Discover the Heart of Detroit at the Point of Origin Marker
Explore Detroit's rich history at the Point of Origin Marker, the birthplace of America's highway system, and a symbol of the city's unique heritage.
The Point of Origin Marker in Detroit is a significant historical landmark that symbolizes the city's foundational role as the starting point for the U.S. highway system. This captivating site invites visitors to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Detroit, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
A brief summary to Detroit's Point of Origin Marker
- Detroit, Downtown Detroit, Michigan, 48226, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as the Detroit Riverwalk or the Detroit Historical Museum.
- Check for any local events or historical tours happening in Downtown Detroit during your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the landmark and the surrounding vibrant city life.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are starting from the Detroit Riverwalk, head north towards Jefferson Avenue. Turn left on Jefferson Avenue and continue walking until you reach Woodward Avenue. At Woodward Avenue, turn right and walk for about 0.5 miles. You will pass several shops and restaurants along the way. Keep an eye out for the Detroit People Mover station on your left. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Fort Street. The Point of Origin Marker is located at the intersection of Fort Street and Woodward Avenue, right in the heart of Downtown Detroit.
-
Public Transportation - Bus
From the Detroit People Mover Station closest to you, board the People Mover and travel to the 'Millender Center' stop. Exit the station and walk east towards Woodward Avenue. At Woodward Avenue, turn left and walk north for about 0.2 miles until you reach Fort Street. The Point of Origin Marker is located at the intersection of Fort Street and Woodward Avenue. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Downtown Detroit as you walk!
-
Biking
If you have a bike rental, start from the Detroit Riverwalk and head north on the bike path towards Jefferson Avenue. Once you reach Jefferson Avenue, turn left and continue biking until you reach Woodward Avenue. Turn right on Woodward Avenue and bike for about 0.5 miles. You'll pass several landmarks and shops. When you reach Fort Street, you will find the Point of Origin Marker on your right at the intersection.
Discover more about Detroit's Point of Origin Marker
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Detroit's Point of Origin Marker
0.0 km
Explore Detroit's rich history at the Point of Origin Marker, a pivotal landmark that celebrates the city's founding and cultural evolution.
Penobscot Building
0.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty of the Penobscot Building, a stunning Art Deco landmark in Detroit's Financial District, steeped in history and charm.
American Coney Island Historical Marker
0.2 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.
Ford Building
0.2 km
Explore Detroit's Ford Building, a stunning historical landmark showcasing exquisite Beaux-Arts architecture and rich industrial heritage.
Stearns Telephone Historical Marker
0.2 km
Explore Detroit's rich telecommunications history at the Stearns Telephone Historical Marker, a unique glimpse into the city's past.
Chicago Road Marker
0.3 km
Explore the Chicago Road Marker in Detroit, a vital historical landmark linking the past with the present in a vibrant urban setting.
Detroit Historic Designation
0.3 km
Discover Detroit's rich cultural heritage at the Historic Designation office, a gateway to the city's historic landmarks and vibrant history.
General Casimir Pulaski Polish Heritage Monument
0.4 km
Explore the General Casimir Pulaski Polish Heritage Monument in Detroit, a tribute to Polish heritage and a key historical landmark celebrating America's Revolutionary roots.
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.
Greektown
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Detroit in Greektown, a cultural enclave offering delicious Greek cuisine, unique shopping experiences, and lively entertainment.
Germantown Michigan Historical Site
0.5 km
Discover Germantown Michigan Historical Site, a captivating glimpse into Detroit's rich past, ideal for history lovers and curious travelers exploring the city.
Detroit-Windsor Tunnel
0.5 km
Experience the unique journey through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, a remarkable engineering feat connecting the US and Canada beneath the Detroit River.
Landing of Cadillac Historical Marker
0.5 km
Explore the Landing of Cadillac Historical Marker in Downtown Detroit, a tribute to the city's founding and rich cultural history.
Detroit Police Department Monument
0.6 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.
Hollywood Casino at Greektown
0.6 km
Discover the ultimate gaming experience at Hollywood Casino at Greektown, offering thrilling games, exquisite dining, and vibrant entertainment in Detroit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Campus Martius Park
0.0 km
Explore Campus Martius Park, a lively urban retreat in Detroit filled with greenery, events, and local culture, perfect for every tourist's itinerary.
Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument
0.0 km
Discover the Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, a historic tribute to bravery, set in a serene park in 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.
Guardian Building
0.2 km
Explore the Guardian Building, a stunning Art Deco masterpiece and historical landmark in Detroit's Financial District, perfect for history and architecture lovers.
Spirit of Detroit Plaza
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover The Spirit of Detroit, a remarkable historical landmark symbolizing hope, resilience, and the vibrant culture of downtown Detroit.
Monument to Joe Louis “The Fist”
0.4 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.
The BELT
0.4 km
Explore The BELT, Detroit's vibrant outdoor art gallery, showcasing stunning murals and a lively cultural scene in the heart of downtown.
Hart Plaza
0.4 km
Experience the heart of Detroit at Hart Plaza, a lively event venue with stunning views and a rich cultural heritage.
Immersive Klimt Detroit
0.5 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
0.5 km
Experience world-class performances in the historic Detroit Opera House, a stunning venue in the heart of Michigan's cultural scene.
GMRenCen
0.6 km
Discover the GMRenCen in Detroit: A modern business hub with stunning views, shopping, dining, and cultural experiences along the picturesque riverfront.
Grand Circus Park
0.6 km
Experience the charm of Grand Circus Park, a historic and vibrant green space in the heart of Detroit, perfect for relaxation and community events.
MotorCities National Heritage Area
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant automotive heritage of Detroit at the MotorCities National Heritage Area, where history and innovation intersect.
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.
Essential places to dine
Parc
0.0 km
Discover Parc: An upscale American restaurant in Downtown Detroit offering innovative cuisine and stunning city views.
Central Kitchen + Bar
0.1 km
Discover the best of American cuisine at Central Kitchen + Bar in downtown Detroit – where flavor meets vibrant atmosphere.
Texas de Brazil - Detroit
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazilian cuisine at Texas de Brazil - Detroit, where churrasco meets exquisite dining in an elegant atmosphere.
Dime Store
0.1 km
Experience delightful brunch at Dime Store in Downtown Detroit, offering unique dishes and refreshing drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Grand Trunk Pub
0.1 km
Discover Grand Trunk Pub in Downtown Detroit – where Irish hospitality meets modern cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
BESA
0.2 km
Experience culinary excellence at BESA in Downtown Detroit – where American flavors meet European sophistication.
Townhouse
0.2 km
Experience American cuisine at its finest at Townhouse in Downtown Detroit, where every dish tells a story.
Prime + Proper
0.2 km
Discover Prime + Proper: Detroit's premier steakhouse offering exquisite cuts and an elegant dining atmosphere in downtown.
La Lanterna
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Lanterna in Detroit – where delicious cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere and exceptional cocktails.
Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine
0.3 km
Discover authentic Cuban cuisine at Vicente's in Detroit - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality in a lively setting.
San Morello
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at San Morello in Downtown Detroit - where every dish tells a story.
Great Lakes Burger & Pizza Bar
0.4 km
Experience culinary delight at Great Lakes Burger & Pizza Bar in Greektown - where gourmet burgers meet artisanal pizzas in a vibrant setting.
TABLE No. 2 Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience culinary artistry at TABLE No. 2 Restaurant in Detroit's Greektown - where fine dining meets exceptional service.
The Apparatus Room
0.4 km
Discover exquisite New American cuisine and innovative cocktails at The Apparatus Room in Detroit's Financial District.
Jacoby's
0.4 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in Detroit at Jacoby's - where tradition meets flavor in a vibrant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Threads & Legs
0.1 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Threads & Legs, the trendy clothing store in Downtown Detroit offering a chic selection for every occasion.
Robyn Detroit
0.3 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.
Detroit Custom Creations
0.3 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
0.4 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.
Millender Center
0.4 km
Explore the Millender Center in Downtown Detroit for a unique shopping and dining experience in the heart of the city.
Parker's Alley
0.4 km
Explore Parker's Alley: A vibrant shopping mall in Downtown Detroit featuring unique boutiques and delightful dining experiences.
The Detroit Shoppe
0.5 km
Discover unique Detroit gifts and local craftsmanship at The Detroit Shoppe, your go-to spot for authentic Motor City memorabilia.
Spectacles
0.5 km
Explore Spectacles in Downtown Detroit for unique men's fashion that combines style, quality, and a vibrant shopping experience.
Johnny Rags
0.5 km
Explore Johnny Rags in Detroit's Bricktown for unique clothing and accessories that bring out your personal style.
Astoria Pastry Shop
0.6 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
0.9 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
1.6 km
Explore Canada Gift Shop in Windsor for unique souvenirs, chinaware, and jewelry that capture the essence of Canadian culture.
Shops On Top
1.6 km
Explore unique fashion & lifestyle boutiques at Shops On Top in Detroit's vibrant Eastern Market, a shopper's paradise for tourists.
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.
Y Not Detroit
1.6 km
Uncover Detroit's unique fashion scene at Y Not Detroit, where local designs meet eclectic style in the heart of Eastern Market.
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
0.2 km
Discover Detroit's innovative cocktail scene at Bad Luck Bar, where each drink is an artistic masterpiece waiting to be savored.
Standby
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail scene at Standby, a top bar in Downtown Detroit offering unique craft drinks and a lively atmosphere.
The Skip
0.4 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
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Queens Bar Detroit, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere come together in the heart of the city.
Delux Bar & Lounge
0.4 km
Discover Delux Bar & Lounge in Detroit – where cocktails meet nightlife in a stylish and vibrant setting perfect for any celebration.
Evening Bar
0.4 km
Discover the hidden charm of Evening Bar in Downtown Detroit, a stylish speakeasy offering creative cocktails and a warm ambiance.
The Well
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover Baltimore Bar & Grill in Detroit's Greektown for a unique dining experience featuring delicious grill cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
The Old Shillelagh
0.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious grill cuisine at The Old Shillelagh in Detroit's vibrant Greektown.
The Monarch Club
0.5 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.
Candy Bar
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Detroit with creative cocktails and a vintage atmosphere at Candy Bar in Downtown Detroit.
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.
The Three Legged Goat
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Three Legged Goat in Greektown, Detroit, offering craft drinks and live music in a lively atmosphere.
