Detroit, the comeback city. Home of the American motor industry, lively and energetic. A hot pot of attractions, trendy cafes, and dive bars. There’s a lot to like about this Michigan city.
For a city that has suffered neglect for so long, you’d hardly know it, as you see the locals buzzing from their caffeine-fuelled meetups. The young have come in and transformed the city. If the street art doesn’t inspire, the cafes and galleries will.
Before we dive into the shiny new best things to do, Detroit doesn’t forget the past. There are museums to explore, parks to grab some fresh air and buildings to admire. By day make sure to explore, and by night enjoy the Detroit music scene. You’ll find time here, is very well spent. So, without further ado, we look at 8 things to do in Detroit, the Motor City.
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Detroit Institute of Arts
Considered among the top 10 museums in the country, you have over 100 galleries to explore from ancient to modern times. Plenty here to keep any art lover happy.
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Belle Isle Park
It’s more than just a park, there’s a zoo, aquarium, museum, and conservatory. Great for a hike or cycle if the weather permits. There are 982 acres to enjoy, so make the most of it.
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Henry Ford Museum
Again, when you visit here, there are three attractions. Places that are full of inspiration and innovation. As well as the Henry Ford Museum, you have Greenfield Village and Ford Rouge Factory Tour.
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Motown Museum
Time for a song and a dance! This museum pays homage to the great and the good of the Motown scene. You’re on sacred ground here as you tour the recording studio where greats like The Temptations and Marvin Gaye recorded. It’ll be a timeless experience.
- Detroit Zoo
One for the children? Go see the animals and learn about what the zoo is doing with regards to conservation. Now where did you see that Red Panda?
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Holocaust Memorial Centre
Although this is a place of poignancy, it’s also a place of celebration. You can learn about the holocaust here through the exhibits and programs available. A dark tourism attraction, but a visit here will live long in the memory.
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Detroit Jazz Festival
Come to Detroit at the right time and, well, let the music flow! See top class jazz, soul and blues over four days and six stages. Detroit has a rich heritage of music and also, the best bit, it’s free! Head to the city in early September to catch it.
- Best of the rest
Ok, so we’re cheating a bit. But Detroit has so much going for it, whittling it down to eight is tough. At Christmas there are winter wonderland treats. There is a list of museums that’ll intrigue, including the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and the Polish Arts Centre. With all that exploring, little wonder you’ll need to sit down for a coffee or three!
Our list is only scratching the surface of possibilities in the comeback city. Detroit offers plenty to inspire and excite. From a city once in neglect, it’s sure turned itself around. Better visit before it becomes too popular!
