A Tribute to Freedom: The International Memorial to the Underground Railroad
Explore the International Memorial to the Underground Railroad, a powerful tribute to freedom and resilience in the heart of Detroit, overlooking the scenic Detroit River.
The International Memorial to the Underground Railroad in Downtown Detroit is a powerful tribute to the struggle for freedom. Located along the picturesque Detroit RiverWalk, this historical landmark celebrates the courageous journey of those who escaped slavery. Visitors can explore beautiful sculptures and plaques that tell the inspiring stories of the Underground Railroad, set against stunning river views that connect Detroit and Canada.
A brief summary to International Memorial to the Underground Railroad
- Detroit RiverWalk, Detroit, Downtown Detroit, Michigan, 48226, US
- +1313-877-8057
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos.
- Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the memorial.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Detroit RiverWalk for a scenic experience.
- Check for any special events or exhibitions that may be happening during your visit.
- Bring a journal to reflect on the stories you learn during your visit.
Getting There
-
Bus
From downtown Detroit, locate the nearest bus stop and take the QLINE streetcar towards the northbound direction. Get off at the 'Grand Circus Park' station. From there, transfer to the DDOT bus line #25 towards the 'Fort/Livingston' stop. Once on the bus, stay on until you reach the 'Detroit RiverWalk' stop. The International Memorial to the Underground Railroad is just a short walk from there, located along the riverwalk.
-
Walking
If you are staying in downtown Detroit, you can walk to the International Memorial to the Underground Railroad. Start at the heart of downtown (e.g., Campus Martius Park) and head south towards the river. Walk towards the Detroit RiverWalk, which is accessible from various points downtown. Follow the riverwalk east until you reach the memorial, enjoying views of the Detroit River along the way.
-
Bicycle
For those who prefer to bike, you can rent a bike from a local bike-share program in downtown Detroit. Start at any bike station and head towards the river. Follow the bike lanes leading to the Detroit RiverWalk. Once you reach the riverwalk, ride east along the pathway until you arrive at the International Memorial to the Underground Railroad.
Discover more about International Memorial to the Underground Railroad
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
International Memorial to the Underground Railroad
0.0 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
0.0 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.
Landing of Cadillac Historical Marker
0.1 km
Explore the Landing of Cadillac Historical Marker in Downtown Detroit, a tribute to the city's founding and rich cultural history.
Detroit-Windsor Tunnel
0.3 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.
Stearns Telephone Historical Marker
0.4 km
Explore Detroit's rich telecommunications history at the Stearns Telephone Historical Marker, a unique glimpse into the city's past.
Ford Building
0.5 km
Explore Detroit's Ford Building, a stunning historical landmark showcasing exquisite Beaux-Arts architecture and rich industrial heritage.
Detroit's Point of Origin Marker
0.6 km
Explore Detroit's rich history at the Point of Origin Marker, a pivotal landmark that celebrates the city's founding and cultural evolution.
Wayne County Building
0.7 km
Explore the Wayne County Building in Downtown Detroit, a stunning historical landmark with rich architecture and fascinating stories waiting to be uncovered.
American Coney Island Historical Marker
0.7 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.
Chicago Road Marker
0.8 km
Explore the Chicago Road Marker in Detroit, a vital historical landmark linking the past with the present in a vibrant urban setting.
General Casimir Pulaski Polish Heritage Monument
0.8 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.
Detroit News Marker
0.8 km
Explore the Detroit News Marker, a historical landmark celebrating the rich legacy of journalism in Detroit's vibrant downtown.
Greektown
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Detroit in Greektown, a cultural enclave offering delicious Greek cuisine, unique shopping experiences, and lively entertainment.
Detroit Street Circuit
1.0 km
Discover the thrill of the Detroit Street Circuit, a historical racing landmark that celebrates Detroit's automotive heritage and vibrant urban culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Monument to Joe Louis “The Fist”
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover the Spirit of Detroit Plaza: A vibrant city park celebrating art, culture, and community in the heart of downtown Detroit.
The Spirit of Detroit
0.3 km
Explore The Spirit of Detroit, a stunning historical landmark symbolizing hope and resilience in the heart of downtown Detroit.
Guardian Building
0.4 km
Explore the Guardian Building, a stunning Art Deco masterpiece and historical landmark in Detroit's Financial District, perfect for history and architecture lovers.
GMRenCen
0.5 km
Discover GMRenCen, where business meets leisure in Detroit's iconic skyline, offering shopping, dining, and stunning river views.
MotorCities National Heritage Area
0.5 km
Discover the rich automotive history and cultural significance of Michigan at MotorCities National Heritage Area, an unforgettable destination for history lovers.
Penobscot Building
0.5 km
Explore the Penobscot Building, a stunning Art Deco skyscraper in Detroit's Financial District, rich in history and architectural beauty.
Detroit sign
0.5 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.
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.
Downtown Detroit
0.6 km
Experience the dynamic blend of culture, history, and modern entertainment in the heart of Downtown Detroit, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Campus Martius Park
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Campus Martius Park, Detroit's urban oasis, offering green spaces, cultural events, and seasonal activities.
Detroit Riverfront Conservancy
0.7 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural vibrancy of Detroit at the Riverfront Conservancy, a premier destination for tourists.
Detroit Riverfront
0.7 km
Explore the stunning Detroit Riverfront, offering scenic views, lush parks, and cultural experiences in the heart of Detroit.
Windsor Riverfront
0.8 km
Explore Windsor Riverfront, a scenic park with stunning views of the Detroit River and vibrant community events in Ontario.
The BELT
1.0 km
Explore The BELT in Downtown Detroit, an artistic alley showcasing vibrant murals and creative installations, a true cultural gem in the city.
Essential places to dine
Joe Muer Seafood
0.4 km
Experience unparalleled seafood dining with stunning river views at Joe Muer Seafood in Downtown Detroit.
The Apparatus Room
0.4 km
Discover exquisite New American cuisine and innovative cocktails at The Apparatus Room in Detroit's Financial District.
Townhouse
0.4 km
Experience American cuisine at its finest at Townhouse in Downtown Detroit, where every dish tells a story.
Andiamo Detroit Riverfront
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian dining with breathtaking river views at Andiamo Detroit Riverfront in downtown Detroit.
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.
Dime Store
0.6 km
Experience delightful brunch at Dime Store in Downtown Detroit, offering unique dishes and refreshing drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Parc
0.6 km
Discover Parc: An upscale American restaurant in Downtown Detroit offering innovative cuisine and stunning city views.
Sweetwater Tavern
0.6 km
Experience the best flavors at Sweetwater Tavern in Detroit – where comfort food meets culinary innovation in a vibrant atmosphere.
Jacoby's
0.7 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in Detroit at Jacoby's - where tradition meets flavor in a vibrant setting.
Texas de Brazil - Detroit
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazilian cuisine at Texas de Brazil - Detroit, where churrasco meets exquisite dining in an elegant atmosphere.
Prime + Proper
0.8 km
Discover Prime + Proper: Detroit's premier steakhouse offering exquisite cuts and an elegant dining atmosphere in downtown.
La Lanterna
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at La Lanterna in Detroit – where delicious cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere and exceptional cocktails.
Symposia Detroit
0.9 km
Experience Mediterranean flavors at Symposia Detroit – where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality in the heart of Greektown.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Millender Center
0.5 km
Explore the Millender Center in Downtown Detroit for a unique shopping and dining experience in the heart of the city.
Detroit Custom Creations
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Detroit's artistry at Detroit Custom Creations, your go-to gift shop for unique, locally crafted treasures and souvenirs.
Threads & Legs
0.5 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Threads & Legs, the trendy clothing store in Downtown Detroit offering a chic selection for every occasion.
Johnny Rags
0.7 km
Explore Johnny Rags in Detroit's Bricktown for unique clothing and accessories that bring out your personal style.
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.
CANADA GIFT SHOP
0.9 km
Explore Canada Gift Shop in Windsor for unique souvenirs, chinaware, and jewelry that capture the essence of Canadian culture.
Gucci - Detroit Library Street
1.0 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.
Astoria Pastry Shop
1.0 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.
Parker's Alley
1.0 km
Explore Parker's Alley: A vibrant shopping mall in Downtown Detroit featuring unique boutiques and delightful dining experiences.
Spectacles
1.1 km
Explore Spectacles in Downtown Detroit for unique men's fashion that combines style, quality, and a vibrant shopping experience.
The Detroit Shoppe
1.1 km
Discover unique Detroit gifts and local craftsmanship at The Detroit Shoppe, your go-to spot for authentic Motor City memorabilia.
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.
Mama Coo's Boutique
1.8 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
1.9 km
Explore the creative haven of Detroit Dye House - where vibrant tie-dye fashion meets artistic expression in the heart of Corktown.
Dream Gift
2.0 km
Discover the charm and creativity at Dream Gift, a unique novelty store in Corktown, Detroit, where every visit reveals whimsical treasures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
Anchor Bar
0.7 km
Experience the heart of Detroit at Anchor Bar, where delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bad Luck Bar
0.8 km
Discover Detroit's innovative cocktail scene at Bad Luck Bar, where each drink is an artistic masterpiece waiting to be savored.
Delux Bar & Lounge
0.9 km
Discover Delux Bar & Lounge in Detroit – where cocktails meet nightlife in a stylish and vibrant setting perfect for any celebration.
The Loose Goose RestoPub & Lounge
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious offerings at The Loose Goose RestoPub & Lounge in Windsor, where culinary delights meet lively entertainment.
The Old Shillelagh
0.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious grill cuisine at The Old Shillelagh in Detroit's vibrant Greektown.
The Well
0.9 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
0.9 km
Discover Baltimore Bar & Grill in Detroit's Greektown for a unique dining experience featuring delicious grill cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
Standby
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail scene at Standby, a top bar in Downtown Detroit offering unique craft drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Urban Cocktail
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Detroit at Urban Cocktail, where innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere await in Greektown.
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.
Asteria
1.0 km
Discover Asteria: A lively bar in Greektown, Detroit, offering an eclectic drink menu and vibrant nightlife for unforgettable evenings.
Queens Bar Detroit
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Queens Bar Detroit, where great drinks and a lively atmosphere come together in the heart of the city.
Evening Bar
1.0 km
Discover the hidden charm of Evening Bar in Downtown Detroit, a stylish speakeasy offering creative cocktails and a warm ambiance.
