Detroit, Michigan’s largest city, is a fantastic place to visit. It’s known as the Motor City, but it’s also full of history, music, sports, entertainment, and a spirit of reinvention that makes it a unique travel destination.
Contents
Downtown Detroit: Riverfront and Campus Martius Park
Downtown Detroit is near the General Motors headquarters and has a beautiful riverfront promenade.
- Detroit Riverfront: Stroll along the promenade, see coffee shops, fountains, carousels, and even views of Canada across the river!
- Diamond Jack’s River Tours: Take a two-hour narrated cruise on the Detroit River during the summer. You’ll learn interesting history and enjoy wonderful views.
- Campus Martius Park: This downtown park is a great place to relax. There are restaurants, coffee shops, and hotels nearby. There’s always something happening, like concerts and volleyball in the summer, and ice skating and holiday lights in the winter.
The Ford Legacy: Cars and History
Detroit is the home of Ford, and there are several places to learn about the company’s history and impact.
- Henry Ford Museum: This museum isn’t just for car lovers. See exhibits about how Ford made cars and how they changed over time. You’ll also find furniture, tools, and exhibits about different periods in US history. Outside, visit Greenfield Village, a 32-hectare living history area with 83 historic buildings, including Thomas Edison’s lab, the Wright Brothers’ workshop, and Henry Ford’s birthplace.
- Ford Rouge Factory Tour: See where Ford makes its cars in the huge Ford River Rouge Complex. In the 1930s, over 100,000 people worked there! You’ll also see one of the world’s largest eco-roofs.
Motown: Music History
Detroit is the birthplace of Motown Records!
- Motown Museum (Hitsville U.S.A.): See where Berry Gordy started Motown Records in 1959. Visit the recording studio where famous artists like The Supremes and The Marvelettes recorded hits. You’ll also find lots of cool memorabilia.
Market, Park, and Arts
- Eastern Market: This huge farmers market has over 250 vendors selling meat, flowers, baked goods, and produce. It’s open year-round.
- Belle Isle: This island park in the Detroit River has a disc golf course, nature trails, a driving range, a small aquarium, and the beautiful Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservancy (a greenhouse with exotic plants and a glass dome). You can also visit the Dossin Great Lakes Museum to learn about the history of the Detroit River and the Great Lakes. Belle Isle is a great place for pictures, too!
- Detroit Institute of Arts: This museum has over 100 galleries with art from prehistory to the 21st century. See Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals and Vincent van Gogh’s “Self-Portrait.”
Shopping
- Great Lakes Crossing Outlets: This is Michigan’s largest outlet mall, with 185 stores and great prices.
- John K. King Books: This four-story bookstore has over a million books, including antique and rare editions.
- Shinola: This Detroit-based company makes watches and bicycles in the USA. You can see the bikes being assembled in their downtown store.
Detroit is a vibrant city full of surprises. It’s a fantastic place to visit, with something for everyone. Come explore the Motor City and discover its rich history, culture, and unique charm!
