New to the city and wondering where to visit in Detroit? We’ve got you covered. Find out the best things to do in Detroit with Roomi’s handy guide, and plan a fun-filled trip. Let’s get started!
Related: Find Rooms For Rent In Detroit
Outdoors in Detroit
1. Explore Greenfield Village
One of the best places to visit in Detroit for all ages is the Greenfield Village at the Henry Ford located in Dearborn. Explore 83 historic structures that showcase America’s “can do” attitude in this outdoor museum, spread across more than 80 acres.
Cost: For people aged 12 and above: $28.00
Senior citizens aged 62 and above: $25.25
Youth aged 5 years to 11 years: $21.00
Children aged 4 and below: Free entry
Parking fee: $6 per vehicle
Timings: Open Thursday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. Tuesdays and Wednesdays for Members-only.
2. Visit the Detroit Zoo
Located in Royal Oak, the zoo has several attractions alongside the intriguing animals. From a 4D Theatre and Carousel, to Science on a Sphere and Rackham Fountain, there’s a lot to explore. Want to find cool things to do in Detroit? Attend an event hosted by The Detroit Zoo such as Boo at the Zoo and Run Wild at the Detroit Zoo, which attract crowds.
Costs: When you purchase online: $14 to $19 for adults (19 years to 64 years)
$10 to $15 for children (2 years to 18 years)
$10 to $15 for senior citizens (above 65 years)
Parking Fee: $8
Free if you take a virtual tour!
Timings: Every day, 9 AM to 6PM
3. Explore outdoor activities at the Belle Isle Park
Belle Isle Park is a 982-acre island, which has a zoo, conservatory, aquarium, the Great Lakes Museum and more! You can hike, plan a picnic, or go on a boat ride, with plenty of space for kids to enjoy a wonderful play time! If you feel like getting outdoors, make this the first stop in your list of places to visit in Detroit.
Costs: Parking Fee: $5 and varying prices for activities.
Timings: Open every day from 8 AM to dusk.
Sports in Detroit
1. Visit Comerica Park for a Tigers game
Wondering where to visit in Detroit during your summer trip? The Comerica Park for a Tigers game, of course! It is one of the best things to do in Detroit, especially if you happen to be a Tigers fan.
Cost: Average ticket price is $60
Timings: April to October
2. Visit the Little Caesars Arena to catch the Detroit Pistons or the Red Wings at play!
The Detroit Pistons and the Detroit Red Wings share the Little Caesars Arena space, so whether you’re in the mood for basketball or hockey, there’s only one place to be. Big sports fans should try to visit the arena on Opening Day for a day to remember!
Costs: Average ticket prices are $39
Timings: Vary depending on season
Museums in Detroit
1. Visit Detroit Historical Museum and learn about the city
Not just for history buffs, the Detroit Historical Museum is ideal for those who want to learn more about this incredible city’s past. Learn more about the city as you walk through the old city streets!
Costs: For adults: $10
Senior Citizens, Active Military and First Responders, and Students (with Valid ID): $8
Children: $6 for children
Household: Up to 6 adults and children with the same address: $35
Free for members and children below 6 years
Timings: Thursday: 10 AM to 5 PM
Sunday: 1 PM to 5 PM
2. Michigan Science Center, perfect for the family!
Looking for things to do in Detroit with your kids? Well, the Michigan Science Center is an interactive museum that’s perfect for little ones. The museum hosts after-hour events where adults can explore the museum solo, with drinks in hand!
Costs: Adults (18years to 64 years): $18.00
Senior (above 65+): $14.00
Youth (2years to 17 years): $14.00
Child under 2: Free
Timings: Wednesday to Sunday: 10 AM to 4 PM
3. Explore the local art scene at N’Namdi Center for Contemporary Art
The N’Namdi Center for Contemporary Art offers local artists an opportunity to showcase their art. When you want to support local artists, this is the place to be.
Costs: Entry is free
Timings: Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Culture in Detroit
1. Take a trip to the Eastern Market
A historic market that was originally founded in 1841, the Eastern Market encompasses more than 43 acres with farmers, vendors, retailers and wholesalers. A booming hub for the Michigan food industry, this is the largest farmers’ market in the nation!
Costs: Entry is free
Timings: Saturday Market (All Year): 6 AM to 4 PM
Summer Markets (June to September): Weekly Sunday Street Market: 10 AM to 4 PM
Weekly Tuesday Health and Wellness Market: 9 AM to 3 PM
Wholesale Market (April to November; open to the public for bulk purchases only): Monday to Friday : 12 AM to 6 AM
2. Visit the Beads Museum, a hidden gem in Detroit!
Founded in 1985, this hidden gem is one of the best things to do in Detroit. You get to look at beads, pottery, textiles and more, while learning more about the African history of the city.
Costs: Free
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 12 PM to 7 PM
3. Take part in a tour hosted by City Tours Detroit
Learn why Detroit is known as the Motor City and explore Downtown Detroit while you’re at it. City Tours Detroit enrich Detroit tourism by exploring the history of the city, and taking tourists on a journey to the must-see attractions in the city.
Costs: Ranges from $30 to $99 per person
Timings: Varies for different tours
Restaurants in Detroit
1. Detroit’s Best-Wright & Company
If you were to ask a Detroit resident what the best restaurant in the city is, Wright & Company is sure to come up in conversation. You’ll have to wait to get a seat as they don’t allow reservations.
Costs: $5 to $52
Timings: Thursday: 5 PM to 10 PM
Friday and Saturday: 5 PM to 12 AM
Pubs in Detroit
1. Stop by the Sugar House
Owners of Wright & Company also run the Sugar House, serving craft cocktails. You can enjoy wonderful drinks and appetizers, or take your cocktail to-go.
Costs: $7 to $45
Timings: Tuesday to Thursday: 5 PM to 12 AM
Friday: 4 PM to 2 AM
Saturday and Sunday: 3 PM to 2 AM
2. Play games at the Cadieux Café!
Currently run by a Belgian family, the Cadieux Café was a former speakeasy. Now, you can not only enjoy authentic Belgian beers but play a few rounds of feather bowling and darts.
Costs: $4.95 to $19.95
Timings: Monday to Tuesday : 4 PM to 11 PM
Wednesday to Saturday: 4 PM to 2 AM
Sunday: 2 PM to 10 PM
Shopping Centers in Detroit
1. Shop at the Mall at Patridge Creek
Love to shop but hate staying cooped up in a mall? Visit the Mall at Patridge Creek for an outdoor shopping experience. It is dog friendly, with every shop you could think of for a successful shopping spree! From Apple to Lululemon, along with some incredible places to eat.
Costs: Entry is free
Timings: Monday to Saturday: 11 AM to 7 PM, Sundays: 12 PM to 6 PM
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