Detroit
Detroit
Plan Your Trip
Top Things to Do
Detroit, Michigan, is a city defined by innovation, resilience, and culture. Visitors looking for what to do in Detroit will find a destination that blends historic landmarks with a vibrant, revitalized downtown.
Founded in 1701, Detroit became the center of the American automobile industry and the birthplace of Motown music, helping shape music and industry around the world.
Today, the city continues its resurgence with restored historic buildings, award-winning restaurants, thriving arts districts, and exciting attractions. Downtown, Midtown, and Corktown each offer their own unique mix of museums, entertainment, architecture, and local culture.
Because of its rich history and ongoing transformation, Detroit is one of the most fascinating cities to visit in the United States.
What to Do in Detroit, Michigan
Visitors looking for what to do in Detroit, Michigan, will find a city full of history, culture, and world-class attractions. Known as the Motor City, Detroit is famous for its automotive heritage, legendary music scene, and beautiful riverfront.
Here are some of the top things to do in Detroit:
Visit the Motown Museum
Tour the legendary Hitsville U.S.A. studio, where artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and The Supremes recorded timeless hits.
Walk the Detroit RiverWalk
Enjoy miles of scenic waterfront paths, parks, public art, and impressive views of both Detroit and Windsor, Canada.
Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts
Visit one of the nation's finest art museums, home to an extensive collection from around the world.
Visit Belle Isle Park
Spend time on this beautiful island park featuring trails, gardens, an aquarium, and stunning views of the Detroit skyline.
Explore Eastern Market
Browse one of the country's oldest public markets, known for its fresh food, local vendors, street art, and lively atmosphere.
Discover Downtown Detroit
Explore historic architecture, entertainment venues, restaurants, sports arenas, and cultural landmarks throughout the city's revitalized downtown.
Detroit's combination of history, innovation, music, and ongoing renewal makes it one of the Midwest's most rewarding cities to explore.
Download the Complete Travel Guide
Includes:
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✓ Complete travel guide
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✓ Printable map
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✓ One-day itinerary
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✓ Hidden gems
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✓ Travel tips
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✓ Offline access
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✓ Bonus recommendations not included on this page
Our Self Guided Tour
Detroit’s Spirit and History Walking Tour
This self-guided walking tour takes you through downtown Detroit, bringing the city’s history to life through immersive storytelling and historic landmarks.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND GET THE TOUR
As you walk, your phone becomes your guide, automatically playing stories as you reach each stop.
Highlights include:
• The iconic Spirit of Detroit statue, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks
• Historic buildings from Detroit’s industrial boom and architectural golden age
• Stories of the auto industry, innovation, and the city’s rise
• Hidden details and locations most visitors overlook
This tour helps you understand not just what you’re seeing — but why Detroit became one of the most important cities in America.
Why Take a Self-Guided Tour?
• Start anytime — no reservations or schedules
• Explore at your own pace
• Pause for food, photos, or exploring
• Avoid large tour groups
Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to explore more deeply, this tour is one of the best ways to experience Detroit what to do beyond the typical attractions.
Free Things to Do
• Walk the iconic Asbury Park Boardwalk
Food!
Where to Stay
<p class="font_8">Downtown Detroit Hotels</p>
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<p class="font_8">Typical price range: $180–$350 per night</p>
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<p class="font_8">• Shinola Hotel – Boutique luxury hotel</p>
<p class="font_8">• Detroit Foundation Hotel – Historic firehouse hotel</p>
<p class="font_8">• The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit</p>
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<p class="font_8">Boutique & Unique Stays</p>
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<p class="font_8">Typical price range: $150–$300 per night</p>
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<p class="font_8">• The Siren Hotel</p>
<p class="font_8">• Trumbull and Porter Hotel (Corktown)</p>
<p class="font_8">• El Moore Lodge</p>
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<p class="font_8">Budget Hotels</p>
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<p class="font_8">Typical price range: $80–$150 per night</p>
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<p class="font_8">• Comfort Inn Downtown Detroit</p>
<p class="font_8">• Best Western Greenfield Inn</p>
<p class="font_8">• Red Roof Inn Detroit Metro Airport</p>
1 Day Itinerary
<p class="font_8">Many visitors follow one-day Detroit itineraries.</p>
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<p class="font_8">Morning</p>
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<p class="font_8">• Detroit Institute of Arts</p>
<p class="font_8">• Explore downtown</p>
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<p class="font_8">Afternoon</p>
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<p class="font_8">• Visit Motown Museum</p>
<p class="font_8">• Walk the RiverWalk</p>
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<p class="font_8">Evening</p>
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<p class="font_8">• Walking tour</p>
<p class="font_8">• Dinner downtown</p>
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<p class="font_8">Two Day Detroit Itineraries</p>
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<p class="font_8">With more time visitors can:</p>
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<p class="font_8">• explore Belle Isle</p>
<p class="font_8">• visit additional museums</p>
<p class="font_8">• explore neighborhoods like Midtown and Corktown</p>
FAQ's
<p class="font_8">What is Detroit known for?</p>
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<p class="font_8">Detroit is known for the auto industry, Motown music, and its cultural revival.</p>
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<p class="font_8">What is there to do in Detroit Michigan?</p>
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<p class="font_8">Visitors can explore museums, historic landmarks, parks, and a growing food scene.</p>
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<p class="font_8">Is Detroit worth visiting?</p>
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<p class="font_8">Yes. Detroit offers a unique mix of history, culture, and modern attractions.</p>
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