Please note that location entries may feature older photos or post card views that may not represent the current appearance, features, addresses, phone numbers, or contact names of the attraction. This site is intended to be a historical as well as current record of various attractions but it is not always possible to have up-to-date information due to the vast number of locations featured here. We ask you consult the propietor for current information.
The Kingswood goes back to the early 1950's. It was one of many motels along that stretch of Woodward. It eventually fell into some disrepair and was converted to apartments. Crime was starting to become a problem. This isn't to say all of the folks staying long term were criminals because they weren't. Like most things, it was a few bad apples. However, some of the local residents were very being very vocal about getting rid of these joints.
IMO, Royal Oak is considered more upscale today than it was when I was growing up in Southfield in the 60's and 70's. It was nice, but a bit more blue-collar. Some may disagree with that assessment. By the 2000's, home values were quite high and the downtown area was packed with shops, restaurant, bars, etc. Neighboring Ferndale was getting quite trendy then too. Before that time, not so much.
The image and reality had changed so the old motels weren't fitting in according to the folks who paid top dollar for houses. So, they all got demolished. The Kingswood went down in 2003. It is the site of a Fifth Third Bank as of 2022. I am using the present-day address but in the old days it was 2400 North Woodward.