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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Fisher Building
Art deco skyscraper from 1928, featuring marble from all over the world & a live theater venue.
via Google MapsSavannahBlue
Stylish eatery featuring contemporary soul food, sophisticated cocktails, and a select wine list.
via Google MapsJoe Muer Seafood
Enduring local classic for seafood & steak, plus an extensive wine & cocktail offering.
Museum of Illusions
Guardian Building
Historic art deco skyscraper built in 1928 with a colorful tiled lobby & retail space.
via Google MapsNiki's Pizza
Vibrant nightclub featuring 5 bars & live entertainment most nights of the week.
via Google MapsMexicantown Restaurant
Mexican spot known for flaming fajitas offers a menu of traditional dishes such as handmade tamales.
via Google MapsGrand Trunk Pub
Bar in converted 1900s-era railway station features high ceilings, 170+ craft beers & eclectic eats.
via Google MapsMotor City Soul Food
Counter-service, no-frills location draws crowds with big portions of classic soul food.
Michigan Central
Opened in 1913, then abandoned for years, this former train station now has office & retail space.
via Google MapsBasement Burger Bar Detroit
Subterranean spot for house & custom patties including Kobe beef & bison with numerous craft beers.
via Google MapsDetroit Shipping Company
Urban-chic hub made of shipping containers featuring a food court, bars, an art gallery & a stage.
via Google MapsHarry's Detroit Bar & Restaurant
Sports bar known for pre-game pub grub eats offers a free shuttle to events & a covered roof deck.
Grey Ghost Detroit
Modern, hip spot for steaks & more alongside beer, wine & craft cocktails from the bar.
via Google MapsJohnny Noodle King
Chic, subway-tiled noodle shop offering ramen-style soups with global flavor combinations.
via Google MapsHouse of Umami Ramen
via Google MapsThe Apparatus Room
New American fare and craft cocktails in a chic space at the Detroit Foundation Hotel.
Detroit One Coney Island Restaurant
Straightforward family restaurant with an all-day menu including Coney Island-style franks.
via Google MapsSindbad's Restaurant and Marina
Nautically themed marina mainstay featuring seafood & steaks, plus occasional live music.
via Google Maps