Central Detroit Cool Things To Do

Question

I'm a Brit living in Michigan, and my brother is coming to visit at the end of April, beginning of May.

I've already got a few things planned, as follows, what other suggestions would you have of cool or interesting things to do in Downtown Detroit please?

What I've thought about so far is

- Detroit Tigers baseball game

- Belle Isle and Riverwalk

- Detroit Zoo (Ok, not Detroit itself)

- Detroit arts Institute

What other places would Detroiters recommend as being good places for people to visit please?

Answer

It sounds like you’ve already got some great activities planned for your brother's visit to Detroit! There’s a lot to see in the city, so here are a few more suggestions to make the trip memorable:

Detroit Historical Museum – If you're interested in the city's rich history, the Detroit Historical Museum offers exhibits on the city's past, from the early days of settlement to its industrial heyday and beyond. It’s a great place to dive into Detroit's cultural roots.
Motown Museum (Hitsville U.S.A.) – A must-see for music fans, this is where Motown Records was born. You can tour the house where iconic artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and The Supremes recorded some of their greatest hits.
Greektown – This vibrant neighborhood is home to excellent restaurants, bars, and cafes, many with Greek-inspired fare. If you're looking for a lively, unique place to hang out, Greektown is a great choice. Don’t miss the Greektown Casino if you're feeling lucky!
Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) – Since you already have the Detroit Arts Institute on your list, the DIA deserves a special mention. It houses one of the largest and most significant art collections in the country, including pieces from Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Diego Rivera's famous Detroit Industry murals.
Detroit Sound Conservancy & The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre – For music lovers, the Sound Conservancy offers tours of the historic Detroit riverfront area, and the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre (formerly Chene Park) is a popular venue for concerts during the warmer months.
Detroit Science Center – If you’re looking for something fun and educational, head over to the Michigan Science Center. It’s great for all ages with hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and a lot of interactive activities.
Detroit’s Motor City Bike & Brew Tours – A unique way to explore Detroit's culture and history! You can ride bikes through Detroit's streets while stopping for craft beers and learning about the city’s automotive history. It’s a fun, laid-back way to experience the city.
The Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village – A short drive from downtown, this museum complex is dedicated to America’s innovation, with exhibits on cars, technology, and the American experience. Greenfield Village is a living history museum with historic buildings and reenactors, making it an exciting stop if you enjoy learning about the past.
Detroit’s Corktown – Detroit’s oldest neighborhood is now a trendy area filled with hip restaurants, bars, and boutiques. It's great for an afternoon stroll or a casual bite to eat. Don’t forget to check out the iconic Michigan Central Station, which is in the process of being restored.
Detroit Princess Riverboat – Take a cruise along the Detroit River and enjoy stunning views of both Detroit and Windsor, Canada. It’s a relaxing way to spend a few hours, and there are often themed events and dinner cruises available.

For outdoor enthusiasts, don't forget about the Detroit Riverwalk – perfect for a stroll, bike ride, or even a picnic along the water. Also, the Detroit Tigers game is always a fun way to spend time, but if you're looking for something different, consider catching a Detroit Pistons or Detroit Red Wings game (depending on the season).

If you're looking for food and drink recommendations, Detroit has become known for its great food scene. A few suggestions include:

Buddy’s Pizza – Detroit-style deep-dish pizza is a must-try, and Buddy’s is one of the best places to experience it.
Slows Bar-B-Q – Famous for its delicious BBQ, Slows is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Perfect for a hearty meal after a day of sightseeing.
Detroit’s Eastern Market – One of the oldest and largest public markets in the U.S. It’s perfect for grabbing fresh food, local goods, and supporting small businesses. It’s especially vibrant on Saturdays.

With all these options, you’ll definitely have a packed schedule with a great mix of history, culture, food, and fun activities. Enjoy your brother’s visit and explore all that Detroit has to offer!

Central Detroit Cool Things To Do

More Detroit Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions