Explore the Legacy of Innovation at MotorCities National Heritage Area
Discover the rich automotive history and cultural significance of Michigan at MotorCities National Heritage Area, an unforgettable destination for history lovers.
MotorCities National Heritage Area is a captivating destination that celebrates the rich automotive history of Michigan, offering tourists an immersive experience into the origins of the American automobile industry with engaging exhibits and historical landmarks.
A brief summary to MotorCities National Heritage Area
- 200 Renaissance Center #3148, Detroit, Downtown Detroit, Michigan, 48243, US
- +1313-259-3425
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the annual Detroit Auto Show for an immersive experience of automotive innovation.
- Check the schedule for guided tours that provide in-depth insights into the automotive history.
- Explore nearby attractions such as the Henry Ford Museum for a fuller understanding of automotive heritage.
- Be sure to take advantage of the local dining options that celebrate Michigan’s culinary scene.
Getting There
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Public Transit - Bus
From downtown Detroit, locate the nearest bus stop. You can catch the DDOT Bus #25 or #26 heading towards the Renaissance Center. The bus will take you directly to the Renaissance Center stop. Once you disembark, walk towards the building entrance and head to Suite 3148, where the MotorCities National Heritage Area is located.
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Public Transit - People Mover
Board the Detroit People Mover at any of its downtown stations. Ride the train to the Renaissance Center station. Upon exiting the train, follow the signs to the Renaissance Center's main entrance. Once inside, navigate to Suite 3148 to reach the MotorCities National Heritage Area.
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Walking
If you are already in the downtown area, simply walk towards the Renaissance Center. Depending on your starting point, you can use landmarks such as the Detroit Riverwalk to guide you. The Renaissance Center is a large, recognizable building along the river, and once you enter, head to Suite 3148 for the MotorCities National Heritage Area.
Discover more about MotorCities National Heritage Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Detroit-Windsor Tunnel
0.2 km
Experience the unique journey through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, a remarkable engineering feat connecting the US and Canada beneath the Detroit River.
Detroit Historic Designation
0.4 km
Discover Detroit's rich cultural heritage at the Historic Designation office, a gateway to the city's historic landmarks and vibrant history.
Wayne County Building
0.4 km
Explore the Wayne County Building in Downtown Detroit, a stunning historical landmark with rich architecture and fascinating stories waiting to be uncovered.
Landing of Cadillac Historical Marker
0.4 km
Explore the Landing of Cadillac Historical Marker in Downtown Detroit, a tribute to the city's founding and rich cultural history.
International Memorial to the Underground Railroad
0.5 km
Explore the International Memorial to the Underground Railroad, a poignant tribute in Detroit honoring the brave souls who sought freedom across the river.
Detroit Police Department Monument
0.5 km
Explore the Detroit Police Department Monument, a historical landmark that honors the city’s brave law enforcement and enriches your visit to Downtown Detroit.
Detroit Street Circuit
0.5 km
Discover the thrill of the Detroit Street Circuit, a historical racing landmark that celebrates Detroit's automotive heritage and vibrant urban culture.
Stearns Telephone Historical Marker
0.5 km
Explore Detroit's rich telecommunications history at the Stearns Telephone Historical Marker, a unique glimpse into the city's past.
Ford Building
0.6 km
Explore Detroit's Ford Building, a stunning historical landmark showcasing exquisite Beaux-Arts architecture and rich industrial heritage.
Greektown
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Detroit in Greektown, a cultural enclave offering delicious Greek cuisine, unique shopping experiences, and lively entertainment.
Hollywood Casino at Greektown
0.7 km
Discover the ultimate gaming experience at Hollywood Casino at Greektown, offering thrilling games, exquisite dining, and vibrant entertainment in Detroit.
Detroit's Point of Origin Marker
0.7 km
Explore Detroit's rich history at the Point of Origin Marker, a pivotal landmark that celebrates the city's founding and cultural evolution.
American Coney Island Historical Marker
0.8 km
Discover the iconic American Coney Island in Detroit, where rich history meets delicious hot dogs, a true culinary gem in the heart of the city.
Germantown Michigan Historical Site
1.0 km
Discover Germantown Michigan Historical Site, a captivating glimpse into Detroit's rich past, ideal for history lovers and curious travelers exploring the city.
Chicago Road Marker
1.0 km
Explore the Chicago Road Marker in Detroit, a vital historical landmark linking the past with the present in a vibrant urban setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
GMRenCen
0.0 km
Discover GMRenCen, where business meets leisure in Detroit's iconic skyline, offering shopping, dining, and stunning river views.
Detroit Riverfront Conservancy
0.2 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural vibrancy of Detroit at the Riverfront Conservancy, a premier destination for tourists.
Detroit Riverfront
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Detroit Riverfront, offering scenic views, lush parks, and cultural experiences in the heart of Detroit.
The Spirit of Detroit
0.4 km
Explore The Spirit of Detroit, a stunning historical landmark symbolizing hope and resilience in the heart of downtown Detroit.
Monument to Joe Louis “The Fist”
0.4 km
Explore the Monument to Joe Louis in Detroit—an iconic tribute to strength and resilience, symbolizing the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
Spirit of Detroit Plaza
0.5 km
Discover the Spirit of Detroit Plaza: A vibrant city park celebrating art, culture, and community in the heart of downtown Detroit.
Hart Plaza
0.5 km
Discover the cultural pulse of Detroit at Hart Plaza, a scenic riverside venue for events, art, and community gatherings.
Guardian Building
0.6 km
Explore the Guardian Building, a stunning Art Deco masterpiece and historical landmark in Detroit's Financial District, perfect for history and architecture lovers.
Cullen Family Carousel
0.6 km
Experience the joy of nostalgia at the Cullen Family Carousel, a charming ride set along the beautiful Detroit Riverwalk, perfect for families and visitors.
Detroit sign
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant Detroit Sign in the heart of Michigan, a symbol of resilience and a must-see for every tourist visiting the city.
Detroit Riverwalk
0.6 km
Explore the scenic Detroit Riverwalk: a vibrant urban park offering stunning waterfront views, recreational activities, and cultural experiences.
Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument
0.6 km
Explore the Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, an iconic tribute to Civil War heroes in Downtown Detroit, surrounded by beautiful parkland.
Campus Martius Park
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Campus Martius Park, Detroit's urban oasis, offering green spaces, cultural events, and seasonal activities.
Penobscot Building
0.7 km
Explore the Penobscot Building, a stunning Art Deco skyscraper in Detroit's Financial District, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Downtown Detroit
0.7 km
Experience the dynamic blend of culture, history, and modern entertainment in the heart of Downtown Detroit, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Andiamo Detroit Riverfront
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian dining with breathtaking river views at Andiamo Detroit Riverfront in downtown Detroit.
Joe Muer Seafood
0.2 km
Experience unparalleled seafood dining with stunning river views at Joe Muer Seafood in Downtown Detroit.
Sweetwater Tavern
0.3 km
Experience the best flavors at Sweetwater Tavern in Detroit – where comfort food meets culinary innovation in a vibrant atmosphere.
Jacoby's
0.4 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in Detroit at Jacoby's - where tradition meets flavor in a vibrant setting.
Townhouse
0.5 km
Experience American cuisine at its finest at Townhouse in Downtown Detroit, where every dish tells a story.
BESA
0.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at BESA in Downtown Detroit – where American flavors meet European sophistication.
Grand Trunk Pub
0.5 km
Discover Grand Trunk Pub in Downtown Detroit – where Irish hospitality meets modern cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Central Kitchen + Bar
0.6 km
Discover the best of American cuisine at Central Kitchen + Bar in downtown Detroit – where flavor meets vibrant atmosphere.
Prism
0.6 km
Experience upscale dining at Prism in Greektown—where perfectly cooked steaks meet elegant ambiance for an unforgettable meal.
Symposia Detroit
0.6 km
Experience Mediterranean flavors at Symposia Detroit – where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality in the heart of Greektown.
Parc
0.6 km
Discover Parc: An upscale American restaurant in Downtown Detroit offering innovative cuisine and stunning city views.
Fishbone's
0.7 km
Savor exquisite seafood and Cajun delights at Fishbone's in Detroit's vibrant Greektown district.
TABLE No. 2 Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience culinary artistry at TABLE No. 2 Restaurant in Detroit's Greektown - where fine dining meets exceptional service.
Pegasus Taverna
0.7 km
Discover the flavors of Greece at Pegasus Taverna in Detroit's Greektown – where authentic cuisine meets vibrant culture.
Firebird Tavern
0.7 km
Discover Firebird Tavern in Greektown: A lively grill and sports bar blending delicious cuisine with unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Millender Center
0.3 km
Explore the Millender Center in Downtown Detroit for a unique shopping and dining experience in the heart of the city.
Johnny Rags
0.4 km
Explore Johnny Rags in Detroit's Bricktown for unique clothing and accessories that bring out your personal style.
Threads & Legs
0.6 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Threads & Legs, the trendy clothing store in Downtown Detroit offering a chic selection for every occasion.
Astoria Pastry Shop
0.7 km
Discover the sweet side of Detroit at Astoria Pastry Shop, a charming bakery offering exquisite pastries, coffee, and ice cream in the heart of Greektown.
Detroit Custom Creations
0.8 km
Discover the heart of Detroit's artistry at Detroit Custom Creations, your go-to gift shop for unique, locally crafted treasures and souvenirs.
Gucci - Detroit Library Street
0.9 km
Discover luxury and style at Gucci's Detroit Library Street location, offering exquisite women's and men's clothing and leather goods in a vibrant urban setting.
Robyn Detroit
0.9 km
Explore the vibrant fusion of art and fashion at Robyn Detroit, where local creativity comes to life in the heart of Michigan's cultural hub.
Spectacles
0.9 km
Explore Spectacles in Downtown Detroit for unique men's fashion that combines style, quality, and a vibrant shopping experience.
Parker's Alley
1.0 km
Explore Parker's Alley: A vibrant shopping mall in Downtown Detroit featuring unique boutiques and delightful dining experiences.
The Detroit Shoppe
1.0 km
Discover unique Detroit gifts and local craftsmanship at The Detroit Shoppe, your go-to spot for authentic Motor City memorabilia.
CANADA GIFT SHOP
1.2 km
Explore Canada Gift Shop in Windsor for unique souvenirs, chinaware, and jewelry that capture the essence of Canadian culture.
The D Shop
1.5 km
Explore The D Shop in Detroit for the ultimate collection of sports memorabilia and apparel, celebrating the city's rich sports culture.
Shops On Top
1.7 km
Explore unique fashion & lifestyle boutiques at Shops On Top in Detroit's vibrant Eastern Market, a shopper's paradise for tourists.
Y Not Detroit
1.7 km
Uncover Detroit's unique fashion scene at Y Not Detroit, where local designs meet eclectic style in the heart of Eastern Market.
Rocky's Historic Eastern Market
1.8 km
Discover the flavors of Detroit at Rocky's Historic Eastern Market, a vibrant grocery store offering local produce and unique artisan goods.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Checker Bar Detroit
0.5 km
Discover Checker Bar Detroit, where delicious grilled food meets a lively bar atmosphere and nostalgic arcade fun in the heart of Downtown Detroit.
The Whisky Parlor
0.5 km
Experience a unique blend of whiskey and charm at The Whisky Parlor, Detroit's premier destination for spirits enthusiasts in a lively downtown atmosphere.
Urban Cocktail
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Detroit at Urban Cocktail, where innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere await in Greektown.
Asteria
0.6 km
Discover Asteria: A lively bar in Greektown, Detroit, offering an eclectic drink menu and vibrant nightlife for unforgettable evenings.
Delux Bar & Lounge
0.7 km
Discover Delux Bar & Lounge in Detroit – where cocktails meet nightlife in a stylish and vibrant setting perfect for any celebration.
The Old Shillelagh
0.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious grill cuisine at The Old Shillelagh in Detroit's vibrant Greektown.
The Three Legged Goat
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Three Legged Goat in Greektown, Detroit, offering craft drinks and live music in a lively atmosphere.
Level Two Bar & Rooftop
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Level Two Bar & Rooftop in Detroit's Greektown, offering stunning skyline views and a lively atmosphere for all.
Pigs Tail Detroit
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Pigs Tail Detroit, a bar in Greektown known for its lively atmosphere and live entertainment.
The Well
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse drink selection at The Well, a local bar gem in Detroit's Greektown, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Baltimore Bar & Grill
0.7 km
Discover Baltimore Bar & Grill in Detroit's Greektown for a unique dining experience featuring delicious grill cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
Standby
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail scene at Standby, a top bar in Downtown Detroit offering unique craft drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Skip
0.9 km
Discover The Skip, a vibrant cocktail bar and beer garden in Downtown Detroit, offering unique drinks and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Bad Luck Bar
0.9 km
Discover Detroit's innovative cocktail scene at Bad Luck Bar, where each drink is an artistic masterpiece waiting to be savored.
Queens Bar Detroit
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Queens Bar Detroit, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere come together in the heart of the city.
