When you think of Detroit, you might think of its nickname “Motor City.” And you’ll certainly find plenty of things to do in this thriving metro if you’re a car or music enthusiast. That said, vehicle history and music lore are far from the only things the town has to offer. You’ll find a world of things to do, a fabulous food scene, and the convenient Midwest location makes this city the ideal stop on your summer road trip. Here are ten must-see places in Detroit to add to your itinerary.
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1. Historic Fort Wayne
Historic Fort Wayne was technically the third fort built in the city’s early days, but it was the first one constructed by Americans. One previous fort belonged to the French, and the other to the British.
This military station is unique in that it has never seen a shot fired in anger. Rather, it’s become a valuable induction center for U.S. troops. Today, you’ll find a host of events taking place on the grounds, like Colonial Days and Vintage Baseball Day.
2. The Guardian Building
If you are a junkie for all things architecture, your trip isn’t complete without visiting the Guardian Building. This innovative structure completed construction in 1929 and goes by the nickname “the Cathedral of Finance,” thanks to its history as the Union Trust Building.
The architecture is a stunning example of art deco style. You’ll find no shortage of striking murals and mosaics within. You’ll marvel inside and out at the multiple towers and spires. Book a guided tour to learn more about this building’s unique history.
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3. Zombie Scavengers
What better way to explore a new city than by going on a scavenger hunt? Doing so while trying to escape hordes of hungry zombies, that’s what.
To participate in this activity, start by purchasing tickets with Zombie Scavengers. You can take groups of up to ten people, making this fun for the whole family. Then, you’ll have an hour to explore the town as you search for items you’ll need for survival. Along the way, you’ll see some of the city’s best sites and perhaps scope out a local restaurant for one of your meals on the road.
4. Motown Museum
Detroit is Motown’s original home, and no trip to the city is complete without a visit to the Motown Museum dedicated to all things music. They change the exhibits in their main gallery once or twice a year, so it’s worth a repeat trip, too. If you love music, this might just be the favorite of your places in Detroit.
This year, you can celebrate 50 years of Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On?” Are you planning a longer getaway? The center offers several summer camps for the younger crowd.
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5. Greenfield Village
Greenfield Village is home to the Henry Ford Museum, a must-see attraction for vehicle lovers everywhere. However, that’s not the only thing you’ll find to do here.
Edison at Work lets you explore the life and accomplishments of one of history’s most famous inventors. Working Farms brings alive the world of 19th century American agriculture — learn how the nation produces its food. A stroll through this historic district alone is like stepping back into time and the ideal way to burn a few calories.
6. Eastern Market
If you want the freshest foods and the best local restaurants, head to Eastern Market. Their Saturday market day features 225 vendors delighting up to 40,000 visitors a day.
Sundays are the traditional farmer’s market days, where you’ll find no shortage of artisans and jewelers to line your souvenir suitcase. The central market is open most days of the week and offers a variety of meats and cheeses.
7. Comerica Park
Summer vacation is the perfect time to take yourself out to the ball game. What better place to catch a pop fly than at Comerica Park?
Do your little ones have major league baseball dreams? Treat them to Kids Run the Bases after Sunday home games to give them a taste of what it’s like to play on the big field.
8. Belle Isle
If you love Mother Nature, please head to Belle Isle on your Detroit journey. This 982-acre island park is home to the Belle Isle Aquarium, the Belle Isle Nature Center and the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory.
You can book a tour and preview a virtual version of the aquarium before your trip. Best of all, pedestrians and cyclists pay no fee to enter the park.
9. The Renaissance Centre
Are you looking for a place where you can stay or dine during your trip? Head to the General Motors Renaissance Center for luxury accommodations in the heart of the Detroit business district.
You’ll enjoy a comfortable room at the Detroit Marriott. While there, check out GM world for a year-round auto show. Hit the Wintergarden for live music events.
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10. Detroit Riverfront
If you thought Austin, TX had it all, think again. The Detroit Riverfront recently won the distinction of the best riverwalk in the country, according to the USA Today 10 Best Readers Choice Awards Competition.
While here, take in a yoga session in a gorgeous natural setting. Be sure to snap some photos of the Milliken State Park Lighthouse in between taking in the sights.
Hit These 10 Must-See Places in Detroit on Your Trip
The Motor City has so much to offer that it’s the ideal summer vacation destination. Make your itinerary and hit these ten must-see places in Detroit on your trip.
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For More:
- Visit Detroit, official tourism site
- On our site: Visit more of the Midwestern United States!
- Visit Michigan’s tourism site.
-All photos as credited. Cover photo by geniuserp on Pixabay.com.
