$64M Hilton brand hotel opens downtown

$64M Hilton brand hotel opens downtown

Courtesy Suburban Inns

A new seven-story hotel overlooking the Grand River is now open downtown.

Holland-based Suburban Inns last week opened Michigan’s first Embassy Suites by Hilton, at 710 Monroe Ave. NW. Construction on the $64-million project began in 2017.

The 93,613-square-foot hotel features 250 two-room suites, many with a private balcony, and includes a 425-space parking garage.

Each room features a large TV and a living area with sofa, and select suites have in-room workout facilities.

The brand says it appeals to travelers who “seek high value but also upscale suite-style accommodations.”

The hotel has five meeting and event rooms named after historic Grand Rapids furniture companies: Widdicomb Ballroom, 4,000 square feet; Haldane, 1,000 square feet; Berkey 338 square feet; Eames, 390 square feet; and Nelson, 416 square feet.

The first floor contains an 8,839-square-foot Big E’s Sports Grill, with seating for 166 customers on the inside and an additional 50 guests on the patio. The restaurant includes 84 TVs.

The first-floor Whitewater Café features a light menu and serves Rowster Coffee. The upstairs Whitewater Lounge features cocktails and overlooks the river.

Other hotel amenities include a Michigan-shaped indoor pool, an indoor/outdoor spa, a 24-hour fitness center, cook-to-order breakfast and a daily manager’s reception.

About 200 people total will be employed by the hotel and restaurant. Both are hiring for multiple positions.

The hotel’s general manager is Brian Behler. The restaurant’s general manger is Sara Ludtke.

Suburban Inns Design and Construction completed the project, in partnership with Grand Rapids-based Pioneer Construction.

Suburban Inns

Founded in 1979, Suburban Inns has a portfolio of seven IHG, Marriott and Hilton hotels, containing 1,089 rooms, in Michigan.

The company also operates five restaurants, including four Big E’s Sports Grill locations and one Sharkee’s.

It employs 725 people.