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.
Royal Park Hotel
Graduate by Hilton Ann Arbor
Downtown Detroit Apartments by Landing

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
Hollywood Casino at Greektown

Hollywood Casino at Greektown

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

Classic 2BR Detroit's Sugar Hill

Detroit
Classic 2BR Detroit's Sugar Hill
Work/Play Base: Park Free, 10mins DTWN, Fast WiFi

Work/Play Base: Park Free, 10mins DTWN, Fast WiFi

Detroit
Work/Play Base: Park Free, 10mins DTWN, Fast WiFi
Mansion in LaSalle Gardens

Mansion in LaSalle Gardens

Detroit
Mansion in LaSalle Gardens
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

While visiting the Motown Museum in Detroit, immerse yourself in the rich history of Motown music through engaging exhibits and photo tours. Enjoy museum hopping to explore nearby attractions, catch live music performances, and experience local theater for a complete entertainment experience. Don’t miss the chance to attend music concerts showcasing the genre that shaped a generation.

Shopping

Visit Capitol City, only 3 miles from the Motown Museum, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with various shops. The Rust Belt Market, 7 miles away, features local vendors and crafts. If you're up for a drive, Fairlane Town Center, located 8 miles away, boasts a diverse shopping experience.

Recreation

At Little Caesars Arena, immerse yourself in the excitement of sports events, just 2 miles from the Motown Museum. Experience the outdoors at Chandler Park Golf Course, 6 miles away, perfect for a relaxing day on the greens. For family fun, the Warren Community Centre Indoor Waterpark, 12 miles away, offers a splash-filled adventure.

Adventure

Red Oaks Waterpark offers thrilling water slides and a lazy river, perfect for family fun 11 miles from Motown Museum. For adrenaline junkies, JD Racing Indoor Karting provides high-speed racing excitement 22 miles away. Additionally, Lucky Strike Novi features bowling and arcade games, creating a lively atmosphere 22 miles from the museum.

Nightlife

For a vibrant night near the Motown Museum, visit the MGM Grand Detroit Casino for thrilling gaming and romantic vibes. Alternatively, enjoy a cultural experience at the Fox Theatre, perfect for family entertainment. Don’t miss the Hollywood Casino at Greektown for more casino excitement and lively city energy.

Find the best attractions near Motown Museum

When visiting the Motown Museum in Detroit, you'll find a variety of attractions that cater to culture enthusiasts and families alike. Explore the rich history at the Detroit Historical Museum, enjoy events at local conference venues, or check out entertainment facilities nearby. With a blend of modern college campuses and vibrant city experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy during your trip to this iconic musical landmark.

  • Huntington Place: Located 3 miles from the Motown Museum, Huntington Place serves as a bustling event and conference venue. With its modern facilities, it offers a professional atmosphere ideal for business events, conventions, and exhibitions, making it a hub for both local and national gatherings.
  • Wayne State University: Just 1 mile away, Wayne State University boasts a vibrant campus that reflects the city's energy. This modern institution combines academic excellence with urban culture, offering visitors a chance to explore beautiful architecture and immerse themselves in a diverse student life.
  • Detroit Institute of Arts: Situated 1 mile from the Motown Museum, the Detroit Institute of Arts is a cultural treasure trove. With an extensive collection that spans centuries, it showcases impressive works of art and provides a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of Detroit and beyond.

Best time to go to Motown Museum

Visitor numbers around Motown Museum is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Motown Museum is dependant 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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
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 on your trip to the Motown Museum, consider visiting between January and March when hotel prices are lower. Mondays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be more expensive. Use Expedia to filter for budget-friendly accommodations and consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for added savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and opportunities to earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Don't forget to explore free activities in Detroit to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.

  • 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 refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. 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 deal.
  • 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.