Things To Do
in Detroit
Detroit is a revitalizing post-industrial city on the Detroit River known for its outsized cultural legacy — Motown, automotive history, and a thriving arts scene. The downtown, Midtown and Corktown neighborhoods showcase restored architecture, murals, museums and a growing restaurant scene. The riverfront, Belle Isle and greenways provide accessible outdoor spaces and city-to-suburb trails.
While parts of the city still face economic and safety challenges, investment and community-led projects have created many safe, interesting pockets for visitors to explore.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in the heart of Detroit at the Detroit Historical Museum, where you'll dive into the city’s rich heritage. After exploring the exhibits, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Cultural Center Historic District, admiring the stunning architecture of the buildings. Finish your morning with a coffee at a local café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the area.
In the afternoon, head to the Detroit Institute of Arts, home to an impressive collection that includes works from the Renaissance to modern art. After your artistic exploration, grab lunch at a trendy eatery in Midtown, sampling local specialties like Detroit-style pizza. As the day unfolds, consider visiting the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History to learn about the vital contributions of African Americans in Detroit.
As evening falls, make your way to the waterfront at the Detroit Riverwalk for a relaxing stroll along the river. Choose from a variety of dining options nearby, whether you prefer a fine dining experience or casual fare with a local twist. Wrap up your day by catching a live music performance at the historic Fox Theatre, immersing yourself in Detroit's vibrant entertainment scene.
Kick off your day with a visit to The Henry Ford in Dearborn, where you can witness the evolution of American innovation in the automotive industry. Explore the expansive museum, filled with historical vehicles and interactive exhibits that showcase the ingenuity of Detroit's manufacturing prowess. Don't miss the chance to check out the actual bus on which Rosa Parks made her stand for civil rights.
After experiencing the museum, head outside to Greenfield Village, where you can step back in time and see historical buildings and craftspeople recreating life from the past. Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the scenic spots within the village, surrounded by charming landscapes. As you explore, take a ride on the steam-powered locomotive for a unique view of the area.
Return to Detroit and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant known for its local cuisine, perhaps trying out a coney dog or a pasty. After dinner, take a guided tour of the Detroit Auto Show if it's in town, where you can see the latest innovations and concepts from major automotive manufacturers. End your night with a visit to a local bar or brewery, sampling some of Detroit's craft beers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit ride (DDOT/QLINE) | $1.00-$2.00 |
| 🚕Short rideshare/taxi | $10-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $100-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural institutions: museums, music history (Motown) and arts.
- Affordable compared with many major U.S. cities; great value dining and hotels.
- Unique, photogenic urban landscapes and mural/street-art scenes.
- Growing craft brewery and restaurant scene with strong local entrepreneurship.
- Pockets of economic decline and higher crime in some neighborhoods; vigilance required.
- Cold, snowy winters and occasional lake-effect weather can disrupt plans.
- Public transportation is limited compared to other major cities; a car or rideshare is often needed.
- Some attractions are seasonal or have limited hours — planning ahead is important.
Places to Visit in Detroit
Visit one of these nice places.
Island park with skyline views, historic structures, the conservatory and river vistas — great for sunrise/sunset shots and nature-city contrasts.
Iconic art-deco skyscraper with ornate interior tilework and dramatic lobby — a must for architectural photography (public access has rules).
Open-air neighborhood art installation with colorful, unconventional sculptures and murals — bold subject matter for street and urban art photos.
Rail-to-trail greenway lined with large murals and graffiti art leading to the river — good for vibrant urban photography and sunset shots toward downtown.
Classic panoramic views of the skyline at dusk; check border/entry rules if visiting the Canadian vantage points.
Historic small house and museum exterior are evocative and intimate; interior photography may be limited — check policies.
Large murals and colorful market stalls provide lively street photography opportunities, particularly on busy market days.
Food in Detroit
Detroit Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rectangular, thick-crusted, airy interior with a crispy, cheesy edge; try it at Buddy’s, Loui’s or other local pizzerias across the city.
Must-Try!
Hot dog topped with a beef chili sauce, onions and mustard — a Detroit staple best sampled at American Coney Island or Lafayette Coney Island in downtown.
Detroit has excellent Greek and Arab food — try shawarma, falafel and mezze in Greektown and in nearby Dearborn for authentic, affordable options.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest historic public markets in the U.S.; on market days you’ll find local produce, prepared foods, artisanal vendors, and food trucks — perfect for sampling local flavors.
Vibrant neighborhood just southwest of downtown offering tacos, tortas, bakeries and bakeries; a great place for authentic street-food style Mexican dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Detroiters are proud of their city and often friendly; brief, polite conversation and respect for local neighborhoods goes a long way.
Don’t assume every area is a tourist zone — be mindful when photographing private property, ask permission, and avoid wandering into residential blocks without a purpose.
Tipping is expected in most service interactions; treat staff courteously and respect busy times at popular restaurants and markets.
Detroit has strong local identity (sports, music, cars) — respectful curiosity about local culture is usually welcomed.
Safety
Tipping in Detroit
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tipping is 15–20% at full-service restaurants (pre-tax or on the bill). Bartenders typically $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the tab, taxi and rideshare drivers 10–15%, hotel staff $1–5 for bellhop/housekeeping. For exceptional service you may tip more; some restaurants add service charges for large groups.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless/mobile payments (Apple/Google Pay) are common. Carry some cash for small vendors, market stalls or tips; ATMs are readily available but check fees. Many independent businesses prefer or require card/contactless payment since the pandemic.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot and humid (July high 80s–90s °F / 27–34 °C). Expect outdoor festivals, riverfront events, night markets and lively patios; book popular attractions and restaurants in advance.
Crisp, pleasant temperatures with fall foliage in parks and metroparks; ideal for outdoor activities, photography and fewer crowds than summer.
Cold, snowy and windy — temperatures often below freezing with lake-effect snow possible. Some outdoor attractions close or have limited hours; dress warmly and allow extra travel time.
Variable weather: cool to mild with occasional rain and muddy conditions in parks. Renewed outdoor programming starts late spring; bring layers and check event schedules.
Detroit at Night
Hiking in Detroit
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
About 30–45 minutes northwest of Detroit; extensive trails, lakes, boardwalks and picnic areas suitable for hiking, biking and seasonal recreation.
Located northeast of Detroit with wooded trails, wildlife viewing and a reservoir popular for walking and longer hikes.
Greenway and trail system running through several western suburbs; flat, scenic paths used for running, cycling and walking.
Closer to the city, offering forested trails and river views; good local option for shorter hikes and nature escapes.
Urban walking route along the river with landscaped stretches, art installations and continuous paved paths — excellent for strolls, photography and connecting attractions.
Airports
How to reach Detroit by plane.
Primary international airport 20–25 miles west of downtown with extensive domestic and international flights; accessible by taxi, rideshare and airport shuttles (approx. 30–45 minutes by car depending on traffic).
Smaller airport in Ypsilanti used for general aviation and some charter services; limited commercial options and farther from downtown (car required).
Small city airport for general aviation and charter flights located near downtown; not used for major commercial airline service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Detroit has a large and historically significant African American population that has shaped the city’s culture, music, politics and community life.
The Detroit metro area, especially Dearborn, is home to one of the largest Arab-American communities in the U.S., with many Yemeni, Lebanese and other Middle Eastern influences visible in food and commerce.
Recent revitalization has attracted artists, entrepreneurs and young professionals to neighborhoods like Midtown and Corktown, contributing to a growing startup and food scene.
Many multi-generational families and communities remain tied to the automotive and industrial heritage of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The NFL’s Detroit Lions are a major civic focus; game days bring enthusiastic crowds and tailgates to the area around Ford Field.
Tigers baseball at Comerica Park is a summertime tradition with lively downtown atmosphere and family-friendly events.
Pistons (NBA) and Red Wings (NHL) have passionate fanbases; hockey in particular is a cultural staple in Michigan.
Growing interest in soccer and community leagues, with occasional pro and semi-pro matches and a strong youth-sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Detroit.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available at modern restaurants, markets and many ethnic eateries; vegan and vegetarian-specific spots are growing, but always check menus or ask servers for plant-based adaptations.
Many restaurants offer gluten-free options; bakeries and pizza shops may have limited GF choices — ask staff and look for dedicated GF menus at larger establishments.
Dearborn has extensive Halal options and grocery stores; kosher options exist but are less widespread — research or call ahead for certifications.