Detroit Travel Guide
You’ll love Detroit if:
You are a fan of eclectic and vibrant music scenes
You love professional sports games and cheering on the home team
You’re attracted to eclectic neighborhoods and laid back vibes
You want to explore underrated cities with diverse arts and cultures
You like having a variety of cuisine and nightlife offerings
The Detroit Vibe
From the bustling streets of downtown to the tranquil shores of the Detroit River, there's something for everyone to discover in Detroit.
Detroit is an underrated city full of exciting things to discover. Whether you're a music lover, art enthusiast, history buff, outdoor adventurer, or simply curious traveler, Detroit has it all in an ever-evolving landscape. One of its most notable attributes is its musical background, earning Detroit titles such as the "Motor City" and "Motown." From the soulful sounds of Motown to the beats of techno, Detroit's music scene has made a huge mark on the global stage.
In addition to its music, Detroit is experiencing an artistic revival that is palpable in its streets and galleries. Vibrant art galleries, street art installations, and creative communities abound, showcasing the talents of local artists. Detroit's art scene is flourishing, from established galleries to grassroots art projects.
Another reason to visit Detroit is the automotive industry. As the birthplace of the automobile, Detroit boasts an automotive history that is on display at museums like the Henry Ford Museum and the Detroit Historical Museum. Detroit's riverfront also serves as a hub of activity, offering scenic views, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions. Attractions like Belle Isle Park and the Detroit Riverwalk offer parks, trails, and entertainment options.
Detroit is defined by its strong spirit of resilience and community. Despite facing challenges, Detroiters have rallied together to revitalize neighborhoods, support local businesses, and drive positive change. You can witness this sense of resilience firsthand by engaging with local communities, volunteering with nonprofit organizations, and supporting grassroots initiatives.
If you are ready to enjoy the city like a local and have the absolute best experience possible, keep scrolling for our city guide to Detroit!
Best Time to Visit Detroit
Detroit is known for its comfortable summers and cold winters. Most visitors choose to spend time in Detroit during the late spring to early fall seasons to avoid the winter snow. Temperatures are the warmest during June, July and August. But, it is also home to four professional sports teams, so there is always something to do.
Detroit has FOUR professional sports teams:
🏈 Detroit Lions (Late Summer - Winter)
🏀 Detroit Pistons (Winter - Spring)
⚾️ Detroit Tigers (Spring - Fall)
🏒 Detroit Red Wings (Fall - Winter)
What to do in Detroit
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What to do in Detroit 🥳
What to eat in Detroit
Detroit is full of gems, offering you plenty of destination highlights to explore. Whether you're interested in art, music, history, nature, or architecture, Detroit offers a wealth of experiences. Detroit art galleries are vibrant and unique. Here are some must-visit attractions that showcase the best of Detroit:
Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA): The Detroit Institute of Arts is a world-class museum that houses an impressive collection of art spanning centuries and continents.
Motown Museum: Step into the heart of Detroit's musical legacy at the Motown Museum, where you can learn about the record label that produced hits by legendary artists like Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, and Marvin Gaye.
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation: Dive into the history of American innovation at The Henry Ford Museum, where you can see the Rosa Parks bus, the Wright brothers' plane, and Henry Ford's first automobile. Take advantage of Detroit historical tours for more sightseeing.
Belle Isle Park: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind at Belle Isle Park, an island oasis located in the Detroit River. It offers views of the Detroit skyline and ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
Eastern Market: Experience the energy of Detroit's largest public market at Eastern Market, where you can browse fresh produce, goods, and specialty foods from local vendors. Explore the market's bustling sheds and open-air stalls, sample delicious treats from food trucks and eateries.
Guardian Building: Marvel at the architecture of the Guardian Building, a masterpiece of Art Deco and one of Detroit's most iconic landmarks. Guided tours offer insight into the history, but going inside to look is honestly just as impressive.
What to Eat in Detroit
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What to Eat in Detroit 😋
Now for the best part about Detroit, the food! From Detroit-style pizza to mouthwatering coney dogs and beyond, Detroit offers culinary delights that are sure to impress. If you want the low down, be sure to check out the awesome Detroit food tours available. Whether you're craving comfort food or gourmet creations, you'll find something delicious to satisfy your appetite:
Detroit Style Pizza: Detroit's signature pizza is known for its square shape, thick crust, and crispy edges. It is topped with layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings. Go to Buddy’s for the original pizza style - perfect after experiencing the best of the Detroit nightlife!
Coney Dog: The Detroit coney dog features a grilled hot dog topped with chili sauce, mustard, and diced onions, all served on a steamed bun. For an authentic taste, head to one of the city's iconic Coney Island restaurants.
Hamtramck: Venture into the neighboring city of Hamtramck to sample the famous Hamtramck Ham—a savory sandwich featuring ham, kielbasa, salami, and Swiss cheese piled high on a sesame seed bun. This sandwich is a staple of the area's Polish-American cuisine.
Burgers: Detroit is home to a thriving burger scene, with countless restaurants serving up juicy, mouthwatering burgers to satisfy any craving. You'll find plenty of options to choose from. Be sure to visit The Burger Truck, just two miles from Hostel Detroit!
Corned Beef: Try a delicious corned beef sandwich piled high with tender, thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all sandwiched between slices of hearty rye bread. This classic deli sandwich is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Best Coffee Spots in Detroit
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Best Coffee Spots in Detroit ☕️
Finally, a guide to Detroit wouldn't be complete without a list of the best coffee to keep you energized while exploring the city. Here are the best picks:
MadCap: Known for its quality and attention to detail, MadCap Coffee offers a wide range of expertly crafted coffee drinks. Situated in the bustling downtown area, MadCap provides a cozy atmosphere for enjoying a coffee while soaking in the energy of the city.
La Ventana: Tucked away in the historic Eastern Market district, La Ventana Coffee is a hidden gem known for its specialty coffee drinks and inviting ambiance. It is the ideal spot to relax and savor a perfectly brewed cup of coffee.
Alba: Located near Hostel Detroit, Alba Coffee offers a unique coffee experience with its innovative menu and commitment to sustainability. Alba showcases the best coffee culture, from single-origin pour-overs to creative espresso drinks. Don’t miss out - get the egg sandwich.
Anthology: With its chic, minimalist decor and a curated selection of coffee beans from around the world, Anthology Coffee is a favorite among coffee enthusiasts in Detroit.
For the Love of Sugar: While primarily known for its macaroons and desserts, For the Love of Sugar also offers a delicious selection of coffee drinks made with premium beans.
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