Top 25 Attractions and Activities in Detroit, Michigan

The city of Detroit might not top everyone’s list of destinations in the United States; in fact, many residents might be surprised by your plans to visit. Indeed, Detroit is navigating significant challenges, including a considerable number of abandoned homes and a notable crime rate.

Nevertheless, if you yearn for a vibrant city full of energy, Detroit is an excellent choice. The city is revitalizing due to the efforts of young entrepreneurs and artists dedicated to transforming neglected buildings into cafés, museums, and various dynamic ventures.

Additionally, those who initially contributed to Detroit’s greatness deserve recognition. The city still houses numerous museums, art galleries, and parks steeped in history that continue to thrive. Do not allow detractors to discourage your visit to Detroit; while not a theme park, it offers a distinct experience that caters to various tastes. For those contemplating a visit, here is our curated list of the best attractions in Detroit to fuel your enthusiasm:

1. Visit the Belle Isle Island

Nestled in the Detroit River, Belle Isle measures approximately 3 miles in length and 1 mile in width. Despite its size, the island offers ample activities for visitors to enjoy. The parklands are picturesque, making it an ideal place for hikers to explore. In addition, the island provides facilities for a variety of sports.

After reveling in the natural beauty, consider visiting the island’s aquarium or the Great Lakes Museum, which displays models and artifacts chronicling the history of commercial shipping on the Great Lakes.

2. See the Detroit Temple

The Detroit Masonic Temple stands as a remarkable structure; it is the largest of its kind in the world and epitomizes fine Gothic architecture within the United States.

Located on Temple Avenue and constructed from exquisite Indiana limestone, the temple features three primary areas to investigate: the ritualistic tower, the Shrine Club, and the auditorium. It currently hosts concerts and various events.

3. Be a bookworm in the Detroit Public Library

Upon its inauguration in 1865, the Detroit Public Library’s collection encompassed merely 5,000 books housed in a single room of the former Capital High School building.

Nearly a century later, in 1921, the library relocated and has since become a source of pride for Detroit and a favored tourist destination.

Home to an immense collection, the main draw is the library’s architecture, which is as captivating inside as it is imposing from the outside. The Detroit Public Library is rightly listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places.

4. Immerse yourself in the history of Fort Wayne

Historic Fort Wayne, established in 1840 and located in West Jefferson, is a site rich with the remnants of the past.

Visitors can explore the historic military barracks, dry moat, and tunnel, as well as the expansive parade ground and the long stone structure that once served as the Commanding Officer’s House. The fort hosts various events throughout the year, particularly during the summer.

5. Get clued up on the city of Detroit

Detroit’s storied past is indispensable to its identity, particularly its pivotal role during America’s industrial era.

The Detroit Historical Museum is ideal for learning about this history and other significant events that shaped the city. Situated on Woodward Avenue, across from the Detroit Institute of Arts, the museum features authentic models of Detroit’s historic railways and streets as well as various exhibitions from different historical periods.

6. Witness the rise of technology in the Henry Ford Museum

While the Henry Ford Museum is not exclusively dedicated to Ford himself, it effectively highlights the technological and industrial innovations of the United States throughout its history.

Among the notable exhibits are the first steam locomotive, crafted by George Stephenson in 1829, the car connected to John F. Kennedy’s assassination, and the first-ever Ford car.

7. Step back in time to visit Greenfield Village

Part of the Henry Ford Museum yet deserving of individual mention, Greenfield Village provides a one-of-a-kind experience and is a must-visit locale in Detroit.

Located near the Henry Ford Museum on Oakwood Boulevard, this open-air museum features nearly 100 historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

These structures originate from various locations across the United States and have been reconstructed in Greenfield, with highlights including Henry Ford’s birthplace and the Wright brothers’ bicycle factory.

8. Learn about African Americans within the city of Detroit

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History narrates the experiences of African Americans in Detroit and throughout Michigan.

With a diverse array of exhibits covering numerous historical periods, one standout feature is the depiction of the Underground Railroad, which provided enslaved individuals a means of escape to Canada.

9. Get arty at Pewabic Pottery

Founded in 1903 by Mary C.P. Stratton and Horace Caulkins, Pewabic Pottery thrived for nearly 60 years before Stratton’s passing in 1961.

Today, it serves as an excellent venue to learn about the history of ceramics in both Detroit and the broader United States, featuring an impressive gallery workshop and opportunities for visitors to create their own pottery pieces.

10. Get funky at the Motown Museum

This compact museum located on West Grand Boulevard is rich with history. Between 1957 and 1972, Motown Records operated here, serving as the studio for numerous legends, including Marvin Gaye, who recorded many iconic hits.

The museum honors the founder and recounts the journey of the Motown genre and the artists who propelled its popularity.

11. Be awestruck by the Renaissance Centre

Among the impressive skyscrapers lining the Detroit riverfront, the Renaissance Centre stands out as the hub of the city.

Visitors can marvel at the seven towering structures, including the 73-story Marriott Hotel, or enjoy various theaters, restaurants, and shops located in this iconic complex.

12. Pop in to Henry and Clara Ford’s former home

The Fords moved to their Fair Lane home in Dearborn around 1915, where they lived together until their respective deaths in 1947 and 1950.

A tour of this estate offers a delightful way to spend a few hours in Detroit, showing off the man-made lake, pony house, hundreds of birdhouses, and the remarkable hydropower station that provided energy for the property. Restoration work is currently underway.

13. Enter a Tiger’s Lair

Comerica Park serves as the home for the Detroit Tigers baseball team. While catching a baseball game is a popular draw, the park offers numerous additional attractions.

It features a baseball history museum, a carousel, and a ferris wheel to engage those who may not be baseball enthusiasts.

14. Appreciate a varied collection of art in the Detroit Institute of Arts

Located on Woodward Boulevard, the Detroit Institute of Arts boasts an extensive and diverse art collection that spans from the earliest human societies to contemporary works.

The permanent exhibits here feature a myriad of artworks from various countries and continents, including Africa, the Americas, and Oceania. Notably, you can find European masterpieces, including pieces by Van Gogh and Picasso. This museum is highly recommended for both art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

15. Go Antique Shopping

Detroit serves as a haven for antique enthusiasts. Whether you are a dedicated dealer or simply enjoy hunting for bargains, the city offers several venues for collectibles and memorabilia.

The Detroit Antique Mall is widely recognized as the premier antique shopping destination, while the Eastern Market also boasts popularity.

These locations cater to diverse tastes, illustrating the adage, “one person’s junk is another’s treasure.”

16. Be a big kid at the Morley Candy Factory

Morley Candy Makers produce the beloved Sanders Candy, and their complimentary factory tour is both entertaining and a tremendous value.

The tour begins with a short film detailing the company’s origins, followed by a journey down a 150-foot Observation Hallway where visitors can observe the candy-making process, from Pecan Torties to Coconut Custers.

There are ample free samples to enjoy before concluding the tour with a visit to the gift shop, which offers candy and ice cream souvenirs, along with additional samples.

17. Watch a movie in the New Centre Park

New Centre Park, located opposite the Fisher Building in Detroit at the corner of West Grand Boulevard and Second Avenue, is open from approximately 8 AM until dusk.

During the summer, it serves as a gathering spot for free film screenings and live music events. The park also features a bar and grill, allowing visitors to refresh without leaving the tranquil park atmosphere.

18. Learn about beads and more

The MBAD African Bead Museum, located on Grand River Avenue in Detroit, features an extensive and captivating collection of African artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, textiles, and beads.

These items span centuries and originate from various fascinating cultures.

A guided tour is highly advisable to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the artworks and cultures on display.

19. Discover the story of Arab Americans

Situated in Dearborn, approximately 8 miles from downtown Detroit, the Arab American National Museum aims to narrate the journey of Arab Americans while emphasizing their contributions to U.S. history.

This unique museum is the only one of its kind in the country, featuring engaging multimedia exhibits that captivate visitors and immerse them in the Arab-American experience. It is open from Wednesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

20. Tour the Automotive Hall of Fame

Detroit’s significant contributions to the automotive industry are well-known, making the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn a must-visit attraction.

The museum chronicles the evolution of the motor vehicle while highlighting the pioneers behind these advancements. Numerous exhibits include interactive displays and artifacts that reflect the rich history of the automotive sector.

21. Attempt to visit the Belle Isle Aquarium

As of this writing, the Belle Isle Aquarium is closed due to budget constraints; however, should it reopen, it would undoubtedly be a highlight for any visit to Detroit.

Located centrally in Downtown Detroit, the aquarium previously operated year-round, showcasing an impressive collection of marine life, including vibrant coral reef fish and electric eels.

If the aquarium remains closed, the exterior of the building alone is picturesque and offers an excellent photographic opportunity.

22. See the animals of the world in one place

While the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak is not closed, it also temporarily accommodates some of the sea creatures from the Belle Isle Aquarium and offers a wonderful outing in Detroit.

The zoo spans 125 acres and replicates various global animal habitats, including unique enclosures such as the Arctic Ring of Life and Great Apes of Harambee.

Consider bringing extra cash, as exploring the vast zoo can be a hunger-inducing affair, and plenty of dining options await.

23. Cruise with Diamond Jack

Head to Downtown Detroit for an enjoyable and affordable river cruise hosted by Diamond Jack.

These sightseeing tours last approximately two hours and are narrated by knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the landmarks you will encounter. The cruises can accommodate large groups, and special events such as weddings are also offered.

This opportunity provides a relaxing way to explore many of Detroit’s prominent landmarks and iconic buildings.

24. Eat a Coney Dog

This iconic Detroit cuisine is an absolute necessity when visiting the city. While you may have eaten plenty of hot dogs elsewhere, Coney Island is the birthplace of this much-loved offering and is renowned for serving some of the best.

Both Lafayette and American Coney Island are seen as top spots for enjoying a Coney Dog. If authenticity matters, American Coney Island is often acknowledged as the very first establishment in the city to serve this delicacy.

25. Eat Greek

With an ever-growing dining scene, Detroit offers numerous options for visitors, yet Greektown deserves special recognition.

The influx of Greek immigrants in the 20th century has resulted in a staggering number of high-quality Greek restaurants. Each eatery offers traditional fare in a lively and authentic ambiance that may easily transport patrons to Greece.