Detroit is a resurgent powerhouse of American culture, blending industrial grit with world-class art, architecture, and a soulful culinary scene. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn when the city's parks and riverfront come alive with festivals and outdoor activity.
Top Things to Do in Detroit
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Getting Around Detroit
From the Airport
Rideshare. Uber and Lyft operate extensively at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) and provide the most convenient door-to-door service to downtown, taking about 25-35 minutes. Bus. The SMART FAST Michigan bus (Route 261) offers an affordable public transit option connecting the airport directly to downtown Detroit for a few dollars.
Once You're There
Rideshare. Uber and Lyft are the most reliable ways to navigate between neighborhoods that are not within easy walking distance. Walking. Downtown and Midtown are quite walkable, though you will likely need a car or rideshare to reach attractions like Belle Isle or the Motown Museum. People Mover. The QLine streetcar runs along Woodward Avenue, connecting downtown to Midtown, while the elevated People Mover loop circles the downtown core.
Where to Stay in Detroit
Hotel picks for Detroit are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Detroit
Selden Standard★ 4.7 (2,534)3921 2nd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201, USAThis farm-to-table destination is famous for its creative small plates that highlight the best of Michigan's seasonal produce.
Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails★ 4.7 (1,099)15 E Kirby St Apt D, Detroit, MI 48202, USAThis botanical-inspired restaurant offers a stunning atmosphere and a menu focused on fresh, local ingredients.
Lafayette Coney Island★ 4.6 (5,903)118 W Lafayette Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226, USAYou haven't truly experienced Detroit without a classic chili-topped hot dog from this no-frills, historic diner.
Grey Ghost Detroit★ 4.6 (3,215)47 Watson St, Detroit, MI 48201, USAKnown for its sophisticated cocktail program and high-end steak cuts, it is a staple of the city's modern dining scene.
SheWolf Pastificio & Bar★ 4.6 (1,268)438 Selden St, Detroit, MI 48201, USAThis elegant restaurant crafts exceptional handmade pasta using ancient grains and traditional Italian techniques.
Supino Pizzeria★ 4.5 (799)6519 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, USALocated in Eastern Market, this shop is widely celebrated for its thin-crust, artisan pies that draw massive weekend crowds.
Flowers of Vietnam★ 4.5 (787)4440 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209, USAThis trendy spot in Southwest Detroit reimagines Vietnamese classics with bold, modern flair.
Slows Bar BQ★ 4.4 (5,584)2138 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48216, USALocated in Corktown, this legendary spot is the go-to for slow-smoked brisket and pulled pork that put Detroit BBQ on the map.
Buddy's Pizza★ 4.4 (2,804)Madison Building, 1565 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226, USAAs the birthplace of Detroit-style pizza, this institution is non-negotiable for its crispy, square-cut crust and Wisconsin brick cheese.
Pegasus Taverna★ 4.3 (4,346)558 Monroe St, Detroit, MI 48226, USAA Greektown icon that has been serving saganaki and authentic Mediterranean fare for decades.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Detroit
Downtown Architecture & History
Morning. Start your Detroit adventure in the heart of the city at Campus Martius Park, where the skyline views are unmatched. From there, take a short walk to the Guardian Building, a masterpiece of Art Deco design known as the 'Cathedral of Finance' for its stunning lobby mosaics and vaulted ceilings. Spend about an hour admiring the intricate craftsmanship before heading toward the Detroit Riverwalk. This revitalized promenade offers a peaceful stroll along the water, providing a perfect vantage point to see the Canadian border across the Detroit River. Be sure to arrive at the riverfront by mid-morning to avoid the peak heat and enjoy the morning breeze while you walk toward the Renaissance Center.
Afternoon. After grabbing a quick bite, head to the historic Fox Theatre, a grand movie palace that remains one of the most opulent venues in the country. Take a guided tour if available to see the intricate auditorium details that have been meticulously preserved since the 1920s. Afterward, walk over to the Fisher Building in the New Center district, often called 'Detroit's Largest Art Object' for its spectacular golden interior. Spend your afternoon wandering through the lobby and nearby corridors, soaking in the grandeur of 1930s architecture. It is best to visit on a weekday to see the lobby fully bustling with office activity and light.
Evening. Wind down your first day by exploring the vibrant Greektown district, where the energy is palpable as soon as the sun begins to set. Start with a walk down Monroe Street to admire the neon lights and lively storefronts, then settle into a booth at one of the neighborhood's long-standing taverns. The evening atmosphere here is electric, with plenty of options for a post-dinner drink or a visit to the nearby Hollywood Casino at Greektown. If you have extra time, walk a few blocks over to see the Spirit of Detroit statue illuminated at night, which provides a fantastic photo opportunity without the daytime crowds.
Art, Culture & The Market
Morning. Begin your day at the sprawling Eastern Market, one of the oldest and largest public markets in the United States. If you are visiting on a Saturday, the district is packed with local vendors, musicians, and fresh produce stalls that create an incredible sensory experience. Spend your morning wandering through the colorful murals that decorate the surrounding warehouses, which have become an open-air art gallery for local street artists. Grab a coffee from a nearby roastery and walk the blocks to discover unique hidden gems tucked away in the industrial alleys. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will want to explore every corner of this historic district.
Afternoon. In the afternoon, head to the Detroit Institute of Arts, a world-class museum that houses one of the most significant art collections in the country. You must dedicate at least three hours here to properly appreciate the Diego Rivera Industry Murals, which are a breathtaking tribute to the city's manufacturing history. The museum is massive, so pick up a map at the entrance to ensure you don't miss the European or African American art galleries. After you have had your fill of high culture, take a short drive to the nearby Midtown neighborhood to browse the independent bookstores and boutiques that line Cass Avenue.
Evening. Conclude your day in the bustling Midtown area, which serves as the cultural hub of modern Detroit. Enjoy an evening meal at one of the trendy, chef-driven restaurants that have transformed this neighborhood into a culinary destination. After dinner, check the schedule at the Majestic Theatre or the nearby concert venues for a live show, as Detroit's music scene is legendary for a reason. End the night with a craft cocktail at a local bar, where you can mingle with locals and soak up the creative energy that permeates the area.
Motown & Island Escapes
Morning. Start your final day by diving into the city's musical soul at the Motown Museum, located in the original Hitsville U.S.A. studio. You will get to stand in the exact room where legendary artists like The Supremes and Stevie Wonder recorded their chart-topping hits. It is essential to book your tickets well in advance, as tours sell out quickly and space is limited inside the historic house. After your tour, take a moment to reflect on the immense cultural impact this small house had on the global music scene before grabbing a quick lunch in the nearby area.
Afternoon. Spend your afternoon at Belle Isle Park, a beautiful island park situated in the Detroit River that offers a perfect escape from the city concrete. Visit the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory to see the impressive collection of tropical plants, then head over to the Belle Isle Aquarium, the oldest aquarium in the country. If the weather is nice, rent a bike or simply walk along the shoreline to take in the panoramic views of the downtown skyline. It is a peaceful place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty that sits just minutes away from the urban center.
Evening. For your final evening, head to the Corktown neighborhood, Detroit's oldest district, known for its charming Victorian homes and vibrant restaurant scene. Start with a casual dinner at one of the local BBQ joints or gastropubs that define the area's resurgence. Afterward, take a walk toward the Michigan Central Station, a historic train depot that has been beautifully restored and now serves as a symbol of Detroit's future. It is a stunning sight at night, fully lit and standing as a testament to the city's resilience and architectural ambition.