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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via Google MapsStarter's Bar and Grill Midtown
Hearty American eats, including steak, plus beer & cocktails in a lively haunt with TVs for sports.
via Google MapsSouthern Fire Restaurant
Breezy light-filled locale with spartan decor offers an extensive menu of soul food & Southern fare.
Townhouse
Michigan Science Center
Science & technology museum for kids offers interactive exhibits, a planetarium, shows & a cafe.
via Google MapsDime Store
Hip, airy spot offering creative spins on brunch favorites, plus craft beer and classic cocktails.
via Google MapsThe Hudson Cafe
Clean-lined cafe specializing in updated brunch dishes, with a coffee bar & fireplace lounge area.
via Google MapsDetroit Opera House
Ornate performing arts venue featuring ballet & musical productions, including the Michigan Opera.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
Exhibits explore African-American history from the Middle Passage to the Underground Railroad.
via Google MapsThe Home Depot
Chain home improvement retailer for tools, appliances & other products (some offer truck rentals).
via Google MapsWhole Foods Market
Eco-minded chain with natural & organic grocery items, housewares & other products (most sell wine).
Pegasus Taverna
Lively locale with rustic charm for Greek standards & some American fare, plus Greek wine & beer.
Experience Zuzu, Detroit
The Whitney
Iconic lumber baron's mansion with exquisite garden serving upscale New American cuisine.
Sweetwater Tavern
Original 1880s brick walls surround this eatery famous for marinated wings & housemade sauces.
Los Galanes Mexican Restaurant
Massive taqueria supplies Mexican faves & handmade tortillas plus weekend Latin dance nights.
Saint Andrew’s Hall
Historic building turned live music venue featuring 3 separate spaces for music & events.
Mexican Village Restaurant
Breezy red & white villa-style dining area & lounge offering Mexican fare with hefty toppings.
Parc
Elevated Detroit cuisine with a vast wine list offered in a chic, modern space in an urban park.
The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre
Waterfront amphitheater with 5,000 seats facing the Detroit River hosts the big names of pop & jazz.
Belle Isle Aquarium
Grand, restored circa-1904 public aquarium known for its extensive collection of gar fish.