Detroit’s hospitality sector is set to receive a significant boost with the confirmation of a new JW Marriott hotel. The Detroit-based Sterling Group, the project’s developer, announced on Wednesday that the luxury JW Marriott brand will occupy the 600-room riverfront hotel currently under construction in downtown Detroit. This 25-story hotel, situated next to the Huntington Place convention center and near the former site of Joe Louis Arena, is poised to transform the city’s hospitality landscape when it opens in early 2027.
The JW Marriott will be the second of its kind in Michigan, following the established location in Grand Rapids. The announcement comes after weeks of construction and speculation about the hotel’s brand. The project, valued at $397 million, includes the development of a raised pedestrian bridge that will connect the hotel directly to Huntington Place, facilitating seamless access for convention attendees and guests.
According to Danny Samson, Chief Development Officer for the Sterling Group, this new hotel will significantly impact Detroit’s ability to attract more and larger conventions. “This connected hotel will change the hospitality landscape in the city of Detroit and allow for Huntington Place to attract more and larger conventions,” Samson stated. The strategic placement and connection to the convention center will position the JW Marriott as a prime destination for business travelers and convention-goers, thereby boosting the local economy and tourism.
The hotel is expected to be completed in time to accommodate guests for the NCAA men’s Final Four basketball tournament, which will be hosted in Detroit in March 2027. This event underscores the importance of the hotel’s timely completion and its role in supporting large-scale events in the city. By increasing the capacity for visitors, the JW Marriott will play a pivotal role in Detroit’s ability to host major national and international events.
The project has also received substantial local and state support, securing $142 million in development incentives this spring. These incentives reflect the significant economic impact anticipated from the hotel’s operations, including job creation, increased tourism, and enhanced revenue for local businesses.
The hospitality industry in the United States is a cornerstone of the economy, significantly contributing to GDP, employment, and tourism. In 2022, the U.S. hospitality sector generated approximately $1.2 trillion in economic activity, employing over 16 million people across various roles from hotel staff to event management. Hotels play a pivotal role in this landscape, driving substantial economic impact through overnight stays. According to the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), U.S. hotels saw an estimated 1.3 billion overnight stays in 2022, reflecting a strong rebound from the pandemic’s downturn. This surge in occupancy not only boosts direct revenue for hotels but also stimulates local economies through increased spending on dining, entertainment, and transportation.
The ongoing development of luxury hotels, such as the upcoming JW Marriott in Detroit, underscores the sector’s resilience and growth potential. These projects attract business travelers and tourists, fostering economic development through job creation and enhanced local infrastructure. As the U.S. continues to recover and grow, the hospitality industry remains a vital driver of economic vitality, supporting millions of jobs and contributing significantly to national and local economies.
As a luxury hotel, the JW Marriott in Detroit will offer top-tier amenities and services expected of the brand. Guests can look forward to elegant accommodations, fine dining options, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and comprehensive business services. The hotel’s design and facilities are tailored to meet the needs of both leisure and business travelers, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay.
Upon completion, the JW Marriott will be the second-largest hotel in Detroit by room count, second only to the 1,328-room Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center. This addition will diversify the accommodation options available in downtown Detroit, catering to the growing demand for high-quality lodging driven by increased tourism and business activities.
The announcement of the JW Marriott brand follows months of speculation and anticipation within the community and media. The Sterling Group has engaged with local stakeholders throughout the development process, ensuring that the project aligns with the city’s broader economic and community goals. The development has been met with enthusiasm, with many seeing it as a sign of Detroit’s ongoing revitalization and growth.
Looking ahead, the new JW Marriott is set to play a crucial role in Detroit’s resurgence as a major destination for conventions, business, and leisure travel. The hotel’s prime location, luxury offerings, and direct connection to Huntington Place position it as a key asset in attracting high-profile events and visitors to the city.
The upcoming JW Marriott in downtown Detroit marks a significant milestone in the city’s development, promising to elevate its hospitality landscape and support the local economy. With its strategic location next to Huntington Place, the luxury hotel is poised to attract larger conventions and events, enhancing Detroit’s reputation as a premier destination for business and leisure. As the project progresses towards its 2027 opening, the anticipation continues to build for what will undoubtedly be a transformative addition to Detroit’s skyline and community.
