Travel Guide To Detroit, Usa
Discover Detroit’s Top Attractions
Detroit, also known as the Motor City, is a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore. Start your trip by visiting the iconic Detroit Institute of Arts, which houses an impressive collection of art from around the world, including works by Van Gogh and Monet.
Next, head to the Detroit Riverfront, where you can take a stroll, bike ride, or even rent a kayak to explore the city from a different perspective. For a taste of Detroit’s musical heritage, visit the Motown Museum and learn about the city’s role in shaping the sound of popular music.
No trip to Detroit is complete without a visit to the city’s most famous landmark, the Renaissance Center. This towering complex of seven interconnected skyscrapers is home to shops, restaurants, and the headquarters of General Motors.
Uncover Hidden Gems in Detroit
While Detroit has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Visit the Heidelberg Project, an outdoor art installation that transforms abandoned houses into colorful works of art.
For a taste of Detroit’s thriving food scene, head to Eastern Market, where you can sample fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and other local specialties. Another hidden gem is the Detroit Historical Museum, which tells the story of the city’s past through interactive exhibits and displays.
Experience Detroit’s Outdoor Adventures
There are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in and around Detroit. Belle Isle Park is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and picnicking, while the Detroit Riverfront is a great place to go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
If you’re looking for a more challenging adventure, head to the nearby Huron-Clinton Metroparks, where you can go zip-lining, rock climbing, or mountain biking. For a more leisurely outdoor experience, visit the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, which boasts 300 acres of gardens, trails, and natural areas.
Explore Detroit’s Historical Landmarks
Detroit has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical landmarks. The Henry Ford Museum is a must-visit attraction that showcases the history of American innovation and industry, while the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History tells the story of the city’s black community.
Other historical landmarks worth visiting include the Fort Wayne Historic Park, which served as a military post during the 19th century, and the Guardian Building, a stunning example of Art Deco architecture that was once the headquarters of the Union Trust Company.
Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities in Detroit
Detroit is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. The Detroit Zoo is a popular attraction that is home to over 2,000 animals, while the Michigan Science Center offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.
The Detroit Children’s Museum is another great option for families, with exhibits on science, art, and culture that are designed for young visitors. For a fun and unique experience, take the kids to the Detroit Riverfront and rent a bike or surrey to explore the city together.
Discover Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Detroit
If you’re looking for something a little different, Detroit has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences waiting to be discovered. Check out the Alley Project, a community-based street art project that transforms alleyways into colorful outdoor galleries.
Another unique experience is the Detroit Bus Company, which offers tours of the city’s hidden gems and lesser-known neighborhoods. You can also explore the city’s underground art scene by taking a tour of the Russell Industrial Center, a former manufacturing plant that now houses artists’ studios and galleries.
Experience Detroit’s Natural Wonders
Detroit is surrounded by natural beauty, with plenty of parks, lakes, and forests to explore. Head to the Detroit RiverWalk and take a stroll along the river, or visit Belle Isle Park and enjoy the stunning views of Lake St. Clair.
The Huron-Clinton Metroparks also offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, with hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. For a more remote wilderness experience, head to the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which boasts miles of sandy beaches, towering dunes, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Enjoy Detroit’s Vibrant Nightlife
Detroit has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. For a taste of the city’s craft beer scene, head to the Detroit Beer Company or the Atwater Brewery.
If you’re looking for live music, check out the Majestic Theatre, which hosts concerts and shows throughout the year. For a more laid-back night out, head to the Sugar House, a speakeasy-style bar that serves up craft cocktails and small plates.
Explore Detroit’s Local Markets
Detroit has a thriving food scene, and there are plenty of local markets where you can sample the city’s culinary delights. Eastern Market is the largest and most well-known market, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and baked goods.
The Rust Belt Market is another great option, with over 50 local vendors selling handmade goods and vintage finds. You can also check out the Detroit City Distillery, which offers tours and tastings of their small-batch spirits.
Discover Detroit’s Beaches and Mountains
While Detroit is not known for its beaches and mountains, there are still plenty of outdoor destinations to explore within a short drive of the city. Head to Grand Haven State Park, which boasts miles of sandy beaches and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
If you’re looking for a mountain getaway, head to the nearby Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, which features over 60,000 acres of forests, lakes, and waterfalls. You can also explore the stunning natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula by taking a drive along the scenic Lake Superior Circle Tour.
Immerse Yourself in Detroit’s Culture
Detroit has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its many museums, galleries, and performance venues. The Detroit Institute of Music Education offers classes and workshops on music production, while the Detroit Symphony Orchestra hosts concerts and shows throughout the year.
The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit is another great option, with thought-provoking exhibitions and installations by local and international artists. For a taste of Detroit’s theater scene, check out the Fisher Theatre, which hosts Broadway shows, musicals, and plays throughout the year.
Take a Walking Tour of Detroit’s Architectural Marvels
Detroit is home to some of the most impressive architecture in the country, with buildings ranging from Art Deco masterpieces to sleek modern designs. Take a walking tour of the city and discover some of Detroit’s most iconic landmarks, including the Guardian Building, the Fisher Building, and the Fox Theatre.
You can also explore the city’s many historic neighborhoods, such as Corktown and Midtown, which are filled with stunning examples of Victorian and Tudor Revival architecture.
Explore Detroit’s Historical Sites by Bike
Biking is a great way to explore Detroit’s many historical sites and landmarks. Rent a bike and take a tour of the city’s many museums, parks, and neighborhoods, or head out on the Dequindre Cut, a pedestrian and bike path that runs through the heart of the city.
The Detroit Riverfront is also a great place to go biking, with miles of dedicated bike lanes and stunning views of the river and skyline. For a more challenging ride, head to the nearby Clinton River Trail, which offers 16 miles of scenic biking trails.
Relax at a Wellness Retreat in Detroit
Detroit may be known for its bustling city life, but there are also plenty of opportunities to relax and recharge. The Spa at MotorCity Casino Hotel offers a range of luxurious treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
You can also visit the Detroit Yoga Lab for a yoga class or meditation session, or head to the Detroit Athletic Club for a workout and a swim in the pool. For a more holistic wellness experience, check out the Greenhouse Holistic Spa, which offers a range of healing treatments and services.
Try Adventure Sports in Detroit
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Detroit has plenty of adventure sports to choose from. Head to the nearby Kensington Metropark and try your hand at wakeboarding or water skiing, or go rock climbing at the nearby Planet Rock climbing gym.
You can also try your hand at skydiving at the Michigan Skydiving Center, or go bungee jumping at the Adventure Park in West Bloomfield. For a more laid-back adventure, head to the nearby Detroit River and try your hand at fishing or kayaking.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, nature lover, or adventure seeker, Detroit has plenty to offer. From its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems, the city is full of surprises and experiences waiting to be discovered.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore all that Detroit has to offer!