Motown Museum Tours

Motown Historical Museum featuring a city
Motown Historical Museum featuring signage
Motown Historical Museum
Motown Historical Museum
Motown Historical Museum which includes signage and island views


See where some of music’s greats kicked-off their careers and learn how Motown founder Berry Gordy started his influential music labels.

The Motown Museum celebrates Detroit’s formidable music legacy. It all began in this house where founder Berry Gordy started the original Tamla and Motown labels. Stand in the studio where hit tracks were recorded, admire the outfits worn by superstars and learn about Motown Records’ inspiring history. See where it all began in Studio A. Inspect the original instruments and equipment, and imagine the likes of Stevie Wonder or the Jackson 5 gearing up for recording session. If you take the tour, which is included in the entrance fee, the guide might even invite you to participate in a performance. You’ll also see the upstairs flat where Berry Gordy lived with his family. Learn about Gordy’s dream and his drive to succeed at the Hitsville U.S.A exhibit. Part of the museum’s mission is to inspire creativity, vision, and entrepreneurship. Nothing could do this better than the exhibit that tells the story of the legendary Motown Records. Gordy started with an $800 loan and eventually expanded the company to occupy eight other houses in the area before moving to downtown. Die-hard fans will love the museum’s collection of memorabilia, rare photographs, posters and performers’ outfits. You’ll also hear stories about the artists, composers, writers and others who contributed to a company that transformed music not only in the United States but around the world. The Motown Museum’s opening hours vary through the year, but usually it’s open Tuesday through Saturday. During July and August it’s also open on Mondays. The museum is about 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) from downtown. Nearby parking is free. City of Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) buses also stop close to the museum.

Plan a trip to see Motown Museum

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
American Inn & Suites Waterford
Exhibit A2
Saint John's Resort

Reviews of Motown Museum

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
156
5 - Excellent 63%
4 - Good
58
4 - Good 23%
3 - Okay
20
3 - Okay 8%
2 - Disappointing
4
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
9
1 - Terrible 4%

5/5 - Excellent

cat

Buy your tickets on line a head of time. Very busy and they sell out fast.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

This place is awesome!!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Awesome museum. Make a reservation for the tour prior to the day you want to do the tour. If driving, arrive in enough time to secure parking.

5/5 - Excellent

Chelsea

Order tickets ahead! Get there a half hour early for souvenir shopping without the crowd. Amazing tour! Amazing history!

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

I wasn’t there

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Motown Museum

MotorCity Casino Hotel

MotorCity Casino Hotel

4.5 out of 5
2901 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI
MotorCity Casino Hotel
Modern Retreat Near Henry Ford

Modern Retreat Near Henry Ford

3.5 out of 5
1800 W Bethune St, Detroit, MI
Modern Retreat Near Henry Ford
Motown Hangout Near Motown Museum, Henry Ford Hospital, Fisher Theater

Motown Hangout Near Motown Museum, Henry Ford Hospital, Fisher Theater

Detroit
Motown Hangout Near Motown Museum, Henry Ford Hospital, Fisher Theater
Motown BNB . Experience Detroit in style.

Motown BNB . Experience Detroit in style.

Detroit
Motown BNB . Experience Detroit in style.
The White Lotus - Premium King Bed | 400mbs Wifi | 7-minDT | Work Station

The White Lotus - Premium King Bed | 400mbs Wifi | 7-minDT | Work Station

Detroit
The White Lotus - Premium King Bed | 400mbs Wifi | 7-minDT | Work Station
Downtown Hideaway w/ Cozy & Modern Comfort

Downtown Hideaway w/ Cozy & Modern Comfort

Detroit
Downtown Hideaway w/ Cozy & Modern Comfort
7Min-DT | King Bed | 400mbs Wifi | Free Parking

7Min-DT | King Bed | 400mbs Wifi | Free Parking

Detroit, MI
7Min-DT | King Bed | 400mbs Wifi | Free Parking
Hollywood Casino at Greektown

Hollywood Casino at Greektown

4 out of 5
1200 Saint Antoine St, Detroit, MI
Hollywood Casino at Greektown
Classic 2BR Detroit's Sugar Hill

Classic 2BR Detroit's Sugar Hill

Detroit
Classic 2BR Detroit's Sugar Hill
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Motown Museum

At the Motown Museum in Detroit, immerse yourself in the rich musical history with guided tours that showcase iconic attractions. Explore the museum's exhibits, learn about legendary artists, and enjoy live music nearby. Don't forget to secure your tour tickets in advance for an unforgettable experience in this vibrant cultural hub.

Shopping

The closest shopping area is Capitol City, just 3 miles from the Motown Museum, offering a mix of family-friendly shops. Fairlane Town Center is 8 miles away and features entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, The Rust Belt Market, located 7 miles away, has a vibrant local atmosphere.

Recreation

At Comerica Park, immerse yourself in the excitement of live sports just 3 miles from Motown Museum. For outdoor relaxation, visit Chandler Park Golf Course, located 6 miles away, where you can enjoy a round of golf. Families can have fun at the Warren Community Centre Indoor Waterpark, 12 miles away.

Adventure

Red Oaks Waterpark offers thrilling water slides and family-friendly attractions, located 11 miles from Motown Museum. For adrenaline seekers, JD Racing Indoor Karting features high-speed racing experiences, 22 miles away. Lastly, Pine Knob Ski Resort, 30 miles from the museum, provides skiing and snowboarding adventures amidst scenic slopes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the Motown Museum. Enjoy a show at the Fox Theatre, just 3 miles away, or catch a performance at the Fisher Theatre, only 0.7 miles away. Don’t miss the Majestic Theatre, located 2 miles away, for an evening filled with culture and entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Motown Museum

If you're visiting the Motown Museum in Detroit, Michigan, you'll find a wealth of attractions that cater to culture enthusiasts and families alike. Explore fascinating museums, enjoy music theaters, and dive into the rich Motown story. Nearby, you can discover modern colleges, event venues, and local churches, offering a well-rounded experience that highlights the vibrant history and culture of the area.

  • Huntington Place: Located 3 miles from the Motown Museum, Huntington Place is a bustling event and conference venue that offers a vibrant business atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for networking and attending various events, showcasing Detroit's dynamic spirit.
  • Wayne State University: Situated 1 mile away, Wayne State University exudes a modern college vibe. This urban campus is rich in history and culture, perfect for exploring, enjoying green spaces, and appreciating the lively student life.
  • Detroit Institute of Arts: Only 1 mile from the Motown Museum, this renowned art museum boasts an impressive collection of artworks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage and artistic expressions that reflect Detroit's vibrant community.

Best time to go to Motown Museum

The best time to visit Motown Museum is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January25.3°F (-3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February26.2°F (-3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December32.9°F (0.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Motown Museum

To save money during your visit to the Motown Museum, consider traveling between January and March for lower hotel rates. Mondays typically offer cheaper accommodations compared to Saturdays. Use Expedia to find customizable deals, and consider booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities for added savings. Joining the Expedia One Key membership can provide you with exclusive discounts and cash back for future bookings. Also, explore free activities nearby and utilize Detroit’s public transport for affordable travel around the city.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Motown Museum are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Motown Museum is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Motown Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Motown Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Explore a world of travel with Expedia