Whittier Towers in Detroit, MI

Pros

• The Whittier is absolutely stunning and offers top-notch customer service.
• It provides a beautiful space with gorgeous natural light for events.
• Touch of Class delivers amazing food for weddings and gatherings.
• The new management is professional, helpful, and has given the venue a much-needed facelift.
• It is a beautiful setting for weddings, baby showers, and receptions.
• The service at the venue is exemplary and the staff are accommodating.
• Every photo taken at the venue becomes a memorable moment.
• The venue prioritizes guests' safety by following COVID guidelines.

Cons

• The venue's customer service is described as horrible and unresponsive.
• They claim refunds were not issued during COVID and deposits were kept.
• The owners are accused of canceling weddings at the last minute to push rescheduling.
• The staff are described as rude, condescending, and unprofessional.
• There is a complaint about non-refundable cleaning fees and linens wrinkled with stains.
• Safety concerns include a half-inch floor elevation causing trips and lifting carpet.
• A money-theft incident occurred during valet parking.
• The facility is described as dirty and in need of repairs, with water and heat issues in a senior building.

Review

Whittier Towers is best suited for seniors who want to live in a historic, downtown Detroit setting and prize a lively, social atmosphere. The community appeals to residents who value proximity to urban amenities, convenient access to services, and a calendar that fosters regular interaction with neighbors. With recent indications of stronger management and a willingness to invest in the property, it can be a compelling choice for those who expect a dignified living environment and are prepared to engage with a community that emphasizes events, gatherings, and a shared sense of place.

Those who may want to consider alternatives include seniors who require unwavering reliability in essential services, such as heat and hot water, or who cannot tolerate pest issues and ongoing maintenance lapses. Several reviews flag problems ranging from fleas and pest concerns to recurring heating and water pressure issues, along with trip hazards and aging infrastructure. If predictable operations, proactive maintenance, and consistently responsive customer service are non-negotiables, it is prudent to compare other options in the Detroit area before committing.

On the upside, the building's beauty and character provide a compelling backdrop for daily living. Common spaces are described as bright and inviting, with a sense of refinement that can elevate the experience of everyday life. Positive testimonials emphasize attentive staff during events and views of a well-managed property when leadership is in alignment. The presence of a strong social fabric - resident activities, gatherings, and a community-oriented vibe - can offset some daily frictions for residents who value connection and engagement and who see maintenance concerns as surmountable with good management.

Yet the main drawbacks cannot be ignored. Flea issues, water and heat irregularities, and the potential for trip hazards point to problems in core operational areas that affect comfort and safety. Inconsistent communication and responsiveness from certain staff members further complicate the decision, creating a perception that resident needs and grievances may be deprioritized at times. Renovation and modernization efforts appear uneven across units and public areas, which can lead to uneven living standards depending on where a resident ends up within the building.

The pros and cons interact in a way that sharpens the decision triangle: for a resident who values a rich social life and a historic, welcoming setting, strong changes in management and visible investment could translate into meaningful improvement over time. If the new leadership maintains accountability, residents may experience steady gains in responsiveness, reliability, and comfort. However, for a senior who must rely on consistent heat, hot water, and a rigorous standard of cleanliness and safety, the current inconsistency creates a substantial risk that can overshadow the upside of community life.

In the end, Whittier Towers can be a solid option for families seeking an active, socially connected senior environment in a standout Detroit location, provided there is due diligence on essential services and ongoing maintenance. Prospective residents should demand transparent demonstrations of reliability in heat and water, a concrete plan for pest remediation, and a track record of responsive, accessible management. Before deciding, schedule a thorough on-site tour, request copies of maintenance logs, and speak with current residents about day-to-day experiences. If those assurances are strong and consistently upheld, Whittier Towers stands as a practical, engaging choice; if not, alternatives offering steadier essential services and steadier customer care deserve close consideration.

This area of Detroit, Michigan offers a variety of amenities and services that would be beneficial for senior living. There are several places of worship nearby, such as St Charles Church and St John's Presbyterian Church, providing spiritual support and community engagement. Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS Pharmacy are easily accessible for medication needs. The numerous parks in the area, including Belle Isle Park and William G. Milliken State Park, offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure activities. Additionally, there are several dining options available, from Joseph's Coney Island to Elwood Bar & Grill, providing convenient choices for meals. With hospitals like Detroit Receiving Hospital and Henry Ford Hospital in close proximity, residents have access to quality healthcare facilities. Overall, this neighborhood offers a diverse range of resources to support a comfortable and fulfilling senior lifestyle.

Places of Worship

• St Charles Church (0.7 miles)
• St John's Presbyterian Church (2.3 miles)
• Grosse Pointe United Methodist Church (6.1 miles)
• St Joan Of Arc Church (7.8 miles)

Pharmacies

• Indian Village Market (0.8 miles)
• Walgreens (1.5 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2.3 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
• Shoppers Drug Mart (2.8 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (3.2 miles)
• Rite Aid (3.3 miles)

Parks

• Belle Isle Park (1.9 miles)
• Valade Park (2.3 miles)
• William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor (2.6 miles)
• Matthew C Patterson Park (3.3 miles)
• Windmill Pointe Park (3.6 miles)
• Palmer Park (7.2 miles)
• Lakewood Park (7.2 miles)

Restaurants

• Joseph's Coney Island (2.1 miles)
• Atwater Block Brewery (2.2 miles)
• McDonald's (2.6 miles)
• Subway (2.9 miles)
• Elwood Bar & Grill (3.1 miles)
• Fowling Warehouse (3.1 miles)
• Detroit Athletic Club (3.1 miles)

Physicians

• Childrens Hospital Of Michigan Specialty Center - Detroit (2.9 miles)
• University Health Center (3 miles)
• Windsor Regional Hospital (4.3 miles)

Hospitals

• Detroit Receiving Hospital (2.9 miles)
• DMC Heart Hospital (3 miles)
• Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute (3.1 miles)
• Harper University Hospital (3.1 miles)
• Hudson-Webber Cancer Research (3.1 miles)
• Hfhs - Main - F4 (4.3 miles)
• Henry Ford Hospital (4.4 miles)

Cafes

• The Bean Bar (3.6 miles)
• Tim Hortons (5.4 miles)
• Tim Hortons (5.5 miles)
• Tim Hortons (7.5 miles)
• Tim Hortons (7.8 miles)