Grand Rapids Luxury Hotels: JW Marriott vs. Amway Grand

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Two standout luxury hotels in downtown Grand Rapids share an ownership group yet offer distinctly different experiences for a girlfriends’ getaway. The historic Amway Grand Plaza is lively and packed with amenities while the JW Marriott Grand Rapids is sleek, intimate and modern.

Highlights

Two Luxury Hotels, Two Distinct Experiences: How the historic, amenity-packed Amway Grand Plaza compares to the sleek, sophisticated JW Marriott Grand Rapids for a memorable girlfriends’ getaway.
The Rooms and Resort-Style Perks: A closer look at spacious accommodations, riverfront views, swimming pools, rooftop pickleball and the amenities that make each property special.
Dining, Cocktails and Spa Indulgences: From MDRD’s spectacular skyline views and the IDC speakeasy to French-inspired dining at Margaux and relaxing treatments at Celeste Salon & Spa and Seraphina Spa.
Beyond the Hotels: Why downtown Grand Rapids is ideal for a girls’ trip, with walkable attractions, boutique shopping, ArtPrize and the stunning Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Editor’s note: The writer was hosted.

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Why Grand Rapids Is a Hidden Gem for Luxury Getaways

Grand Rapids, Michigan, might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a luxury girlfriend getaway, but hear me out. This vibrant Midwest city has incredible restaurants, boutique shopping, beautiful gardens, an impressive arts scene and more craft breweries than you could possibly visit in one weekend.

And when it comes to accommodations, two standout luxury hotels are practically across the street from each other: Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton and JW Marriott Grand Rapids.

Both properties share the same ownership group, yet offer distinctly different experiences. The Amway Grand Plaza is grand, lively and filled with restaurants, bars and entertainment. The JW Marriott is sleek, sophisticated and slightly more intimate, with gorgeous river views and polished service.

I’ve experienced both, and while I’d happily return to either, there are some differences worth considering before booking your next girls’ trip.

Amway Grand Plaza: Historic Glamour Meets Girlfriend Getaway Fun

Downtown Grand Rapids skyline along the Grand River, featuring the Amway Grand Plaza tower, modern high-rise buildings, and a bridge crossing the water. — What a view! The Amway Grand Plaza towers over the Grand River in downtown Grand Rapids, as seen from the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Photo credit: Melody Pittman

Property: Amway Grand Plaza | Address: 187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | Phone: +1-616-774-2000 | Check-in: 4 PM | Check-out: 11 AM

If your idea of a perfect girlfriend’s getaway involves dressing up for cocktails, enjoying fabulous meals, browsing boutique shops and having a little fun without constantly leaving the hotel, the Amway Grand Plaza may be your match.

Part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, this downtown landmark has 656 guest rooms, a wonderful mix of historic character and contemporary comforts, and enough on-site amenities to make the hotel a destination itself.

Rooms and Suites

Stylish guest room at Amway Grand Plaza featuring a four-poster bed, upholstered bench, marble-top coffee table, comfortable seating, and framed artwork. — My luxury room at the Amway Grand Plaza was stylish and lovely, but I also caught a glimpse of the Tower Luxury Suites, and y’all, they are FIRE! Definitely worth considering for a special occasion. Photo credit: Melody Pittman

One thing I appreciate about the Amway Grand Plaza is its range of accommodations:

Superior Two Queen: Consider this option if you want to save money for shopping and dining.
Plaza Luxury Suite: Go for broke if you are celebrating a milestone birthday or special occasion.
Room Features: Dramatic headboards, sophisticated color palettes, floor-to-ceiling windows, convenient smartphone charging stations, well-appointed bath products and stately bathrooms with comfortable beds, good lighting and enough space to get ready.

Spa and Wellness

Celeste Salon & Spa: Offers an expected menu of treatments alongside my personal favorite feature—a balcony seating area in its relaxation room.
Pool: Perfect for relaxing after sightseeing.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Book a treatment at Celeste Salon & Spa, enjoy the relaxation space balcony and give yourselves permission to do absolutely nothing for a while.

Dining and Nightlife

Elegant seafood appetizer at MDRD in Grand Rapids featuring diced seafood, crispy garnish, microgreens, and green herb oil in a delicate sauce. — The culinary creativity at MDRD is every bit as impressive as its 27th-floor views. This beautifully presented seafood appetizer proves that the restaurant knows how to make a memorable first impression. Photo credit: Melody Pittman

MDRD: Perched on the 27th floor, this upbeat, stylish restaurant offers some of the most spectacular dining views I’ve experienced outside Las Vegas.
Lumber Baron Bar: Sophisticated and elegant, this is the kind of place that makes you want to put on a fabulous outfit and order a craft cocktail.
Rendezvous: Located in the lobby, this lively gathering spot offers fabulous cocktails, a tempting wine list and excellent people-watching.
Right Bank Wine Selections: An enjoyable spot for small talk at the communal table with a selection of European wines, a knowledgeable wine specialist (Michael Bryant), wine classes and pairing events.
Additional Dining: Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Foxtail Coffee Co., The Kitchen Counter by Wolfgang Puck and The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck.

SheBuysTravel Tip: MDRD is my pick for a special girls’ night out. Make a reservation and dress for the occasion.

Onsite Activities and Shopping

Artfully plated dessert at IDC in Grand Rapids featuring fruit, delicate white meringue ribbons, gold leaf, fresh herbs, and a colorful macaron. — Almost too pretty to eat! This raspberry-poached peach dessert at IDC, featuring vanilla bean Chantilly and a peach macaron, was a delicious work of art. Photo credit: Melody Pittman

Woodrows DuckPin: Offers a fun alternative to the usual dinner-and-drinks routine with duckpin bowling that is easy to enjoy even if you’re not particularly athletic.
Boutique Shops: Right off the lobby, offering shopping that involves more than souvenirs and forgotten toiletries.
IDC: A speakeasy-style spot with a balcony bar and a tucked-away atmosphere for cocktails and special food-focused experiences.

SheBuysTravel Tip: At Woodrows DuckPin, you can bring your own food to enjoy while bowling.

JW Marriott Grand Rapids: Contemporary Luxury With River Views

Two-queen guest room at JW Marriott Grand Rapids featuring white bedding, modern bedside lighting, framed artwork and a large window with sheer curtains. — Contemporary furnishings, plush bedding, and thoughtful design make the JW Marriott’s two-queen accommodations an excellent choice for girlfriends sharing a room in downtown Grand Rapids. Photo credit: Melody Pittman

Property: JW Marriott Grand Rapids | Address: 235 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | Phone: +1-888-844-5947 | Check-in: 4 PM | Check-out: 12 PM (noon)

Just across the street, the JW Marriott Grand Rapids offers a different kind of luxury. It’s sleek, sophisticated and a little more intimate than the Amway Grand Plaza, with approximately half as many guest rooms and a generally higher price point.

Fun fact: It was the first JW Marriott property in the Midwest..

From the moment you enter, the hotel makes an impression with an absolutely gorgeous lobby where huge windows flood the space with natural light, creating an airy, elegant atmosphere that feels welcoming rather than formal.

Rooms and Suites

View Options: Guest rooms offer either city or Grand River views.
Room Features: Marble finishes, elegant details, premium entertainment options (including Netflix and movie channels) and evening turndown service—a luxury hotel touch that’s becoming increasingly rare.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Book a corner room overlooking the river if your budget allows. There’s something wonderful about waking up to those beautiful water views.

Spa and Wellness

Seraphina Spa: Offers treatments along with a sauna and whirlpool.
Pool and Fitness: Features a pool perfect for relaxing after sightseeing and a 24-hour fitness center that gets a slight edge over the Amway Grand Plaza’s.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Take advantage of the soaking tubs in the marble bathrooms—they are practically begging for a long, leisurely bath after a day of sightseeing.

Dining and Nightlife

Crêpes Suzette served at Margaux restaurant in JW Marriott Grand Rapids, topped with orange slices, sliced almonds, Chantilly cream, and citrus sauce. — Breakfast doesn’t get much better than these heavenly Crêpes Suzette at Margaux in the JW Marriott, served with Chantilly cream, sliced almonds, and a luscious citrus sauce. A solid 10/10 in my book! Photo credit: Melody Pittman

Margaux: The JW Marriott’s signature restaurant serves breakfast and dinner in a stylish setting with excellent food.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Don’t miss breakfast at Margaux. The Crêpes Suzette with Chantilly cream and sliced almonds were a solid 10/10.

Onsite Activities and Amenities

Eucalyptus-scented steam room with dark stone walls, glass doors and neatly stacked white towels at the JW Marriott Grand Rapids spa. — The eucalyptus-scented steam room offers a relaxing escape at the JW Marriott Grand Rapids spa, a wonderful addition to a luxury girlfriends’ getaway. Photo credit: Melody Pittman

Executive Lounge: The setting and food-and-beverage provisions are excellent, adding another layer of comfort to an already luxurious stay.
Lobby Artwork: Features artwork celebrating Grand Rapids’ sister-city relationships, including Omihachiman, Japan and Bielsko-Biała, Poland, giving the contemporary design a welcome sense of place.

SheBuysTravel Tip: If you have access through an eligible room booking or Marriott Bonvoy benefits, the executive lounge is a perk worth enjoying.

Which Grand Rapids Luxury Hotel Should You Choose?

Neither hotel is necessarily better. They simply appeal to different travel styles.

Choose the Amway Grand Plaza If…

You want multiple restaurants and bars onsite
You love historic character and lively public spaces
Shopping, cocktails and entertainment are part of your getaway plans
You prefer more room categories and price flexibility
You’re a Hilton Honors member

SheBuysTravel Tip: Pick the Amway Grand Plaza if your girlfriends want restaurants, cocktails, shopping, spa treatments and entertainment all within easy reach—it’s lively, glamorous and wonderfully convenient.

Choose the JW Marriott If…

You prefer contemporary design and a quieter atmosphere
River views and luxurious bathrooms are priorities
You appreciate executive lounge privileges and turndown service
Spa amenities and relaxation are central to your trip
You’re a Marriott Bonvoy member

SheBuysTravel Tip: Pick the JW Marriott if you prefer contemporary elegance, beautiful river views, luxurious bathrooms, a more intimate atmosphere and thoughtful extras like turndown service and an impressive executive lounge.

Best Things to Do in Grand Rapids on a Girlfriends Getaway

No matter which hotel you choose, leave time to explore Grand Rapids. This walkable, artsy downtown and its surrounding attractions offer plenty of fun for a girls’ trip.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Overview: A premier destination featuring stunning gardens, impressive sculptures and beautifully maintained grounds where you could easily spend several hours.
Who It’s For: A must for art lovers, garden enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates beautiful surroundings.

SheBuysTravel Tip: If you only have time for one major attraction, make it Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park—it’s one of the best attractions of its kind in the country. Don’t miss Dale Chihuly’s Lena’s Garden glass sculpture on the ceiling in the garden’s restaurant, James & Shirley Balk Cafe.

Grand Rapids Downtown Market

Overview: A lively marketplace offering a tempting collection of eateries, specialty foods, sweets and drinks.

SheBuysTravel Tip: This stop is especially convenient when everyone in your group is craving something different.

Beer City USA & Cocktail Spot Exploring

Overview: Grand Rapids features more than 80 breweries in the broader region along with fabulous cocktail bars, restaurants and coffee shops.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or simply enjoy sampling something local, there’s no shortage of places to explore.

Wax Poetic Candle Bar

Overview: A creative girlfriend’s activity where you can design your own scented candle.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Designing a custom candle is a fun way to spend time together and create a personalized souvenir.

Public Art and ArtPrize

Overview: The city offers a wonderful collection of murals, sculptures and public art installations perfect for a self-guided walking tour.
ArtPrize: Launched in 2009 and held in September, this internationally recognized art competition and festival transforms the city into a celebration of creativity with artwork displayed in galleries, businesses and unexpected public spaces.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Grab a coffee, take a walking tour to see what catches your eye and enjoy the plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

DeVos Performance Hall

Overview: Check the schedule for concerts, touring productions or other memorable performances.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Pair a show with dinner and cocktails for a fabulous girls’ night out.

Final Thoughts: Two Luxury Hotels, One Fabulous Getaway

Stylish curved banquette seating, blush-colored chairs, marble-topped tables and gold accents at Rendezvous lobby bar inside Amway Grand Plaza. — Chic seating and sophisticated décor make Rendezvous lobby bar an inviting spot for cocktails and conversation at Amway Grand Plaza. Photo credit: Melody Pittman

What makes comparing the Amway Grand Plaza and JW Marriott Grand Rapids so interesting is that neither property needs to be the loser. They offer two distinctly different approaches to luxury travel.

For me, a great girlfriend’s getaway isn’t just about where you sleep. It’s about fabulous meals, shared adventures, unexpected discoveries and those moments when you’re laughing so hard you can barely catch your breath. And Grand Rapids delivers plenty of opportunities for all of the above.

So, which one would you choose: the lively, historic Amway Grand Plaza or the sleek, riverfront JW Marriott?

Assortment of artisan chocolates and sweet treats on a white plate featuring an Amway Grand Plaza chocolate plaque in Grand Rapids, Michigan. — A delicious assortment of handcrafted chocolates and sweet treats adds a luxurious touch to the Amway Grand Plaza experience. Photo credit: Melody Pittman

Frequently Asked Questions About Grand Rapids Luxury Hotels

Which hotel is best for a girlfriend’s getaway: JW Marriott or Amway Grand Plaza?

The Amway Grand Plaza gets my vote for a lively getaway with multiple restaurants, cocktail bars, shopping, a spa and duckpin bowling onsite. The JW Marriott is ideal for a quieter, contemporary luxury experience with Grand River views, marble bathrooms and upscale amenities.

Are downtown Grand Rapids luxury hotels within walking distance of attractions?

Yes! Both hotels are located across the street from each other in downtown Grand Rapids, within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, public art and entertainment venues like DeVos Performance Hall. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum and Grand Rapids Downtown Market are also accessible on foot, while attractions like Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park require a car or rideshare.

Is the JW Marriott Grand Rapids more expensive than the Amway Grand Plaza?

Generally, the JW Marriott has a slightly higher price point. The Amway Grand Plaza offers a wider range of accommodations from Superior Two Queen rooms to luxury suites, making it easier to find options for different budgets. Compare rates, amenities and Hilton Honors or Marriott Bonvoy benefits before booking.

SheBuysTravel writers have been where you’re going. We share our ground-truth experience to save you time, money and energy, making your trips easier. Been There. Bought That. Since 2006.