Detroit, Michigan, US

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Detroit: Motor City Magic

Detroit, the birthplace of Motown and the American automobile industry, pulsates with a vibrant energy waiting to be discovered. From its rich history and industrial roots to its thriving arts scene and culinary innovations, Detroit offers a unique travel experience for every type of adventurer.

Table of Contents:

  • Places to Go

    • Historical Landmarks
    • Museums & Cultural Experiences
    • Parks & Green Spaces
    • Neighborhoods Worth Exploring

  • Things to Do

    • Art & Music Scene
    • Sports & Entertainment
    • Shopping & Markets
    • Outdoor Adventures

  • Where to Eat

    • Iconic Detroit Dishes
    • Fine Dining Restaurants
    • Casual Eateries
    • Local Breweries and Coffee Shops

  • Where to Stay

    • Hotels in Different Price Ranges
    • Boutique Hotels
    • Airbnb Options

  • Things to Know Before You Go

    • Weather & Best Time to Visit
    • Currency & Payment Methods
    • Safety Tips
    • Cultural Etiquette

  • Transportation: Getting Around Detroit

  • Tips for Saving Money

  • Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Places to Go:

Historical Landmarks:

  • The Henry Ford: This sprawling complex celebrates American innovation and ingenuity, showcasing historical artifacts like the Rosa Parks bus, Edison’s Menlo Park lab, and iconic automobiles.
  • Motown Museum (Hitsville U.S.A.): Step back in time at the birthplace of Motown music, where legendary artists like Diana Ross & The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder recorded their hits.

Museums & Cultural Experiences:

  • Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA): Home to a world-renowned collection of art spanning centuries and cultures, from Diego Rivera’s iconic Detroit Industry murals to masterpieces by Van Gogh and Picasso.
  • Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History: Explore the rich history and cultural contributions of African Americans through interactive exhibits and powerful artifacts.

Parks & Green Spaces:

  • Belle Isle Park: This sprawling island oasis offers stunning views of the Detroit skyline, beaches, a conservatory, an aquarium, and plenty of trails for biking and walking.
  • Eastern Market: More than just a farmers market, Eastern Market is a bustling community hub with fresh produce, artisan goods, local restaurants, and vibrant street art.

Neighborhoods Worth Exploring:

  • Corktown: Detroit’s oldest neighborhood boasts charming brick buildings, trendy restaurants, craft breweries, and historic landmarks like the Corktown Tavern.
  • Downtown: The heart of the city, downtown is home to skyscrapers, cultural venues, theaters, sports arenas, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
  • Greektown: Immerse yourself in Greek culture with authentic cuisine, lively bars, and traditional music at this bustling district.

Things To Do:

Art & Music Scene:

  • Catch a show at the historic Fox Theatre, a beautifully restored Art Deco masterpiece known for its grand architecture and world-class performances.
  • Explore Detroit’s vibrant street art scene through guided tours or self-guided walks, discovering murals by local and international artists.
  • Enjoy live music at venues like The Shelter, Third Man Records, and the Magic Stick, showcasing a variety of genres from jazz to rock to electronic music.

Sports & Entertainment:

  • Cheer on the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park, experience the thrill of a Red Wings hockey game at Little Caesars Arena, or witness the electrifying atmosphere of a Lions football game at Ford Field.
  • Catch a Broadway show at the Fisher Theatre or explore the interactive exhibits at the Michigan Science Center.

Shopping & Markets:

  • Browse unique boutiques and vintage shops in neighborhoods like Midtown, Corktown, and Eastern Market.
  • Discover local artisans and makers at markets like the Detroit Flea and the Rust Belt Market.

Outdoor Adventures:

  • Kayak or paddleboard on the Detroit River for stunning city views.

  • Hike or bike along the scenic Dequindre Cut Greenway, a former railway line transformed into a vibrant green space connecting Eastern Market to Midtown.

  • Explore Belle Isle Park’s diverse landscapes, from woodlands and meadows to beaches and gardens.

Where To Eat:

Iconic Detroit Dishes:

  • Coney Dog: A Detroit staple featuring a natural-casing hot dog topped with chili sauce, mustard, and diced onions. Try it at Lafayette Coney Island or American Coney Island for the ultimate experience.
  • Pizza Buddy: This Detroit-style pizza is known for its rectangular shape, crispy crust, and generous toppings, often layered beneath a thick layer of cheese.

Fine Dining Restaurants:

  • Selden Standard: Farm-to-table dining with an innovative menu highlighting seasonal ingredients.

  • Mabel Gray: Contemporary American cuisine with creative dishes and a focus on local sourcing.

  • Apparatus: Elevated cocktails and modern American plates in a stylish setting.

Casual Eateries:

  • Slows Bar BQ: Award-winning barbecue joint serving smoked meats, sides, and craft beer.
  • Supino Pizzeria: Authentic Detroit-style pizza by the slice or pie.
  • The Heidelberg Project: A vibrant outdoor art installation that doubles as a community center and offers delicious soul food meals on Sundays.

Local Breweries and Coffee Shops:

  • Founders Brewing Co.: Craft brewery with popular beers like All Day IPA and Kentucky Breakfast Stout.
  • Motor City Brewing Works: Detroit’s oldest craft brewery, offering a variety of brews and pub fare.
  • Astro Coffee: Locally roasted coffee beans and handcrafted espresso drinks.

Where To Stay:

Hotels in Different Price Ranges:

  • Luxury: The Shinola Hotel (boutique), MGM Grand Detroit (casino resort)
  • Mid-range: The Trumbull & Porter Hotel, Aloft Detroit at the David Whitney

Boutique Hotels:

  • The Siren Hotel: Stylish and artsy hotel housed in a former theater building.

  • The Foundation Hotel: Industrial-chic hotel located in a historic building.

Airbnb Options:

  • Explore diverse neighborhoods and experience local living through Airbnb rentals, ranging from cozy apartments to spacious houses.

Things To Know Before You Go:

  • Weather & Best Time to Visit: Detroit experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the city.
  • Currency & Payment Methods: The US dollar is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or tipping.

Safety Tips:

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas.

  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.

  • Utilize ride-sharing services or public transportation instead of walking alone late at night.

Cultural Etiquette:

  • Detroiters are known for their friendly and welcoming nature.

  • Tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for service industries (15-20%).

  • Dress appropriately for the occasion, whether it’s a casual outing or a formal event.

Transportation: Getting Around Detroit

Public Transportation: The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) operates buses throughout the city. The QLINE is a modern streetcar line connecting downtown to Midtown and New Center.

Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft are readily available in Detroit for convenient transportation.

Bike Sharing: MoGo Detroit offers bike rentals at stations throughout the city, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Tips For Saving Money:

  • Visit during the off-season: Consider traveling during spring or fall for lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.

  • Take advantage of free activities: Explore parks, museums with free admission days, and enjoy street art walks.

  • Utilize public transportation: The DDOT bus system is an affordable way to get around.

  • Eat like a local: Try Coney dogs, pizza buddies, or soul food at casual eateries for budget-friendly meals.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites:

  • The Detroit Public Library: This architectural gem houses a vast collection of books and resources, as well as stunning murals and sculptures.

  • Eastern Market After Dark: On Friday nights, Eastern Market transforms into a lively hub with food trucks, live music, and shopping.

  • Historic Fort Wayne: Explore this 19th-century fort overlooking the Detroit River, offering scenic views and historical insights.

Detroit offers an unforgettable travel experience for all types of adventurers. Embrace the city’s vibrant spirit, explore its diverse offerings, and create memories that will last a lifetime.