Top 12 Attractions in Detroit

The Fisher Building

Name and Location: The Fisher Building is an Art Deco skyscraper located at 3011 West Grand Boulevard in the New Center area of Detroit, about three miles north of downtown.

History and Significance: Built by the Fisher brothers in 1928, the Fisher Building is considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the world and often called Detroit’s largest art object due to its intricate decorative designs.

What to Expect: Visitors can view the soaring, lavishly decorated lobbies with marble, gold, and ornate mosaics as well as shop and dine at the retail shops and restaurants now occupying space.

Visitor Information: The Fisher Building offers free self-guided tours. There is metered parking along West Grand Boulevard or paid parking in nearby garages.

The Fisher Building, which was finished in 1928 and is regarded as “Detroit’s largest art object,” is the most recognizable example of Art Deco magnificence in the city. The elaborate 30-story structure, which features opulent architectural embellishments throughout, was created by master architect Albert Kahn to house the headquarters of the luxury car manufacturer Fisher Body.

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As they approach the foyer, which is made of glass and bronze, guests should look up at the magnificent barrel vaulted ceiling, which is topped with elaborate metalwork and mosaics. The etched glass light sconces and other intricate custom fixtures are reminiscent of the era’s sophisticated automobile coach lamps. Car manufacturing iconography is included into the general design through murals, friezes, and columns. The level of beauty and craftsmanship throughout the lofty, opulent interior is as stunning now as it was when it was originally shown.

This iconic site is a must-see for anybody interested in Detroit’s many aesthetics across time periods, thanks to a number of architectural walking tours. Although a theater and a variety of business offices now occupy the rooms, the main lobby’s sophisticated arrangements are open to the public. On New Year’s Eve, when fireworks erupted overhead, the Fisher Building sky bar on the rooftop offers the most breathtaking view.

Detroit RiverWalk

Name and Location: The Detroit RiverWalk is a 3.5 mile recreational waterfront trail route paralleling the Detroit River from the Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle.

History and Significance: The RiverWalk connects key sites along Detroit’s riverfront such as Hart Plaza, the Renaissance Center, Milliken State Park and other destinations while serving as a place for walking, running, biking, fishing, and events.

What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy impressive views of skylines and river activity in Detroit and Windsor while passing by fountains, pavilions, plaques describing Detroit’s history, benches, greenery and sometimes public art installations.

 Visitor Information: The Detroit RiverWalk is open 24 hours a day year-round for free public access.

Significant investment along Detroit’s riverfront in recent years has contributed to the shoreline’s transformation into one of the city’s most popular meeting places. With plans to expand in the upcoming years, the Detroit RiverWalk currently spans three miles east from the river’s edge behind the Renaissance Center to Gabriel Richard Park. As they pass by iconic sites including the outdoor sculpture park, Hart Plaza event grounds, historic buildings, and more, visitors may enjoy views of Canada while walking or riding their bikes along the promenade.

Along the route, a number of connected green areas offer space for urban beaches, fountains, art installations, performance spaces, and well-kept gardens. Throughout the year, special programming offers family activities, food festivals, concerts, and fitness events. While Robert C. Valade Park highlights Detroit’s labor heritage, Mount Elliott Park honors the history of the Underground Railroad.

Along the revitalized waterfront, more development is ongoing on both ends to increase access and facilities. The picturesque, multifunctional RiverWalk already functions as a community backyard for locals and a popular destination for tourists looking to take in Detroit’s natural splendor.

The Renaissance Center

Name and Location: The Renaissance Center, nicknamed the Ren Cen, is a complex of seven connected skyscrapers located along the Detroit River in Downtown Detroit. It is home to the headquarters for General Motors.

History and Significance: Completed in 1981, the Renaissance Center revitalized Detroit’s riverfront. The complex includes offices, shops, restaurants, a hotel, and public spaces. At 727 feet, it is the tallest building in Michigan.

What to Expect: Visitors can dine, shop, take a scenic riverfront stroll, view artwork, and go up to the top of the tallest Ren Cen tower for panoramic city views on clear days. The Wintergarden food court provides a great glimpse of the interior glass-covered atrium architecture.

Visitor Information: The Renaissance Center is open 7 days a week and located downtown right off Jefferson Avenue. A variety of paid parking options are nearby.

The 73-story Renaissance Center, also referred to as the RenCen locally, is the tallest structure in Michigan and a prominent feature of Detroit’s skyline. General Motors’ headquarters are located in a modern glass tower structure that rises from the Detroit River’s banks.

The RenCen welcomes visitors even if they are not employees. Take the elevators to the glass atrium of Wintergarden, which offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Detroit. Go to one of the many shops or eat at a restaurant like Coach Insignia that has a view of the ocean. An indoor pool is one of the facilities available to guests at the Detroit Marriott Hotel.

The well-known complex also acts as the downtown entry point. Take a guided tour at the glass station outside beneath the glistening towers or board the People Mover. The Renaissance Center, a well-known landmark along the riverbank, continues to grow, providing both locals and tourists with new experiences.

Comerica Park and Ford Field Stadiums

Name and Location: Comerica Park and Ford Field are two major league sports stadiums located side-by-side just north of downtown Detroit. Comerica Park houses the Detroit Tigers baseball team while Ford Field is home of the Detroit Lions football team.

History and Significance: Comerica Park opened in 2000 to replace historic Tiger Stadium. Ford Field opened in 2002 as a futuristic domed football stadium replacing the Pontiac Silverdome as the Lions’ home. The two facilities anchor The District Detroit sports and entertainment area.

What to Expect: Fans flock to Comerica Park and Ford Field on game days to cheer on the Tigers and Lions. The stadiums also host concerts and other events. Tours allow visitors to explore areas like locker rooms when games are not happening.

Visitor Information: Parking rates and availability varies per event. Year-round public tours at Ford Field run Fridays-Sundays for $7 per person.

Two fan-friendly stadiums located just a short walk apart downtown offer thrilling professional games for ardent sports fans visiting Detroit. The Detroit Tigers play at Comerica Park, which opened in 2000, while the Detroit Lions play at Ford Field, which is located on Brush Street. The popular venues attract energy and tourists to downtown and foster a sense of community pride.

Comerica Park’s spacious promenades, brick façade, and oddball elements like the enormous tiger sculptures and outfield fountain will please baseball fans. When the Tigers hit a home run, you can feel the excitement of the roars echoing beneath the steel girders. Sights from the outfield, such as the massive scoreboard with the famous tigers on top or views of the nearby historic buildings, are effortlessly incorporated into the ballpark.

In a similar vein, the half-dome roof design of Ford Field reflects increased crowd noise around the streamlined interior of the large NFL venue. For a true Detroit tailgate experience, get some slow-roasted pulled pork from Slow’s BBQ, which is located beyond the northern end zone. Whether you purchase tickets or simply enjoy the atmosphere at a local pub, Detroit sports are an inexpensive, amazing experience thanks to the local craft brews and trendy entertainment that surrounds both stadiums.

Detroit Institute of Music Education

Name and Location: The Detroit Institute of Music Education (DIME) is located at the historic Metropolitan Building at 33 John R St in downtown Detroit.

History and Significance: Founded in 2005, DIME provides contemporary music education including instrument instruction, songwriting, production and music business training. DIME enables students to create, play, and release original music.

What to Expect: Guests can stop by the DIME music store, check out the facilities, sit in on classes, explore the Media Center production suites, attend concerts, or even take a tour to learn more about the music education opportunities available.

Visitor Information: DIME Detroit welcomes visitors Monday-Friday 11am to 5pm. Tours run select Fridays at 4pm and can be booked online in advance.

Those who are passionate in music can visit the amazing Detroit Institute of Music Education (DIME). The creative college, which is housed in a network of six buildings close to Wayne State University, offers hands-on training in cutting-edge music technology to aspiring artists, producers, and industry professionals. Visitors are welcome to drop by and ask about the possibility of attending recording sessions, recitals, and other events at one of Detroit’s most hippest venues for the future generation of artists.

DIME was established in 2013 with an emphasis on providing access to professional resources such as fully furnished recording studios and rehearsal rooms, as well as individualized guided teaching. Students receive ongoing feedback aimed at cultivating well-rounded creative abilities based on needs from the actual world, as opposed to arbitrary grades. The institute frequently organizes public music events, such as artist showcases and workshops examining subjects including concert promotion, artist management, and music production.

DIME offers a friendly center for people who are enthusiastic about music as art or business to interact with Detroit’s vibrant cultural scene.

The Henry Ford

Name and Location: The Henry Ford is a large indoor and outdoor history museum complex located in the Detroit suburb of Dearborn, about 10 miles from downtown Detroit.

History and Significance: Founded in 1929 by auto pioneer Henry Ford, The Henry Ford is a National Historic Landmark that chronicles 300 years of American innovation and ingenuity. It is one of the largest and most extensive history museums in the United States.

What to Expect: Visitors can explore Henry Ford’s historic automobile collection, ride in a Model T, visit Henry Ford’s childhood home and the factory where he first built cars, take in various exhibits about American innovation, and experience nineteenth century life at Greenfield Village. There are also various special events and demonstrations year-round.

Visitor Information: The Henry Ford is open 7 days a week. Tickets are $25 for adults, $23.25 for seniors, and $18.50 for kids. Parking is free.

A fascinating glimpse into the inventions and innovations that influenced America can be found at the Henry Ford history site in Dearborn, which is located just outside of Detroit. There are several museums and historic structures to tour on this expansive campus.

The Henry Ford Museum, which houses the Rosa Parks Bus and the chair that Abraham Lincoln was seated in at the time of his assassination, is the focal point of the exhibit. Visitors can gaze down at the powerful 1948 FELIX B-29 Superfortress Bomber hovering overhead or board the Allegheny, a giant steam locomotive. A terrifyingly personal link to the past is offered by cultural artifacts such as the Kennedy limousine that was in Dallas on the day of the killing.

Greenfield Village, an outdoor historical park on campus, is home to about 100 notable buildings from the late 18th and early 19th century that are associated with the founding and pioneering eras of the United States. You may ride around in a Model T, see a presentation at Thomas Edison’s lab, or explore the workshop where the Wright brothers created the first airplane. For people of all ages, the Henry Ford is incredibly captivating, instructive, and amusing.

Detroit Institute of Arts

Name and Location: The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is an art museum located on Woodward Avenue in midtown Detroit.

History and Significance: The DIA was founded in 1885 and moved to its current Beaux-Arts building in 1927. It houses one of the largest and most significant art collections in the United States with pieces spanning 3000 years of human creativity.

What to Expect: Visitors can explore one of the best art collections in the country with galleries featuring Ancient, African, Asian, Native American, Oceanic, Islamic, and European art. Popular exhibits include the Detroit Industry mural cycle by Diego Rivera.

Visitor Information: General admission is $14 for adults and $9 for youth ages 6-17. The DIA is open Wed-Sun and has free general admission on Wednesdays.

One of the most important art collections in the nation is kept in the majestic Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). Over 65,000 distinct pieces make up the encyclopedic museum’s remarkably varied permanent collection.

At the DIA, European ancient masters like Van Gogh, Matisse, Rembrandt, and Bruegel are enthralling. In addition, the galleries feature collections of African, Asian, and Islamic art, Native American and Mesoamerican art, modern and graphic design displays, contemporary American works, and decorative arts, including early American furniture.

The DIA has ambitious temporary exhibits in addition to its expansive permanent installations, which include themed shows that place various trends in cultural context and retrospectives of significant artists. Visitors are welcome to take in the magnificent architectural elements found throughout the enormous structure, which was constructed in 1927 and is regarded as a magnificent piece of art.

The DIA makes it simple to experience top-notch art with free general admission and affordable parking. As an apparently limitless collection of objects transports you across various centuries, civilizations, and schools of artistic expression, prepare to become lost while exploring the brilliant galleries.

Motown Museum

Name and Location: The Motown Museum is located on West Grand Boulevard in Detroit, Michigan in the house that was first headquarters of Motown Record Corporation.

History and Significance: Founded in 1985, the Motown Museum is the site of Motown Records’ first headquarters and recording studio. Motown and its distinctive Motown sound played an important role in the racial integration of popular music.

What to Expect: Museum exhibits chronicle the story of Motown Record Corporation through photographs, displays, costumes, and personalities. Visitors can see Studio A where early Motown hits were recorded. Guided tours run frequently.

Visitor Information: The Motown Museum is open Tues-Sun. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and youths. Guided tours should be booked in advance online.

A visit to the Motown Museum, often known as “Hitsville U.S.A.”, is a must-do when visiting Detroit. The modest two-story home, where Berry Gordy Jr. established the renowned record label in 1959, became the center of hitmaking for musicians like as Smokey Robinson, The Supremes, The Temptations, and many more.

The small space where celebrities were born and their hit songs were recorded, Studio A, is open for visitors to stand in. The story behind the extraordinary talent developed within these walls are told through costumes, pictures, gold records, and other mementos scattered throughout the house. This charming museum offers an intimate, joyful experience to learn about the workings of the storied record label and get a behind-the-scenes look at how they produced the iconic Motown Sound.

Imagine celebrities like Stevie Wonder, The Miracles, or Marvin Gaye walking down West Grand Boulevard as soon as you step outside. Visit the street sign on the corner where friends and fans affix handwritten notes of gratitude to their favorite hitmakers if you’re feeling particularly generous.

Belle Isle

Name and Location: Belle Isle is a 982-acre island park located on the Detroit River east of downtown Detroit.

History and Significance: Belle Isle opened as a city park in the late 1800s after being purchased by the city of Detroit. It contains beautiful manicured gardens, fountains, historic structures, a conservatory, a beach, and giant slide along with trails, fields, picnic areas, and scenic river views.

What to Expect: Visitors come to Belle Isle for biking, running, hiking, walking, kayaking and general relaxation surrounded by nature while still being in the city. Other attractions include the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, the giant slide, and the James Scott Memorial Fountain.

Visitor Information: Belle Isle is open daily 5am to 10pm. There is a $12 annual fee for a recreation passport to drive onto the island, otherwise access is free.

Just a short distance from downtown Detroit, the 982-acre Belle Isle is a recreational haven on the Detroit River that separates the United States and Canada. The island’s large green space, which includes playgrounds, picnic areas, nature paths, gardens, and more, draws a lot of locals who never have to leave the city.

The magnificent Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is located at its center. The historic greenhouse immerses guests in unique plant life and lush tropical climes. The Detroit Yacht Club, which overlooks the picturesque shore, the former Coast Guard Lighthouse from 1930, and the James Scott Memorial Fountain, which is evocative of famous French designs, are all well-liked.

The municipal golf course, swimming beach, sports courts, and boat launches are all options for those seeking more exciting activities. As freighters glide leisurely across the Detroit River, anglers can try their luck at fishing. across the year, there are more opportunities for enjoyment and amusement thanks to special events hosted at locations across the park.

Just a short distance from the center of downtown, Belle Isle Park offers tourists looking for outdoor adventure something fun to do throughout the year, all while taking in breathtaking views of the Detroit and Windsor skylines.

Greektown

Name and Location: Detroit’s Greektown is a lively restaurant and entertainment district located just northeast of downtown Detroit near the Greektown Casino.

History and Significance: Detroit’s Greektown dates back to the 1890s when Greek immigrants first settled in the neighborhood. By the 1910s it was thriving as Detroit’s prime entertainment district with restaurants, shops, bakeries and nightclubs.

What to Expect: Today Greektown remains an entertainment hotspot with over 50 restaurants to choose from for authentic Greek dishes and pastries. The district comes alive at night with people out clubbing, gambling at the casino, and taking in the electric neon lights.

Visitor Information: Greektown is centered along Monroe Street. Most establishments are open for lunch and close late. Parking is available at the casino garage.

Anchored around Monroe Street and Beaubien in downtown Detroit, Greektown is a bustling area that offers interesting gambling choices, lively restaurants, and busy pubs. Take in the vibrant atmosphere as you stroll through the pedestrian-friendly area that is decorated in traditional Greek style.

During the day, feast on classic Old World dishes like moussaka, dolmades, or spanakopita with sweet baklava for dessert at one of the many fantastic Greek restaurants. Browse the boutiques to purchase artwork, spices, olive oils, and other items to bring home.

Greektown comes alive as the sun sets. Try your luck at table games and slots at the Greektown Hotel’s casino. Or go to one of the well-known nightclubs that serve handmade cocktails late into the evening and have DJs and live music. The neighborhood really does live up to its name, with neon lights everywhere.

Campus Martius

Name and Location: Campus Martius is a public park located in downtown Detroit at the intersection of Woodward Avenue and Michigan Avenue.

History and Significance: Campus Martius originated as a gathering place for early Detroiters in the 1800s. Today the park serves as a central community hub hosting concerts, markets, ice skating, and various events throughout the year.

What to Expect: Visitors relaxing in Campus Martius can grab food from an upscale café, play a game of chess, ride the carousel, cool off by the fountain, or do some shopping as they take in skyline views of downtown.

Visitor Information: Campus Martius is open 24 hours daily. Admission is free. The nearest parking garages charge a fee.

Campus Martius Park has been the heart of downtown Detroit since it was initially established as a public plaza in 1805. Within sight of amazing architecture, the tiny green area tucked away between a number of renovated landmark towers serves as a common area for year-round concerts, events, food festivals, and seasonal activities.

The famous Civil War Monument will be prominently displayed in the middle for visitors to see. Instead of military drills, the beautiful Michigan Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, which was crowned with the bronze image of Michigania at the turn of the century, now overlooks outdoor yoga sessions, lunchtime loungers, and live entertainment.

A number of noteworthy historic structures, including the majestic Wayne County Building, the multicolored Roosevelt Warehouse, and the former Cadillac Tower, surround the area. The 40-story Guardian Building, a 1920s masterpiece known as the “jewel of Detroit,” gleams from a block away with colorful art deco embellishments on every side.

Visit some of Detroit’s greatest rooftop bar restaurants located atop surrounding buildings for expansive views far above it all. Additionally, there is no better place to sit, observe, and appreciate the distinct beauty of Downtown Detroit than on the ground floor.

Eastern Market

Name and Location: Eastern Market is a large historic farmers market district spanning six blocks on Detroit’s east side.

History and Significance: Founded in 1891, it is one of the oldest and largest continuously operating farmers markets in the United States. Eastern Market continues to be important for supporting local food growers and small businesses.

What to Expect: Every Saturday year round, Eastern Market hosts an energetic open air farmers market selling produce, meat, cheese, spice blends, and flowers. Many permanent stores and wholesalers are also open on other days.

Visitor Information: Eastern Market is located between Gratiot Ave, I-75, Adelaide, and Wilkins St. The market area is busiest on Saturday mornings but many shops are open Tuesday-Sunday.

The greatest in cuisine and culture may be found in the well-known Eastern Market district. The district is centered on the historic Eastern Market halls, which have been used as food distribution hubs since 1891. It is lively, walkable, and friendly. Owners of independent bakeries, butcher shops, farms, spice merchants, and other specialty food sellers come together every Saturday for a busy outdoor market that appears to go on forever.

Explore shops outside the main hallways that offer handcrafted items, personalized furniture, distinctive styles, and more. When hunger strikes, choose from dozens of excellent restaurants serving everything from banh mi sandwiches to chicken and waffles to creative small plates. High-quality seasonal and local ingredients that are directly procured from local farmers and producers are the main emphasis of many restaurants.

A satisfying, close-knit community where everyone shares a passion for amazing cuisine is fostered by seasonal events such as flower days, harvest celebrations, and evening markets in addition to the usual weekends at Eastern Market.

 

Conclusion

Beyond the surface-level pornography and the shadow of shuttered factories, a thriving, resilient Detroit now abounds with opportunity, variety, and inventiveness. The deep, engaging character that drives this magnificent American metropolis will be revealed to visitors who examine it more closely. With top-notch museums and a thriving culinary scene, Motor City keeps growing with new attractions all the time. Discovering this famous location allows you to contribute to the narrative that determines its next successful phase. Where will your trek through Detroit lead you?