A Local’s Guide to Detroit is built by Downtown Detroit residents for travelers who want a real, unique experience of the city — not a generic, one-size-fits-all visit.
This guide isn’t about chain spots or predictable recommendations. It’s about discovering the places that give Detroit its character — the restaurants, bars, and experiences that locals actually enjoy.
We’ve traveled across the country and around the world, AND we live downtown — our Downtown Detroit recommendations highlight places that stand up to the best experiences anywhere. These are the must-see spots that define the city.
You won’t find overly commercial, touristy, or nationwide chain venues here. Instead, we focus on what makes Detroit unique: progressive culinary experiences, exceptional craft cocktails and beer, one-of-a-kind attractions, and beautifully restored historic spaces — along with the grit and authenticity that give the city its character.
Every recommendation on this site is personally selected by us. No business pays to be included, and nothing is sponsored. This is a true local guide built on real experience.
Many popular travel sites offer long lists of generic or outdated recommendations. In fact, when reviewing major platforms, we found that a significant number of listed venues in Downtown Detroit no longer exist. That’s the difference — this guide is created by people who actually live here and actively explore the city.
We’ve done the searching, the testing, and yes — “kissed a lot of frogs” — to bring you only the places worth your time.
If you're looking for great food, drinks, and things to do in inspiring, creative, and uniquely Detroit spaces, you’re in the right place.
TripAdvisor, Yelp, Expedia, Foursquare, Thrillist, Lonely Planet, Restaurant Guru, Trip Hobo, The Crazy Tourist, Viator, Get You Guide, The Homebody Tourist, Busy Tourist, Time Out, etc., etc., etc., etc., etc. - endless sources of random, all-inclusive, and superficial reviews and recommendations (typically paid-for). What could possibly be missing? How about knowledgeable opinions from someone who actually lives in Downtown Detroit!