Downtown Buchanan has welcomed a stunning new addition to its historic district with the grand opening and ribbon-cutting celebration for The Grant Hotel and McCollum’s Restaurant & Bar. The ribbon-cutting took place on Tuesday, August 26, drawing a large crowd of community members, business leaders, and local officials eager to celebrate the project’s completion. Guests enjoyed complimentary appetizers, toured the hotel’s elegantly restored guest rooms and event spaces, and participated in giveaways, including a $250 hotel room gift certificate and McCollum’s gift cards.
A New Chapter in a Historic Building
Housed in the iconic McCollum Building overlooking McCoy Creek, The Grant Hotel represents a thoughtful blend of old and new. The historic structure that was once known as the McCollum Livery has been fully restored and reimagined as a 10-room boutique hotel and event venue. The restorations preserve its architectural character while offering modern comfort and sophistication.
The Grant Hotel’s name pays homage to a $1.25 million MEDC grant that helped make the roughly $3 million renovation possible. The project was led by three local partners with roots in the Buchanan community, who were committed to keeping the building’s legacy alive while creating something new for residents and visitors.
“This has been a challenging yet very exciting project for us,” said Cami Bowling, Managing Partner. “All three of us partners are locals—our kids have either graduated from Buchanan Schools or are currently enrolled there. We’ve put our hearts and souls into this project and are thrilled to provide a new space for the community to gather, reconnect, and enjoy family dinners, discussions, and celebrations. The outpouring of love and support from our community has been overwhelming.”
Modern Hospitality Meets Hometown Heart
Inside, guests are welcomed by warm, inviting spaces that blend timeless elegance with modern design. Each room is thoughtfully curated with plush bedding, premium toiletries, and upscale finishes to ensure a comfortable stay. The Grant also features an ADA-accessible room on the first floor, complimentary WiFi, daily housekeeping, and a range of on-site amenities.
The property features a full-service restaurant and bar, speakeasy-style lounge, and event venue designed to host everything from weddings to corporate gatherings. With its scenic views of McCoy Creek and outdoor seating around cozy fire pits, it’s quickly become a favorite place for locals to unwind.
A Dining Experience Rooted in Flavor and Community
At the heart of The Grant is McCollum’s Restaurant & Bar, offering a menu that celebrates bold, seasonal flavors with a relaxed, elevated touch. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails, a deep selection of bourbon and wine, and a variety of dishes ranging from chef-inspired entrées to approachable “handhelds.”
Co-owner Michael Reed told local media that the goal was to offer a menu that feels refined but never pretentious. That philosophy has already resonated with guests and on social media, where posts show cozy date nights, creekside views, and warm summer evenings enjoyed on the patio.
A Boost for Buchanan’s Downtown
Local leaders praised the project as a transformative investment for Buchanan’s downtown.
“The Grant Hotel and McCollum’s Restaurant & Bar are perfect examples of the kind of investment and vision that make our region so special,” said Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber. “This space not only enhances Buchanan’s historic downtown but also creates new opportunities for connection, tourism, and economic growth.”
“Not only has The Grant Hotel & McCollum’s renovated and restored another historic building in Buchanan, they have filled a need within our community for lodging and fine dining,” added Brandon DeJaynes, Director of the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce. “These local investors are committed to our community, and our community is committed to them. We cannot wait to see them become a gathering spot in our downtown for years to come.”
Public planning documents had long identified a need for boutique lodging and quality dining in Buchanan — amenities that could attract visitors, increase downtown foot traffic, and support small businesses. Now, The Grant and McCollum’s are bringing that vision to life.
With its elegant design, locally inspired cuisine, and deep community roots, The Grant Hotel and McCollum’s Restaurant & Bar stand as a powerful symbol of Buchanan’s growth and revitalization.
From weddings and business retreats to date nights and weekend getaways, the venue offers countless ways to gather and celebrate while honoring the history of the town it calls home.
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