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 MapsTAP at MGM Grand Detroit
Roomy, industrial-chic sports bar with 40+ TVs located at the MGM Grand Detroit hotel.
via Google MapsAmbassador Duty Free Detroit
The Heidelberg Project
Outdoor, nonprofit art space showcasing funky installations made from recycled materials.
via Google MapsTin Roof
Pub grub, cocktails & draft beer served in an old-school live music venue, which has a rooftop deck.
El Club
Indie bands showcased in an all-ages concert space with craft beers & outdoor seating.
Northwest Activities Center
via Google MapsSouthern Smokehouse
No-frills take-out place dishing classic Southern soul food like mac 'n' cheese & fried pork chops.
via Google MapsUrban Soul Restaurant
Spacious dining destination dishing up Southern favorites such as fried chicken in modest digs.
via Google MapsFlood's Bar and Grille
Hopping soul-food joint with a loungey vibe plays R&B & hip-hop plus hosts DJs & MCs every weekend.
via Google MapsLa Dolce Vita Detroit
Old-world Italian eatery boasts lively brunch & a cozy space with arched windows & a garden patio.
via Google MapsMusic Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Landmark venue showcases musical, theater & dance performances, with a trendy jazz cafe downstairs.
Detroit Historical Museum
Museum features interactive & revolving exhibits on the city's history, including recreated streets.
Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory
Historic series of stately greenhouses filled with many plants, including flowers, ferns & cacti.
via Google MapsBaker's Keyboard Lounge
Intimate 99-seat room with art deco furnishings & soul food featuring live jazz since 1934.
via Google MapsRedford Theatre
This ornate, veteran performance space with a working pipe organ hosts classic films & stage plays.
via Google MapsThe Majestic Theatre
Sprawling complex with 2 music venues, a cafe & a pizzeria, plus a longtime bowling center.
via Google MapsGolden Fleece Restaurant
Snug Greek staple with gyros, kebabs & other traditional fare, plus a full bar in a cozy atmosphere.
via Google MapsBel Air Luxury Cinema
Movie house offers 10 digital screens for new releases & matinee pricing lasts until 5 p.m.
via Google MapsIma Izakaya
Fisher Theatre
Redesigned in 1961, this historic, rosewood & brass theater hosts shows bound for Broadway.