughtful historic restoration.
7. Phunky Pheasant: A Creative Hideaway Near Corktown
Neighborhood: Near Corktown and Michigan Central
Best for: Couples, friends, food enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate personal hospitality.
With a name like Phunky Pheasant, you know this won't be an ordinary vacation rental.
The Phoenix Suite occupies part of a renovated Victorian property near Corktown, combining colorful interiors with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Inside are two comfortable bedrooms, a full kitchen, inviting living spaces, and a private deck.
Guests also have access to certain shared outdoor amenities, making it a good option for travelers who enjoy having places to relax beyond the main living area.
The location places visitors close to Corktown's restaurants and the beautifully restored Michigan Central Station.
But what really makes this property stand out is the hosting experience.
What Guests Are Saying
With more than 150 reviews, this property has an established history of positive guest feedback.
Hospitality is an especially strong theme.
Guests regularly praise hosts Allison and Anthony for their thoughtful recommendations, attention to detail, and enthusiasm for introducing visitors to Detroit.
The property's cleanliness, comfort, and distinctive décor also receive positive attention.
A HomeBase Local Tip
Visit Michigan Central Station and spend time exploring the surrounding Corktown area.
The building's restoration has become an important part of Detroit's recent architectural story.
Pair your visit with lunch or dinner along Michigan Avenue, where you'll find a variety of independently operated restaurants and neighborhood gathering places.
Why We Love This Stay: It combines creative accommodations with hosts who know how to help visitors experience Detroit beyond the usual attractions.
8. Design-Centric Corktown Apartment: Stay in Detroit's Oldest Neighborhood
Neighborhood: Corktown
Best for: Design lovers, couples, friends, and travelers who want walkable restaurants and attractions.
If your ideal Detroit getaway involves good food, interesting architecture, and exploring on foot, this Corktown apartment deserves your attention.
Located above Michigan Avenue, the apartment offers a front-row seat to one of Detroit's most recognizable historic neighborhoods.
Inside, the thoughtfully designed space features high ceilings, distinctive furnishings, an inviting kitchen, and architectural details that complement the building's character.
With two bedrooms and two bathrooms, the apartment is especially practical for two couples or friends traveling together.
One of the biggest advantages is the location.
Michigan Central, Roosevelt Park, neighborhood coffee shops, and a variety of restaurants are all within easy reach.
What Guests Are Saying
With more than 500 guest reviews, this is one of the most extensively reviewed properties in our collection.
Visitors frequently highlight the location, attractive interiors, comfortable accommodations, and nearby dining options.
Walkability is a particularly strong theme.
Guests also appreciate host Meghan's thoughtful recommendations and knowledge of the neighborhood.
A HomeBase Local Tip
Corktown is a great neighborhood for exploring without a strict itinerary.
Start with a walk around Roosevelt Park and Michigan Central, then head toward Michigan Avenue.
Consider Ima for noodles, Slows Bar BQ for barbecue, or Grandma Bob's for pizza.
If you enjoy cocktails, The Sugar House is another neighborhood destination worth considering.
Why We Love This Stay: An appealing combination of design, historic character, and a location that makes it easy to experience Corktown.
Explore the Design-Centric Corktown Apartment on Airbnb
9. Sycamore Home: Modern Nordic-Inspired Design in North Corktown
Neighborhood: North Corktown
Best for: Contemporary design enthusiasts, couples, small families, and remote workers.
Detroit is famous for its historic homes, but its contemporary residential architecture tells another interesting story.
Sycamore Home offers a refreshing alternative to the city's restored Victorians and early-20th-century mansions.
Located in North Corktown, this modern home takes inspiration from Scandinavian simplicity, combining clean architectural lines with warm natural materials and thoughtful design.
Oversized windows, high ceilings, polished concrete floors, and custom finishes create interiors that feel open, calm, and contemporary.
The kitchen is particularly appealing for visitors who enjoy cooking, while the dedicated workspace makes the home practical for longer visits.
Two bedrooms, comfortable furnishings, and private parking complete the experience.
What Guests Are Saying
Previously reviewed guest feedback has highlighted the home's design, cleanliness, comfortable sleeping arrangements, and thoughtful amenities.
The kitchen and overall sense of comfort are particular strengths.
Because the listing has a shorter review history than several other homes in this guide, travelers should also check its latest guest comments before booking.
A HomeBase Local Tip
North Corktown offers a different pace from busier parts of the city.
Enjoy the quieter residential surroundings, explore nearby green spaces, and head toward Corktown when you're ready for restaurants, coffee shops, and the energy of Michigan Avenue.
It's a good choice for travelers who enjoy balancing sightseeing with time at home.
Why We Love This Stay: A modern design-focused retreat that complements Detroit's historic architectural landscape.
10. Modern Downtown Apartment: Explore Detroit From Capitol Park
Neighborhood: Capitol Park, Downtown Detroit
Best for: First-time visitors, downtown explorers, friends, and travelers attending events.
Not every Detroit visitor wants a quiet residential retreat.
Sometimes you want to step outside and immediately find restaurants, coffee shops, entertainment, and the energy of the city.
For those travelers, Capitol Park is an appealing place to stay.
This spacious three-bedroom apartment occupies a converted historic savings bank building in Downtown Detroit.
The interior combines architectural character with contemporary furnishings, generous living spaces, and the conveniences of an apartment-style stay.
Three king-size bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and laundry facilities make it a practical choice for groups of up to six.
But the location is the real attraction.
Capitol Park is right outside, while Campus Martius and several of downtown's best-known attractions are just a short walk away.
What Guests Are Saying
Guests frequently praise the apartment's central location, spacious layout, cleanliness, and responsive host.
Walkability is an important advantage, especially for travelers planning to spend most of their time downtown.
One detail worth noting is that check-in has received a lower category rating than some of the property's other features. Reviewing the arrival requirements before booking is advisable.
A HomeBase Local Tip
Start with coffee near Capitol Park, then make your way toward Campus Martius to experience the heart of Downtown Detroit.
For dinner, consider Le Suprême for French-inspired dining or explore the many independent restaurants in the surrounding streets.
If you're attending a game, concert, or downtown event, staying in this area can make the experience particularly convenient.
Why We Love This Stay: An accessible introduction to Downtown Detroit for travelers who want to explore on foot.
Explore the Downtown Capitol Park Apartment on Airbnb
Which Detroit Neighborhood Is Right for Your Visit?
One of the best things about Detroit is that every neighborhood offers a different experience.
For Historic Architecture and Residential Charm
Consider the Boston-Edison area, La Salle Gardens, or Virginia Park.
These neighborhoods are particularly appealing for visitors interested in Detroit's grand early-20th-century homes, architectural history, and quieter residential surroundings.
They're also good options for families and groups who prefer staying in a house rather than a downtown apartment.
For Art, Creativity, and Neighborhood Culture
Look toward Mexicantown and Corktown.
From artist-restored historic homes to independently operated restaurants, music venues, and creative spaces, these neighborhoods offer plenty of personality.
For Food and Local Favorites
The North End and Corktown are worth exploring.
Both provide access to memorable dining experiences, independent coffee shops, and neighborhood gathering places.
For Contemporary Architecture and a Relaxed Pace
Consider North Corktown.
It's a good fit for travelers who appreciate contemporary design and a residential environment while remaining close to Corktown's attractions.
For Entertainment and Downtown Walkability
Choose Capitol Park or another Downtown Detroit location.
You'll be close to major gathering places, restaurants, entertainment venues, and the energy of the city center.
A Few HomeBase Tips for Visiting Detroit
Before you arrive, here are a few things we recommend keeping in mind.
Give yourself time to explore beyond Downtown. Some of Detroit's most distinctive experiences are found in its residential neighborhoods, cultural institutions, and independently owned businesses.
Make room for Detroit's music history. Whether you're visiting the Motown Museum, discovering a live music venue, or learning about the city's artistic legacy, music is an essential part of the Detroit experience.
Appreciate the architecture. From historic residential mansions to the Fisher Building and Michigan Central Station, Detroit's buildings tell fascinating stories about the city's past and present.
Support neighborhood businesses. Independent restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, galleries, and other locally operated establishments add so much to the character of Detroit.
Plan transportation around your itinerary. Some neighborhoods are ideal for exploring on foot, while others are more convenient with a car or rideshare. The QLINE can also be useful when traveling along portions of Woodward Avenue.
Most importantly, leave a little space in your schedule for discovering something unexpected.
Those experiences often become the most memorable parts of a visit.
Final Thoughts: Find Your HomeBase in Detroit
Detroit isn't a city that can be defined by a single neighborhood, attraction, or architectural style.
It's a collection of communities, stories, creative spaces, and remarkable places that make every visit different.
And that's exactly why where you stay matters.
Whether you choose a grand mansion in La Salle Gardens, an artist's colorful Victorian in Mexicantown, a contemporary retreat in North Corktown, or a downtown apartment surrounded by restaurants and entertainment, there's an opportunity to experience Detroit from a different perspective.
At HomeBase Stays, we're proud to be part of the city's hospitality community.
We love welcoming visitors, sharing what makes Detroit special, and helping travelers discover the places and experiences that make their trips memorable.
If you're planning a visit, we'd be delighted to host you in our historic home near Boston-Edison.
And if another property in this guide is a better fit for your plans, we hope you have an incredible Detroit experience wherever you stay.
After all, that's what this guide is about: helping visitors discover the city and feel at home while they're here.
Welcome to Detroit. Let's find your HomeBase.
Stay With HomeBase Stays — Explore Our Airbnb
About HomeBase Stays
HomeBase Stays provides thoughtfully furnished accommodations in Detroit, and Los Angeles. We're passionate about welcoming visitors, celebrating both cities historic neighborhoods, and sharing the local places that make the city special.
Disclosure: This guide is published by HomeBase Stays and includes a vacation rental operated by our brand. The other properties are independently hosted and included as editorial recommendations, not as paid endorsements. Property descriptions and guest-feedback themes are based on publicly available listing information. Ratings, amenities, policies, and availability may change; please confirm details with each host before booking.
