Detroit, Michigan, US-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Detroit, Michigan

Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Exploration

Morning

  • Arrival: Arrive in Detroit and check-in at a downtown hotel. Recommended hotels include:
    • The Siren Hotel
    • The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit
    • Aloft Detroit Downtown

Afternoon

  • Visit the Renaissance Center: Explore the headquarters of General Motors, which houses the Detroit RiverWalk.
  • Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village: Spend your afternoon at America’s largest indoor/outdoor history museum. Be sure to plan your visit in advance as tickets often sell out quickly.

Evening

  • Dine at Buddy’s Pizza: For a taste of classic Detroit-style pizza, head to Buddy’s.
  • Catch Live Music Downtown: Depending on the season, you can enjoy live music at various venues like The Fillmore Detroit or St. Andrew’s Hall.

Day 2: Motown and Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • Motown Museum (Hitsville): Dedicated to the history of Motown Records, this small house is a must-visit for music lovers. Schedule your tour in advance.
  • Detroit Historical Museum: Offers insights into Detroit’s rich history.

Afternoon

  • Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History: The largest museum of its kind in the country, featuring permanent and temporary exhibits on African American culture and history.
  • Take a stroll through Midtown: Explore the vibrant neighborhood’s shops and galleries.

Evening

  • Dine at One Eyed Willie’s: This seafood restaurant is located near Motown Museum and serves up delicious dishes while offering an experience you won’t forget.
  • Catch a show or live music event in Midtown: Depending on what’s happening, enjoy the evening by attending a concert or play.

Day 3: Outdoor Activities

Morning

  • Detroit RiverWalk and Dequindre Cut Trail: Start your day with a leisurely walk along the riverfront.
  • Eastern Market: Open every Saturday year-round (and Wednesday during warmer months), this historic market is a perfect place for breakfast or brunch, offering local produce, meats, flowers, etc.

Afternoon

  • Take an Outdoor Adventure: Depending on the season, enjoy kayaking or paddle-boarding along the Detroit River, rent bikes, or hike in one of Detroit’s many parks.
  • Visit the Belle Isle Conservatory and Park: A beautiful park with a conservatory featuring tropical gardens and stunning views.

Evening

  • Dine at Lafayette Coney Island: Try another classic Detroit experience: eating at an old-school diner like Lafayette Coney Island for its iconic hot dogs and burgers.
  • Enjoy Live Music Downtown or Midtown: Catch a performance if there are any happening near your location.

Day 4: Eastern Market and Corktown

Morning

  • Visit the Eastern Market (if you missed it on day 3, this is another chance): Explore the various vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, etc.
  • Corktown: This historic neighborhood offers a rich history and a blend of industrial chic, art galleries, and boutique shopping. Spend some time wandering its streets.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Heidelberg Project: An outdoor art project featuring colorful and sometimes surreal installations made from discarded objects.
  • Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD): For a more contemporary perspective on art, check out MOCAD’s rotating exhibits.

Evening

  • Dine in Corktown: Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants there, like The Whitney or Batch Brewing Company for great food and atmosphere.
  • Catch Live Music in Corktown: This neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife; enjoy a show or concert if they’re scheduled during your visit.

Day 5: Historic Mansions

Morning

  • Dia de los Muertos Exhibit at the Charles H. Wright Museum: If visiting in September and October, stop by to see the Dia de los Muertos exhibit.
  • The Charles Bronson House: Visit this historic home which was once owned by Charles Bronson, a wealthy businessman.

Afternoon

  • Edsel & Eleanor Ford House Tour: Learn about Henry Ford’s son Edsel and his wife Eleanor through their stunning estate. Schedule your tour in advance as it’s highly sought after.
  • Visit the Redford Theatre for a tour or movie: Depending on when you visit, catch a show at this historic theater that also offers tours.

Evening

  • Dine at The Whitney: For an upscale dining experience with great views of the city, head to The Whitney, located in Corktown and offering American cuisine.
  • Enjoy live music downtown or in your neighborhood: Depending on what’s happening, enjoy a night out by attending a performance near you.

Day 6: Detroit Zoo and Royal Oak

Morning

  • Detroit Zoo: Spend the day at one of America’s best zoos, featuring a polar bear exhibit among other attractions.
  • Royal Oak: Visit this charming suburb for shopping and dining. It’s known for its boutique stores and restaurants.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Motown Museum (Hitsville): If you haven’t been already, stop by Hitsville to learn more about Detroit’s legendary music scene.
  • Catch a show at the Royal Oak Music Theatre: Depending on what’s happening, enjoy live music in this intimate venue.

Evening

  • Dine in Royal Oak: Enjoy dinner at one of its many restaurants, like The Whitney or another favorite spot for great food and atmosphere.
  • Explore downtown Detroit or your neighborhood: Spend some time walking around and perhaps catching a show or performance if there’s something happening near you.

Day 7: Last Day in Detroit

Morning

  • Detroit RiverWalk and the Riverfront: End your trip with a leisurely walk along the river, enjoying the views of the city.
  • Visit Belle Isle Park: Stop by Belle Isle for its beautiful island park featuring a conservatory, gardens, and a beach.

Afternoon

  • Last-minute shopping or exploration: Depending on your interests and how much time you have left in Detroit, spend it exploring another neighborhood like Midtown, Corktown, or the Eastern Market.
  • Head to the airport for departure: End your trip with memories of your time in this vibrant city.

Transportation:

  • Getting Around Downtown Detroit is relatively easy on foot. Walking along the riverfront and exploring neighborhoods can be done by foot.
  • Using public transportation, such as buses, can be efficient but may take longer depending on traffic.
  • Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are readily available for quick travel around the city.

Tips:

  • Plan ahead: Detroit is a vibrant city with much to offer, so plan your itinerary based on what interests you most.
  • Respect local businesses and residents: Engage in responsible tourism practices by respecting local shops, restaurants, and neighborhoods.
  • Check schedules and opening hours for attractions and events before heading out.

Other Recommendations:

  • Consider purchasing a Detroit Experience Pass which can include access to various museums, tours, and activities at a discounted rate.
  • Look into the city’s numerous festivals and events, such as the Motown Museum’s annual tribute or the Detroit Jazz Festival, to catch something happening during your visit.

This itinerary is just one way to experience Detroit. Depending on your interests and time frame, you may want to customize your trip to include more attractions, neighborhoods, or activities that fit your preferences.