Best Things to Do in Detroit (Michigan)

Detroit may not be the most touristy area in the United States, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t visit and appreciate many attractions. In the Midwestern State of Michigan, Detroit is the largest town. Near the city centre, the Detroit neoclassical arts institute has the reputation for the Diego Rivera painted Detroit Industry Murals and is influenced by the connexions between the area and the automotive industry, earning it the nickname “Motor City.” In this article, we take a look at the best things to do in Detroit. 

The Detroit Zoo is located in the outskirts of the city, Oakland area. It is also popular for its outstanding coffee shops. It also includes a variety of ethnic sections. Including an Arab-American district with excellent restaurants in the Middle East. Detroit also houses collections of great art, hip stores, some of America’s best pizzas and other items.

Top things to do in Detroit

• The Detroit Institute of Arts
• Motown Museum
• The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant
• Detroit Zoo
• Detroit Historical Museum

1. The Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is based at Woodward Avenue in the city of Detroit, and it is one of the biggest exhibits in the United States. In over 100 galleries, the current collection holds over 65,000 pieces of art. One of the most prominent works in the series is Van Gogh’s iconic Self Portrait is kept for open for the public to see. Family-oriented events are also available, including live music and marionettes, storytelling and art workshops.

A highlight of their trip to Detroit for many tourists was the visit to the DIA. Famously regarded as the ‘ Nation’s Gem’. While many were initially attracted by Diego Rivera’s museum collection, the journalists said they were pleased with every segment of the DIA, especially its temporary exhibitions. Visitors have thanked the workers who were supportive and welcoming. This is one of the most informative things to do in Detroit.

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2. Motown Museum

Established in 1985 is the Motown Museum situated on West Grand Boulevard. Esther Gordy Edwards who was the sister of Berry Gordy, the founder of Motown Records planned to erect such a building. This is otherwise called as the Hitsville U.S.A. You would be awe-struck to see the recording studio where most of the hits produced by the Motown Records were composed. In addition to this, you can also visit the apartment where Berry Gordy use to reside with his family. 

Guided tours will demonstrate how Berry Gordy has made an 800 dollars loan into one of the most popular brands of all.  The museum holds a large collection of Motown items, memorabilia and portraits. In fact, the king of pop, Micheal Jackson’s donations can also be seen- A hat and his famous gloves.  The Motown Museum is one of the best things to do in Detroit, regardless of whether you are a music freak or not.

3. The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant

This famous attraction was constructed as a plant in 1904, and the first 12,000 T’s were installed here between 1908 and 1910. The plant Ford is the origin of the Ford Model T and is now a well-known museum. The place is completely filled with vintage cars. After a certain point, it looks like a parking lot from 100 years ago. It’s also possible to see the ‘experimental room’. This is where Ford and his team created and proofed new designs and also the drawing tables used during this process can be seen.

Visitors will explore the stunning brick walls and walk around the original wood floors of the factory, which have been aged gently from the days when employees made and assembled different Ford models. Even Mr Ford’s office has been carefully maintained and is open to the public. The list of best things to do in Detroit won’t be complete without this plant. 

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4. Detroit Zoo

The Detroit Zoo is located approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) north of the borders of the Detroit area, in the Royal Oak and Huntington Forests of Michigan. The Detroit Zoo is one of Michigan’s biggest and also the most popular family attractions. It is managed by the Detroit Zoological Society and the Belle Isle Nature Center within the city walls of Detroit. This is a non-profit organisation. This 25-foot deep aquatic field measures about 326,000 gallons of water. It enables animal lovers to see more than 80 penguins.

Children will enjoy riding the lively train and carousel accessible during the warmer season. in addition to this, The massive 125acre zoo has an underwater gallery. In fact, the uniqueness is that the tunnels are kept in such a way that one can see the birds all around them. This is one of the best things to do in Detroit especially if you are travelling with your family.

5. Detroit Historical Museum

The Free Museum of the Detroit Historical Society has been documenting the history of the city for over 85 years. The Museum enjoyed a surge of popularity in the 1990s. Surprisingly in 1993, the Detroit Historical Society raised almost $4 million. And in fact, this was raised for exhibitions, educational services and an endowment fund for the Museum. The Motor City exhibition is fairly new and was made possible after the popularity. It was opened in 1995.

This is the perfect way to read about the bright history of Detroit, its position in the Underground Railroad. And also about few of iconic events of the twentieth century. Additional exhibitions provide information on the critical role played by the city’s industries and residents during the Second World War.

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Apparently the list of best things to do in Detroit has to come to an end. Of course, this list might make the destination look like most other destinations filled with museums and historical monuments. But keep in mind that these are only the top things to do in Detriot and there are several other things one can try out. This is where customizing your vacation plays a vital role, affecting the whole experience solely.

We at Pickyourtrail, help travellers with tailor-made vacation plans according to their needs. Get the best out of your next United States vacation with Pickyourtrail. Check out our guides page for more info on the destination or leave a Whatsapp inquiry for more options.