Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle in and get your bearings with a walk through Detroit's reimportantized downtown core and riverfront.
Morning
Arrival & Hotel Check-in
Arrive in Detroit and check into your accommodation. If arriving early, take a stroll around Campus Martius Park, the city's central square, to feel the downtown energy.
Flexible
$0
Lunch
Lafayette Coney Island
American (Coney Dogs)
Budget
Afternoon
Detroit Riverwalk
Walk along the scenic Detroit Riverwalk. Enjoy views of the river, the Renaissance Center, and the
Ambassador Bridge. Visit the Cullen Family Carousel and the outdoor installations.
2 hours
$0
Evening
Dinner in The Belt
Standby or The Skip for cocktails, then dinner at Prime + Proper or The Apparatus Room.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (near Campus Martius) (Hotel (e.g., Detroit Foundation Hotel, Siren Hotel))
Central location for exploring on foot, with easy access to restaurants, theaters, and nightlife.
For the best Coney dog debate, try both Lafayette and its next-door rival, American Coney Island, and decide for yourself.
Day 1 Budget: $90
Spend a full day exploring two of Detroit's most prestigious cultural institutions.
Morning
Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)
Discover one of the top art museums in the US. Don't miss Diego Rivera's monumental 'Detroit Industry' murals, the impressive armor collection, and works by Van Gogh and Whistler.
3-4 hours
$14 (General Admission)
Tickets can be purchased online in advance, for special exhibitions.
Lunch
Kresge Court inside the DIA
American Cafe
Mid-range
Afternoon
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
Visit the world's largest institution dedicated to the African American experience. The core exhibit, 'And Still We Rise,' is a powerful and immersive journey through history.
2-3 hours
$15 (General Admission)
Check the museum calendar for film screenings or lecture events.
Evening
Casual Dinner in Midtown
HopCat for craft beer and 'crack fries,' or Selden Standard for a more upscale, seasonal menu.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
Returning downtown provides easy dinner options and keeps you centrally located.
Residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties get free general admission to the DIA. If you're with a local friend, ask them to sponsor your ticket.
Day 2 Budget: $110
Look into the history of the automobile at the world's largest indoor-outdoor museum complex.
Morning
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Explore vast collections showing American ingenuity. See the Rosa Parks bus, Kennedy's presidential limo, historic locomotives, and countless vintage cars.
3-4 hours
$28 (Museum Only)
Buy a combination ticket online for the Museum and Greenfield Village to save money.
Lunch
The Lamy's Diner inside the Museum or nearby Dearborn restaurants
American Diner
Mid-range
Afternoon
Greenfield Village
Step into a living-history village with historic buildings moved from across America, including Thomas Edison's Menlo Park lab and the Wright Brothers' bicycle shop. Ride in a Model T.
3-4 hours
$32 (Village Only) or $55 (Combo Ticket)
The combo ticket is essential if you plan to do both. Check the schedule for live demonstrations.
Evening
Dinner in Corktown
Slows Bar BQ for legendary barbecue or Michigan & Trumbull for Detroit-style pizza.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
Corktown is a short ride from downtown, making it a convenient dinner destination.
Wear comfortable shoes. The Henry Ford complex is enormous, and you'll walk miles between the museum and village exhibits.
Day 3 Budget: $130
See manufacturing in action and explore the city's most culturally lively neighborhood.
Morning
Ford Rouge Factory Tour
Take the bus from The Henry Ford to the active Dearborn Truck Plant. Walk on an elevated observation deck to watch F-150 trucks being assembled on the production line.
2.5-3 hours (including transport)
$24 (Factory Tour Only)
Book the tour time in advance online. It often sells out. The ticket includes bus transport from The Henry Ford.
Lunch
El Nacimiento
Authentic Mexican
Budget
Afternoon
Explore Southwest Detroit
Walk along Vernor Highway. Browse Mexican bakeries like La Gloria, visit the lively street art, and shop for unique goods at places like Rebel Nell.
2-3 hours
$0 (window shopping)
Evening
Live Music in Mexicantown
Dinner at Xochimilco Restaurant, then catch a live band at Nancy Whiskey Pub or The Old
Miami.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
Easy access to transit or rideshare back from Southwest Detroit.
After the factory tour, ask the bus driver to drop you at the 'Rouge Product Development Center' stop. It's a shorter walk back to the main Henry Ford parking lot.
Day 4 Budget: $100
Enjoy a day of nature, architecture, and relaxation on Detroit's beloved island park in the Detroit River.
Morning
Start at the nation's oldest freshwater aquarium (free admission). Then, wander through the lush Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, a impressive glasshouse with exotic plants.
2 hours
$0 (Park entry requires a Michigan Recreation Passport - $11 for non-residents per vehicle)
You need a Michigan Recreation Passport to enter
Belle Isle by car. Purchase online or at the gate.
Lunch
Picnic (grab supplies from Eastern Market beforehand)
Budget
Afternoon
Rent a bike or simply drive to key spots: the James Scott Memorial Fountain, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum (maritime history), and the
Belle Isle Beach for a stroll.
3 hours
$10 (Bike rental) + $11 (Park Passport)
Bike rentals are available near the Scott Fountain in warmer months.
Evening
Dinner in Rivertown
Atwater Brewery for pub fare and craft beer in a historic warehouse, or Joe Muer Seafood for an upscale experience.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
Rivertown is adjacent to downtown, making for an easy commute after a day on the island.
Visit the
Belle Isle Nature Center to see the urban deer herd. It's a small, free facility that's great for families.
Day 5 Budget: $85
Experience the hectic heart of Detroit's food scene on a Saturday, when the market is at its peak.
Morning
Eastern Market Saturday Market
Spend time in the sights, sounds, and smells of one of the oldest and largest year-round markets in the US. Browse fresh produce, flowers, artisan goods, and specialty foods from hundreds of vendors.
2-3 hours
$0 (to browse)
Arrive early (by 9 AM) to avoid the biggest crowds and get the best selection. Parking is challenging; consider rideshare.
Lunch
Grab food from market vendors
Varied (Detroit-style pizza, empanadas, crepes)
Budget
Afternoon
Murals in the Market & Shed 5
Explore the district's incredible collection of large-scale murals by local and international artists. Then, visit the indoor Shed 5 for more permanent vendors selling meats, cheeses, and spices.
2 hours
$0
Pick up a mural map from the Eastern Market Information Booth.
Evening
Dinner and Drinks in the District
Supino Pizzeria for famous thin-crust pizza, followed by cocktails at The Keep or a local brewery like Eastern Market Brewing Co.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
Eastern Market is just northeast of downtown, a quick ride back after a full day.
Visit Bert's Marketplace in the afternoon for incredible live jazz and soul music in a no-frills, authentic setting.
Day 6 Budget: $70
Marvel at Detroit's impressive Art Deco and early 20th-century architecture.
Morning
Guardian Building Tour
Take a guided or self-guided tour of this National Historic Landmark, known as the 'Cathedral of Finance.' Admire its impressive lobby with Rookwood tile, Pewabic pottery, and painted ceilings.
1.5 hours
$10 (for guided tour)
Check the Pure Detroit website for guided tour schedules. Self-guided visits are free during business hours.
Lunch
The Apparatus Room (in the Detroit Foundation Hotel)
New American
Mid-range
Afternoon
Architecture Walking Tour
Walk to other iconic buildings: the Fisher Building (take the elevator to the observation floor), the Fox Theatre lobby, the Penobscot Building, and the impressive Detroit Public Library main branch.
3 hours
$0 (self-guided)
Pure Detroit also has architecture-focused walking tours; book in advance.
Evening
Theatre Night
See a Broadway show at the historic Fisher Theatre or a play at the Fox Theatre. For dinner, try The Whitney, set in a historic mansion.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
You're already in central the theatre and architectural district.
Visit the Fisher Building around lunchtime on a weekday to see the active office vibe. The Albert Kahn-designed lobby is spectacular.
Day 7 Budget: $140
Step into music history and stroll through a neighborhood of grand historic homes.
Morning
Motown Museum
Stand in Studio A at Hitsville U.S.A., where legends like The Supremes and Stevie Wonder recorded. See original instruments, costumes, and memorabilia on a guided tour.
1.5-2 hours
$20 (General Admission)
Tickets MUST be booked online well in advance, as tours sell out weeks ahead. No walk-ins.
Lunch
The Red Hook Detroit
Coffee & Tea, Sandwiches
Budget
Afternoon
Boston-Edison Historic District Walk
Drive or take a guided tour through this impressive residential district with over 900 historic homes, including former mansions of Henry Ford, Ty Cobb, and other industrialists.
1.5 hours
$0 (self-guided drive)
Respect privacy; this is a residential neighborhood. View homes from the sidewalk or your car.
Evening
Dinner in Palmer Woods/University District
The Block for delicious burgers and craft beer in a casual setting.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
New Center is a short QLine streetcar or rideshare trip from downtown.
After the Motown Museum, walk a few blocks to the former General Motors headquarters, now Cadillac Place. The lobby is open to the public and architecturally impressive.
Day 8 Budget: $90
Explore Detroit's oldest neighborhood, now a hub of innovation centered on the restored Michigan Central Station.
Morning
Explore Corktown's Shops & Cafes
Wander Michigan Avenue. Browse books at John K. King Used & Rare Books, shop for Detroit goods at Third Man Records, and grab coffee at Astro Coffee.
2 hours
$0 (window shopping)
Lunch
PJ's Lager House
American Pub
Budget
Afternoon
Michican Central Station Exterior & Public Plaza
Marvel at the exterior of the magnificently restored Beaux-Arts train station, a symbol of Detroit's rebirth. Explore the new public plaza, park, and surrounding innovation district.
1.5 hours
$0
Check the Michigan Central website for information on public tours or events, which are occasionally offered.
Evening
Dinner and Baseball
Grab a bite at Batch Brewing Company, then catch a Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park (if in season).
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
Corktown is adjacent to downtown, and Comerica Park is right in the center.
For the best photo of Michigan Central Station, go to the corner of 15th and Vermont Street, just southwest of the building.
Day 9 Budget: $80
Get active on the water and explore a unique urban greenway.
Morning
Kayak the Detroit River
Rent a kayak from Riverside Kayak Connection and paddle along the Detroit Riverfront. You'll get unique views of the skyline,
Belle Isle, and passing freighters.
2-3 hours
$40 (single kayak rental)
Reservations are highly recommended, on weekends. They provide all necessary safety gear.
Lunch
The Arepa Place in Eastern Market
Venezuelan
Budget
Afternoon
Walk or Bike the Dequindre Cut
Access this below-street-level greenway from Eastern Market. Walk or bike the paved path south towards the Riverwalk, enjoying its continuous display of ever-changing street art.
1.5 hours
$0
Use the MoGo bike-share station at the northern entrance in Eastern Market for a one-way trip.
Evening
Relaxed Dinner in West Village
Marrow for inventive butcher-shop cuisine or The Royce for wood-fired pizzas and wine.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
West Village is a bit further east; staying downtown allows easy access to different neighborhoods.
If you're new to kayaking, opt for the 'Protected Waters' tour that stays in the Milliken State Park lagoon—calmer and perfect for beginners.
Day 10 Budget: $95
Experience the academic and cultural energy of Midtown and revisit a favorite museum exhibit.
Morning
Wayne State Campus & Public Art
Take a self-guided tour of the urban Wayne State University campus. Seek out the impressive collection of public sculptures, including works by Marshall Fredericks and Robert Graham.
1.5 hours
$0
Pick up a public art map from the visitor center or find one online.
Lunch
Seva Detroit
Vegetarian/Vegan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Revisit the DIA or Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD)
Return to the DIA to explore a wing you missed, or visit the smaller, edgier MOCAD for contemporary exhibitions focusing on emerging artists.
2 hours
$0 (MOCAD is free, DIA re-entry with original ticket stamp)
Your DIA ticket is valid for re-entry within the same week. Keep your wristband or receipt.
Evening
Jazz in Midtown
Dinner at Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails, then catch a excellent performance at the historic Cliff Bell's.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
Midtown is directly north of downtown, connected by the QLine, making return easy.
Before your evening plans, have a pre-dinner drink at The
Baltimore, a cozy, hidden-away bar adjacent to the Detroit Symphony Orchestra hall.
Day 11 Budget: $110
Indulge in classic Detroit cuisine, try your luck, and enjoy bar and club scene.
Morning
Relaxed Morning & Historic St. Mary's Church
Enjoy a leisurely morning. Visit the historic Ste. Anne de Detroit Catholic Church, the second-oldest continuously operating parish in the United States.
1 hour
$0
Lunch
Golden Fleece Restaurant
Greek
Mid-range
Afternoon
Greektown Casino & Monroe Street
Walk through the lively Greektown Casino (even if you don't gamble, the architecture is interesting). Then stroll Monroe Street, popping into specialty shops for pastries, olive oil, and souvenirs.
2 hours
$0 (to browse)
Evening
Dinner and Nightlife
Feast on a massive seafood platter at Fishbone's Rhythm Kitchen Cafe, then enjoy live music at The Belt alley or a comedy show at The Fillmore Detroit.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
Greektown is in the downtown footprint, making it an easy walk back to your hotel.
For the best loukoumades (Greek honey doughnuts), go to Astoria Pastry Shop. They are made fresh and are incredibly addictive.
Day 12 Budget: $120
Experience the incredibly diverse, walkable city-within-a-city known for its global cuisine and indie music scene.
Morning
Explore Hamtramck's Streets
Walk along Joseph Campau Avenue, the main strip. Notice the mix of Polish, Bangladeshi, Yemeni, and Ukrainian influences in the shops, restaurants, and mosques/churches.
1.5 hours
$0
Lunch
Aladdin Sweets & Cafe
Bangladeshi
Budget
Afternoon
Polish Market & Museum
Browse the Polish Market (Polonia) for imported goods. Visit the Hamtramck Historical Museum to learn about the city's rich immigrant history and its role as a music hub.
2 hours
$0 (museum donation suggested)
Evening
Live Indie Music
Dinner at Yemen Cafe, then catch a show at one of the legendary small venues like Small's Bar or The Sanctuary.
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown Detroit (Hotel)
Hamtramck is a 10-15 minute drive north; returning downtown keeps you central for your final day.
On weekends, look for the food truck 'Bangla Bites' for some of the best Bangladeshi street food in the area.
Day 13 Budget: $70
Pick up last-minute souvenirs, enjoy a final iconic meal, and depart.
Morning
Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping
Visit City Bird or Nest in Midtown for unique Detroit-themed gifts, art, and housewares. Or head to Shinola's flagship store on Canfield for watches and leather goods.
2 hours
$0 (to browse)
Lunch
The Hudson Cafe
American Brunch
Mid-range
Afternoon
Final Walk & Departure
Take a final stroll through Campus Martius or along the Riverwalk. Collect your belongings and head to the airport (DTW) or train station.
Flexible
$0
Allow at least 45-60 minutes to drive to Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) from downtown.
Evening
Departure
If you have a late flight, consider an early dinner at The Apparatus Room or Republic Tavern before heading to the airport.
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure) (N/A)
Check out of your hotel, storing luggage if you have a late departure.
For a quick, classic Detroit bite before you leave, grab a square of Detroit-style pizza from Buddy's Pizza (there's one in the Renaissance Center food court).
Day 14 Budget: $60