Suggestions Welcome
My sons and I do an annual baseball trip and we are looking at Comerica in late July. My boys are 22 & 23 and fairly adventurous and interested in Music, culture, food experiences. From perusing the forum we'd definitely check out Motown Museum. Cliff Bells looks interesting for night time music. Any other lively bars/neighbourhoods to recommend? Would probably like to stay walking distance to Comerica. The Hilton sounds good. Any other suggestions welcome. Cheers from Toronto
Your annual baseball trip sounds like a lot of fun, and Comerica Park is a great choice for a game! Detroit has a lot to offer, especially for adventurous travelers interested in music, culture, and food. Since you're already planning to check out the Motown Museum and Cliff Bell’s for some live music, I’d recommend adding a few more places to your itinerary to fully explore the city’s vibrant culture and nightlife. Here are some additional suggestions for your trip:
1. Neighborhoods to Explore:
- Greektown: Just a short walk from Comerica Park, Greektown is known for its lively atmosphere, great food, and nightlife. You’ll find Greek restaurants, bars, and casual eateries, as well as a couple of casinos if you're feeling lucky. It’s perfect for a night out after a game or to grab a bite before heading to another activity.
- Detroit’s Midtown: Another vibrant area near Comerica is Detroit’s Midtown, home to the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Science Center, and a variety of local bars, coffee shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place to soak in some culture during the day and find a lively spot to grab a drink at night.
- Brush Park: This is one of Detroit's up-and-coming neighborhoods, known for its cool vibe and stylish restaurants and bars. It’s a short distance from Comerica and has some trendy spots for nightlife, such as Marrow (a unique spot for food and cocktails), and Neighborhood Pub (perfect for a more laid-back vibe).
2. Music and Entertainment Venues:
- Detroit Symphony Orchestra: If you’re in the mood for something a little different, check out the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in Midtown. They often have performances and concerts, and it’s a great way to experience Detroit’s musical culture. It’s a mix of classical music, jazz, and occasionally more contemporary performances.
- The Fillmore Detroit: Located downtown, this historic venue is a great spot for live music and performances. They often host big-name artists, and the venue itself has a cool, old-school vibe that’ll add to your music experience.
- El Club: If your group enjoys live indie, punk, or electronic music, El Club in Detroit's southwest side is a must. It’s a smaller venue but has a great vibe for an intimate live music experience.
3. Food Experiences:
- Detroit Style Pizza: You can’t visit Detroit without trying its signature pizza! Buddy’s Pizza or Loui’s Pizza are great places to get an authentic Detroit-style pizza with a thick, square crust. Both are just a short drive from Comerica Park.
- Eastern Market: If you’re in Detroit on a Saturday morning, Eastern Market is one of the largest open-air markets in the country. It’s a great place for fresh produce, local meats, artisan goods, and great street food. They also have food trucks that serve up unique bites, from tacos to Detroit-style hot dogs.
- Selden Standard: For a more upscale but still casual dining experience, Selden Standard in Midtown is a must. They offer modern American small plates with great cocktails and an impressive wine list.
4. Bars and Nightlife:
- The Sugar House: A craft cocktail bar located in Corktown, The Sugar House is known for its unique drinks and upscale vibe. It’s a great place to hang out and enjoy some quality cocktails.
- Standby: A trendy bar in Detroit's Midtown, Standby has a fun, laid-back atmosphere with delicious craft cocktails. It’s a great spot for a nightcap.
- Whiskey Parlor: Located in Greektown, this intimate bar has an extensive whiskey selection. It's a great place to relax with a drink and enjoy the cozy ambiance.
5. Stay Near Comerica Park:
The Hilton is a great option for staying close to Comerica Park, but if you're interested in exploring a bit further, consider checking out these nearby hotels:
- Shinola Hotel: A boutique hotel with a great location near Woodward Avenue and Detroit’s downtown area. It’s stylish and modern, with some fun on-site bars and restaurants.
- Detroit Foundation Hotel: A trendy, upscale hotel right in the heart of downtown Detroit. It's a converted former firehouse and offers a unique blend of history and modern design.
- MotorCity Casino Hotel: If you’re feeling lucky, MotorCity Casino Hotel is a good option. It’s a little further from Comerica but offers a lot of amenities, including a casino, live music venue, and a few excellent restaurants.
Suggestions for the Last Day:
If you have a little extra time before heading out, consider taking a detour to check out some of Detroit’s cultural landmarks:
- Detroit Institute of Arts: A world-class museum located in Midtown. It's home to an impressive collection of art, including pieces by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Diego Rivera's famous murals.
- Detroit Riverwalk: For a relaxing stroll, the Detroit Riverwalk offers scenic views of the water and Canada. It's a great place to take in the sights and enjoy a walk along the river.
- Heidelberg Project: If you’re into street art, the Heidelberg Project is an outdoor art installation in Detroit’s McDougall-Hunt neighborhood. It’s a unique, quirky experience showcasing the creativity of the city.
It sounds like you have a fantastic trip ahead of you, and there’s so much to see and do in Detroit. Enjoy your time, explore the music and food scene, and have a great baseball trip with your sons!
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