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Detroit

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31 hand-picked places in 10 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.

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Tips

10 places on the map

Top 10

  1. 1

    World-class art museum home to Diego Rivera's Detroit Industry murals

    3 tips
    • Do not miss the Rivera Court
    • Free for residents of three local counties
    • Allow three hours
    📷 Photos
  2. 2

    Huge museum of American innovation in Dearborn

    • Tip: Allow a few hours
    2 tips
    • Buy combo tickets with Greenfield Village
    • Drive or rideshare from downtown
    📷 Photos
  3. 3

    Hitsville U.S.A., the birthplace of the Motown sound

    • Tip: Book ahead
    2 tips
    • Photos not allowed inside
    • Tours include Studio A
    📷 Photos
  4. 4

    Island park with conservatory, aquarium and skyline views

    • Tip: Sunset
    3 tips
    • Drive or bike across the bridge
    • Visit the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory
    • Sunset skyline views from the east side
    📷 Photos
  5. 5

    Mile-long riverfront promenade with views of Canada

    • Tip: Sunset
    3 tips
    • Rent a bike or stroll
    • Beautiful at sunset
    • Includes carousel and parks
    📷 Photos
  6. 6

    Historic public market with Saturday crowds and murals

    • Tip: Go early
    2 tips
    • Saturday is the main market day
    • Look for murals on surrounding walls
    📷 Photos
  7. 7

    Ornate 1928 movie palace and concert venue

    3 tips
    • Check show schedule
    • Pair with a Tigers game nearby
    • Tours offered at select times
    📷 Photos
  8. 8

    Home of the Detroit Tigers with a carousel and Ferris wheel

    3 tips
    • Look for giant tiger statues at the entrance
    • Stadium tours are available
    • Combine with Little Caesars Arena
    📷 Photos
  9. 9

    Art Deco skyscraper known as the Cathedral of Finance

    • Tip: Weekdays
    2 tips
    • Colorful Pewabic tile ceiling
    • Great for photos
    📷 Photos
  10. 10

    Riverfront tower complex and GM headquarters

    3 tips
    • Walk the Wintergarden for river views
    • Easy access to the Riverwalk
    • Many dining options
    📷 Photos

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Before you go: Detroit tips

Transportation

  • Ride the QLine on Woodward: the streetcar runs along Woodward Avenue from downtown through Midtown to New Center, stopping near the DIA, Comerica Park and Little Caesars Arena.
  • Take the SMART FAST bus to the airport: the FAST Michigan route links Detroit Metro Airport with downtown, a cheaper option than a long taxi or rideshare ride.
  • Cross to Windsor by tunnel bus: the Tunnel Bus runs under the Detroit River to Windsor, Canada; bring your passport and enjoy the view of Detroit's skyline from across the water.

Security

  • Stay in active areas after dark: downtown, Midtown, Corktown and the Riverwalk are lively at night, but large vacant stretches between them are best crossed by car or rideshare.
  • Never leave valuables visible: car break-ins happen near stadiums and nightlife, so lock bags in the trunk before you arrive or carry them with you.
  • Watch for potholes and Michigan lefts: if driving, roads can be rough after winter, and many main roads use Michigan left turns, where you go straight then U-turn.

Saving

  • Explore Belle Isle on foot or bike: the island park has the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, an aquarium and beaches; cars need a Michigan Recreation Passport but walkers enter free.
  • Go to free festivals: the Detroit Jazz Festival over Labor Day weekend is free, and summer events at Campus Martius and Hart Plaza bring free music downtown.
  • Shop Saturdays at Eastern Market: the historic market sells produce, meats and baked goods at farm prices; arrive early, then admire the murals around the sheds.

Weather/Clothing

  • Dress for snowy winters: December to February brings snow and freezing winds off the Detroit River, so pack an insulated coat, boots, gloves and a hat.
  • Plan for humid summers: July and August can be hot and sticky with thunderstorms, so bring light clothes, sunscreen for the Riverwalk and a small umbrella.
  • Layer in spring and fall: temperatures swing widely in a single day, so a light jacket and sweater are handy, especially for evening games at Comerica Park.

Cultural

  • Pick a side at the Coney rivalry: American Coney Island and Lafayette Coney Island sit side by side downtown, each serving chili-topped hot dogs; locals defend their favourite.
  • Visit Hitsville U.S.A.: the Motown Museum in the original studio on West Grand Boulevard tells the story of the label that made Detroit famous for soul music.
  • Taste Detroit flavours: try square Detroit-style pizza with crispy caramelised edges, Vernors ginger ale, Faygo soda and Middle Eastern food in nearby Dearborn.

Local Hacks

  • See Diego Rivera at the DIA: the Detroit Industry murals at the Detroit Institute of Arts fill a whole courtyard and are among the finest public art in the country.
  • Walk the Dequindre Cut: this sunken greenway lined with graffiti art links the Riverwalk with Eastern Market, a pleasant car-free route on foot or by MoGo bike.
  • Peek inside the Guardian Building: this downtown art deco skyscraper has a dazzling tiled lobby that is open to the public, perfect for a quick stop between sights.

1-day itineraries in Detroit

Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.

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