Welcome to Detroit, Michigan, a city steeped in automotive history and a vibrant cultural scene. Known as the Motor City and the birthplace of Motown, Detroit offers a unique blend of attractions, museums, and outdoor spaces, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all interests. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time in this iconic city.
Historical Sites and Attractions:
The Henry Ford: A vast indoor and outdoor museum complex featuring exhibits on American innovation, including the Automotive Hall of Fame, Greenfield Village, and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour.
Motown Museum: The original headquarters of Motown Records, where you can learn about the history of Motown music and the legendary artists who started their careers here.
Detroit Institute of Arts: One of the premier art museums in the United States, housing over 65,000 works of art, including the famous Detroit Industry Murals by Diego Rivera.
Michigan Central Station: A historic train station undergoing renovation, which will soon become the centerpiece of Ford Motor Company’s Corktown campus.
Museums and Cultural Institutions:
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History: The largest museum of its kind, dedicated to the African American experience and featuring interactive exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.
Detroit Historical Museum: A museum highlighting Detroit’s rich history, from its founding to the present day, including the city’s automotive and musical heritage.
Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD): A non-collecting contemporary art museum showcasing innovative exhibitions and public programs.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces:
Belle Isle Park: A 982-acre island park on the Detroit River, featuring the Belle Isle Aquarium, the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum.
Detroit RiverWalk: A scenic 3.5-mile stretch along the Detroit River, offering walking and biking paths, parks, and beautiful views of the city skyline.
Eastern Market: One of the largest and oldest year-round public markets in the United States, featuring fresh produce, meats, and artisanal goods.
Universities and Colleges:
Wayne State University: A public research university offering a diverse range of academic programs and a vibrant campus life.
College for Creative Studies: A private college specializing in art and design education, with strong programs in automotive design, fine arts, and more.
Food and Dining:
Slows Bar BQ: A popular destination for mouthwatering barbecue and craft beer in the historic Corktown neighborhood.
Selden Standard: A contemporary restaurant offering seasonal, locally-sourced dishes in a stylish setting.
Supino Pizzeria: A local favorite for thin-crust pizza in the Eastern Market area.
Astoria Pastry Shop: A Greek bakery in the Greektown district, offering a wide selection of pastries, cookies, and cakes.
Shopping and Services:
The Somerset Collection: A luxury shopping mall featuring a mix of high-end and popular retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.
Greektown: A historic commercial and entertainment district offering shopping, dining, and nightlife with a Greek flair.
Outdoor Activities:
Dequindre Cut: A 2-mile greenway featuring walking and biking paths, public art, and access to Eastern Market and the RiverWalk.
William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor: A 31-acre state park along the Detroit River, offering walking paths, picnic areas, and a marina.
Events and Festivals:
Movement Electronic Music Festival: An annual three-day event celebrating electronic music, featuring performances by top DJs and artists from around the world.
Detroit Jazz Festival: The world’s largest free jazz festival, held annually over Labor Day weekend, showcasing performances by renowned and emerging artists.
North American International Auto Show: An annual event showcasing the latest innovations in the automotive industry, including concept cars, new models, and cutting-edge technology.
Transportation:
Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) and Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART): The city’s public transportation system, providing bus services throughout the Detroit area.
QLine: A streetcar system running along Woodward Avenue, connecting downtown Detroit with the New Center neighborhood.
Taxis and rideshares: Readily available throughout the city.
Biking: Detroit offers a number of bike-friendly routes and trails, making it easier to explore the city on two wheels. MoGo, the city’s bike-sharing program, provides a convenient way to rent bikes for short trips.
Accommodations:
The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit: A historic luxury hotel located in downtown Detroit, offering elegant accommodations, fine dining, and a full-service spa.
The Siren Hotel: A boutique hotel situated in the historic Wurlitzer Building, featuring stylish accommodations and unique dining options.
Trumbull and Porter Hotel: A contemporary, boutique hotel in Corktown, offering comfortable accommodations and a range of amenities, including an outdoor courtyard and an on-site restaurant.
With its rich automotive history, thriving arts and cultural scene, and diverse range of attractions, dining options, and accommodations, Detroit, Michigan offers something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s storied past, its vibrant downtown area, or the lively music scene, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in the Motor City.