75 Best Things to do in Detroit!

Detroit is known as the Motor City in Michigan, is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history and innovation. From its rich automotive heritage to its thriving arts scene, Detroit offers visitors a unique blend of cultural experiences and urban charm. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll showcase top attractions and best things to do in Detroit during your visit to Michigan.

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1. Historic Attractions

Detroit Historical Museum

The Detroit Historical Museum gives visitors a simple way to explore the city’s history through hands-on exhibits and easy-to-understand displays. Since opening in 1928, it has helped visitors explore how the city grew and changed over time. One of its most popular exhibits, “Streets of Old Detroit,” lets people walk through recreated city scenes from the 1840s to the early 1900s. Another key exhibit, “America’s Motor City,” focuses on Detroit’s deep connection to the auto industry. The museum also features interactive exhibits and displays that highlight different parts of the city’s culture and history.

Ford House

In Grosse Pointe Shores, Ford House is also called the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, once belonged to Edsel Ford, the son of car maker Henry Ford, and his wife Eleanor. Built in the late 1920s, the house was designed by Albert Kahn, one of Detroit’s most famous architects. The house looks like a group of small English cottages, inspired by the Cotswold style. It sits on 87 acres along Lake St. Clair and has many original items, including old furniture and artwork collected by the Ford family. Inside, visitors can see through rooms filled with wood paneling, stone fireplaces, and art from around the world.

Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum

The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum is the place where the first Model T was built and where the Ford Motor Company began its early growth. Built in 1904, this brick factory is one of the oldest car plants still standing and open for public tours. Inside, yo u can see over 65 early vehicles, including the Model N, Model T, and cars from other makers like Cadillac and Studebaker. The original wood floors and tall windows give it the same look it had when workers built cars by hand. Visitors can take guided tours or walk around on your own to learn how the Model T changed travel and daily life.

Historic Fort Wayne

Covering 96 acres, Historic Fort Wayne is a place where you can learn about the city’s military past and early history. The fort was built in the 1840s and was meant to protect the city, though it never saw battle. Its five-point star shape was designed to hold cannons that could reach across the river. During the Civil War, it was a place where soldiers gathered before heading to war. In World War I and II, it served as a supply center and even held prisoners of war. The site includes old buildings like the 1848 limestone barracks, Commanding Officer’s house, and a guard house from Spanish-American War.

The Guardian Building

Standing tall with 43 floors, The Guardian Building was built in 1929 by architect Wirt C. Rowland. Known for its bright Art Deco style, it stands out with colorful brick, tile, and stone on both the outside and inside. Originally called the Union Trust Building, but the name changed to what we know today. Inside, there’s a large lobby with patterned tile walls, and artwork by Ezra Winter, including murals and a Tiffany-designed clock. The design makes it look like a grand cathedral, which is why many call it the “Cathedral of Finance.” Guided tours teach visitors about its history, design, and use over the years.

Greektown Historic District

The Greektown Historic District is a small area filled with history, food, and culture. Back in the 1830s, German settlers made their homes in what’s now called Greektown. Around early 1900s, Greek families began moving into the area and opened small businesses like cafes, markets, and restaurants. Even after most Greek residents moved to other parts of the city, their businesses stayed and shaped the neighborhood. In the 1960s, local Greek leaders worked with the city to protect the area’s culture. They added lights, fixed up buildings, and started a Greek festival that brought people to visit.

Corktown Historic District

The Corktown Historic District is the oldest neighborhood in Detroit, and got its name from County Cork in Ireland, the place many early Irish settlers came from during the 1840s. These Irish immigrants built homes and started businesses, shaping the area’s early look and feel. Over time, other groups like Germans, Maltese, Mexicans, and people from the American South also moved in, adding to the neighborhood’s mix. The area has many old houses built in different styles, showing how people lived in the 1800s. In 1978, Corktown earned a special place on the National Register of Historic Places.

Michigan Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument

The Michigan Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument was built to honor the 90,000 Michigan soldiers who fought in the Civil War and the nearly 15,000 who died. It was first planned in 1865, shortly after the Civil War came to a close. A group led by Governor Austin Blair raised money from the public, and the monument was designed by Randolph Rogers, a sculptor from Michigan. It was finished and opened to the public in 1872. The monument is made of granite and bronze and stands over 60 feet tall. There are also plaques with images of Civil War leaders like Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant.

Old St. Mary’s Church

The Old St. Mary’s Church is one of the oldest Catholic churches in Detroit, started in 1834 to serve German-speaking Catholics who had moved to the city. The first church was finished in 1841 on land donated by the Beaubien family. As the city grew, a new church was built on the same site in 1884–1885, designed by Peter Dederichs, a German-born architect who was also a member of the parish. The church was built in a Romanesque style and has a large interior that can hold 1,200 people. The church is known for its peaceful space, traditional Catholic services, and devotion to the Virgin Mary.

Fisher Building

The Fisher Building is a tall office tower in Detroit, built in 1928 and designed by Albert Kahn, one of the city’s well-known architects. The building was paid for by the Fisher brothers, who made their money in the car business by selling their company, Fisher Body, to General Motors. It has 30 floors and was made with limestone, granite, and different kinds of marble. It’s often called “Detroit’s largest art object” because of how carefully it was designed. The building is also includes Fisher Theatre, which has over 2,000 seats to hosts Broadway shows and people can take tours to learn about its history.

Greenmead Historical Park

The Greenmead Historical Park is a large outdoor space, where visitors can learn about Michigan’s early farm life. Covers 95 acres and it was once the home of Joshua Simmons, a pioneer who moved to the area in the 1820s. His farm, built in 1841, still stands and includes many buildings like barns, a farmhouse, and a greenhouse. These buildings help show what life was like on a working farm in the 1800s. The park also has a Historical Village with other old buildings that were moved to save them from being torn down. These include homes, a church, and a schoolhouse from the 19th century.

Meadow Brook Hall

The Meadow Brook Hall is a large historic home built between 1926 and 1929, Matilda Dodge Wilson, the widow of auto maker John Dodge, and her second husband, Alfred Wilson, had a large home built that would later become one of the country’s biggest historic houses. The home was designed in Tudor Revival style by architect William Kapp, it includes 110 rooms and stretches across 88,000 square feet. In 1957, the Wilsons gave the house and land to the state to help start what is now Oakland University. Today, visitors can take tours to see the rooms, furniture, and art collected by the family.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Campus Martius Park

The Campus Martius Park is a public space in the center of downtown Detroit, and it was first planned in 1805 after a large fire destroyed much of the city. It covers about 1.2 acres and is known as the city’s point of origin, where Detroit’s street grid begins. In the winter, there’s an ice skating rink that looks like the one at Rockefeller Center in NYC. In the summer, people enjoy the sandy Beach at Campus Martius, where they can relax, listen to music, or play in the sand. The park also has a café, water features, places to relax, and it regularly hosts events like concerts, movie nights, and family programs.

Outdoor Adventure Center

The Outdoor Adventure Center is a hands-on spot where people can learn about nature without leaving the city. The center was turned into an indoor space to explore Michigan’s outdoors in an exciting way. Visitors can walk behind a manmade waterfall, try a snowmobile or bike simulator, and climb a tree canopy. There’s also a big fish tank with Michigan fish, a small airplane you can sit inside, and areas for archery and hiking practice. A model suspension bridge and hunting blind give you a feel of being out in nature. The center offers group programs, summer camps, and events like nature talks.

Kayaking on the Detroit River

Kayaking on the Detroit River is a fun way to see the city from the water. The river flows between Detroit and Windsor in Canada, and offers views of both skylines. The water moves slowly in most areas, which makes it good for beginners and families. One popular place to paddle is around Belle Isle, where you can see nature, birds, and even a lighthouse. You can also explore the canals in the Jefferson Chalmers neighborhood. Local groups like Detroit River Sports offer guided tours and rentals from May through October. Some tours go to Peche Island or along the shoreline of Lake St. Clair and beyond.

Belle Isle State Park

Nearby downtown, Belle Isle State Park sits on an island in the Detroit River and stretches across roughly 985 acres. It’s one of the most visited state parks in the country and offers plenty of outdoor activities for all ages. Visitors can explore the Belle Isle Aquarium, walk through the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, and learn at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. This park gives visitors a place to enjoy the outdoors with a beach, a nature center, walking paths, and plenty of picnic areas. The James Scott Memorial Fountain is a popular spot, especially in warmer months when the water jets are on.

Detroit Riverwalk

The Detroit Riverwalk is a long public path along the Detroit River where people can walk, bike, and enjoy outdoor concerts with the views of Detroit and Windsor. It extends for more than 3 miles, starting from Rosa Parks Boulevard and reaching all the way to the Belle Isle Bridge. One of the main areas is Cullen Plaza, where you’ll find a carousel, playground, and bike rentals from Wheelhouse Detroit. You can also join boat tours with Diamond Jack’s River Tours from there. Another highlight is William G. Milliken State Park, which has a lighthouse, spots for fishing, and places to relax by the water.

Dequindre Cut

The Dequindre Cut is a two miles long path, that used to be part of an old railroad line and now offers a safe, paved trail for walking and biking. It connects the Detroit Riverwalk to Eastern Market, passing through quiet green spaces and colorful street art. The trail sits below street level, which keeps it separate from traffic, and has wide lanes for both bikers and walkers. Along the way, you’ll see murals and graffiti left from its past, giving the path a unique look. There are several ramps that lead in and out, including at Atwater, Lafayette, and Mack, making it easy to join the path from different spots.

Golfing Courses

In Detroit, one of the most well-known is the Detroit Golf Club, a private club with two 18-hole courses designed by Donald Ross. It hosts the Rocket Mortgage Classic, a PGA Tour event held each summer. For public options, Chandler Park Golf Course has 18-hole course with flat fairways and a par-71 layout, good for casual players and group outings. Rouge Park Golf Course offers a full-length par-72 layout with slopes and fairways, giving golfers a scenic space to play. The Rackham Golf Course was designed by Donald Ross, and has different kinds of holes that offer variety for all skill levels.

Eliza Howell Park

Stretches across 250 acres, Eliza Howell Park is the city’s fourth-largest park and has a mix of open fields, wooded areas, and trails, with the Rouge River running through it. There’s a 1.5 mile nature trail that includes crushed limestone paths, a boardwalk over a pond, and a bridge across the river. These paths are good for walking, jogging, and spotting birds and other wildlife. The park is also home to a natural art sculpture made from sticks and branches, created by artist Patrick Dougherty. Special events and nature walks are held here to bring people together and talk about the park’s future.

Rouge Park

Stretching over 1,184 acres, Rouge Park is the largest city park created in 1925 and has a mix of open fields, forests, and trails. The Rouge River runs through the park, and there are over 4 miles of riverfront. People come here to walk, bike, fish, and enjoy nature. The park has 6 miles of paved paths and many unpaved trails for hiking and mountain biking. Inside the park, visitors will find D-Town Farm, which takes up 7 acres and grows fresh produce while also hosting events for residents. There’s also a horse barn run by the Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Center, which teaches kids about riding horses.

Flight Tours over Detroit

For those looking to explore Detroit from a new point of view, aerial tours offer a chance to enjoy views of the skyline, key landmarks, and neighborhoods from above. MyFlight Tours is based at Detroit City Airport and has several ride options, from short 10 miles trips to longer 70 miles flights. Some tours fly over places like Belle Isle, Ford Field, the Ambassador Bridge, and the Renaissance Center. Max Flight, based at Grosse Ile Airport, also offers tours over downtown, the Detroit River, and nearby neighborhoods. They have sunset flights and even photo flights over places like Ann Arbor and Lake Erie.

Gabriel Richard Park

Covering 19 acres, Gabriel Richard Park is a part of the larger Detroit Riverwalk, offering visitors a nice place to walk, relax, or enjoy the river view. The park has paved trails for walking and peaceful places to relax over the water, making it a nice stop for a relaxing walk. There’s a small pavilion and plaza that often serve as gathering spots. The butterfly garden adds color and attracts pollinators, while a labyrinth nearby gives visitors a quiet place to reflect. A birding station with four mounted scopes helps people spot birds along the river, and fishing platforms along the river make it easy to cast a line.

Maheras-Gentry Park

The Maheras-Gentry Park is a 53 acres of riverfront park on Detroit’s east side, offering green space, sports areas, and spots for families to gather. The park features baseball fields, basketball courts, a kids’ playground, and covered picnic shelters where groups can relax. A small lagoon connects to the Detroit River, forming an island that people can walk around. The park is also the starting point of the Conner Creek Greenway, a path for walking and biking that connects to neighborhoods and other parks. Local events and sports games are often held here, bringing together neighbors and visitors.

River Bends Park

Covering more than 850 acres, River Bends Park is a big public park split into two parts, connected by a bridge that makes walking and biking easy between both sides. Visitors find plenty of picnic areas, and several walking trails that go on for miles. Along the trails, signs help point out the path where the Clinton-Kalamazoo Canal used to be, giving a bit of history to your walk. The west side has the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, plus an archery and trap range, sledding hill, and a RC-Car track. There are paved and dirt trails for hiking and biking, including areas for volleyball and picnic shelters.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation was started by Henry Ford in 1929 to show how American ideas and inventions have shaped the country. Covering 12 acres, the museum holds many important items from the past, like the chair Abraham Lincoln was sitting in the night he was shot, the actual bus where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat, and the car President John F. Kennedy used. Visitors can also see early airplanes, farm tools, and cars that changed how people live and work. One special exhibit is the Dymaxion House, a round metal home designed to be easy to build and live in.

Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)

Opened in 1885, Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is a large art museum in Midtown Detroit, holding over 100 galleries filled with art from around the world. Its collection includes more than 65,000 pieces, from ancient Egyptian items to modern paintings. One of the most famous parts of the museum is the Detroit Industry Murals by Diego Rivera, which show scenes of factory work and city life. The building itself is big, covering about 658,000 square feet, and was updated in 2007 to add more space. The DIA is known for being one of the top art museums and was even voted the best art museum in the U.S.

Greenfield Village

The Greenfield Village is a large outdoor museum, spread across more than 80 acres and designed to show how people lived and worked in earlier times. The museum is one part of The Henry Ford collection and offers visitors seven different areas to explore, such as Edison’s workshop, Liberty Craftworks, and hands-on farming experiences. Visitors can ride in a real Model T, take a steam train ride, and explore places like Thomas Edison’s lab and the Wright brothers’ bike shop. Craftspeople work on-site making glass, pottery, and more, using old methods that help bring history to life.

The village features old buildings moved from across the country, such as homes, workshops, and schools, all arranged to show daily life from the past. There are four working farms with animals and gardens that show how food was grown and tools were used. You can walk through cobblestone streets and watch live demonstrations throughout the day. Greenfield Village also hosts seasonal events like Holiday Nights with lights and music. Visitors of all ages enjoy learning by seeing, riding, and touching history in action.

Motown Museum

The Motown Museum is located inside the small house called Hitsville U.S.A., where Motown Records first began in 1959. This house was once home to Berry Gordy and the studio where he recorded music that became known around the world. It later became a museum in 1985, founded by his sister Esther Gordy Edwards to keep the Motown story alive. Visitors can explore Studio A, where famous artists like The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and The Temptations recorded their biggest songs. It features old photographs, stage outfits, and music equipment, that show how the label started and grew.

Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit

Opened in 2006, Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) is housed in a former car dealership and was left mostly unfinished to give it a raw feel that fits with the type of modern art it shows. Instead of keeping a permanent collection, MOCAD focuses on changing exhibits that bring in fresh ideas and new works from artists around the world. One of its early exhibits was called “Meditations in an Emergency.” Artists such as Kara Walker and Mike Kelley have had work shown there. The museum hosts events such as movie nights, guest talks, live music, and fun programs made for visitors.

Ford Rouge Factory Tour

The Ford Rouge Factory Tour gives visitors a close look at how trucks are made and how car manufacturing has changed over time. The tour is part of The Henry Ford and takes place at the Dearborn Truck Plant, where the Ford F-150 is built. It includes five main parts — the Legacy Theater, which shares the history of Ford and the Rouge Complex; the Manufacturing Innovation Theater, which uses lights and sound to show how vehicles are made today.

The Observation Deck, where you can see the factory’s living roof; the Plant Walkway, which lets you look down on the assembly line; and the Legacy Gallery, which displays past and present Ford vehicles, including electric models. The tour also has a seasonal outdoor area called the Living Lab that shows how the factory uses nature to manage water and air.

Cranbrook Art Museum

In Bloomfield Hills, Cranbrook Art Museum is a part of the Cranbrook Educational Community and highlights contemporary and modern styles in art, architecture, and design. Visitors can see art by well-known names like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Charles and Ray Eames, along with newer artists. The museum building sits on a historic campus that includes gardens, fountains, and other cultural sites. It also hosts events like talks, workshops, and family programs throughout the year. It works closely with the Cranbrook Academy of Art, which is a graduate school for artists and designers.

Dossin Great Lakes Museum

Opened in 1961, Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle tells stories about the shipping industry and boating history around the Great Lakes. It covers 16,000 square feet and includes exhibits that show how Detroit played a key role in maritime trade. One of the key display is the large anchor from the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, a ship that tragically sank in 1975. Visitors can step into the pilot house from the SS William Clay Ford to see how crews guided large freighters. Another highlight is the smoking lounge from the SS City of Detroit III, which gives a glimpse into life aboard old passenger steamers.

Charles H. Wright Museum of American History

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History was started in 1965 by Dr. Charles H. Wright, a Detroit doctor who wanted to protect African American history. It’s now one of the biggest museums focused on African American culture, with more than 35,000 items in its collection. The main exhibit, called “And Still We Rise,” takes visitors through many chapters of African American history, starting in Africa and continuing to today. It has items that once belonged to Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, and other key figures. It hosts events, like the African World Festival, family programs, and art shows.

The Zekelman Holocaust Center

The Zekelman Holocaust Center spans 55,000 square feet and offers a variety of displays, a memorial flame, reading room, and a peaceful space for thought. It shares the real stories of survivors and victims using videos, personal items, documents, and photos. A powerful part of the visit is seeing a real boxcar that was used to move people during the Holocaust. The center has an exhibit called “Portraits of Honor,” which tells the stories of survivors who later lived in Michigan. The center offers guided tours, and school trips, to help people understand the dangers of hate and importance of respect.

Roush Automotive Collection

The Roush Automotive Collection showcases vintage model vehicles, a wide range of race cars, and parts that highlight the story of Roush Enterprises and its impact on the auto world. The museum has over 110 cars, including NASCAR race cars, prototypes, and special builds that highlight Roush’s work in design, engineering, and motorsports. Visitors can also see trophies, tools, photos, and other personal items from more than 40 years of Roush Racing. There are interactive displays that explain how different car parts are made and how Roush has helped improve engines and safety in racing.

Stahls Motors and Music Experience

The Stahls Motors and Music Experience brings together a large display of classic cars and rare music machines under one roof. The museum was created by Ted Stahl and is open to visitors on Tuesday afternoons and the first Saturday of most months, except in July. Inside, guests can see vintage cars, early race cars, and special models that show how vehicles have changed over time. Alongside the cars are old music machines like dance organs and a Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre organ that still plays during visits. The space also includes vintage gas pumps, neon signs, and other auto-related items.

Michigan Central

The Michigan Central is a historic train station in Detroit that first opened in 1913 and served as a busy transportation hub before closing in 1988. After many years of being unused, it has been fully restored as part of a major project led by Ford Motor Company. The station is now at the heart of a 30 acres campus focused on learning, technology, and history. Inside, visitors can explore restored areas like the old ticket lobby and grand waiting room, along with new areas for events and dining. Guided tours last about 90 minutes, showing parts of the station that were not open to the public before.

Monument to Joe Louis “The Fist”

The Monument to Joe Louis, known as “The Fist,” is a large sculpture created by artist Robert Graham in 1986 to honor Joe Louis, a world-famous boxer from Detroit. The sculpture shows a 24 foot-long bronze arm with a clenched fist, weighing around 8,000 pounds. It reaches out in the direction of Canada, stands as a tribute to Joe Louis — not just for his strength in the boxing ring, but also for what he stood for in the fight for civil rights. Joe Louis became a hero during the 1930s and 1940s, not just for his boxing titles but for standing up against racism at a time when many people had few rights.

Russell Industrial Center | Exhibition Center

The Russell Industrial Center is a large space where artists, makers, and small businesses come together to work and share their ideas. Originally a factory complex, and today it has been turned into a creative hub with studios, workshops, and event spaces. One part of the center is the Expo Center, which is used for art shows, music events, and other public gatherings. This space is about 36,000 square feet and artists or small business owners can rent spaces from small studios to large work areas. The center is known for hosting art walks, live music, and even film shoots, including one by Eminem.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Detroit Zoo

Stretches across 125 acres, Detroit Zoo is filled with natural-looking spaces for animals to live in. It is home to more than 2,000 animals from over 200 species, including polar bears, giraffes, and tigers. The zoo was one of the first in the country to remove bars from animal enclosures, giving animals more freedom and comfort. One of the favorites for visitors is the Polk Penguin Conservation Center, where people can walk through a large indoor space and watch penguins swim and play up close. There is also a butterfly garden, a 4D theater with short films, and a train that travels around the zoo.

Michigan Science Center

The Michigan Science Center offers hands-on experiences that help visitors learn about science, technology, engineering, and math. It features more than 220 interactive exhibits across topics like space, health, and motion, as well as live science shows and short films. The center has five different theaters, such as the IMAX Dome, the Planetarium, and a 4D theater that combines lights, sound, and motion. There’s a STEM Playground where kids can build, test, and explore simple ideas through play. It also hosts camps, workshops, field trips, and family events to support learning outside the classroom.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan

The LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan has lots of activities built around LEGO play, including MINILAND, where visitors can see Detroit landmarks made from LEGO bricks. In Kingdom Quest, children ride through a themed area and use toy blasters to hit targets and collect points. The other ride, Merlin’s Apprentice, lets kids pedal to lift their seats higher into the air, giving them a feeling of flying as they move in a circle. Kids can build and race LEGO cars, join building sessions with master builders, and explore themed areas like the LEGO Racers zone and DUPLO Farm for younger children.

SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium

The SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium is the largest aquarium in the state and has more than 2,000 sea creatures from over 250 species. Visitors can walk through a 180-degree underwater tunnel and see sharks, rays, and fish swimming all around. One of the most loved areas is the Interactive Touchpool, where visitors can gently touch sea stars, crabs, and other small creatures. It also has a 120,000 gallon ocean tank and themed zones that show life in Michigan’s lakes and rivers, coral reefs, and shipwrecks. Families can enjoy events like behind-the-scenes tours that explain how the animals are cared for.

LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium

The LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium is a 30,000 square-foot indoor animal center in Utica, that brings together sea life and reptiles in one space. Visitors can see colorful fish, stingrays, sharks, and coral reef creatures in bright tanks, along with touch pools where guests can gently interact with some marine animals. The Reptarium section features reptiles like snakes, lizards, tortoises, and even rare animals such as a two-headed snake, and many can be held with help from the staff. Visitors can also participate in private animal encounters or attend special events hosted throughout the year.

Cranbrook Institute of Science

The Cranbrook Institute of Science is a hands-on science and natural history museum, where visitors can explore topics like space, fossils, geology, animals, and Earth’s history. One of the museum’s highlights is a full-size cast of a Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton, along with real meteorites and fossils that guests can see and touch. It also features the Acheson Planetarium, which shows films about stars and planets, and the Cranbrook Observatory, which is open for stargazing on select nights. The museum also hosts family programs, school field trips, and science-themed events throughout the year.

TreeRunner Adventure Park & Putt Forest

The TreeRunner Adventure Park & Putt Forest is an outdoor activity park that offers a mix of adventure and family fun in a wooded setting. It has over 250 climbing obstacles, 47 zip lines, and 15 trails with different levels of difficulty, so visitors can take part. There’s a Junior Park with easier courses for children to safely enjoy. Before starting, guests receive safety gear and a short training session, with staff nearby to offer help throughout. The Putt Forest is a 18-hole mini golf course designed with natural materials, and it includes gem mining, where kids can search for stones in a flowing water station.

Midway Sports & Entertainment

The Midway Sports & Entertainment is a family-friendly outdoor park with go-karts, mini golf, a golf driving range, batting cages, bumper cars, and more. Visitors can also try rock climbing, the Spin Zone ride, Euro Bungy, and the Bungy Dome, making it a good spot for kids and adults to have fun together. The park has been around for over 70 years and still offers simple, active fun in a casual setting. Visitors use a Midway Fun Card to play games, enjoy rides, and buy snacks without carrying cash. There are group packages for birthdays, schools trips, and work outings that include food and activities.

Zap Zone

The Zap Zone is an indoor play center with several locations near Detroit, including Taylor, Canton, Farmington, and Waterford, where families and friends can enjoy a mix of fun games and rides together. One of the main attractions is laser tag, where players wear special gear and try to tag each other with lasers in a dark arena filled with lights and music. Most locations also have bumper cars, go-karts, mini golf, and arcade games with points and prizes. Some places also have activities like axe throwing, climbing areas, and roller skating, giving families with kids something active and exciting to do.

Red Oaks Waterpark

The Red Oaks Waterpark is a favorite summer destination for families looking to cool off and have fun outdoors. It features a wave-action pool, a triple-flume waterslide, and a heated River Ride that gently carries guests along a winding path. Children can enjoy the Splash Pad, which has over 50 playful water features, including spray areas, small slides, and a large tipping bucket. The park includes picnic areas, restrooms with changing rooms, and lockers for storing personal items. Red Oaks also has shaded spots to relax or eat between activities, and there are food and drink stands on-site for snacks.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

The Sky Zone Trampoline Park has several locations near Detroit, including Taylor, Canton, Commerce Township, and Shelby Township, where families and groups can enjoy indoor fun all year. Each location has a large area filled with connected trampolines where guests can jump, flip, and bounce safely. Popular activities include freestyle jump zones, dodgeball on trampolines, foam pits, and climbing walls. Some parks also have ninja warrior-style courses, zip lines, and obstacle areas for more active play. Children can enjoy arcades, and special times like Little Leapers, which are set aside for them.

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park

The Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park has many activities like wall-to-wall trampolines, climbing walls, ropes courses, and bumper cars. One of the popular features is the Sky Rider, a zip line-style ride that lets guests glide above the park. There are also ninja-style obstacle courses, a tubes playground for younger kids, and a warrior course for those who like a challenge. Some locations include go-karts, virtual reality games, and a Spin Zone with bumper cars that twist and turn. The park has private events, birthday party packages with food, private rooms, and a host to help with the event.

Sky Zone Shelby Township

The Sky Zone Shelby Township is an indoor trampoline park, offering a large space with wall-to-wall trampolines where visitors can jump, flip, and play in a safe and fun setting. The park includes attractions like Freestyle Jump, Ultimate Dodgeball, Foam Zone, SkySlam basketball, and a Ninja Warrior Course. There are also features like the SkyLadder, Warped Wall, and Mega Launch for more active fun. Little Leapers is a special time set aside for toddlers to enjoy the park with their parents. Sky Zone hosts birthday parties and group events with private rooms, and a party host to help with everything.

5. Entertainment Attractions

Ford Field

The Ford Field is an indoor stadium that has been home to the Detroit Lions since 2002, holds about 65,000 people for football and can fit more for basketball games, or large events like WrestleMania. It has a dome roof, so games and shows go on no matter the weather, and its design includes part of an old Hudson’s warehouse. It ’s used for more than just NFL games, often hosting college football, high school finals, and big concerts. WrestleMania 23 was one of the biggest events, brings over 80,000 fans. Visitors can take guided tours on select days to see the locker rooms, field, and press box.

Comerica Park

The Comerica Park is a lively place where the Detroit Tigers play their home games since the year 2000. It has a seating capacity of over 41,000 and includes fun features like a Ferris wheel, a carousel with tigers, and a large water fountain that lights up and plays music when the Tigers hit a home run. Outside, visitors can see large tiger statues and displays that honor past players like Ty Cobb and Al Kaline. The concourse has a walk-through museum that shows the team’s history by decade. There is a special area in the field with more names of important players and figures from the team’s past.

Little Caesars Arena

The Little Caesars Arena serves as the home for both the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Pistons, hosting hockey and basketball games along with concerts, shows, and other large events. Opened in 2017, this arena holds about 19,500 guests for hockey games and over 20,000 for basketball events, making it one of the city’s main venues for fans. One special feature is the glass-covered walkway called the Via, which stays open even on non-event days and connects people to nearby buildings and shops. It also hosts live concerts and events regularly, making it a famous spot beyond baseball season.

MGM Grand Detroit

The MGM Grand Detroit is a hotel and casino that offers gaming, dining, and relaxing in one place. It has more than 400 rooms with large TVs, spa-style showers, including live entertainment and events take place throughout the year. The casino has nearly 3,500 slot machines, around 150 table games, and a BetMGM Sports Lounge for sports betting. Dining options include D.PRIME Steakhouse, the casual TAP restaurant, and a food hall with quick meals. For wellness, the spa features a heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub, fitness center, and has a business center for guests need to work.

Hollywood Casino at Greektown

The Hollywood Casino at Greektown spans about 100,000 square feet of space filled with slot machines, table games, and a live poker room, along with the Barstool Sportsbook, where guests can watch games and place bets. The connected hotel has around 400 rooms, so visitors can stay close to the action with access to dining, games, and events. Places to eat include Prism, a steakhouse, and casual spots for snacks or drinks. The casino is part of the Greektown area, which is known for its restaurents and shops, and guests can join the PENN Play rewards program to earn points during their visit.

Fox Theatre

Opened in 1928, Fox Theatre is a historic performing arts venue and as the city’s largest theater with over 5,000 seats. Designed by C. Howard Crane, the building features detailed interior styles inspired by Burmese, Indian, and Persian cultures and was fully restored in 1988. It is now a National Historic Landmark and hosts concerts, Broadway tours, family shows, and seasonal events all year. Seating is spread over three levels — Main Floor, Mezzanine, and Gallery, with good views from each section. The theatre hosts performances ranging from new productions to famous classics performances.

The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre

The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre is an outdoor music venue hosting live concerts during the summer with a scenic view of the water. It features a large stage, reserved seating, and general admission lawn space where guests can bring blankets or cushions for comfort. Known for its jazz, soul, R&B, and other music shows, the venue welcomes both local and national artists. Managed by The Right Productions in partnership with Detroit’s Recreation Department, it is an important part of the city’s summer music scene. The amphitheater has been recognized among top music venues worldwide.

6. Natural Attractions

Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory

Opened in 1904, Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is a greenhouse and garden on Belle Isle and it’s the oldest conservatory in the country that still runs today. Designed by architect Albert Kahn, the conservatory is made up of five main sections where different types of plants are grown. It includes the Cactus House, Show House, Palm House, Fernery, and Tropical House. In 1955, the building was renamed to honor Anna Scripps Whitcomb, who gifted her large orchid collection of 600 plants in total to the city. It sits on 13 acres and includes a lily pond, seasonal flower beds, and a formal garden.

Belle Isle Nature Center

The Belle Isle Nature Center is a free and family-friendly place where people can learn about nature and local wildlife. It is run by the Detroit Zoological Society and sits on about 5 acres of land. The center has indoor and outdoor spaces where visitors can see native animals that live in and around the city. There’s a birdwatching window where visitors can watch native and migrating birds feed. One of the highlights is the beehive exhibit, where people can safely view bees at work. The center has hands-on displays and learning programs for families, and including nature walks and special events.

William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor

Covering about 31 acres, William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor is a riverside destination that includes a harbor with 52 boat slips, a shaded picnic area, and a raised berm walkway with handrails. A small lighthouse modeled after the one at Tawas Point marks the harbor’s entrance. The park has a man-made wetland area that shows how water is cleaned naturally before going back into the river, with signs explaining how the process works. Visitors can walk or bike on paved trails that connect to the Detroit Riverwalk. Fishing is allowed, and benches and picnic tables are placed around the park.

Cranbrook House & Gardens

The Cranbrook House & Gardens is a peaceful place in Bloomfield Hills, where visitors can enjoy nature and history together. In 1908, George and Ellen Booth had a home built that was designed by Albert Kahn using the Arts and Crafts style. Today, it stands as the oldest public manor in the Detroit area. The house has rooms filled with handcrafted furniture, artwork, and wood carvings that show the Booths’ love for design. Outside, there’s a 40 acres of gardens that include formal flower beds and walking paths. Some popular spots are the Sunken Garden, Reflecting Pool, and the Japanese Garden.

Lower Huron Metropark

Stretches across 1,258 acres, Lower Huron Metropark has a mix of wooded areas, grassy fields, and scenic views along the Huron River, offering plenty of options for visitors to enjoy the outdoors. The park has a paved hike-bike trail that links to other nearby parks and is part of the Iron Belle Trail. In summer, Turtle Cove Family Aquatic Center offers water slides, a lazy river, and a big tipping bucket for kids and families. There are many picnic areas, basketball and tennis courts, and spots for volleyball. The park has a campground with 27 sites, a group camping area, and places for canoe camping.

Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve

The Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve is a natural area, covers around 42 acres of woods, meadows, and wetlands around a 5 acres lake. A one mile trail loop with benches and learning signs lets visitors walk through the area and enjoy the view. The trail is easy to follow and works well for families or anyone looking for a short walk. By the lake, there are fishing platforms where people can cast their line. In spring, a seasonal pond appears near the boardwalk, adding another place to explore. The preserve is home to native plants, such as wildflowers, and several old trees that naturally grow in the area.

Dodge #4 State Park

About 30 miles from Detroit, Dodge #4 State Park sits on the northern side of Cass Lake, which is the biggest inland lake in southern Michigan. The park covers 139 acres and includes a full mile of shoreline that’s popular for swimming, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. It was given to the state in 1922 by the Dodge Brothers Corporation, with the promise that it would always stay open to the public. Visitors can enjoy a sandy beach with a marked swim area and a beach house with restrooms. There’s a boat launch, a fishing pier with a kayak area, and picnic spots with shelters for group gatherings.

Willow Metropark

Covering about 1,532 acres, Willow Metropark has lots of things to do, like an 18-hole golf course, a 24-hole disc golf course, and Washago Pond, which is good for fishing or relaxing nearby. A 4.5 miles paved trail runs through the park and connects to nearby parks as part of the Iron Belle Trail, making it great for biking or walking. It’s a favorite spot for families who come to enjoy swimming pool with a slide, a kids’ playground, and plenty of shaded picnic areas. There’s also a boat launch and space for kayaking or canoeing on the river. In winter, people come here for cross-country skiing and sledding.

West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve

The West Bloomfield Woods Nature Preserve is a quiet green space in West Bloomfield, spans across 162 acres of forest, wetlands, and meadows. It’s a first spot in Michigan to be recognized as an Urban Wildlife Sanctuary by the National Institute for Urban Wildlife. Visitors can explore a 2.2 miles loop trail made of natural ground, with signboards along the way to help explain the plants and animals found there. The trail is mostly flat but has a few small hills and is good for walking or exploring. Wildflowers like trillium and trout lilies bloom in spring under tall oak, hickory, and black walnut trees.

7. Day Trips & Excursions

Ann Arbor

Start a day trip from Detroit, and drive for just 45 minutes to reach Ann Arbor to enjoy a mix of city charm and local culture. Once you arrive, start your day with breakfast at a local spot like Sava’s, known for its relaxed setting. Take a walk through downtown Ann Arbor, where you’ll find small shops, bookstores, and local art galleries. You can visit the University of Michigan Museum of Art or the Museum of Natural History if you enjoy indoor activities. If you like history, you might enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the city, like the Zany History tour, which shares fun stories about Ann Arbor’s past.

Windsor, Ontario

From Detroit, a day trip to Windsor in Ontario takes about 30 minutes drive and gives you a chance to explore another country just across the river. Make sure to bring your passport or other approved ID, since you’ll be crossing the border. Start with a walk along the Windsor Riverfront, where you can enjoy views of Detroit and visit the Windsor Sculpture Park. Stop by Dieppe Gardens for a quiet break near the water. If you like museums, the Chimczuk Museum shares stories about Windsor’s history. Next, you can visit Willistead Manor or take a short ride to Ojibway Nature Centre for a walk in the woods.

Toledo, OH

Taking a day trip to Toledo in Ohio takes nearly an hour drive from Detroit, and offers a mix of museums, and local food. Start your visit at the Toledo Museum of Art, which has a wide range of artwork, including glass pieces and paintings. Next, head to the Toledo Zoo, home to many animals and has fun exhibits for all ages. For lunch, there are places nearby that serve pizza, sandwiches, or local dishes. Visit the National Museum of the Great Lakes to learn about the region’s shipping history. If you enjoy nature, stop by Toledo Botanical Garden or walk along the Maumee River at Promenade Park.

Lansing

From Detroit, a day trip to Lansing takes around 2 hours drive and is a nice way to explore Michigan’s capital city. Once you arrive, a good place to start is the Michigan State Capitol, where you can take a free tour and learn about the state’s history. After that, walk over to the nearby Michigan History Center, which has simple exhibits about the state’s past. In the afternoon, visit Potter Park Zoo, which is home to animals from around the world and is easy to walk through. If you enjoy nature, stop by the Lansing River Trail, a paved path that runs along the Grand River and is good for walking or biking.

Proud Lake Recreation Area

Planning a day trip to Proud Lake Recreation Area takes roughly 45 minutes drive from Detroit, and it covers over 3,000 acres and has trails, water access, and picnic spots. Visitors can hike, bike, or ride horses on the many trails, including the new Expedition Loop and the Marsh Trail Loop. The park also has spots for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, with the river managed as a Type I trout stream. The park is open year-round and is popular in every season, from summer paddling to winter cross-country skiing. There’s a modern campground and overnight lodging for those who want to stay longer.

Pontiac Lake Recreation Area

From Detroit, a day trip to Pontiac Lake Recreation Area takes nearly 45 minutes and covers around 3,745 acres. It has a mix of woods, lakes, marshes, and open fields, making it a nice place for biking, or just relaxing. One of the highlights is there is a beach — it stretches just over half a mile, making it the longest in southern Michigan. Visitors can swim, fish, or paddle in the lake, and there’s a boat launch for small watercraft. There’s a 11 miles mountain bike trail that’s known for being one of the most technical in the region, and it also has paths for hiking and horseback rides to enjoy the outdoors.

How to Reach Detroit

Detroit is very simple to get to no matter how you’re traveling — by plane, car, train, or bus. The main airport, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), is one of the busiest in the country and offers flights from many U.S. cities like Nashville, New York City, Seattle, and Los Angeles, as well as other countries, making it easy to fly in. From the airport, visitors can rent a car anytime or take the Detroit Air Xpress bus to downtown.

For those driving, major highways such as I-75, I-94, and I-96 lead straight into the city and connect Detroit to nearby cities like Chicago, Cleveland, and Indianapolis. Amtrak provides daily train service from Chicago and stops at the New Center area, while Greyhound and Megabus offer bus routes from many locations across the country.

Local Transportation

Detroit has a public bus system called DDOT, which runs many routes across Detroit and nearby areas. Buses run daily, and some routes even run 24 hours. You can buy a Dart pass for unlimited rides, with options for 4 hours, 1 day, or longer. SMART buses also serve the suburbs and connect with DDOT routes. For short trips downtown, the QLINE streetcar runs along Woodward Avenue and stops at places like Campus Martius, Midtown, and the Detroit Institute of Arts.

For getting around the downtown, the Detroit People Mover is a small rail that travels in a loop and helps people move between popular spots and big buildings with ease. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are easy to find, and many people use them to get around. If you prefer to drive, parking is available in most areas, though it may cost more downtown. Biking is also an option, with bike lanes and rental stations in some parts of the city.

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