Best Things to Do in Detroit (Local Guide)
LLooking for the best things to do in Detroit?
Skip the generic lists—this insider guide shows you what’s actually worth your time in Downtown Detroit.
Built by locals. No paid placements. No filler.
(Note: A few spots are outside Downtown—but too good to leave out.)
Planning around a specific visit?
Only have one day? These guides will point you in the right direction fast.
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Our Favorite 10 BEST THINGS TO DO IN DETROIT!
Pristine 985-acre island park located in the Detroit River near downtown Detroit, primary growth, rich with natural beauty and historical and cultural resources. Country's oldest Aquarium, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, Two large Playgrounds, Conservatory, Bald Eagles/Deer/Beaver, Nature Center, and more.
Voted annually the best riverwalk in the country. Five miles long, all along the Detroit River. Walkable, clean, and full of great views of the skyline and Canada. Walk, sit, jog, ride a bike. Bike rentals available at Wheelhouse Detroit - an easy way to explore Belle Isle and the 5-mile Walk.
Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum
The birthplace of the Ford Model T car, the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum is recognized as one of the most significant automotive heritage sites in the world. Be guided through the actual offices and assembly floor. Plenty of early 1900s cars on display. Detroit must-see things to do, Yes! What other city in world duplicates this?
Detroit Institute Of Art (DIA)
No. 2, 2026 USA Today "Readers’ Choice Best Art Museum. Founded in 1885, the DIA is a world-renowned art museum with one of the largest and most significant art collections in the U.S. Enjoy over 100 galleries.
Experience Eastern Market Murals
No. 6, Best City for Street Art in the United States, 2026 by USA Today The street art scene in Detroit is world class - Muralists and graffiti artists are doing their part to turn Detroit into a street art destination. In the Eastern Market, view 100 murals across warehouse buildings. Follow the Detroit Mural Map to discover the endless creativity and variety. See our recommended routes.
Detroit "Man In The City" Art Installation
The unusual, one-of-a-kind art project includes 30 metal sculptures on tops of Detroit buildings. Good way to see the CIty if you are wondering around searching out sculptures. We recommend several routes.
Tour the Guardian Building
Experience one of the most stunning art-deco skyscrapers in the world. Considered to be the most beautiful building in Detroit. One of only 5 local attractions to receive the coveted Michelin 3-star recommended site indicating it’s worth a special journey to see. See our Detroit Art Deco Blog!
Experience Detroit Nightlife
From sports bars, casinos, dive bars, jazz, theatre, sports, to cocktail lounges, —Detroit delivers at night.
Ten of our recommended Best Detroit Dinner Restaurants have won or been considered for the James Beard Restaurant Award. Try any of our recommended restaurants for a great food, drink, and fun.
Detroit Sports!
Of course all 4 major sports are available in Detroit - great entertainment. Note that the Red Wings, Tigers, Lions, and Pistons play in 3 stadiums - all within 1 mile of each other - it is common for fans to attend two sport events in the same day.
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