Summary of Cheap and Free Activities in Detroit:
Local Museums
Address: 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
Phone: +1 313-833-7900
Twenty-eight museums participate in the Detroit Adventure Pass, allowing access to various attractions. Check in at your local library within seven days of visiting to receive up to four free tickets. While some major museums may not participate, institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts, Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, and Cranbrook Institute of Science do.
Another notable stop is Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum in Farmington Hills, which features eclectic coin-operated exhibits with no admission fee.
Beaches and Parks
Address: 1340 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207, USA
Detroit, known as Michigan’s largest city, is situated along the picturesque Detroit River, connecting Lake Erie to Lake St. Clair.
One prominent attraction is RiverWalk, which offers a scenic pathway for biking, skating, and walking alongside the river bordered by a beautiful greenway.
The area boasts numerous sandy beaches and swimming spots, particularly along the Great Lakes. There are many parks with lush greenery, wooded trails, and playgrounds to enjoy. Most parks in the Metro Detroit area require a vehicle-entry permit.
Public Gardens and Nature Areas
Metro Detroit is home to several scenic parks, nature reserves, and gardens that are free to explore. Whether you want to relax amidst blooming flowers or take a nature hike, there are plenty of options to enjoy.
Small Airplanes
Address: 8550 N Lilley Rd, Canton, MI 48187-2043, USA
Phone: +1 734-459-0012
Local airports like Mettetal Airport in Canton feature picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal with the backdrop of small planes taking off and landing. Kids can even experience a complimentary airplane ride. Inquire at the airport office for more details.
Factory Tours
The Detroit region offers fascinating factory tours, showcasing the production of various items. Notable options include Chelsea Teddy Bear Company, Morley Candy Makers, and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, where visitors can learn about the assembly of the Ford F-150 truck.
Festivals and Fairs
Throughout the year, Metro Detroit hosts a variety of festivals and fairs. While some may have entry fees, numerous events are free to attend. Enjoy activities such as ice festivals in Frankenmuth, holiday parades in downtown Detroit, and local art fairs. Noteworthy free events include GM River Days, Pontiac’s Arts, Beats & Eats, and the Woodward Dream Cruise.
Shopping Malls
The Detroit area is renowned for its excellent shopping malls, offering stunning architecture featuring marble, skylights, and even concert venues—all without any admission fee. Moreover, these malls provide a comfortable escape from Michigan’s often unpredictable weather.
Art & Architecture
Address: 2 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA
Phone: +1 313-224-3270
Stroll through downtown Detroit or explore its suburbs to discover remarkable public art installations and beautiful examples of Art Deco and Italian Renaissance architecture.
Downtown Detroit: Visitors can find famous statues like the Spirit of Detroit, alongside works dedicated to legendary figures like boxer Joe Louis.
The University of Michigan: Known for its educational significance, the campus features notable public art pieces, including The Wave by Maya Lin.
Free Sailing Lessons
Address: 8010 Strawberry Lake Rd, Dexter, MI 48130, USA
The University of Michigan’s Sailing Club provides free sailing lessons on Saturday mornings at Baseline Lake. Aspiring sailors can join for an engaging experience on the water.
Geocaching
Geocaching is an enjoyable outdoor activity that involves using GPS devices to find hidden caches in varying sizes. Finding these treasures in parks, nature areas, and neighborhoods allows participants to discover new scenery while enjoying this exciting adventure.
