The town continued growing over the next decade, and in 1827, the Pontiac Township was formed. By 1830, Auburn boasted 300 residents and 50 buildings. Pontiac became a city in 1861, encompassing one-fourth of the township's 36 square miles. The city kept expanding at the expense of the township until 1978, when Pontiac Township became a charter township to protect itself from further annexation. A couple of years later, the township voted on a new name and became the City of Auburn Hills in 1983.
Today, Auburn Hills is one of the fastest-growing suburban cities in the state. The city is home to more than 21,000 people, as well as the Detroit Pistons (whose home court is the Palace of Auburn Hills) and the world headquarters of Chrysler.
When to Visit Auburn Hills, MI
To figure out the best time to visit Auburn Hills, you need to take Detroit's tourism into account. Given their proximity to one another, the two cities experience very similar weather patterns. The prices and availability of hotel rooms in Auburn Hills will also reflect the highs and lows of Detroit. When Detroit is packed, you can expect hotels in Auburn Hills to hike their rates and book up more quickly than usual.
As is the case with many U.S. Cities, Detroit's peak tourism season runs from June through September. July and August are particularly hot, so if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, you might consider postponing your trip until fall. Hotels will be busier during these months as well. Book your rooms well in advance and expect to pay premium prices.
Fall and spring boast the best weather, with mild temperatures ranging from 40 to 55 degrees. Meanwhile, winter brings the best hotel prices, but at a cost. Snowstorms and heavy rainfall ensure that this season is unpopular for good reason. Still, if you don't mind the risk, a winter visit will definitely save you money.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Auburn Hills, MI:
Auburn Hills, MI: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. price trends by star rating class in Auburn Hills, MI. Browse these line graphs to determine the most cost effective time to stay in Auburn Hills for your upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Auburn Hills, MI
4 Star Average Prices: $128.15
To find a true luxury hotel, you may have to look outside Auburn Hills. The Inn at Saint John's, located less than 25 miles away in Plymouth is a four-star hotel with excellent reviews. The only customer complaint seems to be regarding breakfast, which is available but not complimentary. The inn has its own 27-hole golf course, two restaurants, beautiful ball rooms and gardens, and more. The indoor pool area features perpetual flow, a swim resistance area, a waterfall, a bubble lounge, and a Jacuzzi. In keeping with the classic Romanesque theme, the hotel showcases handcrafted woodwork and stonework, with guest rooms that include 12-foot ceilings, custom furniture, and an over-sized shower.
The Henry, a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel in Dearborn, offers easy access to the Henry Ford Museum and Ford World Headquarters, as well as recreational opportunities that include an indoor pool, a spa tub, a sauna, and a fitness center. Contemporary artwork is displayed throughout the hotel, and dining options include 24-hour room service and Tria, an on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Choose from a guest room, Club Level guest room, or a one-bedroom suite with both a full bathroom and a half bath.
The most luxurious place to stay in Auburn Hill itself is the TownePlace Suites. This Marriott hotel includes complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool and fitness center, a picnic area, and a business center. All rooms feature a full kitchen, complete with a refrigerator, stovetop, oven, microwave, dishwasher, silverware, and dishes.
Affordable Hotel Options in Auburn Hills, MI
3 Star Average Prices: $115.37
You won't have to compromise too much to find an affordable hotel near Auburn Mills, but based on customer reviews and nightly rates, the best options are in nearby cities. For instance, the Hampton Inn in Northville (about 20 miles away) offers complimentary breakfast, a sauna and seasonal outdoor pool, and free access to a nearby fitness facility — all at rates starting below $100. Previous guests have appreciated its location near several restaurants, as well as the friendly staff and delicious breakfast. Free Wi-Fi, parking, and meeting space round out the amenities.
About 15 miles away in Southfield sits a Quality Inn with a fitness center, complimentary buffet breakfast, and 1300 square feet of conference and meeting space. Free Wi-Fi and parking are available, and rooms include complimentary toiletries and cable programming. There is also a Days Inn & Suites a little farther away in Roseville. This hotel offers 24-hour fitness facilities, an arcade/game room, and an on-site restaurant and bar. The outdoor pool area and complimentary breakfast have both been well-reviewed by past guests.