Milan, Michigan, has a small population of nearly 6,000. It was founded in 1831 and was originally simply called 'Farmer' because everyone in town was a farmer. A drug store owner took over the postmaster position at one point and called the area Tolanville after himself. The postmaster after that placed the post office within his flour mill and called it Woodard's Mill after his company.
Washington, D.C., noticed the swift changes and the confusion that often ensued and called the town Milan after the nearby Milan Township. That region was called Milan Township because the French settlers hoped to produce wine and grapes in the area, so they named it after the Italian city.
The area hosts the Raisin River, which is named for the French word for "grape," and there is also a town called Grape nearby, which shows that the settlers really wanted to produce wine in this region. The city is only 3.4 square miles and sits 16 miles to the southeast of Ann Arbor and 37 miles northwest of Toledo.
Visitors quickly notice the turn-of-the-century two-story homes in the area, and those close to downtown even have barns, which once housed horses and carriages, but have now been turned into garages for cars. Milan has developed over the years, but it is still known for country living with a lot of working farms scattered around.
Milan is known for the Milan Dragway, its automobile drag racing venue, as well as the Hack House, the city's museum that was built in 1888. The founder of the museum, Olive Friend, got her money for the house through a corporate scam she ran in New York called the Electric Sugar Refining Machine.
When Should People Visit Milan, MI?
Michigan sees varied temperatures throughout the year, and the most temperate and comfortable time to visit is May through September. Incidentally, this is also the busiest season for tourism in the state, which makes the hotels cost more.
People seldom want to visit Michigan during the winter months because it can be bitterly cold and quite snowy. The snow is likely to be deepest in February, so if you want to ski and are looking or fresh powder, the middle of that month is a good time. The least rainy season lies in March, and rain and snow are likely to begin in mid-October.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Milan, MI:
Milan by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean rate patterns by star rating class in Milan, MI. You can use these line graphs to determine the least expensive months to book in Milan for upcoming travels.
What Luxury Hotels Are There in Milan, MI?
4 Star Average Prices: $139.00
If you want luxury when you are in Milan, Michigan, you are in luck as there are several options to consider. The Ann Arbor Marriott is one of the most attractive luxury options. This hotel sits near a lake and is within a 10-minute drive of Briarwood Mall and Eastern Michigan University. You get free parking and internet access, along with many other amenities.
At the Staybridge Suites Ann Arbor, you'll have a central location that is close to Michigan Stadium, in case you are in town for a game. There are 130 rooms available, and you can enjoy large bedrooms — and possibly even sitting rooms — in some of the suites. The location is convenient to Cobblestone Farm and anything else you want to see in Ann Arbor.
The Hyatt Place Ann Arbor features an indoor pool and non-smoking amenities throughout every space. The hotel is within walking distance of the mall and features 142 rooms. This mid-rise is known for its beautiful accommodations and free internet access for every guest.
What Are Some Affordable Hotel Options in Milan, MI?
3 Star Average Prices: $146.80
There are a variety of affordable hotel options in the area, depending on where you want to stay and what you want to do while you are visiting Milan. The Best Western Dundee gives you an affordable option just 8 miles south of Milan. You get a full breakfast for any guest in the 163 rooms, as well as complimentary internet access so you can stay connected while you are there. The rooms have coffee and tea makers as well as ironing boards and irons for traveling convenience.
The Days Inn & Suites, also in Dundee, are a great deal with cable programming, coffee and tea makers, and in-room safes. For the warmer weather months, families often enjoy the outdoor pool on the grounds of this hotel along with one of 61 rooms with private temperature control capability.
The Quality Inn is a budget-friendly hotel located just across the street from Splash Universe Indoor Water Park as well as Cabela's. There are several other attractions nearby, as well, making this a great choice for families. The stores downtown are just minutes away, and the Milan Dragway is also within easy reach.