The Kensington Hotel

The Kensington Hotel

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The Kensington Hotel
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Avg. $108 /night, 2/12 - 2/13
$218
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$95
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About

#4 of 35 hotels in Ann Arbor
Location
4.4
Rooms
3.8
Value
3.9
Cleanliness
4.1
Service
4.3
Sleep Quality
4.0
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Women-owned
Tripadvisor allows businesses to update and manage their attributes and details, but does not verify the accuracy of this information.
Welcome to The Kensington Hotel in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Whether you need overnight accommodations for a business trip, wedding, family gathering or romantic getaway, our boutique hotel is a refreshing alternative to conventional chain-style offerings. From the minute you contact our warm, friendly staff, you'll experience the personalized service that only an independently owned hotel can offer. Contact us today to book your stay and experience Ann Arbor like never before.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
Pool
Bar / lounge
Patio
Kids stay free
Highchairs available
Parking
Wifi
Sauna
Hot tub
Pool / beach towels
Indoor pool
Heated pool
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Complimentary welcome drink
Snack bar
Vending machine
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Taxi service
Business Center with Internet Access
Conference facilities
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
Spa
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Convenience store
Newspaper
Non-smoking hotel
ATM on site
24-hour front desk
Express check-in / check-out
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Room features
Air conditioning
Room service
Safe
Iron
Refrigerator
Flatscreen TV
Sofa bed
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
3.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Business
Languages Spoken
English

Location

3500 South State Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48108-1632
Getting there
Somewhat walkable
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travelers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 54 out of 100
54
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
20 mi•
See all flights
Windsor Airport
39.9 mi•
See all flights
4.0
4.0 of 5 bubbles1,435 reviews
Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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The Kensington Hotel garners high marks for its exemplary service and hospitable staff who are consistently noted for their professional and warm demeanor. Its charming atmosphere, featuring a beautiful courtyard and cozy rooms, makes guests feel at home, with an emphasis on overall cleanliness. The hotel is strategically situated, offering easy access to attractions and shopping. While the amenities, including a welcoming pool and on-site restaurant, are generally lauded, a few guests have pointed out the rooms sometimes fall short with maintenance concerns and dated decor. Despite this, the overall value and reasonable rates have been positively highlighted, although a minority have critiqued the pet surcharges.
Location
Convenient
Atmosphere
Inviting
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Reasonable
Cleanliness
Spotless
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Well-appointed

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Detailed Reviews
Bloom B wrote a review Jul 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I appreciated Cate who greeted us at the front desk and you could tell this was once an older hotel that has been renovated and has so much curb appeal from the exterior walkup landscaping, to the lovely touches in the lobby and restaurant and other areas and the fantastic rooms. We loved our room because of the real tile in the bathroom, the hot hot hot water, comfy beds, full blackout drapes and being welcomed with a little glass of champagne. Great place for the pricepoint! We would stay here again. Liked the stainless steel appliances but please put the freezer section back in the fridge. We also loved the high quality Beekman goats milk natural body products.
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Date of stay: July 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Ben Sunderman, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Jul 10, 2024
Hello bloomb44950, We are extremely lucky to have so many amazing staff members that work so hard every day. Every staff member you mentioned does truly do a phenomenal job and I am happy to see they touched your guest experience in such a positive way! We do hope to welcome you back into the Ann Arbor area again soon!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michelle C wrote a review Aug 2023
Foley, Alabama
Hotel's Favorite
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We have stayed at The Kensington many times and we’re never displeased. The rooms are clean and beds are very comfy. Our favorite part is of course the spacious pool area. My top recommendation when staying in the area for sure!
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Date of stay: August 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Ben Sunderman, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Sep 9, 2023
Hello charlyeegrace, Thank you for leaving us a review! I am happy to see that we were able to meet and exceed your expectations for your stay with us! I look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back into the Ann Arbor area soon!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveler reviews.
Jennifer C wrote a review Dec 2024
Blacksburg, Virginia
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Outstanding job on our banquet for about 175 people. The planning staff was a pleasure to work with, and the team working the event was top notch. the AV, bartenders, food staff and banquet manager were courteous and professional and kept the room and tables clean and food hot in our buffet style event. Comfortable setting included a coat check and ample space.
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Date of stay: December 2024Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Prerna Singh, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Dec 15, 2024
Greetings Jchasse, We are extremely happy for your positive experience at our Hotel. Thank you for taking the time to write about our amazing staff that work diligently in taking care of our guests. We hope to be welcoming you back with us in the near future!
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Mary H wrote a review Nov 2023
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Front desk staff was friendly. The room was clean. The bed was comfortable. We requested 2 queens or a king, but were told the hotel only had full size beds. The toilet was odd--very low, like a child size one might find in a lower elementary school, and not up against the wall but more out in the middle of the floor. The bath tissue holder was also very low on the wall. Nevertheless, it did what it needed to do. The shower was fine with hot water and good pressure.
The very good thing about the Kensington was the way it accommodated our organization's conference. Free WIFI worked adequately. There was no extra charge for parking. The meeting rooms were well furnished. The food was excellent, abundant, and served very efficiently on actual plates with real cutlery and cloth napkins by Melissa, James and the rest of the food service personnel. Thank you Kensington staff.
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Date of stay: November 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled on business
Room Tip: Right off the expressway and across the street from a shopping mall with Macy's, Penney's, Von...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Ben Sunderman, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Nov 8, 2023
Hello Mary H, Thank you for leaving us a review! I am happy to see that we were able to meet and exceed your expectations for your stay with us! I look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back into the Ann Arbor area soon!
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Carrie B wrote a review Nov 2023
Waterford, Michigan
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The Michigan Association of School Librarians hosted their 50th Anniversary & Annual Conference at their venue. The staff was amazing and accommodating. Melissa was always checking in and communicating with Chef who was a master for adjusting meals to meet our changing numbers. Further James was excellent at making sure our room spaces had all that they needed.

Phillip was a hero with all things technology related. He made himself available for everything from those struggling to connect to the internet to managing the ever changing ballroom set up. Thank you Phillip for doing more than expected.

While I do not know the names of each individual that served on the banquet team I want everyone to know that they were swift, quiet while they cleared during meetings, and kindly engaged with us as we had needs. The Bartenders were patient while they waited for people to visit during the Gala and had a wonderful energy.

Finally, Megan was a wonderful coordinator to work with as we planned our event. Thank you Daniel for hiring and managing an outstanding staff.

If you need a conference site, you do not need to look further than The Kensington in Ann Arbor, MI.
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Date of stay: November 2023
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Ben Sunderman, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Nov 8, 2023
Hello Carrie, Thank you for leaving us a review! I am happy to see that we were able to meet and exceed your expectations for your stay with us! I look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back into the Ann Arbor area soon!
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
NBDad wrote a review Apr 2022
Newport Beach, California
4.0 of 5 bubbles
On a recent visit to Ann Arbor we chose the Kensington Hotel because the other hotels closer to the University of Michigan campus were sold out. The Kensington is a sprawling property that has been recently refreshed and has more character than the many chain hotels in the area. The rooms are large, with nice sized desks, comfortable beds and in-room coffee makers. While the bathroom is dated, the water pressure was great and it was clean. Our room at the back of the hotel had stylish furniture, plenty of light, and was extremely quiet despite the hotel's location just off the freeway. It is 10 minutes by car but is definitely not walkable to downtown or UM. There is a restaurant on site but oddly it was not open for breakfast or lunch; there is (pricey) grab and go in he renovated lobby. Parking is close and extensive. Front desk staff was not helpful about local restaurant options. While rates vary widely, if you can book this hotel at a reasonable price, the Kensington is a good option for Ann Arbor.
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Date of stay: March 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
3.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Room Tip: Rooms at the back of the hotel are very quiet despite proximity to freeway.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Ben Sunderman, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Jun 11, 2022
DBDad It is awesome to hear that your enjoyed your stay with us! We work hard to make every guest's stay memorable and relaxing. I look forward to the opportunity to welcome you into our hotel again! Ben S - Assistant Front Office Manager
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Michele M wrote a review Sep 2024
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had a great stay to visit family in the area. Comfortable clean rooms, convenient restaurant on site and friendly staff. The hot tub at the end of the day was relaxing!

The location is very convenient both to the highway and to local Ann Arbor attractions.

We had an accessible room for my mom and the availability of a shower chair (without having to request one) was super helpful and most appreciated!
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Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Ben Sunderman, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Sep 4, 2024
Hello michelemV3733KP, Thank you for the very kind review! We take alot of pride in our hotel and I am happy to hear that your stay went great. I hope to be granted the opportunity to welcome you back into the Ann Arbor area again soon!
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Kory G wrote a review Dec 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I stayed here 1 night due to a work sponsored lunch being catered in one of the dining halls, as well as to celebrate my girlfriends birthday. I called to change rooms since some people ended up not staying with us, and the front desk host was friendly and easily gave us a different room and said we could check in at any time. This was our first time staying at this hotel, and we really like the old fashioned style and design of the place. It seemed newly renovated so I got the old fashioned interior feel without feeling like I was in an old weathered building. Our room was in the “executive” area on the 3rd floor which essentially was a hall of rooms that required a room key to access. I paid extra for this room specifically to allow for more privacy and less noise. We never heard anyone passing in the halls or anything so we appreciated that. The room was pretty nice and standard hotel room features. No problem with bugs or dirtiness. There’s good room temperature control features and the bed is pretty comfortable. There’s also an indoor heated pool and jacuzzi which was a huge benefit since it was winter time when we were there. Being natives to the local area, it was a really nice getaway without traveling too far from home.
There’s a restaurant connected to the hotel that unfortunately we did not try but we definitely will next time when we come back :)
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Date of stay: December 2022
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Ben Sunderman, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Dec 10, 2022
Hello Happiness732000, Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review! I am glad to hear that our staff stood out to you. We work hard to meet and exceed all expectations, and this review certainly keeps us going! I look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back into the Ann Arbor area soon!
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Tmcgeegolf1 wrote a review Oct 2024
Traverse City, Michigan
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The staff members we encountered including the front desk and housekeeping crew were all very friendly and accommodating. Room was clean and we enjoyed the pool and hot tub along with the patio area to relax outdoors. Location is great with easy access to shopping, off-property dining. Our choice among Ann Arbor hotels and we’ll be back.
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Date of stay: September 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Prerna Singh, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Oct 26, 2024
Hello Tmcgeegolf1, Thank you so much for your kind review! We take a lot of pride in our Hotel, and I am happy to hear that your stay went great. I hope I get the opportunity to welcome you back into the Ann Arbor area again soon!
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Report response as inappropriate
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Kurt S wrote a review Sep 2023
endicott, United States
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Nicely appointed hotel provides top accommodations and fine service. Rooms are adequately sized and very quiet. Bathroom facilities a bit outdated - tub vs walk in shower. Breakfast buffet was very good and though not included in the room rate was reasonably priced and a good value.
Vehicle transportation to the university and to downtown is necessary but the quality of the stay more than makes up for any location issues.
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Date of stay: September 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Ben Sunderman, Guest Services / Front Office at The Kensington Hotel
Responded Sep 13, 2023
Hello 956kurts, Thank you for leaving us a review! I am happy to see that we were able to meet and exceed your expectations for your stay with us! I look forward to the opportunity to welcome you back into the Ann Arbor area soon!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
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…
Answer from ben_sunderman
1 contribution
We are about 3 miles south of the University and the Hospital. You can access most of the University, and get pretty close to the Hospital by travelling North on State Street from our hotel!
Answer from Karen Waisanen
We offer breakfast items for purchase in Dash-inn located in our lobby. There is a coffee maker located in to room for your convenience. Our restaurant rel-ish is currently open for Dinner service only Thurs-Sat 4-9. Thank you!
Answer from Daniel F
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Thanks for the inquiry! Expedia VIP's are given an upgrade to our Concierge level room based on availability. Warm Regards, Dena
reynoldsBA asked a question May 2018
Miamisburg, Ohio225 contributions72 helpful votes
Arriving next week (mid-May) - are the pool, jacuzzi, sauna fully functional?
Answer from Kristin P
1 contribution
Good morning, yes all are functional, the patio is also open and we'll have S'mores on the patio on Friday evening.
Paradise64993945996 wrote a tip Nov 2024
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Relish is an amazing place to have food and drinks to wash away the wary’s of travel. "
Read full review
Mark Hefflin wrote a tip Nov 2024
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The chocolate chip cookies are fantastic."
Read full review
Candilove wrote a tip Oct 2024
Atlanta, Georgia23 contributions204 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Must visit!"
Read full review
Tammy D wrote a tip Sep 2024
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Meals are available for purchase at the attached restaurant from breakfast until 9pm, but breakfast is not provided by the hotel."
Read full review
Warren B wrote a tip Aug 2024
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Book early if you are part of a conference, it is a good hotel and as such, popular."
Read full review
…
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Ann Arbor area.
PRICE RANGE
$99 - $154 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
kensington court ann arbor
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Kensington Court
LOCATION
United StatesMichiganAnn Arbor
NUMBER OF ROOMS
200
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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THE KENSINGTON HOTEL - Updated 2025

Frequently Asked Questions about The Kensington Hotel
Which popular attractions are close to The Kensington Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Briarwood Mall (0.3 miles), Macy's (0.3 miles), and Waymarket Park (0.6 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at The Kensington Hotel?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an indoor pool, free wifi, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at The Kensington Hotel?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a flat screen TV, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at The Kensington Hotel?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and breakfast during their stay.
Is parking available at The Kensington Hotel?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Kensington Hotel?
Conveniently located restaurants include Mediterrano, Zingerman's Bakehouse, and Red Robin Gourmet Burgers.
Are there opportunities to exercise at The Kensington Hotel?
Yes, guests have access to an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a sauna during their stay.
Are any cleaning services offered at The Kensington Hotel?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Are pets allowed at The Kensington Hotel?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Does The Kensington Hotel offer any business services?
Yes, it conveniently offers a business center, meeting rooms, and a banquet room.
Are there any historical sites close to The Kensington Hotel?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Kempf House (2.8 miles) and Detroit Observatory (3.0 miles).
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