Detroit, Michigan Travel Guide

Discover Detroit: A vibrant city where automotive history meets modern innovation, rich in art, music, and culinary delights.

Detroit, Michigan, often called the Motor City, is a remarkable blend of industrious history and modern innovation. Known for its significant contributions to the automotive industry, Detroit is also a cultural hub, offering a rich tapestry of art, music, and food. Visitors can explore the Detroit Institute of Arts, home to an impressive collection of works from around the globe, including Diego Rivera's famous Detroit Industry Murals. For music lovers, the city boasts a storied legacy in the development of Motown. A visit to Hitsville U.S.A., the original Motown headquarters, is a must for any music enthusiast. Detroit's revitalized downtown area is brimming with energy. The scenic Detroit Riverwalk offers stunning views and a peaceful promenade, while Eastern Market is a bustling spot featuring local produce, crafts, and eateries. Sports fans can catch a game at Comerica Park or Ford Field, home to the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions, respectively. Foodies will delight in Detroit's diverse culinary scene. From classic Coney Island hot dogs to gourmet dining experiences, the city's restaurants reflect its multicultural heritage. Don't miss the chance to try Detroit-style pizza, a local favorite with a thick, crispy crust. Overall, Detroit's mix of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and modern amenities makes it an exciting and unique destination for tourists.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Detroit.

Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts on Fridays when it stays open late and often hosts special events.
The best time to visit Detroit is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing.
Use the QLINE streetcar for convenient and affordable travel through downtown Detroit.
Check out Eastern Market on Saturdays for a lively experience with local vendors and live music.
If you're a sports fan, try to get tickets to a Tigers or Lions game for an authentic Detroit experience.

Neighbourhoods in Detroit

Eastern Market

Downtown Detroit

Greektown

Corktown

New Center

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Detroit

Explore Detroit: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Detroit

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

Discover the remarkable history of American innovation at the Henry Ford Museum, where technology meets culture in an engaging setting.

4.8

Little Caesars Arena

Discover the excitement of Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, home to thrilling sports events and unforgettable live performances all year round.

4.6

Comerica Park

Discover the heart of Detroit's sports culture at Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers, offering thrilling baseball and vibrant entertainment.

4.7

Detroit Zoo

Discover the Detroit Zoo: a conservation-focused paradise featuring diverse wildlife, interactive exhibits, and meaningful educational experiences for all ages.

4.5

Best landmarks in Detroit

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Best Landmarks

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Detroit Institute of Arts

Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts, home to over 65,000 artworks, including masterpieces by Van Gogh and Rivera, in a stunning architectural setting.

4.8

Campus Martius Park

Explore the vibrant Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit, an urban oasis filled with lush landscapes, cultural events, and breathtaking city views.

4.7

Motown Museum

Explore the iconic Motown Museum in Detroit, where music history comes alive with the stories of legendary artists and timeless hits.

4.7

Hart Plaza

Explore Hart Plaza, Detroit's cultural heartbeat, where scenic views meet vibrant events and artistic expression.

4.5

Best restaurants in Detroit

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Green Dot Stables

Discover Green Dot Stables: A vibrant New American restaurant in Detroit known for its innovative sliders and extensive drink selection.

4.5

Fishbone's

Savor exquisite seafood and Cajun delights at Fishbone's in Detroit's vibrant Greektown district.

4.2

Texas de Brazil - Detroit

Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazilian cuisine at Texas de Brazil - Detroit, where churrasco meets exquisite dining in an elegant atmosphere.

4.3

Sweetwater Tavern

Experience the best flavors at Sweetwater Tavern in Detroit – where comfort food meets culinary innovation in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Best bars in Detroit

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Best Bars

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Grand Trunk Pub

Discover the vibrant Irish pub scene at Grand Trunk Pub in Downtown Detroit, offering delightful cuisine and a lively atmosphere.

4.3

McShane's Irish Pub & Whiskey Bar

Discover the soul of Corktown at McShane's Irish Pub, where authentic Irish food, live music, and whiskey await every visitor.

4.4

Checker Bar Detroit

Discover Checker Bar Detroit for delicious grilled favorites, refreshing drinks, and fun-filled arcade games in the heart of downtown.

4.3

Bobcat Bonnie's

Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Bobcat Bonnie's, a must-visit gastropub in Corktown, Detroit, for food and drink lovers.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Detroit

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Lager House

Discover the lively atmosphere of Lager House, a premier night club in Corktown, Detroit, where brunch meets live music and vibrant nightlife.

4.6

The Monarch Club

Experience upscale cocktails and breathtaking views at The Monarch Club in Detroit's vibrant downtown area, perfect for a chic night out.

4.1

Deluxx Fluxx

Discover the pulse of Detroit nightlife at Deluxx Fluxx, a vibrant club offering eclectic music and unforgettable experiences in a stunning setting.

4.3

Exodos Rooftop

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Detroit at Exodos Rooftop, where stunning views meet unforgettable experiences in a chic atmosphere.

4.0

Best shops in Detroit

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Viva La Vida Imports

Explore Viva La Vida Imports in Detroit's Eastern Market for unique gifts and local artisan treasures that capture the city's vibrant spirit.

5.0

City Bird

Explore City Bird, a quaint gift shop in Detroit's Midtown, offering locally made treasures and unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of the city.

4.7

Vintage Eastern Market, LLC

Explore Vintage Eastern Market in Detroit: a treasure trove of antiques, unique finds, and local craftsmanship in a vibrant market setting.

4.6

POST

Explore POST in Detroit: Your destination for unique gifts, handmade crafts, and local treasures that celebrate the spirit of the city.

4.9

Explore Detroit on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Detroit, mapped for you.

Detroit Essentials

Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is the main airport serving Detroit and is located about 20 miles southwest of downtown. The airport is well-connected with major cities across the U.S. and international destinations. You can also reach Detroit by train via Amtrak, with the Detroit station located in the New Center area. Major highways such as I-75, I-94, and I-96 provide easy access by car.
Detroit has a variety of transportation options including rental cars, taxis, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, and public transportation. The Detroit People Mover is an elevated rail system that loops around downtown, while the QLINE streetcar runs along Woodward Avenue. Buses operated by the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) and SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) serve the city and surrounding areas. For a more local experience, consider biking; MoGo bike share stations are available throughout the city.
The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or when visiting markets and local vendors.
While Detroit is generally safe for tourists, certain areas have higher crime rates. Exercise caution in neighborhoods such as Detroit East Side, West Side, and some parts of Midtown. Stick to well-populated areas, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure in crowded places.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Detroit has several hospitals including the Detroit Medical Center and Henry Ford Hospital. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather. Detroit experiences cold winters and warm summers. Don't wear overly flashy or expensive jewelry in public. Religion: Do respect religious sites and practices. Many churches and places of worship are open to visitors. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer seats to elderly passengers. Don't play loud music or talk loudly on your phone. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Hi'. A handshake is common in professional settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Coney Island hot dogs and Detroit-style pizza. Don’t leave large tips at fast-food places; 15-20% is standard in full-service restaurants.
To experience Detroit like a local, visit Eastern Market on a Saturday morning for fresh produce, local goods, and community events. Explore the Detroit Riverwalk for scenic views and recreational activities. Attend a live music performance at the historic Fox Theatre or catch a sports game at Comerica Park or Ford Field. Don't miss the chance to visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, which houses one of the largest and most significant art collections in the U.S.

When is the best time to visit Detroit?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Detroit

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Detroit. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloWhat up doe
  [wut up doh]
- GoodbyePeace out
  [peese owt]
- YesYeah
  [yeh]
- NoNah
  [na]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problm]
- Thank youThanks
  [thangs]
- Excuse me/SorryMy bad
  [my bad]
- How are you?How you doin'?
  [how yoo dooin]
- Fine. And you?Chillin'. You?
  [chil-lin. yoo]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yoo speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [i dont get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLemme see the menu, please
  [lem-mee see the menu pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [i dont eat meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI wanna pay, please
  [i wanna pay pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Call the Po-Po!
  [call the po-po]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [im lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [im sik]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [i wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just bro-zing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [thats steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do a deal?
  [can you do a deal]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the addy?
  [whats the addy]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

History of Detroit

Detroit, originally founded by French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac on July 24, 1701, was initially a French fur trading post. The city’s name comes from the French word 'détroit,' meaning 'strait,' referring to its location on the Detroit River connecting Lake Erie and Lake Huron.
In the mid-19th century, Detroit played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad, serving as a key hub for enslaved African Americans seeking freedom in Canada. The city's proximity to the Canadian border made it an ideal location for fugitives to cross into freedom, often via the Detroit River.
In the early 20th century, Detroit emerged as the epicenter of the American automotive industry. Pioneers like Henry Ford revolutionized manufacturing with the introduction of the assembly line, making Detroit synonymous with car production. The rise of companies like Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler earned the city the nickname 'The Motor City.'
During the Great Migration in the early to mid-20th century, thousands of African Americans moved from the rural South to Detroit in search of better economic opportunities and to escape Jim Crow laws. This migration significantly influenced the city's demographics, culture, and music, particularly the development of Motown.
In 1959, Berry Gordy founded Motown Records in Detroit, creating a unique sound that blended soul, pop, and R&B. Motown became a cultural phenomenon, producing iconic artists like The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and Marvin Gaye. The label's success helped break down racial barriers in the music industry.
The Detroit Riots of 1967, also known as the 12th Street Riot, were one of the most violent urban revolts in U.S. history. Triggered by longstanding racial tensions and economic disparities, the five-day conflict resulted in 43 deaths, over a thousand injuries, and extensive property damage, marking a turning point in the city's history.
The late 20th century saw Detroit facing economic challenges, including the decline of the automotive industry, leading to significant population loss and urban decay. However, recent years have seen a resurgence, with new investments in downtown development, the arts, and technology sectors, symbolizing Detroit's ongoing revitalization.
Detroit's diverse population has created a rich cultural tapestry. Neighborhoods like Greektown, Mexicantown, and Corktown reflect the city’s multicultural heritage. Annual events like the Detroit Jazz Festival and the North American International Auto Show highlight the city's vibrant cultural scene.