Discover Detroit Through Culture and Leisure
By Bryan Shelmon
From tip-toeing the US-Canada border on the award-winning Detroit Riverwalk, enjoying the beach and other outdoor recreation on the city island of Belle Isle, or immersing in the local culture through food, music, and art--Detroit is a destination that beckons the curious traveler to see what makes this Midwest metropolis special.
Detroit is a former boomtown for several industries, but it’s taken a major revitalization that’s transformed it into a bustling center for tourist activity. This hidden gem in the Midwest is once again striving to reclaim its position as one of the favourite cities in America to visit.
Witness the meeting place of the past, present, and future as historical buildings lining the blocks of Downtown Detroit now host trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and boutique-style hotels. Where forgotten alleyways are transformed into bustling pedestrian areas adorned with spectacular artwork and unique shops.
There’s plenty of things to see and do in Detroit to see what keeps the “Motor City” moving forward!
Art & Culture
Experience Detroit’s Midtown, a hub for art and culture in the city. The Detroit Institute of Arts, one of the top fine art museums in the US, boasts over 65,000 works of art from world-class artists like Diego Riviera, Pablo Picasso, and Rembrandt. Or delve into local history at the Detroit Historical Museum, where circling the rotunda takes you on a chronological timeline of the city.
From graffiti-lined walls of Eastern Market to quirky public installations like the Heidelberg Project, art helped transform Detroit into a walking gallery!
Music
Reconnect with Detroit’s musical heritage by exploring Motown and other legendary music venues or get a taste of the now at exciting festivals showcasing the continued legacy of excellent music in Detroit.
Stand in the recording studio of the Motown Museum where Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder recorded chart-topping hits. Or head down to the Glady’s Knight Amphitheatre along the Detroit River waterfront for the seasonal concert series and jazz festivals.
Food
Get a taste of Detroit with food staples that all the locals love, and visitors return just to savour once more.
Join the debate to see if neighboring restaurants Lafayette Coney Island or American Coney Island have the best coney dogs—the difference is in the chilli topping! Next, circle around to Buddy’s Pizza to get your hands on the coveted “corner piece” of the Detroit-style deep dish pizza that with surprise you with its unusual square shape.
Nightlife and Entertainment
When the sun goes down, Detroit’s Greektown is the place to be, where delicious Greek restaurants transform into a vibrant strip of bars.
Detroit’s iconic venues still welcome top national and international acts. Live music, comedy, and Broadway-style plays are always on the bill for the Fox Theater or dress up in your finest for a show at the Detroit Opera House for a classy evening.
With such a rich heritage, you’ll quickly grow an affinity for Detroit during your travels. You’ll be captivated by the stories from locals who’ve seen Detroit’s transformation and witnessing what keeps it special. Treat yourself to an enriching trip to Detroit through its history, culture, and leisure.
