The Siren: Detroit’s Musical Past, Reimagined as a Boutique Stay

Retro rooms, a richly layered lobby, and the pink glow of Candy Bar bring new life to the historic Wurlitzer Building.

The Siren’s richly furnished lobby with velvet seating and ornate mirrors — Credit: Christian Harder

By Lulu Chang

Why it works

What was once known as “the world’s largest music house” in downtown Detroit has a new identity. The historic Wurlitzer Building, previously home to the eponymous music brand known for making the pianos, jukeboxes, and organs of Motown, now plays host to Detroit visitors and locals alike as The Siren, a unique boutique hotel still steeped in its musical history.

A warmly lit sitting area with draped windows at The Siren — Credit: Christian Harder

Design & Character

As part of Ash Hotels' esteemed collection, The Siren stands as a testament to downtown Detroit's renaissance. This hotel skillfully blends original, sometimes unfinished, elements of the nearly 100-year-old Wurlitzer building with modern touches—a hallmark of Ash’s renowned approach to revitalizing historic properties. Upon entering the hotel, for example, look up to sneak a glimpse of the original moldings of the 14-foot ceiling. The lobby - outfitted with plush velvet furniture and retro lighting—feels almost like a salon just waiting for a jazz band to start playing. We can’t get enough of the daybed placed in the very center of the lobby, and are forever thankful for the Siren Cafe and its caffeine offerings, ready to greet weary travelers.

Flowers and dark green marble in The Siren’s lobby — Credit: Christian Harder

The check-in desk is nestled discreetly on the right-hand side of the lobby, leaving plenty of room for guests to mingle and relax. And with a lobby as richly decorated as the Siren’s, you’ll want to spend time in this space.

Curved staircase and vintage seating at The Siren — Credit: Christian Harder

When you’re ready to make your way to your room, you may be tempted to venture up the inviting staircase. But given the 13 floors of the hotel, you’re probably better off taking the elevator—neatly tucked away in the back of the building so as to maintain the homier feel of the space.

Bunk beds in a Hideout room at The Siren — Credit: Christian Harder

Rooms & Suites

The hotel offers five different room categories; there are cozier, more intimate rooms like the “Hideout,” which features a bunk bed with two twin beds, or the “Studio,” with a full bed and a darling window seat. On the other hand, for travelers in need of a little more space, check out the Parlor Suites, lofted duplex rooms with a living room below and a king bed above.

View from a lofted room into a colorful sitting area at The Siren — Credit: Christian Harder

You could also spring for the Penthouse on the top floor of the hotel with double-height glass windows that offer sweeping views of Comerica Park and downtown Detroit. Bathrooms are delightfully retro, with speckled blue or green tiling, and boast toiletries exclusive to the Siren. All rooms—regardless of size—feature flatscreen TVs, custom Italian linens, and hand-loomed blankets with stunning designs (we love the mermaid patterns).

Mint-green interiors and chrome stools at Ash Bar in The Siren — Credit: Victor Stonem

Dining & Drinks

With the Siren’s convenient location, you’re only steps away from fantastic dining options, but the bar and restaurant on-property are well worth a visit as well. Check out Ash Bar with its 1950s and 60s vibe thanks to the mint green color palette, chrome barstools, and large Wurlitzer jukebox. Luckily, the food has come a long way in the last several decades, though the menu is still nostalgic, with features like Coney dogs and classic cheeseburgers presented alongside more modern offerings like Seared Royal Trumpet Mushrooms and Wagyu Beef Carpaccio.

Candy Bar’s pink interior and large glass chandelier at The Siren — Credit: Christian Harder

A trip to the hotel is not complete without a nightcap at Candy Bar, which takes the classic hotel lobby bar to a whole new level. With its rose-colored walls and deep pink seats, the space begs to be photographed, especially with its stunning 1,500-pound glass chandelier in the center of the space. Think of it as a blush-colored garden that just so happens to serve killer cocktails, both in the form of old classics and proprietary creations. We love the dirty gin martini and the Fear is the Mind-Killer, a mezcal-based drink with the perfect amount of kick.

Green-paneled lobby and velvet furniture at The Siren — Credit: Christian Harder

Music After Dark

If you’re at the Siren between Wednesday and Saturday, you’ll also have to check out the hotel’s piano karaoke bar—Sid Gold’s Request Room. Whether you’re there to make a musical request (or indulge in some singing yourself), or order a drink, a good time is effectively a guarantee.

With its retro feel and familiar charm, the Siren is a love letter to both old and new Detroit. So whether you’re a first-timer to the city or in a committed relationship, a stay at this hotel is a quintessential experience for Motor City.

Fast Facts

Location: Detroit, MI

Rating: Four-Star

The Vibe: Posh speakeasy meets retro chic accommodations

Food + Drink: For happy hour and dinner, head on over to Ash Bar to eat your fill, then pay a visit to Candy Bar for a spectacularly Instagrammable nightcap. Get your coffee fix at the Siren Cafe, and if you’re in the mood for a late night, check out Sid Gold’s Request Room

Amenities: restaurant; bar; concierge; newspapers; flower delivery service

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: Candy Bar is a destination whether you’re staying at the hotel or not. Not only is the space uniquely beautiful with its pink-washing, but the drinks are good and strong

5 Nearby Attractions: Detroit Riverwalk, Comerica Park, Campus Martius Park, Stevie Wonder Mural, Fox Theatre

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs?: Take a walk to the BELT, a little alley with an art gallery and a great bar and music scene

Rooms: 106 rooms and suites

Pricing (at original publication): Rooms start at $160/night

Closest Airport: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport

Hotels Above Par

Independent, boutique-minded travel journalism from writers who know the places they cover.