5 Days in Detroit: Hit All the Highlights

Discover the Motor City's vibrant history and renaissance in Detroit, USA.

22 April 2023

Explore the rich history of Detroit with a visit to the Henry Ford Museum and the Motown Museum. Take a stroll through the lively Eastern Market for a taste of the city's vibrant food scene. Catch breathtaking views of the cityscape at the top of the iconic Renaissance Center.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Settling In

  • Check into the luxurious Shinola Hotel, decorated with chic Detroit-themed décor
  • Grab a slice of Detroit-style pizza at Buddy's Pizza, a local favorite for over 70 years
  • Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts, home to over 60,000 pieces of art including works by Van Gogh and Matisse
  • Take a stroll through the historic Eastern Market, the largest open-air market in the United States
  • End the evening with a drink at the renowned rooftop bar, Ready Player One, featuring arcade games and old-school cocktails
Day 2

Revving Up the Engine

  • Start the day with a visit to the Henry Ford Museum complex, showcasing artifacts that tell the story of American innovation and invention
  • Drive over to the Motown Museum for a tour of Hitsville USA, where the record label's biggest hits were recorded
  • Grab lunch at the Detroit Shipping Company, a unique collection of food trucks and vendors
  • Take a walk along the Detroit Riverfront, featuring stunning views of the skyline and outdoor art installations
  • End the day with a concert at the historic Fillmore Detroit, known for its incredible acoustics and intimate setting
Day 3

Outdoor Adventures

  • Explore the 982-acre Belle Isle Park, featuring hiking trails, a conservatory, and the stunning Belle Isle Aquarium
  • Visit the Detroit Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals and an award-winning polar bear exhibit
  • Grab some Mexican fare at La Terraza, a colorful spot in the heart of Mexicantown
  • Take a bike ride along the Dequindre Cut, a renovated rail line turned urban greenway
  • Enjoy a sunset drink on the rooftop of The Skip, a stylish outdoor bar featuring craft cocktails and live music
Day 4

Sports and Culture

  • Catch a Tigers baseball game at Comerica Park, known for its Ferris wheel and other unique features
  • Visit the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, featuring exhibits on the African American experience
  • Grab some classic BBQ at Slows Bar BQ, a favorite spot in the Corktown neighborhood
  • Take in a show at the renowned Fox Theatre, a beautifully restored venue that hosts Broadway productions and concerts
  • End the night with a drink at the Sugar House, one of the best cocktail bars in the city
Day 5

Final Goodbyes

  • Visit the historic Guardian Building for a glimpse at Detroit's art deco architecture
  • Grab breakfast at Dime Store, known for its creative twists on classic brunch dishes
  • Visit the Heidelberg Project, an outdoor art installation that transforms abandoned houses into colorful works of art
  • Take a tour of the Detroit Historical Museum, featuring exhibits on the city's rich history
  • End the trip with a final meal at Selden Standard, a trendy spot featuring contemporary American cuisine.

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.

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A trip to Detroit as a tourist offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the city. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the iconic Motown Museum, explore world-class cultural institutions such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, and take a stroll through the historic Eastern Market. From fantastic food to exciting nightlife, there is something to suit every taste in this vibrant and dynamic city.

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