Veterans Park Hotel

AVOID!!! I was told during check-in that extending my stay by a day would cost about $110. The pricing sheet on the wall showed the same price, so I agreed. A few days later, I saw a $202 charge on my bank account. When I called, the manager said it was special holiday pricing, but he hadn't mentioned that when we spoke, and the sheet didn't list holiday rates. It felt like a total scam. The kitchen suite had a stove, but no pots or pans. I asked the manager, and he told me to check the cabinets under the sink. There was nothing there. He said he'd come by in a few minutes to see what he had, but never got back to me, so I had to buy a pan myself. When I called about it, he sarcastically asked, "Should I also provide you with eggs, ham, and other food too?" Great customer service. Avoid this thief, he'll screw you one way or another, I promise.

I had to call ahead so someone could let me in, which was awkward. The place was clean and cozy, though I stubbed my toe on the big raised threshold into the bathroom. No complaints otherwise.

STAY AWAY. I rarely leave reviews, but I think people should know. A guy on Grindr wanted me to meet him here, and we split the hotel cost, so I sent him $60 over PayPal. Then he asked for another $100 as a security deposit. By then I was suspicious, so I looked into the reviews to see if it was a scam. I told him I wasn't coming and never heard from him again. I never got my $60 back either. STAY AWAY.

The man I spoke with was friendly and really helpful, even though there's no front desk. It's also very close to downtown Detroit and a good price. Our room was clean and nicely put together, with a large closet and working heat. The place has the amenities you'd need, and there's a grocery store down the street if you want to use the kitchen in the room. I was worried about parking our car on the street, but the neighborhood wasn't as scary as it looked when we arrived at 10 p.m. One thing I'd change: the room needs curtains instead of blinds. I like to sleep in the dark, and light from the park came right through. Still, the price was excellent for the room, and I'm planning to stay here again next time we come to Detroit.