50 Things To Do In Detroit in 2023

What’s special about this place?

Located at 441 W Canfield St, Third Man Records is an iconic record store.

Launched by Jack White (yes, that Jack White) in 2001, the physical Third Man Records outpost in Detroit, that opened in 2015, quickly grew to become one of the city’s trendiest record stores.

Known for its slogan “Your Turntable’s Not Dead”, Third Man Records houses a record and novelties lounge, a mastering studio, and a vinyl pressing facility!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Third Man Records is a must-visit for musicians and music lovers (yes, even those who aren’t a fan of Jack White or his bands).

Known for its collection of rare vinyl records, it’s especially ideal for audiophiles who still prefer that sweet, sweet vinyl analog sound over the more “manufactured” sound of digital records.

What to do here?

Explore Third Man Records.

Browse the store’s collection and shop for your favorite artist/s’ vinyl records. Take a guided tour through Third Man Records’ vinyl pressing plant.

If you’re up for it, sign up for the Third Man Records Vault, a quarterly subscription service that offers its members rare, limited-edition vinyls!

Best time to visit

Third Man Records is open daily. 11 AM to 6 PM Monday through Saturday, and 11 AM to 5 PM on Sundays. The best time to visit the store largely depends on your itinerary.

Learn more about Jack White’s Third Man Records here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 20900 Oakwood Blvd in Dearborn, just over 9 miles west of Detroit via I-94, the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is a 250-acre indoor and outdoor history museum complex.

The museum complex is the largest in the United States. A National Historic Landmark, the museum’s collection features (among many historic artifacts) the presidential limousine of John F. Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theater, the Wright Brothers’, and the Rosa Parks bus!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is a must-visit for families, scholars of American history, automobile enthusiasts, and tourists who want to learn about the many American innovations and events that have shaped both the country, and the world.

What to do here?

Spend a day exploring some of the most impressive displays of American ingenuity, and check out historic items connected to some of the most iconic events in American history.

Check out the 1961 Lincoln Continental, SS-100-X that President John F. Kennedy was riding when he was assassinated. Check out Igor Sikorsky’s prototype helicopter.

Check out the Watt Canal Pumping Engine built in 1796, and the bus on which Rosa Parks was arrested!

Best time to visit

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is open daily, from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. It’s best to visit the museum on weekdays to avoid large crowds. That said, the museum welcomes over 1.7 million guests annually, so expect it to be pretty busy!

Learn more about Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2100 Woodward Avenue, Comerica Park is an open-air ballpark that serves as the home of the Detroit Tigers.

The stadium seats 41,083 people. While it primarily hosts MLB games, Comerica Park has hosted other events, such as concerts, NHL games, and even a soccer game.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Comerica Park is ideal for families, baseball fans (especially Tigers fans), and tourists looking to watch a professional baseball game. Comerica Park is also a great place for a casual date!

What to do here?

Tour Comerica Park. Check out the statues of all of the players whose numbers have been retired by the Tigers. Check out Comerica Park’s giant Chevrolet Fountain. Watch an MLB game and immerse yourself in Detroit’s sports culture!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Comerica Park depends on the schedule of the game/event you’re attending. That said, it’s best to get to Comerica Park at least an hour and a half before the game/event starts!

What’s special about this place?

Located within the Detroit River, Belle Isle Park is a 987-acre island park. Managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the park includes three lakes, 150 acres of wooded area, and spectacular views of the Detroit skyline.

Belle Isle also features a variety of hiking trails, athletic fields, and picnic areas. Notable attractions include the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, and the Belle Isle Aquarium! It is connected to mainland Detroit by the MacArthur Bridge.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Belle Isle Park is ideal for families, nature lovers, architecture enthusiasts, botanists and horticulturists, hikers, and all kinds of outdoor recreationists.

It’s also ideal for tourists looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Detroit, and take in breathtaking views of the Detroit and Windsor skyline.

What to do here?

Explore Belle Isle Park. Hike some of Belle Isle’s best-known trails, such as the Belle Isle Loop and the Belle Isle Lighthouse and Blue Lagoon trail.

Stop by the Belle Isle Aquarium and check out some of the Great Lakes region’s freshwater species. Explore the greenhouses at the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, and stop by the James Scott Memorial Fountain!

Best time to visit

Detroit’s Belle Isle Park is open year-round, from 5 AM to 10 PM. There’s something for every season here, so the best time to visit Belle Isle largely depends on your itinerary.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2648 W Grand Blvd, Detroit’s Motown Museum is an iconic Detroit museum.

Once the site of the first headquarters and recording studio of the legendary Motown Records, the Motown Museum is uniquely dedicated to the legacy of the Motown record label, its artists, and its music.

The museum features rotating exhibits of costumes, photographs, and records from Motown’s glory days.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Motown Museum is a must-visit for musicians and music lovers, families, and American music history nerds.

It’s also a must-visit for any fan of legendary Motown icons like Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, The Temptations, and the Jackson 5!

What to do here?

Tour the Motown Museum and explore one of the most iconic music studios in all of music history.

Check out the museum’s current exhibits, such as the Still Going On outdoor exhibition that celebrates the 50th anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s ‘What’s Going On’ album.

Pop into the Motown Museum Store and shop Motown-themed souvenirs, like Motown Black Forum shirts and Motown Record Label Teddy Bears!

Best time to visit

The Motown Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM. There’s really no bad time to visit the museum, so the best time to visit largely depends on your itinerary.

That said, as the museum is one of the most popular attractions in Detroit, expect it to be at least a little busy at all times.

Learn more about Motown Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located northeast of downtown Detroit, Eastern Market is a historic 43-acre commercial district. It is the largest historic public market in the United States, as well as one of the oldest.

Eastern Market is a selling point for a wide variety of produce, meat, spice, and other products. It features the largest open-air flowerbed market in the United States, and over 150 foods and specialty businesses!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Detroit’s Eastern Market is ideal for families, foodies, art enthusiasts, florists, and beer lovers.

It’s a must-visit for any tourist looking to explore Detroit’s food culture and, as it is regularly flocked by thousands of Detroiters, it’s an ideal start to a Detroit adventure!

What to do here?

Explore Detroit’s Eastern Market. Discover some of the city’s best food spots. Try some east coast style pizza at Supino Pizzeria, or try some of the breakfast items at Russell Street Deli.

Check out some of Eastern Market’s art galleries. Shop for souvenirs at the Eastern Market’s borders. Have a few pints at Detroit City Distillery, and make sure to stop by Vivio’s Food & Spirits, Detroit’s oldest continuously operating tavern!

Best time to visit

Eastern Market has market days on Saturdays (6 AM to 4 PM, year-round), Sundays (10 AM to 4 PM, June – September), and Tuesdays (9 AM to 3 PM, June – September).

The best time to visit Eastern Market largely depends on your itinerary. If you plan on attending events like Flower Day or Murals in the Market, visit Eastern Market during the spring and summer months!

Learn more about Detroit’s Eastern Market here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 5200 Woodward Ave in Midtown Detroit, the Detroit Institute of Arts is a 658,000-square-foot art museum.

The museum features more than 100 galleries, a 1,150-seat auditorium, a 380-seat lecture/recital hall, an art reference library, and a state-of-the-art conservation services laboratory.

Known for its diverse collection, the museum holds more than 65,000 works from all over the world. The museum’s collection is regarded as among the top six in the United States!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Detroit Institute of Arts is a must-visit for families, artists and art enthusiasts, architecture enthusiasts, and tourists eager to explore one of the most significant art collections in the United States!

What to do here?

Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts. Check out the museum’s original building, designed by Paul Philippe Cret. Check out some of the museum’s most notable acquisitions.

Examine Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry, which he considered to be his most successful work. Check out Vincent van Gogh’s Self-Portrait, the first van Gogh painting to enter a U.S. museum collection.

Best time to visit

The Detroit Institute of Arts is open Wednesday through Sunday. 9 AM to 4 PM Wednesday through Friday, and 10 AM to 5 PM on weekends.

It’s one of the most visited art museums in the world, but if you really want to avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit the museum on Wednesdays and Thursdays!

Learn more about Detroit Institute of Arts here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 500 Temple St, the Detroit Masonic Temple (or The Masonic) is the world’s largest Masonic Temple.

The Masonic features three theaters, a Shrine building, a Chapel, eight Lodge rooms, a drill hall, two ballrooms, an office space, a barbershop, and bowling lanes.

The Masonic is used for various events like weddings and concerts, and holds guided tours on the 1stand 3rd Sundays of every month.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Detroit Masonic Temple is a must-visit for Freemasons (obviously), architects and architecture enthusiasts, and tourists looking to explore an important of Detroit’s history.

What to do here?

Take a guided tour through the Detroit Masonic Temple.

Check out the temple’s Gothic Revival architecture. Stop by the temple’s Jack White Theater, and check out the temple’s Romanesque Room. Stop by the Shrine Tower Lounge. Try to catch a concert or a comedy show here.

Best time to visit

The Detroit Masonic Temple is open daily, from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit the temple largely depends on your itinerary.

If you plan on attending a concert here, it’s best to get to the venue at least an hour before the show starts. If you plan on taking a guided tour, the facility is only open for tours on the 1st and 3rdSundays of every month.

Learn more about Detroit Masonic Temple here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 12087 Klinger St in Hamtramck, just 6 miles north of Detroit via I-75, Hamtramck Disneyland is a site-specific folk art installation.

Created by Ukrainian immigrant Dmytro Szylak, Hamtramck Disneyland is a colorful homemade construction built on top of two adjacent garages. It features various objects put together to create a found object interpretation of Disneyland.

It’s considered one of Michigan’s most significant works of folk art!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Hamtramck Disneyland is a must-visit for families, artists and art enthusiasts, all kinds of creatives, and tourists off all ages who are eager to explore a unique art exhibition that celebrates American, Ukrainian, and German heritage.

What to do here?

Explore Hamtramck Disneyland, and check out its unique and colorful collection of assembled art.

Check out the Hamtramck Disneyland elevated carousel, and Dmytro’s handmade jet aircraft. Check out the site’s windmill featuring cutouts of working men and women. Don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

Hamtramck Disneyland is open 24/7. That said, it’s best to visit Hamtramck Disneyland early morning (around 8 AM to 10 AM) on weekdays to avoid large crowds!

What’s special about this place?

Headquartered in 535 Griswold Suite 400, the Detroit People Mover is a 2.94-mile enhanced public transit service that operates on a single track encircling Downtown Detroit.

The Detroit People Mover has 13 stations that link over 9 million square feet. It offers a stress-free ride with panoramic views of Downtown Detroit!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Detroit People Mover is ideal for families and tourists who want to explore Downtown Detroit without the hassle of being exposed to outside elements and to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. It’s particularly ideal for first time tourists!

What to do here?

Ride the Detroit People Mover. Choose one of 13 People Mover stations, and enjoy the panoramic views of Downtown Detroit!

Check out the public art displayed by each Detroit People Mover station. Check out Alvin D. Loving Jr.’s Detroit New Morning at Millender Center, and check out J. Seward Johnson Jr’s Catching Up bronze statue and Grand Circus Park.

Best time to visit

The Detroit People Mover operates 7 days a week. 6:30 AM to Midnight Monday through Thursday, 6:30 AM to 2 AM on Fridays, 9 AM to 2 AM on Saturdays, and from Noon to Midnight on Sundays.

The best time to ride the Detroit People Mover depends on your itinerary.

Learn more about Detroit People Mover here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 100 Renaissance Center, the GM Renaissance Center is a group of seven interconnected skyscrapers. Nicknamed RenCen, the GM Renaissance Center features 5.5 million square feet of office, dining, entertainment, residential, and lodging space.

It has 29 restaurants, 1,300 hotel rooms, and over 3 miles of spectacular walkways and bikeways along the Riverwalk. Its central tower, the Detroit Marriott in the Renaissance Center, is the second tallest all-hotel skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The GM Renaissance Center is ideal for families, foodies, architects and architecture enthusiasts, and tourists looking for a nice place to stay in while exploring Detroit.

It’s especially ideal for first-time tourists who are willing to spend more and who don’t want to go through the hassle of booking a nondescript vacation rental!

What to do here?

Book a room at the Detroit Marriott at the GM Renaissance Center and take in the breathtaking riverfront views. Go biking on the riverfront. Check out some of the best restaurants within the GM Renaissance Center complex.

Get some upscale Northern Italian fare at Andiamo Detroit Riverfront, and try the rustic dishes at Hearth 71. Go shopping at some of the Renaissance Center’s high-end boutiques.

Best time to visit

The GM Renaissance Center is open daily, from 6 AM to 10 PM. The best time to visit the complex really depends on your itinerary, as some of the shops within the complex may have varying hours.

Learn more about GM Renaissance Center here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 500 Griswold Street STE 1600, the Guardian Building is a landmark skyscraper. Designed by Michigan architects, erected by Michigan contractors, and built by Michigan artisans, the Guardian Building is an amalgamation of Michigan ingenuity.

Completed in 1929, it reflects the former opulence of industrial Detroit, and is considered one of the most significant Art Deco skyscrapers in the world.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The guardian Building is a must-visit for architects and architecture enthusiasts, especially those who are fans of the Art Deco movement.

It’s also ideal for scholars of American history, and for tourists eager to step into a building that reflects Detroit at the peak of its industrial growth.

What to do here?

Explore the Guardian Building. Check out the building’s exterior’s distinct tangerine colored bricks, and the poly-chromed terra cotta on its upper stories.

At its Griswold Street entrance, check out the semi-dome lined with custom tiles from Pewabic Pottery. Check out the reliefs designed by architectural sculptor Corrado Parducci flanking the main entrance.

Check out the Ezra Winter-designed glass mosaic in the building’s lobby, as well as the banking hall’s spectacular mural.

Best time to visit

The Guardian Building is open 24/7. To avoid large crowds, it’s best to stop by the building anytime from Friday to Sunday.

That said, if you have to visit it on a weekday, it’s best to stop by the building around 6 AM to 9 AM, and around 5 PM onwards!

Learn more about Guardian Building here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 8450 W 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, just over 14 miles north of Detroit via I-75, the Detroit Zoo is a 51-hectare zoo. Along with the Belle Isle Nature Center, it is operated by the Detroit Zoological Society.

It features more than 2,000 animals representing 237 species of amphibians, mammals, birds and reptiles. One of Michigan’s largest family attractions, it welcomes over 1.5 million visitors annually!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Detroit Zoo is ideal for families, animal lovers of all ages, wildlife conservationists, and tourists looking to see a variety of exotic animals in Michigan. It’s also ideal for tourists who want to know more about captive animal welfare.

What to do here?

Tour all 51 hectares of the Detroit Zoo. Stop by some of its award-winning habitats. Check out the National Amphibian Conservation Center. Observe over a thousand different amphibians in their natural habitat, and learn about the critical role amphibians play in the environment.

Check out the 4-acre Great Apes of Harambee habitat, home to three silverback gorillas and a troop of 12 chimpanzees. Or, bond with the wolves at the zoo’s Cotton Family Wolf Wilderness!

Best time to visit

The Detroit Zoo is open daily, from 10 AM to 4 PM.

The best time to visit the zoo largely depends on your itinerary, and the animals you’re most looking forward to observe (different animals have different daily habits, and tend to go active at different times of the day).

While the zoo tends to be more packed on weekends, the zoo is always a little busy.

Learn more about Detroit Zoo here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2211 Woodward Ave, the Fox Theatre is a historic performing arts center.

It was listed as a National Historic Landmark in 1989 for its architecture. It features cream-colored terra cotta and decorative lintels on its exterior, and has a lavish interior with a blend of Burmese, Chinese, Indian, and Persian motifs.

It is the largest surviving movie palace of the 1920s, and the largest of the original Fox Theatres.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Considered by most locals to be Detroit’s crown jewel, the Fox Theater is a must-visit for families, architects and architecture enthusiasts, and tourists looking for some live entertainment in Detroit.

From award-winning Broadway musicals, to concerts, to comedy shows, the Detroit Fox Theatre is the place to be for live entertainment in Detroit!

What to do here?

Catch a show or two at Detroit’s Fox Theatre. Check out the theatre’s gilded, Asian-inspired décor.

Book premium seats and immerse yourself in a Broadway musical or a live concert, or get tickets to a comedy show and check out some of the country’s hottest comedians.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Fox Theatre largely depends on your itinerary and the schedule of the show you’re planning to attend. That said, it’s best to get to the venue at least an hour and a half before your show starts!

Learn more about Fox Theatre here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 4454 Woodward Ave, the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit is a 22,000-square-foot non-collecting art museum.

Founded by Julia Reyes Taubman, the museum presents exhibitions and programs that explore the best of contemporary art, with a particular focus on art as a means to nurture social change and human understanding.

It also regularly hosts musical, literary, and artistic events.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit is ideal for families, artists and art enthusiasts, creatives of all ages, and tourists keen on exploring Detroit’s contemporary art scene.

What to do here?

Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit. Check out its raw and intentionally left unfinished structure.

Check out some of its current exhibits, such as John Kørner’s Intercontinental Super Fruits exhibit, exploring the nostalgic nature of the phenomena of the superstore.

Check out Hannah Toticki’s Universal Human Resource, which asserts that the workplace has evolved into a religious practice that maintains theocratic hierarchies through the gendering and privatization of labor.

Best time to visit

The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 11 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit the museum largely depends on your itinerary.

That said, to avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit the museum on weekends, ideally after 3 PM.

Learn more about Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 5020 John R Street, the Michigan Science Center is a nonprofit science museum. It features Michigan’s only Chrysler IMAX Dome, a 4D theater, a Planetarium, an 8,700 square foot special exhibit hall, and over 200 hands-on exhibits!

It’s one of Michigan’s top STEM engagement hubs, and has a lot to offer children and adults alike.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Michigan Science Center is ideal for families, scientists of all ages, tourists traveling with children, and tourists eager to explore and learn about various STEM topics.

What to do here?

Tour the Michigan Science Center. Immerse yourself in the science museum’s IMAX Dome Theatre, Michigan’s largest theater, featuring a 13,000-watt Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound and three-story-high dome.

Check out exciting and educational programs and presentations at the museum’s Science Stage. Learn about the wonders of the universe and the history of human space travel at the museum’s Space Gallery!

Best time to visitThe Michigan Science Center is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. It’s best to visit the science museum on weekends to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about Michigan Science Center here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2500 E Grand Blvd within the GM Factory ZERO, Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Center, the Beth Olem Cemetery is a historic Jewish cemetery.

Jewish law strictly prohibits moving graves, so the obvious move for GM was to..just build around it. The cemetery is home to approximately 1,400 graves, some of which date from the mid-1800s!

While Detroit’s Jewish community largely dispersed from the area, Beth Olem remains an important part of Detroit history.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Beth Olem Cemetery is ideal for three types of tourists: those who wish to pay their respects to relatives buried at Beth Olem; tourists eager to do some ghost hunting in the middle of a car manufacturing plant; and tourists who want to explore an important part of Detroit history.

What to do here?

Explore the Beth Olem Cemetery. Check out the graves of Detroit’s early Jewish settlers. Check out some of the names on the gravestones, and try to picture what 1800’s Detroit’s Eastern European Jewish community was like.

Best time to visit

The plant only opens its gates to the public twice a year: Sunday before Passover and Rosh Hashanah. So, if you plan on visiting the cemetery, it’s best to plan your itinerary around this trip.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 461 Piquette Ave, the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is a former factory credited with being the birthplace of the legendary Ford Model T—the car that initiated the mass use of automobiles in the United States.

Today, the plant serves as a museum and education center, and hosts a variety of public and private events. It contains over 40 historic automobiles built by Ford Motor Company and other Detroit-area car makers.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is ideal for families, car enthusiasts of all ages, American history and automobile history nerds, and tourists who want to learn about the legendary Ford Model T and how it changed the United States forever.

What to do here?

Take a guided tour through the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant. Learn about the beginning of the United States automotive industry. Check out some of the Ford car models assembled at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, such as the Ford Model T and the Ford Model B. Don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is open Thursday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. The best way to explore the plant is through a guided tour, which is organized once every hour, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly!

Learn more about The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 31005 Orchard Lake Road in Farmington Hills, just under 23 miles north of Detroit via M-10, Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum is a 5,500-square-foot museum.

The museum features a unique collection of vintage coin-operated machines, animatronic dummies, macabre memorabilia, and other oddities.

Amongst the collection is P.T. Barnum’s replica of the Cardiff Giant, and one of Sing Sing Prison’s Electric Chairs, in which 30 people died.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum is a must-visit for families, history nerds, fans of vintage mechanical machines, aspiring inventors, and tourists who are keen on exploring all sorts of oddities.

What to do here?

Spend a day at Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum.

Check out its vintage collection of pinball machines and arcade games. Check out its quirky collection of coin-operated animatronics. Stop by a fortune teller machine, and check out the Sing Sing Prison electric chair!

Best time to visit

Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum is open daily. 10 AM to 9 PM Monday through Thursday, 10 AM to 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11 AM to 9 PM on Sundays. It’s best to visit the museum on weekdays to avoid large crowds!

Learn more about Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at the Dequindre Cut Greenway on Detroit’s east side, the Dequindre Cut is a 2-mile urban recreational path. It offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront, Eastern Market, and several residential neighborhoods in between.

It features a 20-foot-wide paved pathway that includes separate lanes for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. It is also known for featuring an ever-changing array of graffiti art and murals!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Detroit’s Dequindre Cut is ideal for families, hikers, cyclists, and tourists who want to explore some of Detroit’s most vibrant murals. It’s also a great place for tourists who want to take in Detroit and do some people watching!

What to do here?

Hike/bike all 2 miles of Dequindre Cut. Check out the ever-changing array of colorful murals along Dequindre Cut.

Pick a spot along the Dequindre Cut, and observe Detroiters go about their day. Take in the magnificent view of the Downtown Detroit Skyline!

Best time to visit

Dequindre Cut is accessible all year round. The best time to visit the greenway largely depends on your itinerary. That said, as it links to several neighborhoods and Detroit landmarks, it’s ideal to integrate passing through Dequindre Cut on your way to the next stop on your itinerary!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 10400 Ford Road in Dearborn, the Ford Drive In Theatre is a historic drive-in theater. Originally a single-screener when it opened in 1950, the drive-in was acquired by Wayne Amusements in 1981.

By 1990, the drive-in had grown into a 5-screener. Currently, it is the largest surviving drive-in in the United States, and accommodates over 3,000 cars!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Ford Drive In Theatre is a must-visit for families, serious cinephiles and/or casual movie fans, and tourists looking to experience a classic drive-in experience!

What to do here?

Kick back and enjoy a movie or two in the privacy of your own vehicle. Take in that classic drive-in experience with classic movie concessions, like a big bucket of popcorn, some nachos, or a good old-fashioned cheeseburger!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the drive-in largely depends on your itinerary and your movie’s schedule. It’s best to get to the drive-in at least an hour before your movie starts!

Learn more about Ford Drive-In here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 5401 Woodward Ave, the Detroit Historical Museum is a history museum dedicated to the history of the Detroit area.

The museum features a collection containing over 250,000 artifacts representing over 300 years of the Detroit area’s unique history!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Detroit Historical Museum is ideal for families, American history nerds, and tourists keen on learning about Detroit history—from fur trading in the 18th century, to the auto assembly line!

What to do here?

Take a guided tour through the Detroit Historical Museum. Check out the museum’s ever-changing exhibition galleries, some of which highlight local nonprofit organizations, community groups, and educational institutions! Check out the museum’s unique artifacts.

Stop by their Costume and Textile collection, which feature’s men’s hats from 1790 to the present day. Don’t forget to check out the museum’s exhibits on Detroit’s great inventors and the city’s automobile industry!

Best time to visit

The Detroit Historical Museum is open Thursday through Sunday. 10 AM to 5 PM Thursday through Saturday, and 1 PM to 5 PM on Sundays.

It’s best to visit the museum on Thursdays and Fridays to avoid large crowds, as it’s a fairly small museum!

Learn more about Detroit Historical Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2030 Park Ave, Cliff Bell’s is a historic jazz club. It offers award-winning food, a classic selection of cocktails, jazz music, and other live entertainment.

Sporting a lavish art-deco interior, Cliff Bell’s is one of Detroit’s oldest jazz clubs. It’s regarded by most locals as Detroit’s best jazz club.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Cliff Bell’s is a must-visit for musicians and music lovers, and jazz fans of all ages. It is also ideal for tourists just looking to kick back with a nice cocktail, and enjoy a night of live jazz music.

With its small, intimate setting and classy speakeasy atmosphere, it’s also a great place for dates!

What to do here?

Spend a few hours at Cliff Bell’s. Check out some of Detroit’s (and the country’s) best jazz musicians. For the full experience, try some of Cliff Bell’s classic Cliff’s Cocktails, such as The Cliff Bell and their Detroit Dirty.

Craving for something to munch on while listening to jazz music? Cliff Bell’s Creole Shrimp & Grits is particularly good!

Best time to visit

Cliff Bell’s is open Wednesday through Sunday. 5 PM to 11 PM on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. 5 PM to 12 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

There’s really no bad time to visit Cliff Bell’s, but to make sure you get a table, it’s best to make a reservation at least a few days ahead of time!

Learn more about Cliff Bell’s here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6325 W Jefferson Ave, at the foot of Livernois Avenue in the Delray neighborhood, Fort Wayne is a historic fort. It was used by the United States Army between 1841 and 1972.

The fort sits on a 96-acre reservation. Today, the fort is operated by the Detroit Recreation Department, and regularly hosts historic reenactments, spring and fall flea markets, concerts, youth soccer league matches, and other special events!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Detroit’s Fort Wayne is a must-visit for families, and American history nerds. Moreover, it’s ideal for tourists keen on learning about Detroit’s history during the American Civil War, in the Spanish-American War, and even during the Red Scare that followed World War I.

What to do here?

Tour Detroit’s historic Fort Wayne. Watch some of the Civil War reenactments held in the fort’s grounds.

Visit the original 1848 limestone barracks. Check out the renovated star fort and the restored Commanding Officers house. Stop by an ancient Native American burial ground, and check out the Tuskegee Airmen Museum. Don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

Detroit’s Fort Wayne is open on weekends, 10 AM to 4 PM. The best time to visit the fort largely depends on your itinerary. That said, people typically spend a little over two hours here, so make sure you come early if you’re planning to visit!

Learn more about Fort Wayne here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 10125 E Jefferson Ave, Pewabic Pottery is a ceramic studio and non-profit arts organization. A designated National Historic Landmark, Pewabic Pottery was founded in 1903.

Today, the pottery continues to be an active working pottery, architectural tile studio, ceramic arts education center and vibrant cultural destination! They offer classes in ceramics, hold exhibitions, and sell pottery made in house!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Pewabic Pottery is ideal for families, ceramicists, artists and arts enthusiasts, all kinds of creatives and designers, and architects and architecture enthusiasts.

It’s also ideal for tourists who want to learn about the role of Pewabic Pottery in the history of Detroit and the development of ceramic art in the country!

What to do here?

Visit Pewabic Pottery. Check out the pottery’s Tudor revival style architecture. Check out the pottery’s museum, featuring exhibits that focus on Pewabic Pottery’s role in the development of ceramic art within the country.

Check out some of Pewabic Pottery’s architectural tiles, featured in many of the area’s most iconic structures. Take some ceramics classes, and be sure to check out the pottery’s shop!

Best time to visit

Pewabic Pottery is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit the pottery largely depends on your itinerary. That said, as it is one of the best-known attractions in Detroit, it’s best to get there as early as you can!

Learn more about Pewabic Pottery here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 719 Griswold St #180, Dime Store is an iconic brunch restaurant. Dime Store features an all-day brunch menu, and a great selection of craft beer, wine, and classic cocktails.

Since its inception in 2014, Dime Store has consistently been rated as one of the best spots in Detroit for brunch, breakfast, and booze!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Dime Store is a must-visit for families, serious and casual foodies, and hungry tourists of all ages. Offering a hip and airy space with a bright and cheery atmosphere, it’s also a great place for a casual breakfast and/or brunch date!

What to do here?

Try some of Dime Store’s bestsellers. For breakfast, try their hash with housemade sausage or their duck bop. Their cheesesteak benny is a must-try as well.

For lunch, try their grilled salmon sandwich and their fried chicken & biscuit sandwich. Try their bacon, parm, and truffle fries! If you’re looking to get a bit of a buzz on, pair your meal with a Bloody Mary or an Irish Coffee!

Best time to visit

Dime Store is open Thursday through Tuesday, from 8 AM to 3 PM. There’s really no bad time to get brunch, so the best time to stop by Dime Store largely depends on your itinerary.

That said, it tends to get quite packed during peak brunch/lunch hours. Most regulars recommend getting your meal to go.

Learn more about Detroit’s Dime Store here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 588 Jefferson Ct, the Detroit Riverfront is Detroit’s iconic 5.5-mile riverside district. The Detroit Riverfront features a cruise ship passenger terminal and dock, a marina, retail shops, skyscrapers, and a variety of parks.

The Detroit Riverfront also provides a venue for a number of annual events and festivals, such as the Detroit Electronic Music Festival and the Detroit International Jazz Festival. In February 2021, it was voted the best riverwalk in the country!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Detroit Riverfront is ideal for all tourists. There’s literally something for everyone here. As it contains some of Detroit’s best-known landmarks, it provides one of the best ways to explore Detroit. It’s especially ideal for first time tourists!

What to do here?

Walk the length of the Detroit Riverfront. Check out the Ambassador Bridge. Stop by cruise ship passenger terminal at Detroit’s Hart Plaza. Do some people watching at Detroit RiverWalk. Attend some of the festivals held at the Detroit Riverfront.

Best time to visit

The Detroit Riverfront is open all year round. The best time to explore the district largely depends on your itinerary. If you plan on visiting all of Detroit’s famous landmarks, you’re bound to explore the area!

Learn more about Detroit Riverfront here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1136 Lawndale St, Lawndale Market: The People’s Polaroids is a party store turned folk art exhibit. The People’s Polaroids showcases an extensive collection of around 10,000 Polaroid photos of customers.

The store owner, Amad Samaan, started displaying Polaroids of his customers in 1995. Today, these Polaroids cover the walls and ceiling of the entire store!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The People’s Polaroids is a must-visit for photographers, visual artists, and tourists looking to get a glimpse of the many faces that represent the community of Detroit!

What to do here?

Explore The People’s Polaroids. Check out the store’s collection of its customers’ Polaroids. Strike up a conversation with the store owner, and learn about the unique stories behind each Polaroid!

Best time to visit

The store owner of The People’s Polaroids keeps undefined hours, so the best time to visit The People’s Polaroids really depends on your itinerary, and how much time you’re willing to spend waiting for the store to open.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 5201 Woodward Ave, the Detroit Public Library is a historic publicly funded library. With its 23 other branches, it is the second largest library system in Michigan by volumes held, and 21stlargest library system in the country.

The Main Library houses special collections, such as the Burton Historical Collection, and the E. Azalia Hackley Collection.

Designed by architect Cass Gilbert, the Main Library at Woodward Ave is also known for its distinct Italian Renaissance-style architecture.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Detroit Public Library’s Main Library is ideal for families, architects and architecture enthusiasts, avid readers and bibliophiles, and art enthusiasts. It’s also one of the best places for tourists who want to enjoy some quiet time in Detroit.

What to do here?

Explore the Detroit Public Library. Check out its distinct Italian Renaissance-style architecture.

Check out the library’s immense book collection. Visit the Burton Historical Collection room, and check out the ornate chest that Joseph Stalin donated to Ford Motor Company’s Charles Sorenso.

Check out the Frederick Wiley-designed ceilings at the library’s third floor. Check out the painted windows at the library’s Strohm Hall!

Best time to visit

The Detroit Public Library’s Main Library is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 AM to 8 PM. There’s really no bad time to visit the Detroit Public Library, so the best time largely depends on your itinerary.

That said, it’s only a few minutes away from the Detroit Institute of Arts, so it’s ideal to stop by the Main Library before/after a trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts!

Learn more about Detroit Public Library here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 300 River Place Drive, The Rattlesnake Club is a fine dining restaurant. Tucked away on a side street, despite operating since 1988, the restaurant remains somewhat of a local foodies’ secret.

The Rattlesnake Club features a classically inspired menu that uses the best locally grown, seasonally sourced ingredients. It also has one of the city’s most expansive wine lists.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Rattlesnake Club is ideal for families, foodies, and tourists looking for a fine dining experience while taking in breathtaking views of the international skyline and the Detroit River. It’s also one of the best places in Detroit for a romantic date!

What to do here?

Have a nice family dinner at The Rattlesnake Club. For starters, try their Crispy Baby Artichoke and their Crispy Calamari & Rock Shrimp Fry. Next, try their grilled 8 Oz. Nova Salmon Filet, or their 6 Oz. Cab Filet.

Pair your meal with a nice glass of wine, and don’t forget to leave room for dessert. Their White Chocolate Ravioli is particularly good.

Best time to visit

The Rattlesnake Club is open Tuesday through Saturday. 4:30 PM to 9 PM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. 4:30 PM to 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays.

It’s best to make a reservation at least a few days ahead of time to make sure you get a table!

Learn more about The Rattlesnake Club here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 400 Renaissance Center #1404, within Detroit’s GM Renaissance Center, Joe Muer Seafood is Detroit’s premiere seafood restaurant.

The restaurant features a lovely riverfront view, a sushi bar with appetizers, and a menu that includes classic seafood favorites, as well as non-seafood fare. Joe Muer Seafood also features an extensive wine list!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Joe Muer Seafood is a must-visit for families, foodies, seafood fans of all ages, and tourists craving for some of Detroit’s best seafood. With stunning riverfront views, it’s also one of the best places in Detroit for a romantic date!

What to do here?

You really can’t go wrong with anything on Joe Muer Seafood’s menu. Try some of the classic appetizers, such as their Fried Calamari and their Oysters Rockefeller.

For your entrée, try their Dover Sole a La Meuniere, their Whole Roasted Mediterranean Branzino, or their famous 8 Oz. Char-Grilled Filet Mignon and 5 Oz. South African Lobster Tail. For a lighter meal, try some of their sushi rolls.

Best time to visit

Joe Muer Seafood is open daily. 11:30 AM to 10 PM Monday through Thursday, 11:30 AM to 11 PM on Fridays, 4 PM to 11 PM on Saturdays, and 3 PM to 9 PM on Sundays.

To make sure you get a table, it’s best to make a reservation at least a few days ahead of time.

What’s special about this place?

Located within Metro Detroit, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks is a regional parks system composed of 13 (!) parks totaling more than 24,000 acres.

The regional parks system is arranged along the 130-mile-long Huron River, and the 83-mile-long Clinton River.

The park system features over 84 miles of paved trails, and activities within the park system includes fishing, canoeing, picnicking, and swimming. The park system is also home to a wide variety of wildlife.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Huron-Clinton Metroparks system is a must-visit for families, nature lovers, outdoor recreationists, wildlife enthusiasts, hikers, and tourists looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Detroit and explore some of the best outdoor spaces in southeast Michigan!

What to do here?

Explore the Huron-Clinton Metroparks system. Spend a day fishing at Kensington Metropark’s Kent Lake. Check out Indian Springs Metropark’s underwater and pond viewing room.

Go hiking and/or picnicking at Stony Creek Metropark. Learn about the history of waterfowl hunting at Lake Erie Metropark’s Marshlands Museum and Nature Center!

Best time to visit

Parks within the Huron-Clinton Metropark system may have varying hours. That said, the best time to explore the park system largely depends on your itinerary.

If you plan on hiking the park system’s paved trails, it’s best to visit during non-winter months. Winter months are ideal if you plan on doing some ice fishing and cross-county skiing!

Learn more about Huron-Clinton Metroparks here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 315 E Warren Ave, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History, or The Wright, is a museum dedicated to exploring and celebrating the rich cultural legacy of African Americans.

It holds the world’s largest permanent collection of African-American culture. Exhibits include Underground Railroad documents and letters from Malcolm X and Rosa Parks.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History is ideal for families, scholars of African-American history and culture, and tourists keen on learning about the cultural legacy of African Americans.

What to do here?

Explore the Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History. Check out the museum’s And Still We Rise exhibit, featuring a comprehensive look at the history of African-American resilience.

Stop by the Ring of Genealogy, a floor-sized installation made by Hubert Massey. Check out Melba Boyd’s poem, “This Museum Was Once a Dream” inscribe on one of the museum’s walls.

Best time to visit

The Charles H. Wright Museum is open Thursday through Sunday. 9 AM to 4 PM Thursday through Saturday, and 12 PM to 5 PM on Sundays. It’s best to visit on Thursdays and Fridays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1 Fair Lane Drive in Dearborn, Fair Lane is the former estate of Ford Motor Company found Henry Ford and his wife, Clara Ford.

Today, part of the 1,300-acre estate are open to the public as a historical landscape and house museum, and part of the estate grounds are preserved as a university nature study area.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Fair Lane is ideal for families, Ford fans, landscape architecture enthusiasts, aspiring horticulturists, American history nerds, and tourists eager to explore the former residence of one of the world’s greatest industrialists.

What to do here?

Tour Fair Lane. Explore its scenic grounds, and check out its Jens Jensen-designed landmark gardens.

Check out the early electrical plant built by Thomas Edison on the estate grounds. Check out Henry Ford’s limestone house, and don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

As of this writing, the house museum is currently closed for renovation. That said, the estate grounds are open for public tours daily, from 8 AM to 6 PM. It’s best to visit the estate around 8 AM to 10 AM to avoid large crowds!

Learn more about Fair Lane here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 12700 W Seven Mile Road, Motor City Soul Food is an award-winning, no-frills, family-owned-and-operated soul food restaurant.

Considered a Detroit institution by most Detroiters, the restaurant offers classic Southern cooking cafeteria-style. There are no tables, and everything is carryout—that’s how you know it’s legit!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Motor City Soul Food is ideal for foodies and tourists craving for soul food. It’s also ideal for adventurous tourists keen on exploring one of Detroit’s staples and getting to know Detroit’s northwest side.

What to do here?

Try some of Motor City Soul Food’s bestsellers. Try their award-winning Fried Chicken, and try their Smothered and Fried Pork Chops. Pair your meal with classic Southern sides like Okra, Pinto Beans, or some Collard Greens.

Best time to visit

Detroit’s Motor City Soul Food is open Thursday through Sunday, from 11 AM to 9 PM. The restaurant is notorious for having very long lines, so it’s best to get there as early as you can!

What’s special about this place?

Located in northeast Oakland County, just over 27 miles north of Detroit via M-10, Paint Creek Trail is an 8.9-mile rail-trail linear park. The trail is mostly a wooded path that winds along a trout stream.

It features scenic views of ponds, grassy meadows, wetlands, and prairie habitat. While it’s a fairly short trail, wildlife such as muskrats, herons, snapping turtles, and an occasional deer can be sighted on Paint Creek Trail.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Paint Creek Trail is ideal for families, hikers of all levels, joggers, mountain bikers, equestrians, wildlife enthusiasts, and tourist looking for a nice and easy hiking trail that features a variety of wildlife habitat.

What to do here?

Explore Paint Creek Trail. Check out Clinton River, and explore the historic village of Lake Orion at the end of the trail. Have your binoculars ready and try to spot some of the wildlife that thrive in the area.

Best time to visit

Paint Creek Trail is open all year round, from 6 AM to 10 PM. The best time to explore Paint Creek Trail largely depends on your itinerary.

That said, the trail crosses into the Bald Mountain Recreation Area, so tourists usually make the trip here before/after exploring the Bald Mountain Recreation Area.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1011 N University Ave g565 in Ann Arbor, just over 43 miles west of Detroit via I-96 and M-14, the Sindecuse Museum is a museum of the history of dentistry.

One of only a few dentistry museums in the world, its collection features over 15,000 catalogued items related to the history of dental technology and the history of the dental profession. Artifacts date from the 18th century to the present day!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Sindecuse Museum of Dentistry is ideal for families, aspiring dentists, history nerds, and tourists of all ages keen on learning about the history of dentistry and dental technology.

What to do here?

Take a tour through the Sindecuse Museum of Dentistry. Learn all about the lives of Michigan’s dental pioneers!

Check out the museum’s current exhibits. Stop by the museum’s Tooth Fairy Magic exhibit, and learn about childhood tooth loss rituals from around the world.

Check out the Inside the Dental Practice: 1860 – 1940 exhibit, and learn about the ground-breaking advances that revolutionized the world of dentistry and its role in American society.

Best time to visit

The Sindecuse Museum is open on weekdays, 8 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit the museum largely depends on your itinerary.

If you’re coming from Detroit, it’s best to start your trip to Ann Arbor as early as you can so you have ample time to explore the museum!

Learn more about The Sindecuse Museum of Dentistry here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 3600 Heidelberg St, the Heidelberg Project is an outdoor art environment. More importantly, it is a community project with a mission to improve the lives of people and neighborhoods through art.

Initiated by local artist Tyree Guyton, the Heidelberg Project is basically one giant makeover. In true Detroiter fashion, Guyton and community volunteers transformed Heidelberg Street into a massive art environment, with vacant lots becoming “lots of art,” and abandoned houses becoming art sculptures!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Heidelberg Project is a must-visit for families, artists and art enthusiasts. It’s also a must-visit for tourists eager to learn about found object art and how it transformed the Heidelberg community that was slowly deteriorating after Detroit’s infamous 1967 Civil Unrest.

What to do here?

Take a guided tour through the Heidelberg Project. Explore Heidelberg Street, and check out the impressive, ever-changing display of found object art. Strike up a conversation with the project’s founder, Tyree Guyton. Lastly, don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

The Heidelberg Project is open daily, from 8 AM to 7 PM. There’s no bad time to stop by the Heidelberg Project, but it’s best to book a guided tour at least a few days ahead of time!

Learn more about Detroit’s Heidelberg Project here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 3741 Philip St, the Detroit Industrial Gallery is an outdoor sculpture garden. Like the Heidelberg Project, the Detroit Industrial Gallery is a vibrant found object art gallery.

Created by Detroit outsider artist Tim Burke, it is created with parts of salvaged material from 15 Historic Landmark Buildings that have been torn down in Detroit over the last 30 years!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Detroit Industrial Gallery is a must-see for artists and art enthusiasts, and tourists who want to see historic parts of Detroit (literally) made into colorful sculptures!

What to do here?

Stop by artist Tim Burke’s brightly colored house on Philip St. and check out his Detroit Industrial Gallery. Strike up a conversation with Tim, and learn about the history of the materials he used for his creations as you tour his sculpture garden.

Best time to visit

The Detroit Industrial Gallery is open for tours Friday through Sunday, from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit largely depends on your itinerary. It’s a fairly small exhibit, so people typically don’t spend more than an hour here.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1540 Woodward Avenue, Bleu Detroit is a world class 21+ nightclub. While it does feature live music and host events like Latin Night every once in a while, DJs spinning electronica and hip-hop are the standard fare here.

Known for its state-of-the-art sound system and reasonably priced drinks, it’s consistently rated as one of the best nightclubs in Detroit.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Bleu Detroit is ideal for tourists looking to dance and mingle with Detroiters and fellow tourists. It’s a great afterhours destination after a long day of exploring Detroit’s great outdoors!

What to do here?

Dust off your dancing shoes and dance the night away at Bleu Detroit. Check out Detroit’s up-and-coming DJs, and try to strike up a conversation with the local patrons.

It’s really more shouting over each other and pretending to hear each other than an actual conversation, but hey, it’s great fun!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Bleu Detroit largely depends on your itinerary. It’s open Thursday through Saturday, from 10 PM to 2 AM.

As with most nightclubs in major cities, it’s notorious for having long lines, so it’s best to get there as early as you can!

What’s special about this?

Held at Detroit’s Masonic Temple (since 2011), Theatre Bizarre is an annual Halloween masquerade. Well, it’s really more than just a Halloween masquerade. It’s been described by the Miami Foundation as a cultural institution.

It started out as a kinda-secret backyard Halloween party in 2000. Today, Theatre Bizarre occupies 8 floors of Detroit’s Masonic Temple, featuring a variety of local and international displays of music, sideshow, burlesque, and more—each running simultaneously all night long!

Who’ll enjoy this?

Theatre Bizarre is ideal for all tourists looking to attend a wild and artistic Halloween party/experience (note: calling it a “party” might offend some of the regulars).

It’s one of the most exclusive events in Detroit, and one of the best displays of immersive performance art in the country.

What to do here?

Put on your weirdest and wildest Halloween costume. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of Theatre Bizarre. Explore all 8 floors of the Masonic Temple utilized by the event.

Get your drink on at the event’s all-night open bar, and dance the night away at Theatre Bizarre’s Dancehall!

Best time to attend this

As mentioned above, Theatre Bizarre is held every late October. If you plan on attending the event, it’s best to get tickets at least a year ahead of time, and plan your Detroit trip itinerary around this event!

Learn more about Theatre Bizarre here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6559 Grand River Ave, the Dabls Mbad African Bead Museum is a cultural museum and bead store.

Occupying almost an entire city block, the Dabls Mbad African Bead Museum features 18 outdoor installations, an African Bead Gallery, and an African Language Wall!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Dabls Mbad African Bead Museum is ideal for families and scholars of African culture, arts and history.

It’s also ideal tourists looking to educate themselves on African culture, and tourists looking for some high quality, hand-crafted beads from Africa.

What to do here?

Explore the entire MBAD African Bead Museum. Walk through the museum’s vibrant sculpture garden, featuring 18 outdoor installations.

Check out the African Language Wall and the colorful N’kisi House. Check out the African Bead Gallery and Store and get yourself some nice, high quality, hand-crafted African beads!

Best time to visit

The Dabls Mbad African Bead Museum is open Monday through Saturday, from 12 PM to 5 PM. People typically spend 20 minutes to an hour and a half here. It’s best to visit the museum on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about Dabls Mbad African Bead Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2700 Glengary Road in Commerce Charter Township, around 35 miles northwest of Detroit via M-10, the Proud Lake Recreation Area is a 3,030-acre state-managed public park and recreation area.

It features a number of mini-cabins, over 130 campsites, and more than 20 miles of trails that cover a diverse range of wildlife habitats!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Proud Lake Recreation Area is ideal for families, nature lovers, avid hikers, campers, all kinds of outdoor recreationists, and tourists just looking to get away from the busyness of Detroit.

What to do here?

Spend a day exploring the Proud Lake Recreation Area. Hike through some of the area’s trails, and check out some of the wildlife that thrive in the area.

Go boating and fishing along the Huron River. Go camping at one of the area’s campsites, and go swimming at Proud Lake!

Best time to visit

The Proud Lake Recreation Area is open daily, from 8 AM to 10 PM. The best time to explore Proud Lake largely depends on your itinerary.

If you plan on checking out the area’s abundant plant and animal life, it’s best to visit Proud Lake in the spring and summer months. That said, the winter months are perfect for skiing and snowmobiling!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 901 W Lafayette Blvd, John K. King Used & Rare Books is an independent bookstore. It contains a large collection of used and hard to find titles—from juvenile literature books, to rare Chinese manuscripts.

It features 4 above-ground floors open to customers, and an adjacent building containing rarer items available for viewing by appointment only. It’s considered by most Detroiters as a National treasure.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The John K. King Used & Rare Books bookstore is a must-visit for families, avid readers, bibliophiles, and tourists looking for a rare volume of their favorite book (or just a rare volume in general).

It’s especially ideal for collectors of rare and strange books and manuscripts.

What to do here?

Explore all four floors of the John K. King Used & Rare Books bookstore. Browse their collection of rare books, and try to find rare editions of some of your favorite titles. Book an appointment, and check out some of their rarer items on the adjacent building!

Best time to visit

John K. King Used & Rare Books is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. It’s best to visit the store on weekdays, as it tends to get quite packed on Saturdays.

Learn more about John K. King Used & Rare Books here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 4421 Woodward Ave, The Whitney is a historic upscale restaurant and mansion.

Originally constructed as a private residence for a wealthy lumber baron in the 1890s, the mansion was restored in 1986, and operates today as one of Detroit’s grandest restaurants.

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the mansion features 52 rooms, 20 fireplaces, and numerous Tiffany glass windows that have been estimated to be worth more than the house itself!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Whitney is ideal for families, foodies, architecture enthusiasts, and tourists interested in the life of one of Michigan’s wealthiest personalities.

While it’s known for its history and great upscale dining, it’s also known for a number of rumored supernatural occurrences. As such, it’s also a great destination for tourists looking to do some ghost hunting!

What to do here?

Book a reservation, and enjoy upscale American cuisine at The Whitney. Try their famous Beef Wellington, as well as their Faroe Island Salmon. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, try The Whitney’s Mansion Tea Service.

If you’re up for it, book The Whitney’s Paranormal Dinner Tour, and learn about the ghost that haunts the historic mansion (hint: it’s one of the mansion’s former residents).

Best time to visit

The Whitney is open Thursday through Sunday. 5 PM to 10 PM on Thursdays and Fridays. 11 AM to 10 PM on Saturdays, and 4 PM to 8 PM on Sundays.

It’s best to book a table at least a few weeks ahead of time to make sure you’re accommodated.

Learn more about The Whitney here!

What’s special about this place?

Located in the heart of downtown Detroit, between Broadway and Library Street, The BELT is a culturally redefined alley.

It’s an art project curated by the Detroit-based art gallery Library Street Collective. It features works from artists such as Nina Chanel Abney, Carlos Rolón, and Ellen Rutt!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The BELT is a must-visit for artists and art enthusiasts, and all kinds of creatives and designers. While it caters mainly to artsy types, it’s also ideal for tourists who want to immerse themselves in Detroit’s modern art scene.

What to do here?

Explore The BELT. Check out some of the wall art featured in the art district, such as works from Ellen Rutt and Cleon Peterson. Stop by Loiza, Carlos Rolón’s site specific installation with functional sculptures. Don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

The BELT is accessible 24/7, so the best time to explore the art district largely depends on your itinerary.

That said, The BELT is home to Detroit hotspots The Skip and Deluxx Fluxx, so it’s best to explore the alley on your way to said hotspots!

Learn more about The BELT here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2667 W. Vernor Hwy, Detroit’s famous Dome House is a double geodesic dome residence formerly owned by Leo Gillis, the brother of musician Jack White.

The main dome is 45 feet in diameter, while the other dome house is 35 feet in diameter. Together, the domes provide around 4,000 square feet of living space.

The domes are made of steel-reinforced concrete, are said to be among the sturdiest, albeit also among the weirdest, structures in Detroit.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Detroit’s Dome House is ideal for architects and architecture enthusiasts, and tourists keen on exploring weird but perfectly functional modern houses.

What to do here?

Stop by the famous geodesic Dome House near Michigan Central Station. Check out its quirky structure, and take pictures of the giant concrete igloo!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Dome House largely depends on your itinerary. People typically spend no more than a few minutes here.

If you pass by it on the way to your next stop, a quick stop here shouldn’t take much of your time. Unless you’re really into geodesic domes, of course.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 3361 S Lapeer Road in Orion Charter Township, just 39 miles north of Detroit via I-75, the Bald Mountain Recreation Area is a 4,637-acre state park.

It features several picnic areas, a shooting/archery range, large hunting areas, some fishing lakes, rustic cabins for camping, a sandy swimming beach, and over 15 miles of marked hiking and biking trails.

The Bald Mountain Recreation Area is also home to the only recreational facilities designed by Gunnar Birkerts!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Bald Mountain Recreation Area is ideal for families, nature lovers, hikers and bikers of all levels, all kinds of outdoor recreationists, campers, and architecture enthusiasts!

What to do here?

Spend a day picnicking at the Bald Mountain Recreation Area. Go hiking and/or mountain biking at some of the park’s rugged trails.

Go swimming at the park’s Trout Lake, and check out the Gunnar Birkerts-designed Lower Trout Lake Bathhouse Complex and Contact Station. Fire a few rounds at the area’s shooting range!

Best time to visit

The Bald Mountain Recreation Area is open daily, from 8 AM to 10 PM. It’s best to visit the park on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

That said, the best time to visit the parks also depends on your itinerary, as the park has something to offer per season. If you plan on doing some snowmobiling, it’s ideal to visit the park during the winter months!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 800 Woodward Ave in downtown Detroit, Campus Martius Park is an award-winning 1.2-acre urban park.

Nicknamed “Detroit’s Gathering Place”, Campus Martius Park features an urban beach and expansive lawn, and serves as a venue for events like the annual Motown Winter Blast and Christmas tree lighting celebration.

Its 1.2-acre space includes two performance stages, sculptures, public spaces, and a seasonal skating rink!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Campus Martius Park is ideal for families, tourists looking to do some ice skating, and tourist just looking to pass the time and do some people watching.

What to do here?

Spend a day at Campus Martius Park. Attend some of the food and wine festivals and movie nights regularly being held here. Take in the sights and sounds of downtown Detroit. And if you’re visiting during the holidays, go ice skating at the park’s skating rink!

Best time to visit

Campus Martius Park is best-known as a Christmas holiday destination. That said, the best time to visit Campus Martius Park really depends on your itinerary.

The park is voted by USA Today as “Top Public Square”, not “Top Public Square during the holiday season.”

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1900 Atwater St, along a portion of the Detroit Riverfront, the William G. Milliken State Park & Harbor is a 12-hectare public recreation area.

The park is home to a harbor, wetlands, a picnic area, paved trails, and a 52-slip harbor of refuge. The Dequindre Extension connects the park to Dequindre Cut.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The William G. Milliken State Park & Harbor is ideal for families, nature lovers, hikers, bikers, and tourists looking to do some shoreline fishing!

What to do here?

Explore the William G. Milliken State Park & Harbor.

Check out the park’s wetlands, developed to mimic the riverine wetlands that once bordered the Detroit River. Go hiking and/or biking at the park’s paved trails. Spend a day picnicking at the park’s picnic areas, and do some shoreline fishing!

Best time to visit

The William G. Milliken State Park & Harbor is open daily, from 6 AM to 10 PM. It’s best to visit the park on weekdays to avoid large crowds. If you have to visit the park on weekends, though, it’s best to go there before 12 noon!