Are you ready to explore the hidden gems of Detroit? As avid travelers who live within close proximity to the Motor City, we can confidently say that Detroit is a must-visit destination for every adventurer. From mouthwatering culinary delights to awe-inspiring art installations and rich historical landmarks, this vibrant city has something for everyone.
During several of our recent trips to Detroit, we discovered why Detroit is becoming a hot spot for tourists. We wandered through the halls of National Historic Landmarks, got lost in the aisles of one of the "World's Best Bookstores," and experienced the bustling energy of the nation's largest open-air market. These unforgettable experiences convinced us that Detroit is the perfect choice for your next weekend getaway.
In this comprehensive Detroit Travel Guide, we’ll share our firsthand experiences and insider tips on the top things to do, eat, and drink in the Motor City. Whether you're a foodie seeking culinary adventures, an art enthusiast looking for inspiration, or a history buff eager to dive into the past, our guide will help you make the most of your Detroit visit. Get ready to discover why this resilient city is capturing the hearts of travelers from around the world!
💡 Fun Fact: Detroit's Belle Isle State Park is the largest urban island park in the nation! Also, over 70 featured films and over a dozen tv shows have been filmed in Detroit. |
Detroit Institute of the Arts (DIA)
Our visit to Detroit wouldn't have been complete without a trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts. We were amazed by this world-class museum that houses over 65,000 works of art spanning from ancient times to the contemporary era. The highlight for us was the "Detroit Industry" murals by Diego Rivera, a stunning series of frescoes depicting the city's industrial heritage. As art enthusiasts, we were captivated by the diverse collections, including American, European, Ancient, and African art.
Tickets and Entry Times
The Detroit Institute of the Art is open Mon - Wed from 9AM to 5PM, Thurs - Fri from 9AM to 10PM and Sat - Sun from 10AM - 10PM. Tickets for non-local residents are $14/Adult and booking a timeslot ahead of time online is strongly encouraged.
💡Tip: Entry is free for all residents of Michigan's Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. |
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Fisher Building
Our exploration of Detroit's architectural wonders led us to the magnificent Fisher Building. Known as "Detroit's largest art object," this Art Deco masterpiece left us in awe. We marveled at the ornate marble lobby, intricate mosaics, and stunning brass work throughout the building. As we learned about its history and significance to Detroit's skyline, we understood why it's often called the city's "golden tower." The Fisher Building stands as a testament to Detroit's grand architectural past and its enduring beauty.
💡Did you know? The Fisher Building was designated a National Historical Landmark by the National Park Service in 1989 |
Tickets and Entry Times
The Fisher Building is open to the public 24 hours daily and is free to enter and enjoy. However, our recommendation is to visit on a Saturday when free tours by Pure Detroit will take you to all of the main spots within the Fisher Building, including a higher floor for panoramic views of the city. Pure Detroit runs tours every Saturday at 12pm and 2pm.
Explore Midtown
Midtown is a neighborhood of Detroit that is most popularly known as the college town for Wayne State University. In addition to the renowned museums located in Midtown, such as the Detroit Institute of the Arts, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, Motown Museum, and Ford Piquette Ave Plant Museum, Midtown is also known for its breweries, eateries, and shopping.
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Third Man Records
With locations in Nashville, London, and Detroit, this trendy Midtown record shop was founded by American musician Jack White. Visit Third Man Records to shop their music and apparel, witness a live show, or learn about their state-of-the-art vinyl manufacturing plant located on site.
Majestic Theatre & Garden Bowl
The Majestic Theatre is one of our favorite music venues in Detroit. This complex holds an intimate music venue, a pizzeria, and a 1900s bowling alley. What more could you need?
💡 Admission: Tickets for a live show at the Majestic range between $20-40/Adult |
The BELT
This photogenic "hipster" alley is covered with murals, art galleries, speakeasy-style cocktail bars, and eateries. The BELT is filled with Instagrammers by day and party-goers by night. Try "The Skip" bar in the summer for outdoor seating, frozen drinks, and a decent beer selection. Visit the "Standby" for a dim-lit, speakeasy-style cocktail bar with unique drinks.
🍽️ Hungry? Try Mootz Pizzeria + Bar, just around the corner from the BELT, for classic pizza and garlic knots |
Campus Martius Park
Campus Martius Park is the main center-square of downtown Detroit. In the summer months, the square is converted to a sandy beach with food trunks and pop-up bars. In the winter months, a giant Christmas tree decorates the square with an ice-skating rink and crafts are displayed in a nearby Christmas market. Woodward Avenue is transformed with sparkling lights which allows you to walk through the dazzling light show on your way to the Spirit of Detroit Statue.
Detroit's Stunning Venues
Detroit is home to some unique, historical, and ornate entertainment venues. St Andrew's Hall is a historic building turned into a live entertainment venue, most popularly known as one of the first stages Eminem performed at. The Fox Theatre is a performing arts center building that dates back to the 1920s and is Detroit's largest city theater with over 5,000 seats.
Other equally impressive venues include the Detroit Opera House (performing arts), The Fillmore (previously the State Theatre), and Masonic Temple (world's largest).
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Guardian Building
The Guardian Building, similar to the Fisher Building, is an over-the-top architectural beauty built in the 1920s. This 40-story building became one of the most striking Art Deco skyscrapers in the world. Free to enter and open 24 hours daily, the Guardian Building is located one block away from Campus Martius.
John K. King Used & Rare Books
John K. King Used & Rare Books is home to over one million books! The eclectic and extensive collection of books is open to the public in a redesigned factory setting. Wander through a maze of books across four different levels, take in the smell of old paper, and marvel at this impressive collection.
💡Did you Know? Business Insider named John K. King Books as one of the "World's Best Bookstores" |
Opening Hours
John K. King Used & Rare Books is open from 12pm to 4pm on Mondays, 9:30am to 5:30pm on Tuesday through Saturday, and is closed on Sundays.
Detroit's Street Art
While exploring the streets of Detroit, you will encounter a variety of street art. For a large variety of street art, do not miss the BELT and its nearby art galleries, or Eastern Market as you wander through the side-streets east of the market sheds.
Several of our favorite one-off pieces of street art that are worth seeking out are the Stevie Wonder Mural on Brush Street and the largest 3D mural in the nation on the side of the Frank Murphy Hall of Justice.
Eastern Market
Eastern Market is the largest open air market in the nation, hosting a Tuesday (9am-3pm), Saturday (6am-4pm), and Sunday (10am-4pm) market. At these markets, visitors can shop for fresh produce, sample foods from street vendors, and admire local artisan crafts.
In addition to the weekly markets, Eastern Market is also a neighborhood home to numerous art murals decorating old warehouses, quirky shops such as Henry the Hatter (oldest hat retailer in the nation), and up-and-coming breweries such as Eastern Market Brewing Company.
📚 Also Read: Michigan's Upper Peninsula 1 Week Itinerary |
Dequindre Cut
The Dequindre Cut is a two-mile long paved path that goes from Eastern Market to the Detroit River Walk. The greenway is an excellent place to take a stroll, bike-ride, or light jog while encountering urban art, as well as, events and food stands throughout the summer months.
🚲 Tip: Rent a bike from Detroit's MoGo bike-share system to enjoy on the Dequindre Cut and Detroit River Walk, as well as, to get around downtown more efficiently! |
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Detroit River Walk
The Detroit River Walk starts at Hart Plaza and continues north until Mt. Elliot Park. This 2.5-mile paved, multiuse path provides water-side views of Canada across the river. The Dequindre Cut meets up with the Detroit River Walk at the Outdoor Adventure Center. Continuing north will bring you to the Aretha Franklin summer amphitheater and numerous activities at Robert C. Valade Park.
🔥 Tip: Head to Robert C. Valade Park for bonfire pits, beers on tap, and outdoor games. |
Belle Isle State Park
Belle Isle State Park is the largest urban island park in the nation at roughly 900 acres which surpasses Central Park in New York City. Belle Isle includes scenic viewpoints, lighthouses, beaches, fishing piers, museums, and nature centers.
One of our favorite things to do at Belle Isle visit the free Aquarium and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory. This 1900s aquarium is filled with a variety of fish, along with the neighboring conservatory that holds exotic plants in a nearby greenhouse.
Tickets and Entry Times
The Aquarium and Conservatory are open only on weekends (Friday through Sunday) from 10am to 4pm (until 5pm at the Conservatory). Entry is free to the public, however, in order to park within Belle Isle State Park you have to purchase a recreation passport. Recreation passports can be purchased at the park's entry booths.
Planning Your Trip to Detroit
To make the most of your visit to Detroit, here are some helpful tips for planning your trip:
Best Time to Visit: Detroit experiences four distinct seasons. Summer (June-August) is warm and ideal for outdoor activities, while fall (September-November) offers beautiful foliage. Winter (December-February) can be cold but festive, and spring (March-May) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
📆 Our Duration Recommended: 2-4 Full Days |
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Getting There: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is the main gateway to the city, served by major airlines. The city is also accessible by car via several interstate highways. The most affordable way to get from Detroit's Metro Airport to downtown Detroit is via the SMART 261 bus. This bus picks up from the McNamara Terminal and drops you off at 'Cass + Michigan' bus stop (1 hour duration). Taking a taxi or rideshare is your fastest option at roughly 30 minutes, however, fares will cost you between $40-70.
💡 Insider Tip: Use Rome2Rio to assess your travel options |
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Getting Around: As the motor city, Detroit went years without having a viable option for people to get around without a car. However, as of 2017, the QLINE tram now helps locals and tourists get to most of the top sights of Detroit via Woodward Ave. The best part is that the QLINE is still piloting complimentary service, meaning you can hop on and off for free! (Check the website for the most up-to-date fares as the pilot nears an end). Use the DartApp or station kiosks to purchase tickets for the QLINE (once payment resumes), as well as, DDOT buses.
🚘 Parking in Detroit? Use the ParkWhiz App to find the best deals on parking spaces in garages and lots or the ParkDetroit App to easily pay for street parking meters. |
Where to Stay: Downtown Detroit offers a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Consider staying in Midtown or Corktown for a more neighborhood feel.
🛌 J&L Recommended Location: Kelsey's Midtown Home |
Detroit City Pass: Consider downloading a FREE Detroit City Pass for discounted admission to multiple attractions.
Remember to check the official websites of attractions for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and admission fees. With proper planning, your trip to Detroit is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
We found Detroit to be a city of resilience, innovation, and cultural richness. From world-class museums and historical landmarks to beautiful outdoor spaces and vibrant neighborhoods, the Motor City offered something for every type of traveler. By exploring these top attractions, we gained a deep appreciation for Detroit's past, present, and promising future. Whether you're a history buff, art lover, sports fan, or simply seeking a unique urban adventure, we believe Detroit will surprise and delight you with its diverse offerings and warm Midwestern hospitality.
As you plan your own trip to this iconic American city, remember that Detroit's renaissance is ongoing. We discovered that new attractions, restaurants, and experiences are constantly emerging, making each visit a fresh opportunity to discover something new. We encourage you to embrace the spirit of Detroit – a city that continues to reinvent itself while honoring its rich heritage – and prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of America's most fascinating urban landscapes.
For more adventures and travel tips, follow us on Instagram @Noms.Brews.Views 📸 |
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Thank you for the excellent tips 🤗
Extremely helpful!
This is packed with SO MUCH useful information, thank you!