Things to Do in Detroit

About Detroit

Where industrial grit meets artistic soul, Detroit pulses with the rhythm of reinvention and resilience. This is a city that wears its scars like badges of honor, transforming abandoned spaces into canvases for creativity and community. The birthplace of Motown still hums with musical magic, while craft breweries bubble up in former factories and urban farms flourish in unexpected corners. Here, you'll discover a Detroit that defies expectations—where James Beard Award-winning chefs serve elevated comfort food, where street art tells stories of struggle and triumph, and where the warmth of Midwestern hospitality mingles with urban edge. The spirit of Motor City innovation lives on, not just in gleaming automotive museums, but in the passionate entrepreneurs, artists, and dreamers who are writing Detroit's next chapter. This is authentic America at its most raw and beautiful—a city that doesn't just survive change, but orchestrates it.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Rent a car for maximum flexibility exploring Detroit's spread-out neighborhoods. The QLine streetcar connects downtown to Midtown for $0.50. Use ride-sharing apps, but expect longer wait times in outer areas. Downtown is very walkable with good bike-share options.

Money: Credit cards accepted everywhere, but carry cash for food trucks, farmers markets, and some local establishments. Tipping is standard: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 15-20% for services. No sales tax on groceries.

Cultural Respect: Detroit takes pride in its comeback story—avoid negative stereotypes and show genuine interest in the city's renaissance. Respect private property when photographing abandoned buildings. Support local businesses and engage with residents' recommendations warmly.

Food Safety: Detroit's food scene is exceptional and safe. Don't miss Coney dogs from Lafayette or American Coney Island. Try Polish boy sandwiches, square pizza, and craft beer. Food trucks are reliable, and the Eastern Market offers fresh, local produce on Saturdays.

When to Visit

Spring (April-May) offers pleasant temperatures of 55-70°F with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring outdoor murals and rooftop bars. Hotel rates drop 20-25% from winter peaks. Summer (June-August) brings warm weather (70-85°F) and the city's festival season, including the Detroit Jazz Festival (Labor Day weekend) and Movement Electronic Music Festival (Memorial Day weekend). Expect 30% higher accommodation costs and book early. Fall (September-November) provides comfortable temperatures (45-70°F) with stunning foliage in Belle Isle Park. Pricing returns to moderate levels with 15% savings compared to summer. Winter (December-March) sees cold temperatures (20-40°F) and occasional snow, but offers 40% lower hotel rates and cozy indoor experiences like touring the Detroit Institute of Arts or catching a Red Wings game. The North American International Auto Show (January) draws crowds but showcases Detroit's automotive heritage. For budget travelers, visit November-March avoiding major events. Culture enthusiasts should target spring and fall for comfortable weather and reasonable prices. Festival lovers need summer despite higher costs and crowds.