Discover Detroit: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

Discover Detroit's hidden gems without breaking the bank.

22 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discover Downtown Detroit

  • Check into Hotel St. Regis, a charming boutique hotel with cozy rooms and friendly staff
  • Explore Campus Martius Park, a bustling public square hosting food trucks, live music, and ice skating in the winter
  • Visit the iconic Fox Theatre, a beautifully restored 1920s venue with intricate architecture and frequent live shows
  • Stop by the Detroit Institute of Arts, home to an impressive collection of art ranging from ancient to modern
  • Grab a bite at Lafayette Coney Island, a classic Detroit institution known for its delicious hot dogs and chili sauce
Day 2

The Motor City

  • Take a tour of the Ford Rouge Factory, where production of the Ford F-150 takes place
  • Visit the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, showcasing the history of innovation and progress in the United States
  • Drive or walk along historic Woodward Avenue, home to the annual Woodward Dream Cruise and numerous car-themed attractions
  • Enjoy dinner at Buddy's Pizza, a local favorite for their Detroit-style pizza with a deep, crispy crust and tangy sauce
Day 3

Waterfront Wonders

  • Stroll along the Detroit RiverWalk, a scenic path stretching for miles along the Detroit River with views of Canada
  • Don't miss the Renaissance Center, a towering complex of skyscrapers and shops
  • Visit the Belle Isle Conservatory, a botanical garden with exotic plants, an aquarium, and a peaceful Japanese garden
  • Try some seafood at Andiamo Riverfront, a classy restaurant situated right on the Detroit River
Day 4

Arts & Culture

  • Tour the Motown Museum, where you can learn about the history of Motown Records and the most famous artists who recorded there
  • Catch a show at the historic Majestic Theatre, a former vaudeville and burlesque venue turned music hall
  • Check out the street art in Eastern Market, a vibrant area filled with murals, graffiti, and hipster cafes
  • Dine at Supino Pizzeria, a trendy spot known for their creative pizzas and equally impressive salads
Day 5

Historic Happenings

  • Visit the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, dedicated to showcasing the achievements and struggles of African Americans
  • Take a walk through Corktown, Detroit's oldest neighborhood, with charming brick homes and local shops
  • See the famous Heidelberg Project, an outdoor art installation that has sparked controversy and creativity since the 1980s
  • Have a final meal at the iconic American Coney Island, another classic Detroit hot dog joint with a fiercely loyal following.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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.

Destination

Detroit

Welcome to a city where cars are made and Motown music was born. Don't worry, it's not as dangerous as Eminem made it seem.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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