Things to do in Detroit

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Detroit Attractions

Whether you call it Motor City or Motown, Detroit is a Michigan city with a lot of historical significance. It’s a hub of vehicle production and served as the birthplace of musical careers for decades. If you’ve ever bobbed your head to “My Girl” by “The Temptations” in the back of a Ford Mustang, you can thank Detroit. These days, the city is a diverse array of music, food, and sports. Fun things to do in Detroit range from touring old Motown studios to sitting front row at a professional football game. When you’re looking for a getaway, this Midwest city might offer just the escape you seek.

Things to do

Detroit Tigers Baseball Game at Comerica Park

Detroit Tigers Baseball Game at Comerica Park

$28
per adult
Detroit Tigers Baseball Game at Comerica Park
LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan

$25
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan

PEPPA PIG World of Play Michigan

$39
per traveler
PEPPA PIG World of Play Michigan
1 Hour Axe and Throwing Stars

1 Hour Axe and Throwing Stars

$30
per adult
1 Hour Axe and Throwing Stars
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Recommended things to do in Detroit

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Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
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Top 5 things to do
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What to do in Detroit

Free Things to Do in Detroit

A vacation in Detroit need not blow your budget. You can leave your wallet behind if you go to:

Detroit Historical Museum - Approach the staff and learn more about the unique collections housed here.

Pewabic Pottery - This is a must-visit for culture vultures who want to add an artistic touch to their trip.

Campus Martius Park - If you're a fan of modern design and architecture, add this landmark to your list of must-sees.

Guardian Building - If you're thinking of exploring the region's history through its landmarks, include this one on your travel itinerary.

Detroit Riverwalk - See for yourself why locals and visitors alike are in love with the charm and character of this place.

Masonic Temple - If you're eager to check out a few of the more important or unique places in the community, this place is worth a visit.

Mariners' Church - Take a moment for some meditation or prayer at this revered sacred place.

Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory - Grab your picnic blanket, pack some finger food and find a cozy area to be at one with nature.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Detroit

From the historic to the gastronomy-focused, neighborhoods in Detroit boast a wide range of personalities. If you’re not sure where to get started, Detroit tours are a good way to pack in lots of sightseeing in a short period of time. Or, you can always explore these unique districts on your own.

Downtown — In the heart of The D, it’s easy to keep yourself busy with eating and entertainment. From chic nightclubs to low key lounges, downtown Detroit has it all. You can also catch a Detroit Lions game or concert at Comerica Park while you’re in town.

Eastern Market — Many of the most delicious things to do in Detroit take place in Eastern Market. This market doesn’t just open once a week: You can buy natural foods and ingredients from vendors any day of the week. You can always grab a bite at a local restaurant, too.

Midtown — Bring your camera to Midtown, where sites like the Detroit Masonic Temple and local Orchestra Hall make for fantastic photo opportunities on a walking tour. You can also marvel at the community gardens when weather permits.

Things to See in Detroit

There are plenty of things to see in Detroit for the whole family. Be entertained at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra or Fox Theater, and get a glimpse of the exhibits at the Detroit Institute of Arts. If you’re looking to fill out your scrapbook, the interior of Old St. Mary’s Church is worth a look and photo series. Of course, no trip to Detroit would be complete without a visit to the iconic Joe Louis monument.

Sightseeing in Detroit

Things to do in Detroit, Michigan range from the serene to the active. On the calmer side of things, you can go for a stroll on the Detroit Riverwalk, which runs along the American side of the Detroit River. Also worth time on your itinerary is a tour of the Motown Museum, where you can see exhibits dedicated to the likes of The Supremes and the Jackson 5. Make the trek to Belle Isle to see the zoo and take a jog in front of the downtown Detroit skyline.

Things to Do in Detroit with Kids

There are plenty of sensational experiences in Detroit that the whole gang will enjoy. These are a few of the top family friendly experiences around.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Detroit? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Detroit attractions

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Belle Isle

8.4/10 (647 reviews)
This immense island park not far from downtown has impressive architecture, outstanding views of the Detroit skyline and lots of green space for relaxing.
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Where to stay in Detroit

Find the best Detroit areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Detroit
Learn more about Detroit
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Downtown Detroit

Known for its great live music and first-class casinos, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Detroit. Check out top attractions like Comerica Park and Fox Theatre, and jump on the metro at Campus Martius Station or Cadillac Center Station to see more of the city.

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Corktown

You'll enjoy the live music and historic sites in Corktown. You might want to make time for a stop at Michigan Central or PJ's Lager House.

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Midtown

While you're in Midtown, take in top sights like Little Caesars Arena or The Majestic Theatre, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Canfield Street Station or Martin Luther King Boulevard/Mack Avenue Station.

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Eastern Market

The great live music and first-class casinos are just a few highlights of Eastern Market. Make a stop by Rocky's Historic Eastern Market or Historic Trinity Lutheran Church while you're exploring the area.

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Greektown Historic District

Visitors to Greektown Historic District love its first-class casinos, and you can check out Hollywood Casino at Greektown and Old St. Mary's Church. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Greektown Station.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Detroit

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Allen Park

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Birmingham

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Belleville

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Rochester

A red covered bridge with the inscription 'Rosette Bridge 1910' and a stone wall beside a calm river.

Roseville

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Royal Oak

A serene lake with autumn foliage, a statue, and a bridge.

Bloomfield Hills

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Southfield

Frequently asked questions

Is Detroit worth visiting?
Offering a blend of festivals and culture, there are many things to do in Detroit. When you're here, check out Fox Theatre, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Detroit?
After you've visited top attractions like Detroit Riverwalk and Motown Museum, spend the rest of your day experiencing Detroit's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Detroit?
Don't leave without visiting Fox Theatre, rated the top tourist attraction in Detroit.
Is three days enough to stay in Detroit?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off the leading city highlights, like Fox Theatre, Detroit Institute of Arts and Detroit Riverwalk. The average stay in Detroit is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Romulus isn't far away.
Is Detroit a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Detroit, such as Fox Theatre and Detroit Institute of Arts, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Only 0.1 miles from the city center of Detroit is Downtown Detroit and Greektown Historic District is 0.4 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Detroit with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all of your group, we've got some great ideas for what to do in Detroit with kids.
What to do in Detroit for adults?
The Belt and Highland Park Ford Plant are just two of the things to do in Detroit. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Detroit?
In Detroit, Detroit Riverwalk is a top spot for anyone wishing to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a top way to find out about the best free things to do in Detroit.

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