Things to do in Detroit
Detroit is a city where history and reinvention sit side by side.
Detroit is a city where history and reinvention sit side by side. You can spend the day at the Detroit Institute of Arts, catch a show at the Fox Theatre, or walk the riverfront at William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor. The food scene runs from Mexican classics to ramen shops, and there's always something happening in the parks or music venues.
Start with the Detroit Institute of Arts, where 100-plus galleries cover everything from ancient to modern. Music fans have plenty of choices: the Fox Theatre, The Fillmore Detroit, and the Motown Museum all tell part of the city's story. Outdoors, Campus Martius Park hosts concerts and seasonal ice-skating, while Hart Plaza is the site of major festivals. For food, Xochimilco Restaurant serves Mexican standards, and Johnny Noodle King offers ramen-style soups. The riverfront's William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor has trails, picnic areas, and shoreline fishing.
Frequently asked questions about Detroit
What are the top things to do in Detroit for first-time visitors?▾
Most people start with the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Motown Museum to get a sense of the city's cultural and musical history. Then head to Campus Martius Park or the riverfront at William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor. If you're around for a show, the Fox Theatre is a landmark worth seeing even from the outside.
Where can I find good Mexican food in Detroit?▾
Xochimilco Restaurant is a go-to spot for burritos and other Mexican standards. Armando's Mexican Restaurant has colorful murals and a lunch buffet, and Taqueria Mi Pueblo serves traditional Jalisco-style fare in a tri-level setting. All three are solid choices depending on the vibe you want.
What outdoor spaces are worth visiting in Detroit?▾
Campus Martius Park is the city's central square with fountains, trees, and seasonal ice-skating. William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor has trails, picnic areas, and fishing along the river. Hart Plaza hosts big events like the Jazz Fest, and Grand Circus Park has grassy areas and statuary in the historic district.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Detroit?▾
Yes. The Detroit Institute of Arts and the Motown Museum welcome kids. The Outdoor Adventure Center has simulated biking and nature displays. The Cullen Family Carousel is a vintage carousel in a riverfront park with a play area. Garden Bowl, a 1913 bowling alley with glow-in-the-dark lanes, can be fun for older kids too.
What live music venues should I check out in Detroit?▾
The Fox Theatre is a grand venue for big-name acts. The Fillmore Detroit hosts rock, rap, and R&B. Saint Andrew's Hall is a historic building with three spaces for music and events. For a more intimate show, El Club features indie bands in an all-ages space. The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre offers waterfront concerts in warmer months.
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Armando's Mexican Restaurant
Eatery boasts colorful Aztec warrior murals, an ample menu of Mexican faves & a lunch buffet.
Fishbones - Greektown Detroit
Relaxed spot with a buzzy vibe spotlighting Cajun fare, including steak & seafood.
Detroit Riverwalk
via Google MapsTexas de Brazil - Detroit
Upscale Brazilian eatery featuring all-you-can-eat grilled meat carved tableside & a salad bar.
The Fillmore Detroit
Longtime concert space hosting rock, rap, R&B & other national touring acts, plus special events.
Hart Plaza
Sprawling 14-acre plaza is home to the iconic Dodge Fountain, Jazz Fest & other major events.
Campus Martius Park
City square with concert space & seasonal ice-skating, plus a bistro amid fountains & trees.
Taqueria Mi Pueblo
Tri-level pueblo-style eatery serving traditional Jalisco-style Mexican fare, meal combos & drinks.
HopCat
Woodwork-filled brew pub with a massive beer list offering creative pub fare & brunch items.
Fox Theatre
Grand theater with gilded, Asian-inspired decor hosts theater productions, musicians & comedians.
via Google MapsGreen Dot Stables
Slider joint with a chill vibe serves bite-sized eats with global flavors & bottled beers.
Belle Isle Park
982-acre island featuring trails, an aquarium, museum, conservatory, disc golf course & playground.
Andiamo Detroit Riverfront
Upscale Northern Italian bistro boasts an elegant ambiance, river views & a diverse wine list.
MGM Grand Detroit
Plush rooms & suites in a posh casino lodging offering high-energy nightclubs, shopping & dining.
Xochimilco Restaurant
Go-to Mexican restaurant in a brick building serves burritos & other standards until late.
Motown Museum
Collection of the label's art & memorabilia plus the famous studio A & The Supremes' costumes.
Detroit Institute of Arts
Museum featuring 100+ galleries with American & global art on display, from ancient to modern eras.
Ford Field
Lions home stadium offering behind-the-scenes NFL tours & an attached 1920s-era warehouse.
Hollywood Casino Greektown
Contemporary property with modern rooms, a sprawling casino & a high-end steakhouse, plus 2 bars.
Comerica Park
Baseball stadium features tiger statues on top, a 50-ft. Ferris wheel & a diverse food court.