Dearborn Inn Reopens after Major Renovation with Modern Touches

Forwal Construction

News Summary

The Dearborn Inn, a historic hotel in Michigan originally built by Henry Ford, has reopened after a comprehensive two-year renovation. This restoration preserves its rich legacy while introducing modern amenities, including 135 guest rooms and new dining options. The renovation showcases original craftsmanship and artifacts, creating a charming blend of history and contemporary comfort. The hotel, which welcomed many notable guests in the past, is now part of Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection, enticing visitors with its allure and excellent location near Ford Airport.

The Historic Dearborn Inn Reopens After Extensive Renovations, Blending Timeless Charm with Modern Amenities

Exciting news for travel enthusiasts and history buffs alike! The Dearborn Inn, a stunning gem nestled in Dearborn, Michigan, has officially reopened its doors after undergoing a thorough two-year makeover. Originally constructed in 1931 by the iconic Henry Ford, this historic hotel boasts a unique legacy that intertwines the past with the present, making it a one-of-a-kind destination.

With its expansive grounds covering 23 acres, the Dearborn Inn features 135 beautifully appointed rooms and is now a proud member of Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection. The revitalization project was a labor of love, marked by a fantastic collaboration among Ford Land, the Ford Motor Company’s archival teams, the Ford family, and various esteemed design firms such as AvroKO, Dash Design, and Kraemer Design Group.

The Dearborn Inn isn’t just another hotel; it’s a place soaked in history, having welcomed notable guests like Walt Disney, Orville Wright, Norman Rockwell, Eleanor Roosevelt, and even President Ronald Reagan. Did you know that it was one of the first airport hotels in the U.S.? It holds an amazing location right across from the busy Ford Airport, making it a classic stopover for travelers of yesteryear and modern adventurers alike!

The renovation team took great care to preserve some of the Inn’s historic elements. Guests can marvel at the vibrant checkerboard Italian marble flooring personally selected by Henry Ford and feel the warmth radiating from the grand green marble fireplace in the lobby. Throughout the property, antique clocks and various cherished artifacts create a nostalgic atmosphere that tells the tales of the past.

For those looking to capture their magical stay, the Inn has introduced a delightful twist with a vintage-style ‘passport’ photo booth, modeled after a historic Ford Tri-Motor airplane. It’s a fun way to relive the history of air travel and create lasting memories!

Inside the hotel, visitors will notice an emphasis on local craftsmanship with original Michigan-made furniture, including iconic Platner chairs and various handcrafted items displayed prominently. Guests can also appreciate artifacts from the Ford archive, such as a scrapbook filled with love letters from honeymooning couples and vintage menus personally signed by Walt Disney. Each guest room is a blend of comfort and style, featuring four-poster walnut beds, Eames chairs, and bathrooms adorned with charming Ford Pantone blue tiles.

The Inn also boasts 19 luxurious suites, including a dazzling presidential suite complete with a living room, kitchenette, and dining area. Excitingly, there are five colonial-style homes with another 18 guest rooms that will be available for booking starting in the summer of 2025!

In a nod to Henry Ford’s innovative spirit, this renovation seamlessly combines historical charm with modern comforts, creating an inspiring environment for all guests. The renovation has also introduced two new dining experiences: Clara’s Table, a delightful farm-to-table restaurant influenced by Clara Ford’s culinary talents, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while the stylish Four Vagabonds cocktail bar pays homage to the adventurous road trips taken by Ford and his contemporaries, serving enticing small plates and expertly crafted cocktails.

As if that wasn’t enough, the hotel features large event spaces, both indoors and outdoors, that can accommodate up to 850 guests—perfect for weddings, conferences, and other celebrations. Room rates start at $350 per night, and bookings officially opened on March 19, 2025.

With its beautiful blend of history and modern amenities, the Dearborn Inn invites guests to step into a world of charm and nostalgia while enjoying all the comforts of contemporary living. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a memorable venue for an event, the reopened Inn promises an unforgettable experience!