Detroit Weekend Guide
Discovering Motor City's Best Spots
Detroit, also known as the “Motor City,” is one of the most dynamic and culturally rich cities in the United States. It’s a place where history, innovation, art, and culture blend seamlessly, making it an ideal destination to visit Detroit and experience its seasonal activities, local events, and culinary delights like the famous Detroit-style pizza. Whether you’re drawn by the city’s automotive legacy, its thriving art scene, or its delicious food offerings, this Detroit weekend guide will help you make the most of your trip.
About Detroit
Introduction to the City and Its Rich History
Detroit, Michigan, is a city with a rich and fascinating history that spans over three centuries. Founded in 1701 by French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, Detroit has evolved from a small fur trading post to a thriving metropolis. The city’s strategic location on the Detroit River made it an important hub for trade and commerce, and its proximity to the Great Lakes facilitated the growth of the automotive industry. Detroit’s history is a testament to its resilience and determination, from its early days as a French colonial outpost to its current status as a vibrant and diverse city.
Detroit’s cultural scene is a unique blend of European and American influences, reflecting the city’s history as a melting pot of cultures. The city is home to numerous art museums, galleries, and performance venues, showcasing the works of local and international artists. The Detroit Institute of Arts, one of the city’s premier art museums, features a collection of over 65,000 works of art, including pieces by famous artists such as Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.
Friday Evening: Arrive and Explore Downtown Detroit
As you arrive in Detroit on Friday evening, take some time to explore the city’s vibrant downtown area. Start at the iconic Guardian Building, a stunning example of Art Deco architecture that is sure to leave you in awe. Take a stroll along the Detroit Riverwalk, which offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the river. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, head to the Apparatus Room, a restaurant located in the historic Detroit Foundation Hotel.
After dinner, take a walk around the city’s downtown area and explore the various shops, galleries, and street art installations. Be sure to check out the famous Eastern Market, a historic public market that has been in operation since 1891. Even though the market is closed on Fridays, you can still take a stroll around the area and admire the vibrant street art and murals.
Friday Evening: Arrive and Explore Downtown Detroit
Your weekend in Detroit, Michigan begins in the downtown area, which has transformed dramatically over the past few years. Once associated with a rough reputation as one of America’s “most dangerous cities,” downtown Detroit has experienced a renaissance, with new restaurants, boutique hotels, and revitalized public spaces.
Check-In at a Boutique Hotel
Start by checking into one of Detroit’s fantastic boutique hotels, such as the David Whitney Building, which offers a glimpse into the city’s history with modern amenities. Its location in the city center ensures you’re within walking distance to many of the downtown Detroit attractions. When you visit Detroit, staying at a boutique hotel like the David Whitney Building enhances the experience.
Dinner at Grey Ghost Detroit
Once settled, head to Grey Ghost Detroit for craft cocktails and an unforgettable dining experience. This restaurant is known for its cool atmosphere and innovative menu, perfect for starting your weekend in Detroit on a high note. Grey Ghost Detroit is a perfect start to your weekend in Detroit, Michigan.
Nightcap at The Hudson Café
After dinner, grab a nightcap at The Hudson Café on Woodward Avenue. Known for its brunch, this place also offers excellent late-night bites and drinks.
Saturday Morning: History and Art in Motor City
Start your Saturday morning with a visit to the Motown Museum, a must-see attraction for music lovers. Located in the heart of Detroit, the museum is dedicated to the history of Motown Records and features exhibits on the legendary record label’s artists, including Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross and the Supremes, and Marvin Gaye.
After the museum, head to the Detroit Institute of Arts, one of the city’s premier art museums. The museum’s collection includes over 65,000 works of art, spanning from ancient civilizations to contemporary artists. Be sure to check out the famous Diego Rivera murals, which are a highlight of the museum’s collection.
Saturday Morning: History and Art in Motor City
Visit Detroit and start your first full day by diving into its rich history and vibrant culture. Detroit travel tips for a successful day: wear comfortable shoes as many of the attractions are within walking distance, but be ready to use public transportation or a rental car for destinations farther away.
Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts
Your first stop should be the Detroit Institute of Arts, home to one of the most significant art collections in the country. Featuring works from Diego Rivera to Van Gogh, it’s a must-visit for any art enthusiast. Visiting the Detroit Institute of Arts is a must for any weekend in Detroit, Michigan.
Discover the Detroit Historical Museum
Next, head over to the Detroit Historical Museum, where you can explore exhibits that highlight the city’s history, from its founding to its critical role in the automotive industry. Don’t forget to check out the Joe Louis statue, which pays homage to one of Detroit’s most iconic athletes. When you visit Detroit, the Detroit Historical Museum is a must-see to understand the city's rich history.
A Visit to the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village
If you have a couple hours to spare, take a short drive to nearby Dearborn to visit the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village. Here, you’ll find an extensive collection of artifacts from American history, including the Model T and pieces of Americana like the Rosa Parks bus. This site is worth visiting if you’re interested in innovation and industry. A visit to the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village is a great addition to any weekend in Detroit, Michigan.
Saturday Afternoon: Exploring Eastern Market and Detroit’s Food Scene
Spend your Saturday afternoon exploring Eastern Market, a historic public market that has been in operation since 1891. The market is a hub for local food vendors, farmers, and artisans, offering a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and handmade goods. Be sure to try some of the city’s famous Detroit-style pizza, which is known for its square shape and crispy crust.
After lunch, take a stroll around the market and explore the various shops and stalls. You can find everything from handmade jewelry to artisanal cheeses, making it a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, head to the famous American Coney Island, which has been serving up classic Coney dogs and desserts since 1917.
In the evening, head to the Grey Ghost Detroit, a trendy restaurant that serves up creative cocktails and small plates. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city’s Midtown neighborhood, which is known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions.
Saturday Afternoon: Exploring Eastern Market and Detroit's Food Scene
After soaking in the history, it’s time to visit Detroit and explore one of its most vibrant areas.
Lunch at Lafayette Coney Island or American Coney Island
For lunch, try Detroit’s famous Coney dogs at Lafayette Coney Island or American Coney Island. These two iconic eateries sit side by side, and both claim to offer the best hot dogs in town. It’s a Detroit tradition, and you can’t go wrong with either. Trying a Coney dog is a must-do during any weekend in Detroit, Michigan.
Explore Eastern Market
Post-lunch, take a short walk to Eastern Market, a bustling hub for food lovers. This historic marketplace offers fresh produce, local crafts, and street art. On weekends, it becomes a lively destination with vendors selling everything from flowers to artisanal cheeses. If you’re lucky, you may catch some live music while strolling through the market. When you visit Detroit, Eastern Market is a must-visit for food lovers and art enthusiasts.
Saturday Evening: Detroit Tigers Game and Nightlife
Detroit Tigers Baseball Game at Comerica Park
If you’re visiting in early October, catch a Detroit Tigers baseball game at Comerica Park. Watching the Tigers play is one of the quintessential Detroit experiences, and the park itself offers stunning views of the Detroit skyline. When you visit Detroit, catching a Tigers game is a quintessential experience.
Dinner at Bucharest Grill
After the game, grab lunch or dinner at Bucharest Grill, known for its incredible shawarma and cuban food. This Detroit favorite is perfect for a casual and flavorful meal after an eventful day. Bucharest Grill is also a great dining option for any weekend in Detroit, Michigan.
Final Night Drinks at Dime Store
End your Saturday night with craft cocktails at Dime Store, one of Detroit’s hidden gems known for its laid-back vibe and unique drink menu. You can also try cool restaurants in the New Center area, depending on where you want to spend your evening. When you visit Detroit, Dime Store is a great spot for craft cocktails and a laid-back vibe.
Sunday Morning: A Relaxing Day on Belle Isle
Start with Breakfast at Dime Store or Hudson Café
Start your final morning with breakfast back at Hudson Café or try something new at Dime Store. Both places offer hearty breakfasts that will fuel you up for the day ahead. When you visit Detroit, starting your day with breakfast at Dime Store or Hudson Café is a great choice.
Belle Isle Park
Spend your Sunday morning enjoying Belle Isle Park, one of Detroit’s natural treasures. This state park, located on an island in the Detroit River, offers panoramic views of the city, including the Detroit Riverwalk. Explore the Belle Isle Aquarium, one of the oldest in the United States, and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, which highlights Detroit’s maritime history. Belle Isle Park is a must-visit for any weekend in Detroit, Michigan.
Motown Museum and Hitsville USA
After your time at Belle Isle, head to the Motown Museum for a tour of Hitsville USA, the original recording studio where stars like Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross launched their careers. The Motown sound is synonymous with Detroit, and a visit to this museum is a must for music lovers. When you visit Detroit, the Motown Museum is a must-see for music lovers.
Sunday Afternoon: Wrapping Up Your Detroit Itinerary
Guardian Building
Before wrapping up your Detroit weekend, make a quick stop at the Guardian Building, a stunning example of Art Deco architecture. This skyscraper in the city center is a visual masterpiece and offers a unique glimpse into Detroit’s architectural legacy. When you visit Detroit, the Guardian Building is a must-see architectural landmark.
Lunch at the Fisher Building
For your final meal, head to the Fisher Building in the New Center neighborhood. The building itself is another architectural gem, and it houses several restaurants that serve delicious lunch options. Having lunch at the Fisher Building is a great way to conclude any weekend in Detroit, Michigan.
Explore the Heidelberg Project
Before you leave Detroit, take some time to visit the Heidelberg Project, an open-air art installation located in the North End. It’s one of Detroit’s most unique attractions and showcases the city’s resilience and creativity through street art.
When you visit Detroit, the Heidelberg Project is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Additional Detroit Travel Tips
- Is Detroit Safe?: Like any large city, there are parts of Detroit that are safer than others. Stick to the downtown area and well-traveled neighborhoods such as Midtown and Corktown, and exercise the same caution you would in any urban environment.
- Public Transportation: Detroit’s public transportation is improving, but having a rental car is still the best way to explore the metro area and surrounding attractions. Many of the sites mentioned in this Detroit weekend guide are easily accessible by car.
- Boutique Hotels: Consider staying at the David Whitney Building or one of the newer boutique hotels in the metro area to fully enjoy your Detroit stay.
Top Three hotels in Detroit
1. The Detroit Foundation Hotel - Book Here
Located in the heart of downtown Detroit, the Detroit Foundation Hotel is housed in a former fire department headquarters, combining historical charm with contemporary design. This boutique hotel features stylish rooms, a popular on-site restaurant, The Apparatus Room, and offers convenient access to Detroit’s best attractions, such as Campus Martius Park, the Detroit Riverwalk, and the Guardian Building. It’s perfect for travelers who want to stay in the heart of the city with a unique and luxurious experience.
2. Shinola Hotel - Book Here
The Shinola Hotel blends sleek, modern luxury with classic Detroit style. Located on Woodward Avenue, this hotel is a top choice for travelers seeking a high-end, design-forward experience. The rooms feature handcrafted furniture and custom decor, while the hotel's restaurants and bars are popular with both locals and visitors. The hotel is in close proximity to the city’s best shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
3. The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit - Book Here
For a more traditional luxury experience, The Westin Book Cadillac is one of Detroit’s most iconic hotels. Located in a beautifully restored historic building, this hotel offers elegant rooms with modern amenities. It also features a spa, indoor pool, and multiple on-site dining options, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking for both comfort and convenience. The hotel’s location in downtown Detroit makes it easy to explore the Detroit Historical Museum, Eastern Market, and nearby attractions.
Final Thoughts:
Detroit is a city that is rich in history, culture, and innovation. A weekend in Detroit allows you to see iconic landmarks like the Detroit Institute of Arts, catch a Detroit Tigers game, explore hidden gems like the Heidelberg Project, and indulge in culinary classics such as Detroit style pizza and Coney dogs at Lafayette Coney Island. Whether you're here to visit the Motown Museum, enjoy a walk along the Detroit Riverwalk, or take in the vibrant street art at Eastern Market, Motor City is sure to leave a lasting impression.
