As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.

When you’re searching for vacation destinations in Michigan, you might be drawn to famous locales like Mackinac Island, Sleeping Bear Dunes, or the scenic far reaches of the Upper Peninsula. While these spots have their many perks, we’d like to introduce you to an underrated option that sits in the heart of the Lower Peninsula. This unique hotel in Michigan is sure to capture your heart with its quirky charms and amenities.

The Doherty Hotel is located along North McEwan Street in the town of Clare, which houses just over 3,000 full-time residents. Despite its small size, the community packs in plenty of family fun and delight.
Google Maps
The hotel itself is one of Clare’s most recognizable spots, as its history is truly impressive. In fact, this lodging space first opened its doors back in 1924 and has welcomed guests for nearly a century.
Google Reviews/management
At the time of the hotel’s construction, Clare was known as “The Crossroads of Michigan” for its access to two main railroad lines. The Doherty Hotel quickly became a popular stopping point for weary travelers.
Flickr/upnorthmemories
Throughout the decades, the hotel has served as the site of many historic Michigan moments, both positive and negative. Most notoriously, its tap room was the location of a mob shooting in May of 1938.
Flickr/upnorthmemories

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Today, the uniqueness of the Doherty Hotel is firmly intact. Many guests appreciate the chance to check out the famous main-floor Leprechaun Lounge, where a mural follows a village of ale-brewing leprechauns.
Facebook/Doherty Hotel
While the building’s name has shifted slightly throughout the years, even temporarily branding itself as the Doherty Motor Hotel, its charm has never wavered. Today, there are 157 guest rooms to choose from.
Facebook/Doherty Hotel
As if that weren’t enough, visitors can enjoy an indoor pool and hot tub, free parking, an on-site restaurant and cocktail lounge, friendly service, and so much more. This spot truly offers an unforgettable experience.
TripAdvisor/management
Whether you’re searching for a quirky place to unwind or are merely seeking a history-rich destination to spend a single night, you’ll be impressed by the Doherty Hotel. This is small-town Michigan at its very best.
TripAdvisor/microbrew22

To learn more about this utterly unique hotel in Michigan, visit the website. Have you and your family been lucky enough to spend the night at the Doherty Hotel or even simply admired its exterior during previous trips to Clare? We want to hear from you, so share your thoughts with us by leaving a Facebook comment or recommend another great lodging option in the Great Lakes State by completing our nomination form.

Searching for another awesome place to stay? Read about this caboose inn in Michigan.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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All About The Doherty Hotel And Clare Michigan

Melanie J. | October 07, 2022

Besides the Doherty Hotel, are there other unique hotels in Clare Michigan?

Clare is a small town in Michigan with only about 3,000 residents, so there aren’t many hotels within the town’s borders. In fact, the other hotels are the chains that you would find in most small towns around the country. So, of course, this makes the Doherty Hotel stand out amongst the rest. Another reason the hotel is unique to this area is that it is family-owned, so guests can expect to receive that extra bit of hospitality from the staff. With almost 100 years of service to the town of Clare, the Doherty Hotel has certainly proven to be part of the fabric of the community. And, of course, it’s the best hotel in town. Visit the website, if you would like to book a stay at the Doherty Hotel. 

What are some things to do in Clare, Michigan?

Clare might be a small town, but there is no shortage of attractions and activities that you will love. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you might want to visit Shamrock Park, which is the largest park in Clare. You can enjoy boating and fishing on Lake Shamrock or enjoy a peaceful picnic while you admire the local wildlife. Additionally, Petit Park is also nearby, where you can spend a quiet day in nature or opt to stay the night at one of the campsites. If you would like to experience nature, see bridges, and learn some historical facts, then we recommend hiking or biking the Pere Marquette multi-use trail. Of course, no small town is without great restaurants and shopping. We recommend the Whitehouse Restaurant because the food is delicious. For another unique shopping and dining experience, visit the Herrick House and The Mulberry Cafe. If that weren’t enough, we recommend that you visit the Amish shops and markets for specialty items as well as homemade delights. There is so much to do and see in Clare. It’s a small town in Michigan with a lot of charm and certainly worthy of a visit.

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Doherty Hotel, 604 N McEwan St, Clare, MI 48617, USA