One of my favorite parts of life is going somewhere I’ve never been before. Of course, I love revisiting the sites of my favorite adventures, but there’s something especially exciting about discovering a brand-new place. Last month, we had the opportunity to explore Detroit, Michigan for the first time. Despite spending many summers of my childhood visiting family just a couple of hours away, we had never made it over to see this fantastic city.
We absolutely loved our trip, and I would go again in a heartbeat because three days were nowhere near enough to see everything this city has to offer.
However, we did manage to pack in quite a bit, and I’ll be sharing many of those highlights with you here. Stay tuned for more in-depth posts on several of these activities because some of them deserve a deeper dive than a single list can provide.
Before we jump in, I want to address something I was asked about multiple times before the trip. We didn’t see any riots or experience anything unsafe during our visit. The city felt vibrant, welcoming, and full of life. So don’t let outdated perceptions keep you from adding Detroit to your travel list.
Touring the Detroit Institute of Arts
If you’re interested in art of any kind, you won’t want to miss the Detroit Institute of Arts. It houses one of the largest and most diverse art collections in the United States, featuring pieces from around the world that span thousands of years.
The museum is spread across three levels with nearly 30 different sections, so plan to spend several hours exploring. There’s so much to see, read, and take in.
One of my favorite aspects was how the exhibits blended ancient artifacts with modern works, showing how artistic traditions have evolved while still honoring their roots. Even the building itself is worth admiring, with its beautiful architecture and detailed interiors.
Tickets are reasonably priced, and I recommend booking in advance so you can skip the lines and enter at your reserved time.
Exploring Belle Isle
Be sure to carve out time for Belle Isle, a stunning island park located in the Detroit River. Once a popular retreat in the early 1900s, it still carries hints of its historic charm.
Belle Isle is the largest city island park in the country and offers a wide variety of attractions. The William Livingston Memorial Light is the only marble lighthouse in the United States, and the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is the oldest continuously operating conservatory in the country.
Beyond those highlights, the island features scenic trails, water views, picnic areas, beaches, a yacht club, and even museums. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you explore, especially deer along the trails.
While some features have closed over time, there is still plenty to see and enjoy, making it well worth the visit.
Shopping at Eastern Market
Eastern Market is a Detroit staple and a must-visit if you enjoy browsing local goods. This large marketplace is filled with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade crafts and clothing.
It spans several buildings in the downtown area and offers a lively, energetic atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a snack, a souvenir, or just a fun place to wander, this is a great stop.
The market operates year-round on Saturdays, with additional days available during the summer months. It’s worth planning your visit around it if possible.
Walking the Detroit Riverfront
For some of the best views in the city, head to the Detroit Riverfront. It offers beautiful waterfront scenery, with clear views across the river into Canada.
This area is also home to several notable landmarks, including the Underground Railroad Memorial and the Renaissance Center. During warmer months, especially at sunset, the riverfront fills with people enjoying the views and relaxing along the water.
If you want to elevate the experience, consider taking a river cruise to see the skyline from a different perspective.
Discovering Downtown Detroit
Downtown Detroit is a fascinating blend of historic and modern architecture. Ornate buildings stand alongside sleek skyscrapers, creating a unique and visually striking cityscape.
The Guardian Building is a standout, featuring incredible Art Deco design both inside and out. It’s connected by a color-changing bridge to a more modern structure, creating a cool contrast between old and new.
If you have time, stop by Campus Martius Park, which transforms throughout the year. When we visited, it had a beach-like setup, but it becomes an ice rink during the winter months.
Another highlight is the street art. Entire buildings are covered in vibrant murals, adding color and personality to the city. Keep your eyes open as you walk because you’ll find incredible pieces around nearly every corner.
And of course, the food scene is worth exploring. From classic Detroit-style pizza to unique local spots, there’s no shortage of great places to eat.
Visiting the Henry Ford Museum
Detroit’s deep connection to the auto industry makes the Henry Ford Museum an essential stop. Founded in 1929, the museum goes far beyond cars and dives into the broader story of innovation and industry.
You’ll find exhibits covering transportation, including cars, trains, and even presidential vehicles, alongside displays on aviation, machinery, and scientific advancements.
One of the most interesting sections explores the evolution of American life and entertainment over the past century. It’s both educational and engaging, making it a great experience for all ages.
Plan to spend several hours here, and if you have extra time, consider visiting Greenfield Village as well.
Enjoying the Great Lakes
No trip to Michigan is complete without experiencing one of the Great Lakes. Detroit’s location makes it easy to access both Lake Erie and Lake Huron.
We chose to visit Lake Huron, which was about an hour away and offered beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. Even in September, we were able to get in the water for a quick swim.
Whether you’re swimming, relaxing on the shore, or simply enjoying the scenery, it’s a perfect way to round out your trip.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Detroit
Which of these activities are you adding to your Detroit bucket list? If you have the time, I highly recommend trying to experience all of them. They’re fun, accessible, and offer a great mix of culture, history, and relaxation.
I’m already looking forward to returning to continue exploring everything Detroit has to offer. It’s a city full of character, creativity, and surprises.
If you have questions or want to share your own experiences, feel free to leave a comment. And don’t forget to save this post for future trip planning and share it with friends who might be heading to Michigan.
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Thanks for stopping by, and I hope to see you back here soon. Happy travels.
