Places to Visit in Detroit

© 2012 Katina Davenport

Looking for fun things to do in Detroit that is actually in Detroit and not the surrounding cities? Here are a few places that you must visit when you visit Detroit, my hometown. Everything on the list is family friendly.

Motown Historical Museum

Located at 2648 West Grand Boulevard in Detroit was home to a former photographers’ studio. It currently houses photos of former Motown hit makers, gold records, and even an upstairs apartment decorated to look like Berry Gordy’s apartment in the 1960’s.

The First Congregational Church

This Michigan State Historical Site is located at 33 E. Forest in Detroit. Established on December 25, 1844 this visually stunning church now services the community surrounding it with various outreach programs. The main attraction of the church is the Underground Railroad Living Museum. Take a tour of the actual underground railroad and visit Detroit’s history in the anti-slavery movement.

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)

At 5200 Woodward in Detroit, the DIA is home to some of the most significant collections of art in the US right in the heart of Midtown Detroit’s Cultural District. You can see collections from Egypt, Greece, and one of the most famous pieces by Rivera Frescos at the Rivera Court.

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

This museum is also located in the Cultural District of Detroit just a block away from the DIA at 315 East Warren in Detroit. Its unique rotunda design serves the needs of the artistic community through live performances and houses over 30,000 African American cultural artifacts. Their life like exhibits will take you on a journey through various moments in African American history.

The Detroit Historical Museum

The Detroit Historical Museum is the largest museum in the country dedicated to metropolitan history. Here you can walk through 300 years of Detroit’s history, even see an authentic assembly line. You can find this in the Cultural District of Detroit at 5401Woodward in Detroit.

The Renaissance Center

The Renaissance Center is the symbol of Detroit. This group of seven interconnected skyscrapers is the most recognized and tallest building in Michigan. It is headquartered and owned by General Motors, home to the largest hotel skyscraper the Detroit Marriot, and has the highest rooftop restaurant Coach Insignia.

DuMouchelles

If you love shopping for antique jewelry, art, or furniture then DuMouchelles is right for you. Located at 409 E Jefferson Avenue in Detroit DuMouchelles is home to antique collections of art, chandeliers, music, textiles and tapestry. You can participate in live auctions and even get verbal appraisals for your antique items.

The Eastern Market

At 2934 Russell Street in Detroit the Eastern Market is the farmers market of Detroit. For those living in Southeast Michigan the Eastern Market is a family tradition where you take the whole family along to shop for fresh produce on weekends. Along with fresh produce you can shop for fresh meats, and dine at surrounding restaurants.

Belle Isle

Belle Isle is the largest city owned park. There is a lot for anyone to see and do along the 5 mile shoreline of Belle Isle. With attractions such as Scott Memorial Fountain, Detroit Yacht Club, and Dossin Great Lakes Museum there is something for everyone.