3 Days in Detroit: Motor City’s Best-Kept Secrets

Welcome to Detroit, a city rich with music history, stunning architecture, and a resurging culinary scene. In this guide, we’ll explore the best of what Detroit has to offer over an action-packed three days.

Day 1: Discover Downtown Detroit

Begin your journey in the heart of the city, where art, culture, and history converge. Explore the Detroit Riverwalk for scenic views, then visit the iconic Renaissance Center.

• Morning: Start with a stroll along the Detroit Riverwalk. Enjoy the waterfront’s vibrant atmosphere and historical landmarks.
• Afternoon: Head to the Renaissance Center, home to General Motors. Delve into Detroit’s automotive legacy with a free guided tour.
• Evening: Dine in Greektown, where authentic Greek restaurants line the streets. Don’t miss the chance to try saganaki, a flaming cheese appetizer, at a traditional Greek taverna.

Day 2: Art, Markets, and Music

Delve deeper into Detroit’s cultural offerings with a day filled with art, local markets, and the unforgettable sound of Motown.

• Morning: Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, known for its diverse collection and the Detroit Industry Murals painted by Diego Rivera.
• Afternoon: Explore the Eastern Market, the largest historic public market district in the United States, where you can shop for fresh produce, local art, and unique finds.
• Evening: Cap off the day with a visit to the Motown Museum, where you’ll step into the birthplace of the Motown Sound.

Day 3: History and Innovation

Conclude your Detroit adventure by exploring the city’s rich history and innovative spirit, from the automotive industry to green spaces.

• Morning: Start at the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, where you can immerse yourself in America’s traditions of ingenuity and innovation.
• Afternoon: Visit the Detroit Historical Museum to understand the city’s transformation over the centuries.
• Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of Detroit’s modern American restaurants, offering innovative dishes with local ingredients.

Dining in Detroit: A Culinary Journey

Discover the flavors of Detroit with a culinary journey through the city’s best eateries. From classic American to innovative fusion dishes, Detroit’s food scene is booming.

• Breakfast at Dime Store: Located in the Chrysler House, Dime Store offers American brunch and breakfast dishes made from scratch with a focus on local, high-quality ingredients.
• Lunch at Slows Bar BQ: A must-visit for BBQ lovers, offering a range of mouthwatering smoked meats and comfort sides.
• Dinner at Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails: Enjoy seasonal dishes in an art-filled setting, showcasing the best of Detroit’s farm-to-table cuisine.

Getting Around Detroit: Transportation Tips

Navigating Detroit is easy with a variety of transportation options available. Here’s how you can get around the city efficiently.

• QLine: Detroit’s modern streetcar system, connecting key downtown attractions.
• People Mover: An automated light rail that offers a unique view of the city’s skyline.
• Ride Shares and Bikes: Utilize services like Lyft, Uber, and MoGo bikes for quick trips around town.

Shopping in Detroit: Souvenirs and More

No trip is complete without picking up some souvenirs. Detroit offers unique shopping experiences from vintage finds to artisan goods.

• Check out the Shinola store for beautifully crafted watches and leather goods.
• Browse the Detroit Artists Market for one-of-a-kind pieces by local artists.

Live Entertainment in Detroit: Music and Theater

Experience the vibrant entertainment scene in Detroit with live music, theater, and performances that cater to every taste.

• Fox Theatre: Catch a Broadway show or concert at this historic venue, known for its stunning interior and top-notch acoustics.
• Saint Andrew’s Hall: Enjoy live bands and artists in an intimate setting, perfect for music lovers looking to discover new sounds.
• Detroit Opera House: Experience the grandeur of opera, ballet, and classical music performances in this exquisite theater.

Relaxation and Wellness in Detroit

Unwind and rejuvenate with Detroit’s wellness and spa offerings, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.

• Woodhouse Day Spa: Indulge in a luxury spa experience with massages, facials, and body treatments.
• D.Tour Spa: Discover a unique blend of treatments and services designed for total relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Yoga Studios: Join a yoga class to relax and find inner peace while enjoying views of the city.

Community Events and Festivals in Detroit

Engage with the local community and experience Detroit’s vibrant spirit through festivals and events that celebrate the city’s culture and history.

• Detroit Jazz Festival: Enjoy one of the largest free jazz festivals in the world, showcasing a wide range of jazz talent.
• DLECTRICITY: Witness Detroit’s nighttime festival of art and light that transforms the cityscape into an interactive canvas.
• Eastern Market Flower Day: Participate in this annual event, turning the market into a floral paradise, perfect for garden enthusiasts and families.

Outdoor Adventures in Detroit

Embrace the great outdoors and Detroit’s natural beauty with activities that provide fresh air and stunning views.

• Belle Isle Park: Explore this island park that offers hiking, biking, and beautiful views of the Detroit River.
• Riverwalk and Dequindre Cut: Enjoy walking, biking, or jogging along these scenic routes with art installations and green spaces.
• Fishing and Boating: Experience fishing or boating on the Detroit River for a relaxing day on the water.

Architectural Marvels of Detroit

Discover Detroit’s rich architectural history by visiting its iconic buildings and structures, showcasing a range of styles from Art Deco to contemporary design.

• The Guardian Building: A prime example of Art Deco architecture, known for its colorful terra cotta and intricate designs.
• Fisher Building: Another Art Deco gem, renowned for its stunning marble, mosaics, and painted ceilings.
• Detroit Public Library: Explore the Italian Renaissance-style building, which is a beacon of knowledge and a monument to the city’s history.

Detroit’s Green Spaces

Amidst the urban landscape, Detroit offers serene parks and green spaces where visitors can unwind and reconnect with nature.

• Campus Martius Park: A lively gathering spot in the heart of downtown, featuring seasonal activities and beautiful landscaping.
• Palmer Park: A historic park with walking trails, tennis courts, and the beautiful Log Cabin – a reminder of Detroit’s rural past.
• Rouge Park: Offering a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, and bird watching, Rouge Park is a gateway to nature within the city.

The Artistic Side of Detroit

Experience the vibrant art scene in Detroit that spans from street art and galleries to public installations and museums.

• The Heidelberg Project: An outdoor community art environment, known for its thought-provoking installations created from discarded materials.
• Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD): Explore contemporary art exhibitions that reflect current cultural issues and community engagement.
• Public Murals: Discover Detroit’s rich street art scene with guided tours or on your own to see the city’s walls come alive with creativity.

Detroit’s Historical Gems

Take a journey through time and explore Detroit’s historical landmarks that tell the stories of the city’s past and present.

• Fort Wayne: Delve into Detroit’s military history at this historic star-shaped fort, offering insights into the region’s role in various American conflicts.
• Detroit Historical Museum: Learn about Detroit’s rich history, from its founding to its role in the automotive industry and beyond.
• Elmwood Cemetery: Visit one of Detroit’s oldest continuously operating cemeteries, showcasing beautiful funerary art and architecture.

Nightlife and Entertainment in Detroit

When the sun sets, Detroit comes alive with a diverse array of nightlife and entertainment options, catering to all preferences.

• Jazz Clubs: Immerse yourself in Detroit’s jazz legacy by spending an evening in one of the city’s legendary jazz clubs.
• Comedy Houses: Enjoy a night of laughs and drinks at Detroit’s comedy venues, showcasing both local and national talent.
• Casinos: Try your luck at one of Detroit’s casinos, offering not just gambling but also entertainment, dining, and luxurious accommodations.

Wrapping Up Your Detroit Journey

As your three-day journey comes to an end, reflect on the rich experiences Detroit has offered: from its historic roots to its modern-day renaissance. Detroit’s spirit of resilience and renewal is evident in every corner of the city.