March Madness & BBQ

Need a festive place to kick off March Madness?

As March arrives, three traditions stand out above all others. The Collegiate Basketball Tournament referred to fondly as “March Madness,” spring training for baseball and all the renewed hope derived from that, and breaking the grill out from its long winter slumber. Each of these events emphasize the impending warmer weather and all the excitement it brings. You can feel the energy in spring as March moves on and we anticipate April.

 

In Relish, spring means BBQ!  We are excited to bring Grub BBQ back as an element of our dinner menu on March 21st. Chef Doug will be firing up the smoker and “queing” brisket, pulled pork, chicken, ribs and sausage. This will be offered to dine in or take out just in time to watch March Madness. Of course, as spring becomes summer and summer becomes fall, Grub BBQ will be there through it all. We will be offering Grub BBQ Tuesday through Saturday from 4:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. each night.

 

Don’t forget that self-care means a little self -indulgence! We pride ourselves on the Kensington chocolate chip cookie. In honor of national chocolate chip cookie week, March 3rd – March 9th, come join us and enjoy our house-made cookies warmed in a skillet and served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Enjoy All March has to Offer at an Ann Arbor Hotel!

Whether you’re looking for maximum comfort, a place to stay productive on the go, or just some delicious barbeque to go with March Madness, the Kensington has it all! Call (866) 446-1329 or submit a contact form to book your stay at our Ann Arbor hotel.

The Kensington Executive Rooms

Looking for a hotel room with the perfect balance of luxury and focus?

Comfort is key in our Executive Rooms. These upgraded rooms offer a home-away-from-home vibe. For those that need a bit more space, guests can select Executive Rooms with a sleeper-sofa bed and balcony. 

Slip into plush robes and slippers and unwind in a serene environment designed for relaxation. Enjoy your favorite shows on our expansive flat-screen televisions, or indulge in a late-night snack with the convenience of a microwave and refrigerator at your fingertips. 

Need to focus and get work done? Our Executive Rooms provide the perfect space with a dedicated desk area and quiet surroundings, allowing you to stay productive while on the road. And for those moments of relaxation in the morning, retreat to our quiet areas and enjoy a freshly brewed espresso, or a cup of coffee on a balcony, the perfect companion to your peaceful moments of solitude. 

Did you know we also have an Executive Lounge? Accessible with your room key, our Executive Lounge has additional space to spread out and enjoy the view of our beautiful courtyard.

Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, we would like to offer a comfortable place to refocus and refresh with modern conveniences.

Upgrade your stay today and experience the difference of our Executive Rooms. Continuing to stay with us allows you to reap the benefits of the ongoing updates. Our executive rooms are always the first. 

Elevate your boutique hotel experience with our Executive Rooms, where we offer a comfortable place to refocus and refresh. 

Enjoy All March has to Offer at an Ann Arbor Hotel!

Whether you’re looking for maximum comfort, a place to stay productive on the go, or just some delicious barbeque to go with March Madness, the Kensington has it all! Call (866) 446-1329 or submit a contact form to book your stay at our Ann Arbor hotel.

Cost Effective Ways to Enjoy Ann Arbor

Want to get out of your comfort zone and explore new areas of Ann Arbor?

Visiting Ann Arbor doesn’t have to break the bank! There are plenty of low-cost activities to keep you entertained, such as:

Visit the Farmer’s Market – Held every Saturday morning from April to November, the market features fresh produce, flowers, and other locally made goods. 

Walk or Bike the Huron River Trail – If you want to see Ann Arbor’s natural beauty, this 18-mile trail along the Huron River is a great choice!

Check Out the University of Michigan Campus – This public campus is home to beautiful buildings and gardens, like the Gothic style Law Quadrangle building. You can also tour the Big House football stadium!

Learn more low-cost activities on our website!

Explore with Confidence by Booking an Ann Arbor Hotel

Ann Arbor isn’t just for day trips!

With so many things to do, you could plan a multi-day vacation. Be close to downtown and the highway when you book a room at The Kensington Hotel.

After exploring for the day, unwind with a delicious dinner at The Kensington’s onsite restaurant, relish, or take a dip in Ann Arbor’s largest hotel pool!  Tell stories by an outdoor firepit, or play board games in the lobby. There’s even a two-mile walking route around the hotel for early morning walks.

Choose a boutique Ann Arbor hotel like The Kensington! Contact us today to plan your stay.

University of Michigan Spring Graduation 2023

Is your U of M student graduating this spring?

Searching for Ann Arbor hotels near the stadium?

Spring graduation for University of Michigan students is on April 29th, 2023 at the Big House. This is the time to celebrate your graduate’s accomplishments before they move onto the next phase of their life. It should be a happy, stress-free day!

Getting to the Big House could be a little stressful. Luckily, The University of Michigan offers a complimentary shuttle service, and The Kensington Hotel is one of the stops! The Kensington is 2.4 miles or a 7-minute drive away from the stadium. Guests may park for free and take the shuttle.

Continue the celebration after the ceremony ends. Book a room and stay out longer, enjoying the restaurants, shops, and fun activities in Ann Arbor!

Have family coming from out of town? Learn why they should stay at The Kensington!

Ann Arbor Hotels Near the Stadium

Have a student graduating in 2024?

The Kensington Hotel is taking graduation reservations. All reservations have a 2-night minimum and the 2-night deposit is due at time of booking. All reservations are pre-paid and non-refundable after the February 1st, 2024 cancellation deadline. 

Reserve your rooms now!

Bridal Show at The Kensington Hotel!

Looking for the perfect flowers, catering, or cake for your upcoming wedding?

The Bride’s Bridal Show will be on March 5th from 1-4 pm at The Kensington! Meet with around 25 Michigan wedding vendors to find the perfect elements for your big day. The show is free! Get your ticket today.

The Kensington Hotel can also provide ceremony and reception spaces, customized catering, and event planning to make your wedding perfect!

Learn what other events are going on in Ann Arbor!

Stay at a Stylish Ann Arbor Hotel

Ann Arbor is full of fun activities and events! It was recently ranked one of the best places to live in the entire United States.

To experience Ann Arbor to the fullest, you’ll need an Ann Arbor hotel like The Kensington!

 Our champagne check-in, deluxe furnishings, and plush bedding are sure to make you feel like a VIP!

Book your stay today!

Shop and Dine in Ann Arbor

Looking to spend the afternoon shopping and end the day with a great meal?

Ann Arbor has plenty of shopping centers, restaurants, and hidden gems!

Here are some of the best places to shop and dine in Ann Arbor!

Shop

Kerrytown Markets and Shops: Comprised of 23 charming stores and restaurants, the Kerrytown Market and Shops is a two-floor shopping center offering artisan goods, clothing, specialty wine, and vintage treasures!

Dine

relish: Savor your next meal at relish! relish serves fresh, local, American classics served with a unique twist. Expect fresh and seasonal ingredients, every meal, every time.

Black Pearl: If you love seafood, you’ll love the Black Pearl! Known for their fish tacos, the Black Pearl also serves rainbow trout, scallops, coconut shrimp, and more.

See more great shops on our website!

Stay at a Boutique Ann Arbor Hotel

Ann Arbor is full of endless dining, shopping, and outdoor experiences. To enjoy Ann Arbor to the fullest, you’ll need a staycation at an Ann Arbor hotel like The Kensington!

Book your stay today!

Tons of Catering Options at The Kensington!

Do you need catering in Ann Arbor?

The Kensington offers multiple catering options, such as:

Plated Lunch – Looking for formal options? Consider the Chardonnay poached Lake Superior White Fish on a bed of leeks, drizzled with a balsamic reduction paired with Brussel sprout hash, and green beans.

Hors D’oeuvres – The Kensington Hotel has a vast array of hot and cold Hors d’oeuvres to choose from. Favorite selections include BLT Sliders, Risotto Boulettes, and Lamb Chop Lollipop. Cold favorites include poached pear crostini, crab remoulade, and tenderloin crostini.

Buffet Dinner – Selecting a Buffet Dinner gives guests ample opportunities to increase personal connections and personalized portions per person. The Kensington Hotel offers 2 entrees, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, and 1 salad OR DESSERT with fresh bread and butter.

See more catering categories on our website!

Full-Service Catering in Ann Arbor Made Easy!

Food can make or break an event. Look forward to a good meal made by a full-service team who cares about you. Create a lasting impression with catering by The Kensington Hotel!

Contact The Kensington Hotel today at (734)761-1799 for catering in Ann Arbor.

The Kensington Hotel Can Cater Your Ann Arbor Event!

Are you hosting an event?

The Kensington Hotel offers full-service catering for all your event needs.

• Corporate Events – Hold business meetings, conferences, and more.
• Social Events – Celebrate love with bridal showers, engagement parties, and weddings. Celebrate milestones with baby showers, graduation open houses, and birthday parties!

Remove your stress and let The Kensington Hotel cater your next event.

Learn more about our catering services!

Full-Service Catering in Ann Arbor Made Easy!

Food can make or break an event. Look forward to a good meal made by a full-service team who cares about you. Create a lasting impression with catering by The Kensington Hotel

Contact The Kensington Hotel today at (734)761-1799 for catering in Ann Arbor.

Experience Quirky Ann Arbor!

Are you looking for fun, unexpected activities? 

Ann Arbor has plenty!

The Last Word

Be transported to the prohibition era in this speakeasy themed bar! With a wide variety of wines, cocktails, beers, and more, you’re sure to find something you like! You can even get cocktails canned or bottled to go!

Pinball Pete’s

Pinball Pete’s opened during the arcade boom in the 1970s! Filled to the brim with all sorts of games, everyone will be able to find something to play! Pinball Pete’s is open late, so you won’t have to cut your fun short!

Learn about other downtown attractions!

Stay at an Ann Arbor Hotel on Your Next Trip! 

Enjoy your vacation to the fullest! 

When you stay at The Kensington Ann Arbor hotel, you won’t have to worry about traveling after a fun-filled day! Stay with us and don’t worry about time!

Call us at 866-654-7431 or contact us to plan your stay!

The Best Experiences of Ann Arbor

Are you looking for a new experience in Ann Arbor?

When you visit Downtown Ann Arbor, your options feel limitless! Here are a few of our picks: 

Ann Arbor Farmers Market

Get fresh produce, prepared foods, beverages, and artisan items year-round! The historic farmers market of Ann Arbor provides local goods and food truck rallies! 

Zingerman’s Deli

Looking for a new place to grab a great bite? Zingerman’s Deli has been crafting great flavor since 1982! Stop in to taste a part of Ann Arbor's local history.

See more downtown attractions!

Don’t Cut the Fun Early! Stay at an Ann Arbor Hotel

Consider staying at The Kensington Ann Arbor hotel on your next trip! When you stay with us, you don’t need to limit your vacation to one day. Contact or call us at 866-654-743 to book your room now!  

Ann Arbor Area Museums You Need to See!

Have you considered visiting one of the many educational centers in Ann Arbor?

Museums of history, art, and science can all be found locally in Ann Arbor, Michigan! 

History and Arts

Ann Arbor offers a seemingly endless list of options for history and art. From the history of firetrucks, fine arts and culture, to antiques originating from ancient Egypt, you’ll find your niche experience.

See which museums we recommend!

Science

If you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy, consider visiting the Hands-On Museum. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum offers interactive exhibits on the arts and sciences, allowing even the youngest of the family to find fun in learning! 

Don’t Let the Experience Stop There!

Ann Arbor is home to many great attractions, so why limit your vacation to one day? To enjoy your vacation to the fullest, you should consider booking rooms in Ann Arbor, like The Kensington! 

Contact or call us today at 866-654-7431 to book your stay at The Kensington Hotel.

Visit Museums like the University of Michigan Museum of Art

Are you looking for an interactive and educational way to enjoy fall?

The University of Michigan Museum of Art has rotating exhibits, meaning you’ll always be able to experience something new when you visit.

On View at UMMA 

From June 4th – October 23rd, the Watershed exhibit will be open. Watershed includes six new works commissioned by UMMA for the exhibition. You’ll be able to go deeper and learn more about the issues facing the Great Lakes and its watershed region.

September to November Happenings 

This September, UMMA encourages you to make your voice heard! UMMA is partnering with local, regional and national organizations, designers, and artists to transform the museum spaces in the name of civic participation! During this event you can register to vote, vote at the UMA, engage with artists and help to support voting on campus.  

Learn more about Ann Arbor area museums!

Don’t Let the Experience Stop There! Book Rooms in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor is full of endless experiences, so why stop after just one? To enjoy your vacation to the fullest, you should consider booking rooms near Ann Arbor, like The Kensington! 

Contact or call us today at 866-654-7431 to book your stay at The Kensington Hotel.

Daytime Date Attractions in Ann Arbor

Wondering where you should spend the day? 

See our suggestions!

The Creature Conservancy – A nature center home to an alligator, eagle, cougar, porcupine, emu, and much more!

Michigan Theater – See a movie at the historic Michigan Theater! Choose from current, classic, and indie film options.

University of Michigan Museum of Art – Walk through exhibits on European, Asian, and African art as well as current exhibitions.

Learn about Ann Arbor nightlife!

Upgrade Your Date Night to a Weekend Getaway

The date night doesn’t have to end! Spend some extra time with your honey by booking a hotel. The most fun hotels are hotels with pools in Ann Arbor!

Looking for Hotels with Pools in Ann Arbor?

Take a dip in the largest hotel pool in Ann Arbor at The Kensington! Discover unmatched service and dining that only a boutique hotel can offer. 

To elevate your date night, book a room at The Kensington today!

Date Night Ideas in Ann Arbor

Is it time you and your partner had a night out?

Here are some options for your next date night!

Games and Fun

Pinball Pete’s – One of the last remaining “old school” arcades, Pinball Pete’s has pinball, air hockey, and other classic arcade games mixed with a variety of “new school” games.

Clueless Escape Rooms – Solve puzzles with your partner to escape! Each room has its own unique theme, storyline, and objective, like Castaway Island or Adelina’s Castle. They even have virtual reality escape rooms!

Outdoor Adventures

Matthaei Botanical Gardens – Stroll through their lush conservatory which features tropical, temperate, and desert plants along with gorgeous water features and koi fish. There are also a variety of gardens and trails to enjoy.

Nichols Arboretum – Explore 3.5 miles of walking trails and gardens with something always in bloom! 

See more date night suggestions!

Upgrade Your Date Night to a Weekend Getaway

The date night doesn’t have to end! Spend some extra time with your honey by booking a hotel. The most fun hotels are hotels with pools in Ann Arbor!

Looking for Hotels with Pools in Ann Arbor?

Take a dip in the largest hotel pool in Ann Arbor at The Kensington! Discover unmatched service and dining that only a boutique hotel can offer. 

To elevate your date night, book a room at The Kensington today!

Why Choose Ann Arbor for Your Next Vacation?

Looking for a unique vacation spot to visit with your family?

Ann Arbor isn’t just for day trips!

Ann Arbor has a distinctive atmosphere that can’t be found anywhere else. Home to the University of Michigan, great food, and quirky local businesses, Ann Arbor has plenty of things to do!

Outdoor Attractions

The gorgeous Huron River runs through Ann Arbor. There are multiple areas to canoe, kayak, tube, and fish the river. There are also over 100 parks and reaction areas to bike, walk, and play!

If you love fresh food, you’ll love the Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market! Open every Wednesday and Saturday from 7 am to 3 pm, you can find fresh produce and farm goods.

Museums

For the dinosaur lover in your family, the U-M Museum of Natural History has exhibits on dinosaurs, mastodons, evolution, and Michigan wildlife. 

Adults and kids can enjoy the Ann Arbor Hands-on Museum, which features hands-on science, technology, and engineering exhibits.

Learn more about Ann Arbor attractions.

Nearby Hotels in Ann Arbor

If you’re ready to visit, you’ll need a nearby hotel in Ann Arbor!

The Kensington Hotel is located on State Street near the highway and is around a 15-minute drive away from most Ann Arbor attractions. You can expect exceptional service, luxurious suites, and champagne at check-in. 

Book your stay at a nearby hotel in Ann Arbor today!

Downtown Attractions in Ann Arbor

Are you planning a trip to Ann Arbor?

You can’t visit Ann Arbor without heading downtown! Here you’ll find attractions like Pinball Pete’s, an arcade with a mix of new and old-style games and pinball machines. Take a stroll down Nickels Arcade, originally built in 1918. This covered shopping district features coffee, antiques, and high-quality clothes and shoes. For pop culture merchandise, comics, collectibles, and board games, Vault of Midnight has two floors of fun! While exploring downtown, watch for the fairy doors and 3D chalk art by local artist David Zinn.

Learn what Ann Arbor restaurants you should try!  

Nearby Hotels in Ann Arbor

If you’re ready to visit, you’ll need a nearby hotel in Ann Arbor!

The Kensington Hotel is located on State Street near the highway and is around a 15-minute drive away from most Ann Arbor attractions. You can expect exceptional service, luxurious suites, and champagne at check-in. 

Book your stay at a nearby hotel in Ann Arbor today!

Which Ann Arbor Parks Should You Visit This Summer?

Looking for the perfect park to spend your sunny days? 

Ann Arbor has plenty of options! Of over 100 parks and recreation areas, here are a few of our favorites:

Nichols Arboretum

Called the Arb, Nichols Arboretum has incorporated native and exotic plants into the landscape since its creation in 1907. The Arb has 3.5 miles of trails to walk with views of seasonal gardens, such as the peony garden, the centennial shrub collection which contains hydrangeas, old cornelian cherries, native shadblow, and more. Leashed dogs are allowed but no bikes are allowed on the trails.

Veterans Memorial Park

Sunny days should be spent at Veterans Memorial Park! The park is 37 acres, has 5 baseball fields, a pool, a skatepark, a playground, and tennis courts. Hold your next cookout here with their grills and picnic tables. Along their waking paths are rain gardens with beautiful native plants. The park is open from 6 am to midnight and leashed dogs are allowed.

See our other Ann Arbor Park picks!

Keep the Summer Fun Going! Book an Ann Arbor Hotel

This summer, take a vacation not so far from home! 

Ann Arbor is full of endless dining, shopping, and outdoor experiences. To enjoy Ann Arbor to the fullest, you’ll need an Ann Arbor hotel like The Kensington!

Call today at 866-654-7431 or contact us to book your stay!

Spend Your Summer at Ann Arbor Parks!

Looking for spots to walk and bike on sunny days? 

Or a great place to have a picnic with your family?

An Ann Arbor classic, Gallup Park is 69 acres of fun! With multiple scenic trails, Gallup is perfect for walking, biking, and running. Right on the Huron River, you can bring your own canoes, kayak, and tubes to float on the river. If you don’t own any of those, Gallup has canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals! Quench your thirst or grab a snack at the concession stand. After a picnic, you can relax while the kids play on the playgrounds or explore the park’s small islands and bridges. Gallup Park is open from 6 am to midnight, so you can go for early or late-night walks. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed.

See more great Ann Arbor parks!

Keep the Summer Fun Going! Book an Ann Arbor Hotel

This summer, take a vacation not so far from home! 

Ann Arbor is full of endless dining, shopping, and outdoor experiences. To enjoy Ann Arbor to the fullest, you’ll need an Ann Arbor hotel like The Kensington!

Call today at 866-654-7431 or contact us to book your stay!

Celebrate the Holidays at The Kensington!

Had a challenging year?

Want to celebrate with your work team?

Reserve a Holiday Happy Hour at The Kensington Hotel! This small gathering can be just what you need to reconnect with your team outside of work and celebrate the holidays, all within your budget!

Holiday Happy Hours take place between November 2021-February 2022. If you reserve your Happy Hour before October 1st, you’ll receive:

• 2 appetizers
• 2 drink tickets
• 4-hour room rental
• Tables, chairs, and linens
• Discounted guest room rates

See what’s going on at The Kensington this month! 

Celebrate the Holidays at 4-Star Hotel Near Ann Arbor

This holiday season, elevate your holiday party by using The Kensington, a 4-star hotel near Ann Arbor as your venue! 

Book your Holiday Happy Hour today! Call us today at 866-315-7075 to book directly.

The Perfect Place to Stay After a Football Game! The Kensington Hotel

Are you a college football fan?

Love the Michigan Wolverines?

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay after a University of Michigan football game, choose The Kensington! The Kensington Hotel is an independently owned 4-star hotel in Ann Arbor that’s minutes from The Big House.

Save your gas! The Kensington is 2.3 miles or about a 7-minute drive to the stadium, so you can get there quickly. If you took a plane to see the game, The Kensington Hotel is 22 miles or about a 25-minute drive from the Detroit airport. In the heart of Ann Arbor, The Kensington is close to fun activities, such as the Briarwood Mall and the many downtown shops. 

Because The Kensington is an independently owned boutique hotel, we can provide you with superior service compared to chain hotels. Instead of waiting for you to make a request, we aim to anticipate your every need, so you often don’t need to ask. 

Learn about The Kensington’s dining options on our website!

The Kensington Experience: A 4-Star Hotel Near Ann Arbor

A bad hotel can ruin your entire trip. Enhance your travel experience at The Kensington! At our 4-star hotel, you’ll be greeted with a glass of champagne when you arrive. Even if you aren’t staying long, it doesn’t hurt to enjoy a little luxury!

This college football season, elevate your football trips by staying at The Kensington, a 4-star hotel near Ann Arbor. Book your stay in advance! Call us today at 866-315-7075 to book directly.