10 Best Things to Do in Detroit

Looking for what to do in Detroit? Detroit, known globally as the Motor City, has transformed into one of the most culturally dynamic destinations in the Midwest. Its blend of automotive history, architectural landmarks, revitalised waterfronts, world-class museums, public art, indie neighbourhoods and legendary music legacy makes it a city full of character and reinvention. Across its districts, you’ll find a thriving creative scene, restored historic buildings, expanding green spaces and a renewed sense of pride that continues to reshape the city.

From Motown’s iconic studio and outstanding art collections to scenic island parks, gourmet markets and innovative museums, here are the 10 best things to do in Detroit to help you plan the perfect trip.

1. Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is one of America’s most celebrated art museums, home to more than 65,000 works spanning ancient civilizations, Renaissance masterpieces, modern sculpture and global cultures. Visitors can wander through galleries dedicated to European paintings, African art, Indigenous collections, Asian artifacts and an impressive display of American creativity. The museum is beautifully designed and easy to explore, offering both grand exhibition halls and intimate spaces for reflection.

The highlight is Diego Rivera’s monumental Detroit Industry Murals — a series of powerful frescoes depicting the city’s automotive legacy, labour force and industrial spirit. These murals are considered one of Rivera’s greatest achievements and a national treasure, drawing art lovers from around the world. Whether you’re exploring on your own or joining a guided tour, the DIA offers an inspiring look at Detroit’s cultural heart.

2. Explore the Motown Museum

The Motown Museum, affectionately called “Hitsville U.S.A.,” preserves the birthplace of one of the most influential music movements of all time. Inside the unassuming house on West Grand Boulevard, Berry Gordy built the record label that launched the careers of Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and Smokey Robinson. From original equipment to iconic memorabilia, the museum immerses visitors in the era when Detroit’s sound changed global music forever.

Guided tours take you into the legendary Studio A, where countless hits were recorded. You’ll hear stories about the artists, the songwriting teams and the culture that shaped Motown’s distinctive sound. The experience is emotional, nostalgic and uplifting — a must-visit for any music fan.

3. Stroll the Detroit Riverwalk

The award-winning Detroit Riverwalk is one of the city’s proudest revitalisation projects, stretching along the waterfront with beautifully landscaped paths, gardens, playgrounds, plazas and public art installations. Walkers, cyclists and families enjoy uninterrupted views of the Detroit River and the skyline, with picturesque vantage points overlooking Windsor, Canada. It’s a lively yet peaceful area that showcases the city’s connection to its waterways.

Notable stops include Rivard Plaza with its carousel and cafés, Mt. Elliott Park with splash zones for families, and the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre — a beloved venue for outdoor concerts. Whether you’re watching boats pass, enjoying the breezes or catching a sunset, the Riverwalk is one of Detroit’s most enjoyable outdoor experiences.

4. Discover the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

Located in nearby Dearborn, the Henry Ford Museum is an enormous tribute to American ingenuity, transportation and cultural progress. Its vast collections include historic automobiles, early airplanes, steam engines, presidential limousines and important relics such as the Rosa Parks Bus — a powerful symbol of the civil rights movement. Exhibits bring to life the inventions and innovations that shaped modern America.

Adjacent to the museum, Greenfield Village offers an immersive outdoor experience, recreating 19th-century life with working farms, historic homes and skilled artisans demonstrating traditional crafts. Visitors can ride in Model T cars, explore the Wright Brothers’ bicycle shop and stroll charming village streets brought to life by costumed interpreters. Together, the museum and village offer one of the most comprehensive historical experiences in the country.

5. Explore Eastern Market

Eastern Market is one of Detroit’s oldest and most vibrant neighbourhoods, known for its sprawling Saturday market filled with fresh produce, artisanal goods, florists, local bakeries and gourmet vendors. With lively crowds, colourful displays and a strong community atmosphere, it’s a beloved institution that showcases Detroit’s agricultural and culinary culture.

The surrounding district is equally impressive, featuring massive street murals created during the annual Murals in the Market festival. Trendy cafés, craft breweries and specialty food shops make it a hub for artists, chefs and visitors looking to experience Detroit’s creative edge. It’s a perfect place to spend a full morning or afternoon exploring, tasting and shopping.

6. Visit Belle Isle Park

Belle Isle is a 982-acre island in the Detroit River, offering stunning natural beauty and a variety of attractions just minutes from downtown. The park features lakes, beaches, wooded trails and peaceful picnic areas surrounded by water views. It’s a great spot for biking, kayaking, wildlife watching or simply relaxing with family and friends.

Highlights include the Belle Isle Aquarium — one of the oldest in the country — and the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, a gorgeous historic greenhouse filled with tropical plants and seasonal floral displays. The Dossin Great Lakes Museum offers insights into maritime history, making Belle Isle a diverse and enriching destination for visitors of all ages.

7. Wander Corktown

Corktown is Detroit’s oldest neighbourhood and one of its trendiest, blending historic charm with a modern creative scene. Its streets are lined with Victorian-era homes, indie boutiques, artisanal cafés, craft cocktail bars and highly regarded restaurants. The district has become a magnet for chefs, artists and entrepreneurs drawn to its unique mix of tradition and innovation.

Michigan Avenue serves as Corktown’s main artery, offering everything from upscale dining to casual pubs and lively nightlife. The neighbourhood’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with its architectural character and new developments, makes it one of the best places to experience Detroit’s ongoing revival.

8. Visit the Guardian Building

The Guardian Building is a spectacular Art Deco masterpiece often referred to as the “Cathedral of Finance.” Inside, visitors are greeted by soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate tilework, vibrant murals and bold geometric designs crafted from rare materials. It’s considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the world.

The grand lobby is free to explore, but guided tours provide deeper insight into the building’s craftsmanship, history and architectural innovations. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply appreciate stunning design, the Guardian Building is a must-see Detroit landmark.

9. Discover the Detroit Historical Museum

The Detroit Historical Museum tells the story of the city through immersive exhibits that explore early settlement, the rise of the auto industry, the Great Migration, labour movements and cultural milestones. The museum’s famous “Streets of Old Detroit” recreates 19th- and early 20th-century shops and storefronts, giving visitors a vivid glimpse into the city’s past.

Interactive exhibits highlight Detroit’s role as a global manufacturing hub, as well as its impact on music, design and social change. It’s an essential stop for understanding how Detroit evolved from a frontier village into a powerhouse of innovation.

10. Enjoy Detroit’s food and music scene

Detroit’s culinary scene is booming, offering everything from iconic Coney dogs and soul-food staples to modern farm-to-table cuisine, gourmet pizza, craft cocktails and international flavours. Neighbourhoods like Corktown, Midtown and downtown feature exciting restaurants run by both local chefs and nationally recognised talent. Food halls, bakeries and breweries create a vibrant, ever-growing dining culture.

The city’s music heritage is equally iconic — from Motown’s golden era to jazz, rock and the birth of techno. Live music fills intimate clubs, outdoor festivals, vinyl bars and historic venues, giving visitors endless opportunities to experience Detroit’s unmistakable sound. Whether you’re exploring its flavours or its rhythms, Detroit’s cultural energy is unforgettable.