Detroit Things to Do, Places to See and Day Trips Galore!
Detroit, Michigan-So many things to do, restaurants to try, museums to explore and fun galore! We have DAY TRIPS, tours, tips and so many fun things to do in the famous Motor City! LET'S GO!
Detroit Michigan is the birthplace of America's booming automotive industry! From tours to museums to restaurants, this magnificent city is just begging to be discovered. So let's dive in together and start exploring! Are you ready? Here we go!
Detroit Airport
Detroit Airport Maps, Tips and Information.
- Airport terminal addresses, parking maps and valuable information.
- Airline reservation phone numbers
- Airline baggage service phone numbers
Navigate Detroit McNamara Airport Like a PRO!
- Step by step tips to navigate the McNamara Airport
- What to expect at the TSA checkpoint
- Photos of the TSA checkpoint
- How to use the Express Tram
- Dining tips
AWESOME Detroit Day Trip Itinerary
OMG! We had an amazing day exploring a small slice of the city when we were there for the International Auto Show in January.
We explored the Guardian Building, the Renaissance Building and a restaurant you are definitely going to want to check out for yourself.
We have lots of tips to help you make the bet of your Detroit Day Trip!
There Are SO MANY Great Things to Do in Detroit!
Ford Piquette Plant
Visit the Ford Piquette Plant to discover the birthplace of the Model T! Read More....
Detroit Auto Show
The 2019 Detroit Auto Show-It's more than a car show, it's entertainment for the whole family! All terrain vehicle rides, fudge shops, VR experiences and concept vehicles! Plus we have lots of in-the-know tips you should know before you go. Click here for freakin' great tips!
Detroit Institute of Arts
Seriously, who doesn't like mummies, ancient churches, 2 story murals and astounding architecture?! GO! GO TODAY! Oh, and here's more info about the Detroit Institute of Arts!
Go Exploring in Detroit!
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The Henry Ford
I feel it's important to clarify that The Henry Ford encompasses 4 unique attractions:
- Henry Ford Museum-inside exhibits
- Greenfield Village-outdoor and indoor exhibits spreading across 80 acres
- Ford Rouge Factory Tour-self guided tour
- Giant Screen Experience-numerous movies are featured daily
See below for a breakdown of each event. The Henry Ford has package pricing so you can maximize your dollar if you plan to visit more than one attraction during your visit.
But I wouldn't try to do too much or you won't be able to immerse and enjoy each exhibit to its fullest. Possibly combine the Henry Ford Museum (takes around 3 hours) with the Factory Tour for a full day of fun. In my opinion, trying to tackle the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village in one day is way too much.
Location: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124
The Henry Ford Museum
Prepare to be wowed as you walk past sleek presidential vehicles and read about their bullet proof glass. Climb aboard towering trains and pretend you are on an epic journey across vast lands. See the Rosa Parks Bus that was restored by the Henry Ford Museum. Read about how steam engines work. There is much to do and explore!
Greenfield Village
This place is seriously cool. Run, don't walk to be transported to a time long ago. Greenfield Village is open seven days a week from mid April to the end of October. Open select days November through December.
- Stroll through 4 working farms and imagine how your life would be different if you lived on a busy farm.
- Craftworks-Be inspired by artisans working with early American techniques.
- Check out the Model T district and catch a ride on one of the iconic vehicles!
- Discover the history of America's railroads.
- Check out Thomas Edison's lab and experience his "light bulb moment."
- Tour a famous poet's home and stroll through a plantation.
- Ever ridden in a horse-drawn carriage? Now is your chance!!
Cool Factor! You can tour the Wright Brothers' home and bicycle shop at Green field Village!
Hungry? There is a tavern with an 1830's menu! Snacks are available for purchase throughout Greenfield Village. Hoping to shop? Then you won't want to miss the Craftworks store for special items created by Greenfield Village's artisans.
Consider package pricing if you are interested in visiting more than one location. It's definitely a better value.
Ford Rouge Factory Tour
Visit the Rouge Factory Tour for an insider view on how America’s most iconic truck, the Ford F-150 is produced. The Ford Rouge Factory Tour is a self-guided (yey!! you can take your time!), five-part tour which includes:
The Legacy Theater-watch a short film about the history of the Rouge.
The Manufacturing Innovation Theater- This is a multi-sensory film experience (vibrating seats, gusts of wind, 3D projection mapping, and winking robots) showing the making of the Ford F-150 truck.
The Observation Deck Tour- (I love this!) Ride the elevator up to the glass Observation Deck to watch as Ford F-150's are assembled on the plant floor below.
You’ll also get a view the “Living Roof,” an eco-industrial wonder and largest living roof in the world.
- What is it? The living roof is made up of tens of thousands of tiny sedum plants, a perennial ground cover also known as stonecrop. The function of the tiny plants is to collect and filter rainfall as part of a natural storm water management system.
- How big is it? It blankets the top of the final assembly building and spans 10.4 acres which is about the size of a nine-hole golf course!
- Why have it? The living roof is capable of cleaning up to four million gallons of water every year!! It also decreases the building’s energy consumption by seven percent and improves air quality by as much as 40 percent.
The Assembly Walking Plant Tour- Stroll along an elevated walkway to see the final assembly of the Ford F-150
The Legacy Gallery- which showcases some of the most famous cars manufactured at the Rouge, including the Model A and Ford Mustang.
Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited in both theaters and the Dearborn Truck Plant. However, you can take photos in the Legacy Gallery and Observation Deck.
The Henry Ford Tickets
For more information on visiting, the attractions and to purchase tickets on The Henry Ford website, click here: Henry Ford Tickets
Detroit Urban Exploration and Photography Tour
http://motorcityphotoworkshops.com. Love photographing abandoned places? I'm giddy about this tour and plan to embark on it early this year. I'll post my photos after my trip!
This urban exploration adventure visits the city’s abandoned schools, factories, warehouses, municipal buildings and theaters in search of the perfect picture.
Transportation between sites is provided. Take photos or explore while on this guided tour with Jesse, the professional tour guide.
The Heidelberg Project
The Heidelberg Project-3600 Heidelberg Street.
Looking for something quirky?
Check out the Heidelberg Project, a massive art installation with found objects. Drive through this neighborhood to see who can spot the strangest and most fascinating decorated yards and homes.
Can you spot stuffed animals? Plastic horses? A polka dot house? See who can spot the craziest things!
Detroit Institute of Arts
5200 Woodward Ave. Galleries, classes, cafe, guided tours and more! (Closed Monday's).
This gorgeous and awe-inspiring museum is definitely worthy of your morning or afternoon!
Check out "Friday Night Live," for free performances from local and international musicians.
Eastern Market
2934 Russell St. Eastern Market makes farmers market shopping fun!!
You won't be able to pass by the delicious fresh produce, flowers and baked goods begging to go home with you! Download a map here.
- Saturday Market: Year-round, 6 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Sunday Street Market: June – September, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Tuesday Market: June – September, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Wholesale Market: Monday – Friday, April – November, 12 a.m. –6 a.m. Open to the public, must buy in bulk.
Eastern Market Parking: Our sources tell us there is a free parking lot in front of Cost Plus wines. If you look on Google Maps, the lot is bounded by Russell Street and E. Fisher Service Drive, opposite Supino's on Russell and Cost Plus Wines on Market Street.
Fisher Building
3011 W. Grand Blvd. Ok, so this is cool: Pure Detroit, located on the corner of Lothrop and Second on the first floor, offers FREE Tours (approximately 1 hour) of this magnificent Art Deco building erected in 1928. Tours are offered at select times listed in the link below.
You will be wowed by stunning mosaic floors,
breathtaking ceilings and even the elevator doors are bronze works of art. They don't make 'em like this anymore!
- Awesome photo opportunities!
- Great views! Oh, and there's a coffee shop...just sayin'
Great shopping is also on the first level. Be sure to check out the Detroit Gallery of Contemporary Crafts for great wearable art.
- The Fisher Building houses the Fisher Theater which presents spectacular Broadway productions! Check one out and you won't be disappointed!
Click here for Tour Times and Information
St. Andrew's Hall
431 E Congress. St. Andrew's is a trendsetting, iconic concert hall. Visit their website for upcoming events! The Shelter is located below St. Andrews Hall and hosts various live music acts and DJ's.
Belle Isle
Belle Isle Park is a 2.5-mile-long, 982-acre island
park, located in the Detroit River. Almost one third of the island is a
natural wooded area that is home to a wide variety of small animals and
birds. The park features a number of historic public landmarks. What a
hidden gem!
- Belle Isle Conservatory
- Belle Isle Aquarium
- James Scott Memorial Fountain
- Belle Isle Nature Center
- Dossin Great Lakes Museum
- Public Swimming and Beach
- Giant Slide
- Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse
- Golf Range
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