Things to Do in Detroit

About Detroit

Detroit is reinventing itself in real time. The city turned its abandoned factories into breweries, empty lots into urban farms, and blank walls into murals that document decades of struggle and comeback. This is where Motown started, and the music never stopped. The scars are visible. Detroit doesn't hide them. Instead, the city uses what's broken—old buildings become galleries, former industrial spaces house James Beard Award-winning restaurants serving food that tastes like home but better. You won't find polish here. What you get is grit mixed with genuine Midwestern warmth, craft beer made in spaces that once built cars, and entrepreneurs who stayed when everyone said to leave. The automotive museums are gleaming and worth seeing, but the real story is in the neighborhoods where artists and small business owners are building something new from what remains. This is American revival without the marketing spin. Detroit doesn't ask for your approval—it just keeps moving forward.

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 impressive 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 ensoiasts should target spring and fall for comfortable weather and reasonable prices. Festival lovers need summer despite higher costs and crowds.