The Guardian Building: A Jewel of Detroit's Skyline
Explore the Guardian Building, Detroit's Art Deco masterpiece, blending history and modernity in an architectural marvel of the Financial District.
The Guardian Building stands as a magnificent example of Art Deco architecture in Detroit, captivating visitors with its vibrant colors and intricate designs. Known as the 'Cathedral of Finance,' this historic landmark offers a glimpse into the city's rich past while serving as a modern event venue. Don't miss the stunning murals and the breathtaking lobby that make this location a must-visit for tourists and architecture enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Guardian Building
- 500 Griswold St, Detroit, Financial District, Michigan, 48226, US
- +1313-963-4567
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
- Check for guided tours to learn about the building's fascinating history and architectural details.
- Don't forget to explore the surrounding Financial District for more historical landmarks.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are already in Downtown Detroit, the Guardian Building is easily accessible by foot. Start at the intersection of Woodward Avenue and Jefferson Avenue. Head north on Woodward Avenue for three blocks until you reach Fort Street. Turn left onto Fort Street and continue for one block until you reach Griswold Street. Turn right onto Griswold Street, and the Guardian Building will be on your left at 500 Griswold St.
-
Public Transit - QLINE
You can take the QLINE streetcar if you're further away. Locate the nearest QLINE stop and board the streetcar heading towards the northbound direction. Ride the streetcar until you reach the stop at the Financial District. From there, exit and walk east on Fort Street for two blocks, then turn left onto Griswold Street. The Guardian Building will be right ahead at 500 Griswold St. Note that a one-way fare on the QLINE is $1.50.
-
Public Transit - DDOT Bus
If you prefer the bus, find the nearest Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) bus stop. Take any bus route that goes towards the downtown area and disembark at the stop closest to Griswold Street. From there, walk south on Griswold Street for a short distance, and you will arrive at the Guardian Building, located at 500 Griswold St. A bus fare is typically $1.50.
Discover more about Guardian Building
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stearns Telephone Historical Marker
0.0 km
Discover the Stearns Telephone Historical Marker in Detroit, a hidden gem that celebrates the evolution of communication technology.
Ford Building
0.1 km
Explore the Ford Building, a stunning historical landmark in Detroit's Financial District, showcasing exquisite architecture and rich automotive history.
Penobscot Building
0.1 km
Explore the majestic Penobscot Building, an Art Deco masterpiece in Detroit's Financial District, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Detroit Historic Designation
0.2 km
Explore Detroit's rich heritage at the Historic Designation office, a cornerstone of the city's architectural preservation efforts and cultural significance.
Detroit's Point of Origin Marker
0.2 km
Explore Detroit's Point of Origin Marker, a historical landmark that celebrates the city's rich heritage and its evolving future.
American Coney Island Historical Marker
0.3 km
Explore the rich culinary heritage of Detroit at the American Coney Island Historical Marker, a tribute to the iconic Coney dog culture.
Landing of Cadillac Historical Marker
0.3 km
Explore the historical significance of the Landing of Cadillac, where Detroit's rich heritage comes to life at this iconic landmark.
Detroit Police Department Monument
0.4 km
Discover the Detroit Police Department Monument, a historical landmark honoring the bravery of the city's police force amidst the vibrant downtown culture.
Detroit-Windsor Tunnel
0.4 km
Experience the unique journey through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, a remarkable engineering feat connecting the US and Canada beneath the Detroit River.
International Memorial to the Underground Railroad
0.4 km
Visit the International Memorial to the Underground Railroad for a profound insight into the history of freedom seekers along the Detroit River.
Wayne County Building
0.4 km
Experience the architectural beauty and rich history of the Wayne County Building, a historic landmark in the heart of Detroit.
Chicago Road Marker
0.4 km
Explore the Chicago Road Marker, a historic landmark in Detroit symbolizing the connection between Detroit and Chicago, rich in history and culture.
General Casimir Pulaski Polish Heritage Monument
0.4 km
Discover the General Casimir Pulaski Polish Heritage Monument in Detroit, a tribute to Polish-American history and culture, blending history with serene surroundings.
Greektown
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Greektown in Detroit, where Greek culture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife come together in a unique urban experience.
Detroit News Marker
0.6 km
Explore the Detroit News Marker, a vital piece of the city's history, symbolizing the legacy of journalism in downtown Detroit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Spirit of Detroit Plaza
0.1 km
Discover the Spirit of Detroit Plaza: A vibrant urban park and cultural hub in the heart of Detroit's Financial District.
The Spirit of Detroit
0.1 km
Discover The Spirit of Detroit, a remarkable historical landmark symbolizing hope, resilience, and the vibrant culture of downtown Detroit.
Detroit sign
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant Detroit Sign, a stunning landmark that embodies the spirit and resilience of the Motor City, perfect for memorable photos.
Monument to Joe Louis “The Fist”
0.2 km
Discover the legacy of boxing champion Joe Louis at the iconic Monument to Joe Louis in Detroit, a symbol of strength and resilience in a vibrant urban setting.
Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument
0.2 km
Discover the Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, a historic tribute to bravery, set in a serene park in Downtown Detroit.
Hart Plaza
0.2 km
Experience the heart of Detroit at Hart Plaza, a lively event venue with stunning views and a rich cultural heritage.
Downtown Detroit
0.2 km
Experience the dynamic energy of Downtown Detroit, where culture, history, and modern attractions come together in a vibrant urban landscape.
Campus Martius Park
0.3 km
Explore Campus Martius Park, a lively urban retreat in Detroit filled with greenery, events, and local culture, perfect for every tourist's itinerary.
GMRenCen
0.5 km
Discover the GMRenCen in Detroit: A modern business hub with stunning views, shopping, dining, and cultural experiences along the picturesque riverfront.
MotorCities National Heritage Area
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant automotive heritage of Detroit at the MotorCities National Heritage Area, where history and innovation intersect.
The BELT
0.6 km
Explore The BELT, Detroit's vibrant outdoor art gallery, showcasing stunning murals and a lively cultural scene in the heart of downtown.
Detroit Riverfront Conservancy
0.7 km
Discover the beauty of the Detroit River at the Riverfront Conservancy, a vibrant urban oasis perfect for relaxation, recreation, and cultural experiences.
Detroit Riverfront
0.7 km
Explore the Detroit Riverfront: A scenic oasis with stunning views, cultural experiences, and recreational activities along the vibrant waterfront.
Immersive Klimt Detroit
0.7 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning world of Gustav Klimt at Immersive Klimt Detroit, where art meets technology in an unforgettable experience.
Detroit Opera House
0.8 km
Experience world-class performances in the historic Detroit Opera House, a stunning venue in the heart of Michigan's cultural scene.
Essential places to dine
Townhouse
0.1 km
Experience American cuisine at its finest at Townhouse in Downtown Detroit, where every dish tells a story.
BESA
0.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at BESA in Downtown Detroit – where American flavors meet European sophistication.
Grand Trunk Pub
0.1 km
Discover Grand Trunk Pub in Downtown Detroit – where Irish hospitality meets modern cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Central Kitchen + Bar
0.2 km
Discover the best of American cuisine at Central Kitchen + Bar in downtown Detroit – where flavor meets vibrant atmosphere.
Dime Store
0.2 km
Experience delightful brunch at Dime Store in Downtown Detroit, offering unique dishes and refreshing drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Parc
0.2 km
Discover Parc: An upscale American restaurant in Downtown Detroit offering innovative cuisine and stunning city views.
The Apparatus Room
0.2 km
Discover exquisite New American cuisine and innovative cocktails at The Apparatus Room in Detroit's Financial District.
Texas de Brazil - Detroit
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazilian cuisine at Texas de Brazil - Detroit, where churrasco meets exquisite dining in an elegant atmosphere.
Prime + Proper
0.4 km
Discover Prime + Proper: Detroit's premier steakhouse offering exquisite cuts and an elegant dining atmosphere in downtown.
Sweetwater Tavern
0.4 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.
La Lanterna
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Lanterna in Detroit – where delicious cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere and exceptional cocktails.
Joe Muer Seafood
0.5 km
Experience unparalleled seafood dining with stunning river views at Joe Muer Seafood in Downtown Detroit.
Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine
0.5 km
Discover authentic Cuban cuisine at Vicente's in Detroit - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality in a lively setting.
TABLE No. 2 Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience culinary artistry at TABLE No. 2 Restaurant in Detroit's Greektown - where fine dining meets exceptional service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Threads & Legs
0.2 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Threads & Legs, the trendy clothing store in Downtown Detroit offering a chic selection for every occasion.
Detroit Custom Creations
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Detroit's artistry at Detroit Custom Creations, your go-to gift shop for unique, locally crafted treasures and souvenirs.
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.
Robyn Detroit
0.5 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.
Johnny Rags
0.5 km
Explore Johnny Rags in Detroit's Bricktown for unique clothing and accessories that bring out your personal style.
Gucci - Detroit Library Street
0.6 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.
Parker's Alley
0.6 km
Explore Parker's Alley: A vibrant shopping mall in Downtown Detroit featuring unique boutiques and delightful dining experiences.
The Detroit Shoppe
0.7 km
Discover unique Detroit gifts and local craftsmanship at The Detroit Shoppe, your go-to spot for authentic Motor City memorabilia.
Spectacles
0.7 km
Explore Spectacles in Downtown Detroit for unique men's fashion that combines style, quality, and a vibrant shopping experience.
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.
The D Shop
1.1 km
Explore The D Shop in Detroit for the ultimate collection of sports memorabilia and apparel, celebrating the city's rich sports culture.
CANADA GIFT SHOP
1.3 km
Explore Canada Gift Shop in Windsor for unique souvenirs, chinaware, and jewelry that capture the essence of Canadian culture.
Mama Coo's Boutique
1.6 km
Discover unique clothing and gifts at Mama Coo's Boutique in Corktown, celebrating local craftsmanship and Detroit's vibrant culture.
Detroit Dye House - home of brightlytwisted
1.6 km
Explore the creative haven of Detroit Dye House - where vibrant tie-dye fashion meets artistic expression in the heart of Corktown.
Shops On Top
1.8 km
Explore unique fashion & lifestyle boutiques at Shops On Top in Detroit's vibrant Eastern Market, a shopper's paradise for tourists.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Whisky Parlor
0.1 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.
Checker Bar Detroit
0.2 km
Discover Checker Bar Detroit, where delicious grilled food meets a lively bar atmosphere and nostalgic arcade fun in the heart of Downtown Detroit.
Bad Luck Bar
0.4 km
Discover Detroit's innovative cocktail scene at Bad Luck Bar, where each drink is an artistic masterpiece waiting to be savored.
Anchor Bar
0.5 km
Experience the heart of Detroit at Anchor Bar, where delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Delux Bar & Lounge
0.5 km
Discover Delux Bar & Lounge in Detroit – where cocktails meet nightlife in a stylish and vibrant setting perfect for any celebration.
Standby
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail scene at Standby, a top bar in Downtown Detroit offering unique craft drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Well
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover Baltimore Bar & Grill in Detroit's Greektown for a unique dining experience featuring delicious grill cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
The Skip
0.6 km
Discover The Skip, a vibrant cocktail bar and beer garden in Downtown Detroit, offering unique drinks and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Queens Bar Detroit
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Queens Bar Detroit, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere come together in the heart of the city.
The Old Shillelagh
0.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious grill cuisine at The Old Shillelagh in Detroit's vibrant Greektown.
Evening Bar
0.6 km
Discover the hidden charm of Evening Bar in Downtown Detroit, a stylish speakeasy offering creative cocktails and a warm ambiance.
The Monarch Club
0.7 km
Discover The Monarch Club, Detroit's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, craft cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Urban Cocktail
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Detroit at Urban Cocktail, where innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere await in 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.
