4 Day Detroit Adventure Guide: History, Food & Fun

Discover the soul of the Motor City in Detroit.

22 April 2023

A trip to Detroit as a tourist provides a unique opportunity to explore the city's history, architecture and culture. From the iconic Motown Museum and the historic Detroit Institute of Arts to the stunning Belle Isle Park and innovative food scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for entertainment, relaxation or a cultural experience, a trip to Detroit will not disappoint.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Motor City Kickoff

  • Check into The Siren Hotel, a hip historic hotel in Downtown Detroit with retro decor and cozy rooms.
  • Start your day off with a breakfast sandwich at Dime Store, a brunch spot known for their creative dishes and craft cocktails.
  • Visit the Henry Ford Museum, a must-see for car enthusiasts, history buffs, and lovers of Americana.
  • Take the "Best of Downtown" walking tour with Detroit Experience Factory to learn about the city's architecture, art, and history.
  • Grab dinner at Wright & Co., a stylish restaurant and bar with great drinks and small plates perfect for sharing.
Day 2

Art & Soul

  • Grab breakfast at Avalon International Breads, a local bakery with delicious pastries and sandwiches.
  • Visit the iconic Detroit Institute of Arts, with over 100 galleries and masterpieces from around the world.
  • Take a street art tour with The Heidelberg Project, an outdoor art installation showcasing the city's creativity and resilience.
  • Stop by Third Man Records, the record label and music store founded by Jack White of The White Stripes.
  • End the day with dinner at Selden Standard, a farm-to-table restaurant with innovative dishes and craft cocktails.
Day 3

Parks & Rec

  • Start the day with brunch at Folk, a cozy spot in Corktown with tasty coffee and farm-to-table fare.
  • Visit Belle Isle Park, a 982-acre island park with stunning views of the city skyline and attractions like the Belle Isle Aquarium and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory.
  • Take a bike tour of the Dequindre Cut, a 1.3-mile urban trail filled with street art and green spaces.
  • Explore the historic Eastern Market, a bustling farmer's market and neighborhood filled with local shops and restaurants.
  • Try the famous Coney Dog at Lafayette Coney Island, a Detroit institution since 1917.
Day 4

Beyond the City Limits

  • Grab breakfast at Detroit Vegan Soul, a restaurant with soulful vegan dishes and great smoothies.
  • Take a day trip to Cranbrook Educational Community, a National Historic Landmark with stunning architecture and art, including works by Frank Lloyd Wright and Daniel Libeskind.
  • Visit the charming town of Northville, with adorable shops and restaurants along Main Street.
  • End the day with dinner at Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails, a farm-to-table restaurant with creative cocktails and small plates.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Detroit, United States by plane is to fly into Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) which is the largest airport in Detroit and has connections to major cities around the world.

Car

The best way to get to Detroit, United States by car is to take the I-75 or I-94. The I-75 runs north to south while the I-94 runs east to west. Both highways connect major cities in the eastern United States.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains that connect to Detroit, United States. The closest train station is in Dearborn, about 15 minutes from downtown Detroit, but the service is limited to regional Amtrak connections.

Boat

The best way to get to Detroit, United States by boat is to take the Detroit Princess Riverboat. It offers scenic cruises along the Detroit River with views of the city skyline and Belle Isle. It departs from Civic Center Drive in downtown Detroit.

Bus

The best way to get to Detroit, United States by bus is to take Greyhound or Megabus. Greyhound has a station in downtown Detroit while Megabus has a stop near the university district.

More travel plans

Detroit Delights: The Ultimate Family Day Trip!

A family friendly trip to Detroit offers a diverse array of activities for everyone to enjoy. Explore the city's revitalized downtown area, which is home to the bustling Eastern Market, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the Detroit RiverWalk. Don't miss out on visiting family-friendly attractions such as the Detroit Zoo, the Henry Ford Museum, and the Belle Isle Park for a well-rounded and memorable experience.

Discover Detroit: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

Detroit, known for its industrial history and Motown music, is a great destination for budget travelers. The city offers free museums like the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Motown Museum, as well as affordable dining options such as the Detroit-style pizza. With a variety of parks and outdoor spaces, Detroit is also a great place to enjoy nature without spending a lot of money.

Romancing Detroit: A 3-Day Weekend Getaway

Detroit may not be the typical choice for a romantic getaway, but it offers a unique charm and history that makes it a surprising destination for couples to explore. The city is home to beautiful architecture, art galleries, theaters, and world-class museums. Couples can also indulge in delicious food, dance to live music, and take a scenic walk along the riverfront.

Detroit on a Budget: 3 Days of Fun!

Detroit, United States is an affordable destination for those with a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's rich culture by visiting the iconic Motown Museum and the Detroit Institute of Arts. They can also indulge in local cuisine at low-cost eateries such as the Lafayette Coney Island and Polish Village Cafe.