Text: R. Collins
50 Monroe Ave NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Unveiled just last year, the AC Hotel Grand Rapids Downtown by Marriott—managed by AHC+Hospitality—is one of Grand Rapids’ newer hotels, offering refined European style, convenient business amenities, and a downtown location. Housed in a restored, more than 120-year-old building with its original façade in the thick of downtown—20 Monroe Live is right next door—the AC Hotel adds 130 more rooms to the continually developing travel destination.
In the hotel, refined international influences in design and hotel menus mix with contributions from renowned local businesses to create a unique Grand Rapids resting place in the popular center of its day and nightlife. Apart from an active gym, library and event room, each guest room and suite in the AC Hotel comes fitted with plush bedding, city views, and high-speed internet access, with plenty of counter and workspace and elegantly designed atmospheres.
Public spaces showcase furnishings by the influential local furniture design brand Herman Miller that appeal to the sleek, European flair and the lobby’s bright natural light. Directly off the lobby, the uniquely illuminated rectangular bar functions as a pit stop along walkable nodes of downtown, and it is also a convenient, intimate spot for a hotel goer’s nightcap.
The menu features a selection of local spirits and beer from the likes of Brewery Vivant, Perrin Brewing Company, and even a selection made custom for the hotel by Elk Brewing Company in the nearby East Hills neighborhood, as well as a selection of Spanish wines, and batches of internationally inspired small plates. Before partaking in AC Lounge’s thoughtfully curated tapas and cocktail menu for lunch and dinner, try the $15.00 breakfast bar by the AC Kitchen, which also comes packed with European flavor, from fresh sliced prosciuttos, cheeses, and croissants to fresh fruit, yogurts, and savory and sweet breakfast tarts.
