Top 27 Places to See and Things to Do in Detroit, Michigan

People don’t call Detroit the Motor City for nothing. Widely considered the center of America’s automotive industry, it’s here that Henry Ford bore the idea of manufacturing affordable cars. Apart from being an automotive hub and a city with deep history, Detroit is also home to some fantastic art museums, a well-maintained aquarium, trendy markets, and some of America’s best restaurants.

If you are wondering what to do in Detroit before planning your next trip to Michigan’s largest city, we have curated a list of all the important things to do in Detroit.

Detroit Temple

The Detroit Masonic Temple has the distinction of being the largest of its kind in the world and is an authentic experience of Gothic architecture in the United States. Today, the visually impressive Detroit Masonic Temple, , located on Temple Avenue, offers an eclectic range of tourist attractions.

The temple is presently used for hosting concerts, weddings, and other events. A trip to this temple will be the refreshing highlight of your day.

By Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: 500 Temple St, Detroit, MI 48201, United States| Timing: The Box Office is temporarily closed. Please visit for the website https://www.themasonic.com more updates. | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/r8uhNxcSGYmbQawe7 | Phone number: +13138327100

Belle Isle Island

Belle Isle is an exceptional place with beautiful scenery that you should absolutely not miss. You can spend an entire day exploring Belle Isle, spending hours with the family and listening to the sounds of nature. This is a 982-acre island park equipped with various activities. Whether you want to relax on the beach on a sunny day, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or have a picnic with your family, Belle Isle island is flooded with activities and popular attractions.

One of the top things to see in Detroit, this park has a great walking trail, the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, a peaceful botanical garden stretching over 13 acres, with dozens of walking paths and greenhouses to explore.

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Address: Detroit, Michigan, United States | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/M2Fq5GituTMXeVTo8

Historic Fort Wayne

Found in the West Jefferson area, the historic Fort Wayne was established in the year 1840. You can take a tour of this site and immerse yourself in the old military barracks, tunnels, parade ground, and the old structures of the Commanding Officer’s House.

If you visit during the summer, you will find several events and weddings happening in this Fort Wayne. The piece of history behind Fort Wayne is what makes it one of the popular Detroit attractions.

By Dylan L. Tanner, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: 6325 W Jefferson Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48209, United States| Timing: first weekend in May until the last weekend in October, every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 04:00 pm. Please visit https://www.historicfortwaynecoalition.com/ for the latest updates. | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/JdMWJ83NBGJYaf5U9 | Phone number: +13136280796

Enlighten yourself at Detroit Public Library

Listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places, the Detroit Public Library is a popular tourist attraction in the city. The serenity of this place and the kind of wisdom it has offered since 1921 will make your family feel enlightened. If you are wondering about the things to do in Detroit, this place is worth considering.

By Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: 5201 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48202, United States | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 am to 06:00 pm, Sunday, 1:00 pm to 05:00 pm, Monday Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/DV8ax8oteEidfUkB6 | Phone number: +13134811300

The Henry Ford Museum

Wondering what to see in Detroit that reminds you of the invaluable contribution of Henry Ford? The Henry Ford Museum gives you a peek into Detroit’s Automotive, Industrial and technological inventions and achievements throughout history. You will definitely enjoy the famous exhibits about history such as the first steam locomotive, built in 1829 by George Stephenson, the limousine in which John F Kennedy was assassinated, the bus on which Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat, and the first-ever Ford car. You can also learn a lot about Henry Ford in this sprawling museum.

By F. D. Richards, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link

Address: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, Michigan 48124, United States | Timing: Daily 9:30 am to 05:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://g.page/the-henry-ford-museum?share | Phone number: +13139826001

Detroit Historical Museum

Detroit Historical Museum is situated on Woodward Avenue and features accurate models of old Detroit railways, automotive, and streets. If you want to know about the city in-depth, this is the best place. The venue features archives of information on Detroit and has various exhibits from different periods in history.

If that is not enough to keep you entertained, you can participate in the guided tours inside the Museum that are fun and informative.

By Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: Wayne State University, 5401 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48202, United States | Timing: Thursday to Saturday 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Sunday 01:00 pm to 05:00 pm, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday closed. | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/U8NUBsqpvAXSpLZ18 | Phone number: +13138331805

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

The Charles H. Wright Museum in Detroit, houses the world’s biggest African American culture exhibits. The famous 22,000 square-foot interactive display gives the message “And Still We Rise: Our Journey Through African American History and Culture. This is described by the museum as “an interactive multimedia exhibition that illustrates the work of African Americans from pre-Reconstruction through the present day, in the development of the basic principles and values surrounding our current understanding of what it means to have the ‘right to vote.’”

This is certainly one of the best places to visit in Detroit.

By Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Address: 315 E Warren Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States | Timing: Thursday to Saturday 09:00 am to 04:00 pm, Sunday 12:00 pm to 05:00 pm, Monday Tuesday and Wednesday Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/C68osNJic1HR4JW47 | Phone number: +13134945800

Take a Day Trip to Greenfield Village

If you plan a trip to Detroit and want to spend time outdoors, you should definitely consider visiting Greenfield Village! A part of the Henry Ford museum on Oakwood Boulevard, the Greenfield Village is a unique experience that houses almost 100 historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

The buildings within this open-air museum are inspired by the history and events and are then rebuilt here. You can take a free tour of exceptional facilities such as the one where Henry Ford was born, or the celebrated Wright brothers’ bicycle factory.

By Esther Westerveld, CC BY 2.0, Link

Address: Dearborn, Michigan 48124, United States | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/DhfGoVcjxcjhUJjT8

Historical Motown Museum

Hitsville, USA, is the iconic house where legends were made. This museum highlighted the contribution of Motown to the American Music Industry. It has a collection of various kinds of records, awards, and costumes from legends such as Michael Jackson. Once you come here, all your concerns regarding what to do in Detroit will get resolved.

On the tours, you will witness the recording studios where many of the label’s classic hits were produced such as Marvin Gaye, and Stevie Wonder. Whether you’re a music nut or not, watching history come alive at the Motown Museum is spellbinding.

Address: 2648 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, Michigan 48208, United States | Timing: Wednesday to Sunday 10:00 am to 06:00 pm, Monday and Tuesday Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/47aZVMxoLTo16A7S9 | Phone number: +13138752264

Pewabic Pottery

Pewabic Pottery is high on the list of engaging things to do in Detroit city. This was founded in 1903 by Mary CP Stratton and Horace Caulkins, Pewabic. You get some first-hand knowledge about the history of pottery and ceramics of the country here. You can also spend the afternoon as you try your hand at some pot-making at the impressive gallery workshop here at Pewabic Pottery.

Address: 10125 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48214, United States | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Sunday and Monday closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/mGMFYwPdK7fBhgsw6 | Phone number: +13136262000

Explore the historic town of Corktown

Corktown is one of the hippest and crowded neighborhoods in Michigan. A must visit for glorious history, great vintage stores, prized collections by various artists, restaurants, excellent coffee shops like the Astra, and lively cocktail bars like the Sugar House. The Corktown is a famous venue for the legendary Slows BBQ, a Detroit staple justly notorious for its superb baby back ribs. The district is also famous for its nightlife, so why not enjoy an evening here when visiting Detroit.

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Address: Detroit, Michigan, United States | Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/TARzYFN4PX9ZFogv7

Visit the Renaissance Centre aka RenCen

History is not all there is to this amazing city! Although there are many impressive and large skyscrapers lining the river in Detroit, the Renaissance Centre is undoubtedly the city’s skyscraper epicenter.

At the Renaissance Centre, you can simply stand and marvel at the staggering seven towers, one of which is the 73 story Mariott Hotel, or visit one of the many theaters, restaurants, or shops which occupy real estate at this iconic location. A visit to Renaissance Centre is one way to get a hint of how Detroit has grown over the years.

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Address: Detroit, Michigan 48243, United States | Timing: Daily 06:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/gt7V1k79NrxgGvtZ8 | Phone number: +13135673126

Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts has a varied collection of masterpieces and art that includes works by Picasso, Matisse, and Van Gogh.

Justifiably renowned internationally, the Detroit Institute of Arts’ most famous attraction is the ‘Rivera Court,’ an entire room full of exceptional frescoes painted in situ by Mexican artist Diego Rivera. Relaxingly strolling through the Rivera Court for free concerts on a Friday evening should be on your bucket list for things to do in Detroit.

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Address: 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48202, United States | Timing: Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 09:00 am to 04:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Monday and Tuesday closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/U8NUBsqpvAXSpLZ18 | Phone number: +13138337900

Comerica Park

This place is truly a spectacle for those craving a lively and energetic ambiance. One of the top places to visit in Detroit, Comerica Park is a loved destination among locals and tourists alike. There is no experience as exciting as compared to watching the Detroit Tigers play a game of baseball.

For a sports fan, the museum of baseball history will be an intriguing experience here at Comerica Park. If you are visiting with kids, there is also a carousel and Ferris wheel to lure you to Comerica Park if you are not a baseball fan.

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Address: 2100 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/FCHdSDrrYPBYVh4o8 | Phone number: +13139624000

Enjoy Jazz at Cliff Bell’s

This art deco jazz club first opened its doors in 1935 and has restored and retained its 1930’s charm and glamor. One of the best places to see in Detroit, you can just grab a happy hour cocktail at the elegant mahogany bar.

Another excellent way to spend the evening is by making a dinner reservation at this rich mix of unique dining experience and trendy club and enjoying the evening’s live jazz scenario as you check out the superb menu.

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Address: 2030 Park Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48226, United States | Timing: Temporarily closed. Please visit https://cliffbells.com/ for the latest updates. | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ZAtVzf1hE11H8Xnr8 | Phone number: +13139612543

Go bike riding at The RiverWalk

You can go for long walks and bike riding along the beautiful paths of the Dequindre Cut Greenway at the Riverwalk. This two-mile path offers a pedestrian link between the East Riverfront, the Eastern Market, and few residential neighborhoods to those who seek a solitary respite from the clutter.

It is advisable to keep a whole day to spend along the RiverWalk so that you can pack in as much sight-seeing and activities as possible. If not in a mood to visit any of the crowded Detroit attractions and are craving a peaceful time, spend the day lounging here with your family. It is one of the best things to do in Detroit on any weekend!

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Address: Detroit, Michigan, United States | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/Vz1U6GJKhXbesTVE9

Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Feel the spirit of blues to drive away from life’s blues by attending one of the concerts for an evening of passionate music. Detroit Symphony Orchestra, the fourth oldest symphony in the United States, is known for its world-class performances by some of the top artists and visionary maestros throughout the year.

Don’t forget to check out its primary performance venue, Orchestra Hall, at the Max M. Fisher Music Center in Detroit’s Midtown neighborhood.

By Andrew Jameson, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, 3711 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/hFXXpBHBVXwWMgRt8 | Phone number: +13135765111

The Heidelberg Project

The Heidelberg Project is an outdoor art installation project that started when the local artist Tyree Guyton returned to his ancestral home in 1986 and saw the entire area in a dilapidated state. As someone who believed art to be a therapy, The Heidelberg Project expanded to encompass houses, abandoned sidewalks, old trees into one giant installation in the city. A visit to The Heidelberg Project makes for a great day tour In Detroit.

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Address: 3600 Heidelberg St, Detroit, Michigan 48207, United States | Timing: Daily 8:00 am to 07:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/PGeN8H9kviysfqsB8 | Phone number: +13134588414

The Fowling Warehouse

If you are looking for fun things to do in Detroit and in need of a cool place to kick in some alcohol and have a great evening, The Fowling Warehouse is the place for you. It’s a fun bar game that involves tossing a football at bowling pins. According to previous visitors, it’s best practiced with a round of beers at Fowling Warehouse.

Address: 3901 Christopher St, Hamtramck, Michigan 48211, United States | Timing: Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 04:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Saturday 02:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Sunday, 12:00 pm to 06:00 pm, Monday and Tuesday closed | Google Map Location: https://g.page/FowlingWarehouseHamtramck?share | Phone number: +13132641288

Eat a Detroit Style Pizza

The visit to Detroit isn’t complete if you haven’t taken a bite of the famous rectangular, deep-dish pizza loaded with cheese and toppings. Detroit Style Pizza Co. is undoubtedly one of the classiest in the city and is worth a visit.

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Campus Martius Park

The Campus Martius Park is a well-known meeting spot within the city and is often the venue for many events such as music concerts, farmer’s markets, etc. The place bustles with activities throughout the day. This is one of Detroit’s most important pivotal points and one of the best places to hang out for a chilled afternoon: So, whether you are here for a romantic getaway or have the whole family in tow, the park has something special to fit all your needs.

Address: 800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48226, United States | Timing: Daily 06:00 am to 10:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/W6QorgiCW4oC8q7d8 | Phone number: +13135668250

Belle Isle Aquarium

A must-see on any visit to Detroit, Belle Isla Aquarium is Detroit’s truly historic icon and the oldest public aquarium in the US. The Belle Isle Aquarium first opened in the year 1904 in the heart of Downtown Detroit. This decorated aquarium is home to an impressive collection of stunning coral reef fish and electric eels, among other aquatic beings.

Address: 3 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48207, United States | Timing: Temporarily closed due to the pandemic. Please visit https://www.belleisleconservancy.org/belle-isle-aquarium for more updates. | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/FTYRRvwUPjYn7JrZ8 | Phone number: +13134020466

Choose from over a million books at John K. King Used and Rare Books

For all the book hoarders’ fans, the John K. King Used and Rare Books in Detroit is a piece of heaven on earth. Through four-story buildings and over a million second-hand volumes in stock at any given time, several exhibits, and programs, the store houses forgotten tales of vintage authors of diverse gender, race, history, nationality, religion, ideologies, and genres. This visit will certainly give you a magical experience like nothing else.

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Address: 901 W Lafayette Blvd, Detroit, Michigan 48226, United States | Timing: Tuesday to Saturday 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, Sunday and Monday closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/k6gyrGjFRKDNU3zq6 | Phone number: +13139610622

Take a Diamond Jack’s River Tour

Among the unending list of things to do in Detroit, the entertaining riverboat tour along River Detroit must feature in your trip itinerary. Located at the downtown, this affordable and enjoyable river cruise is a 25-year old family-owned and operated riverboat tour business by Diamond Jack. Apart from public sightseeing, these riverboat tours along the Detroit River also host private events and weddings on the cruise.

This is a great way to relax and see many of Detroit’s landmarks and iconic buildings.

Address: 1340 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207, United States | Timing: This is temporarily closed due to the pandemic. Please visit the website https://diamondjack.com for more updates. | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/X5B2ECHCqekjbWJV9 | Phone number: +13138439376

Cass Corridor Neighborhood

Who wouldn’t want to be part of two miles of shopping fun at the bohemian boutiques and trying out new restaurants and coffee shops? That’s Cass Corridor neighborhood for you.

The visit to the Cass neighborhood includes visits to the famous music store owned by Jack White of the White Stripes, Third Man Records, home décor shops like the Nest, and the much-talked watches and bicycles store like the Shinola store. Can there be a more fun and engaging way to spend a holiday!

By Mikerussell at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Address: Detroit, Michigan, United States | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qCJNByaxeoYap8316

Fox Theatre

Wouldn’t it be a wonderful experience to see the largest surviving movie palace of the 1920s? Well, that’s the Fox Theatre for you. Built in 1928, Fox Theatre is a building of great historical significance and is a National Historic Landmark. With more than 5,000 seats and a spectacular interior, this place still is a venue for live events such as musical concerts, theatrical performances by children, and standup comedy. There is nothing more calming than spending an evening along with your family while witnessing brilliant live shows, and Fox theatre offers you just that.

This is certainly one of the must-visit things to do in Detroit, Michigan.

Address: 2211 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan 48201, United States | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/qLqf5vjL8ZXeKF7s6 | Phone number: +13134717000

Eastern Market

Dating back to more than 150 years, Eastern Market remains one of the country’s largest historical markets. Spanning over an area of about 43 acres, it is famous for hosting the largest open-air flowerbed market in the US. Besides the magnificent stores selling jewelry, local craft, food items, the spot is a bustling hub for incredible street artworks and jaw-dropping murals that span entire buildings.

If you happen to visit the Eastern Market in the city on a Saturday, you can engage with the local farmers selling poultry, livestock, and fresh produce. Don’t forget to head to the Russell Street Deli for a delicious breakfast menu that includes fresh hotcakes with toasted pecans and maple syrup, served all day.

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Address: Detroit, Michigan, United States | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/3u9RnSuBU9s3q5mj7

Bustling with life on every nook and corner, Detroit reflects the spirit of a true American city. Detriot has opened doors to new prospects through its revitalization, and these Detroit attractions have defined how a prosperous and growing city should be.