Detroit, Michigan: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Discover the vibrant heart of the Midwest in Detroit, Michigan. This city has reinvented itself as a top destination for travelers. It offers world-class museums and lively outdoor adventures along the Detroit River.

But what are the absolute must-do activities in Detroit? Let's explore the top picks that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the "Motor City."

Key Takeaways

• Explore Detroit's vibrant downtown with trendy restaurants, historic eateries, and Woodward Avenue shopping
• Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Motown at the iconic Motown Museum
• Admire the renowned Diego Rivera murals and other masterpieces at the Detroit Institute of Arts
• Uncover Detroit's automotive legacy at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant and the Henry Ford Museum
• Embrace outdoor adventures on Belle Isle Park and the Detroit Riverwalk

Explore Detroit's Vibrant Downtown

Discover the heart of Detroit's urban renaissance in its lively downtown. This area is full of trendy restaurants, historic eateries, and unique shops along Woodward Avenue. Try popular brunch spots like Dime Store and Hudson Café, or enjoy craft cocktails and small plates at Wright & Company.

Walking along Woodward Avenue, you'll see a mix of local boutiques, national retailers, and the Detroit Shoppe. It highlights products from Detroit-based businesses. You'll also see stunning Art Deco architecture, like the Guardian Building and the historic David Whitney Building, now the Aloft Hotel.

Dine at Trendy Restaurants and Historic Eateries

Detroit's food scene is amazing, with everything from modern bistros to classic spots. Start your day at Dime Store, loved for its creative menu and fun vibe. For a taste of history, Hudson Café offers comfort food favorites for decades.

Shop Along Woodward Avenue

Woodward Avenue is a shopper's dream. You'll find local boutiques, national chains, and the Detroit Shoppe. It's a great place to find unique gifts, fashion, and home goods that show off Detroit's spirit.

Admire Art Deco Architecture

Detroit's downtown is full of stunning Art Deco architecture. The Guardian Building is a must-see, with its beautiful limestone facade and detailed ornamentation. The historic David Whitney Building, now the Aloft Hotel, also showcases the city's architectural beauty with its elegant design.

"Detroit is a city that really stands out. From the remarkable architecture to the vibrant food scene, there's something for everyone to discover." - Jane Doe, travel writer

Experience the Iconic Motown Museum

No visit to Detroit is complete without a stop at the Motown Museum, also known as "Hitsville U.S.A." This historic site is where the legendary Motown Records was born. Many famous artists, like The Temptations, The Supremes, and Marvin Gaye, recorded their hits here. It's a place where you can dive into the rich Detroit music history and the amazing Motown history that changed American culture.

When you tour the original Studio A, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time. You'll see the places where the "Motown Sound" was created. The Motown Museum shows the triumphs and challenges of this groundbreaking label. It reveals how it deeply influenced music and more.

"The Motown Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of American music. It's a true treasure trove of cultural heritage." - John Doe, Music Historian

Whether you love Motown or just want to explore Detroit's music scene, the Motown Museum is unforgettable. It lets you walk in the footsteps of legends. Let the Motown beats and melodies take you back to a time when music could unite, inspire, and change lives.

Immerse Yourself in Art at the Detroit Institute of Arts

Art lovers, make sure to visit the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). This top-notch museum has a vast collection of art from ancient to modern times. It's a great place to explore the world of visual arts.

Marvel at Diego Rivera's Renowned Murals

The DIA is famous for its Diego Rivera murals. These murals tell the story of Detroit's industrial growth and its role in car technology. You'll be amazed by the detailed work and size of these incredible murals.

Discover Ancient and Contemporary Masterpieces

The Detroit Institute of Arts has more than just Rivera's murals. It also has a wide range of global art. You can see everything from ancient artifacts to modern art pieces. The museum has European paintings, African sculptures, and more, all in one place.

Whether you love art or just want to learn more, the Detroit Institute of Arts is a great place to go. It's a chance to dive into the art world and see what the Detroit art scene has to offer.

Step Back in Time at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is a key spot for anyone interested in Detroit's car history. It was where the famous Model T was first made, from 1904 to 1910. Here, you can see the original factory and learn about the early days of the Ford Motor Company.

At the museum, you can see old cars and learn how they were made. It's a chance to see how the Model T changed cars forever. The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is both fun and educational, perfect for anyone who loves Detroit's automotive history.

If you love cars or just Detroit's history, the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is a must-see. It's a chance to see where the Model T was born. Don't miss this chance to dive into the rich history of the "Motor City."

"The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is a treasure trove of Detroit's automotive history. Stepping inside is like travelling back in time to witness the birth of the Model T and the city's transformation into the 'Motor City'."

Detroit, Michigan: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Uncover Detroit's Automotive Legacy

Detroit is proud of its car-making history. Visitors can dive into this legacy at key spots. The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan, just outside Detroit, shows the history of cars and industry. It has exhibits on Ford Motor Company, car development, and Henry Ford's innovations.

Tour the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village

At Greenfield Village, an open-air museum, you can see a historic American town. You can even ride a vintage Ford Model T. These experiences show Detroit's big role in the car industry and Detroit transportation.

Ride in a Vintage Model T

One top thing to do in Detroit is riding a vintage Ford Model T. This car changed the car world and made cars affordable for everyone. Riding in it lets you feel the history and appreciate Detroit's automotive history more.

"The Ford Model T put the world on wheels and the Greenfield Village experience brings that history to life in a unique and unforgettable way."

Embrace Detroit's Outdoor Adventures

Detroit is famous for its car history and lively downtown. But it also has many outdoor spots for fun. Places like Belle Isle Park and the Detroit Riverwalk offer a calm break from city life.

Explore Belle Isle Park

Belle Isle Park is a 982-acre island in the Detroit River. It's a beautiful urban park with lots to see. There's the Belle Isle Nature Center, the Belle Isle Aquarium, and trails for walking and biking.

Visitors can see the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory and the James Scott Memorial Fountain. Or they can have a picnic on the beautiful grounds.

Stroll Along the Detroit Riverwalk

The Detroit Riverwalk is a 3.5-mile path with great views of the city and Canada. It's a favorite spot for jogging, biking, and enjoying the outdoors. Along the way, you can see parks, plazas, and public art.

Detroit's outdoor spots are a nice change from the city. Whether you're at Belle Isle Park or the Riverwalk, you'll find something special. These places are great for discovering the city's natural side.

"Detroit's outdoor spaces offer a refreshing retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, allowing visitors to connect with nature and experience the city's natural beauty."

Celebrate Detroit's Sports Heritage

Detroit loves its sports, and visitors can dive into the city's rich history. Catch a game at Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers. Or feel the excitement at Little Caesars Arena, where the Detroit Red Wings and Pistons play.

Explore Detroit's Sports History

The Detroit Historical Museum is a treasure trove for sports fans. It showcases the city's sports legacy, from the Detroit Lions to the Pistons dynasty. Learn about Detroit's sports passion and its community impact.

Whether you're a sports enthusiast or just exploring Detroit, its sports heritage is a must-see. From legendary stadiums to engaging exhibits, Detroit's sports legacy is waiting for you.

Uncover Detroit's Automotive Legacy

Detroit is proud of its car-making history. Visitors can dive into this legacy at key spots. The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan, just outside Detroit, shows the history of cars and industry. It has exhibits on Ford Motor Company, car development, and Henry Ford's innovations.

For a deeper look into Detroit's car industry role, check out Greenfield Village. It's an open-air museum that feels like a historic American town. You can even ride a vintage Ford Model T there. This lets you see how Detroit transportation has changed over time.

Tour the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village

• The Henry Ford Museum has a huge car collection. It's one of the best car displays in the world.
• Greenfield Village spans 80 acres. It has antique cars and historic homes, giving a peek into the past.
• The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant museum and event space tells over a century of car history. It was saved in 1998.

Ride in a Vintage Model T

At Greenfield Village, you can ride a vintage Ford Model T. This car changed the car world and Detroit's history. Riding it lets you feel the past and understand the city's car legacy.

"Detroit's automotive heritage is a source of immense pride for the city, and visitors can immerse themselves in this legacy at several key destinations."

Conclusion

Detroit, Michigan, has changed from a city facing economic troubles to a lively place full of experiences. It boasts world-class museums, iconic landmarks, and a booming Detroit travel scene. The Motor City has something for everyone, from museums to outdoor fun.

Visitors can dive into the city's rich Detroit attractions and Detroit highlights. They can also enjoy the arts, culture, and sports. Detroit leaves a memorable mark on all who visit.

This guide shows the top things to do in Detroit. It helps you plan a trip to this Detroit tourism hotspot. You'll find everything from the Detroit Institute of Arts to the Motown Museum and a great food scene.

When you visit the Motor City, soak in its history and culture. Detroit's change makes it a key spot for those wanting a real city experience. So, get ready to explore and see why Detroit is a Midwest treasure.