Small historic houses preserve original details and furniture where legendary artists recorded and relaxed. The atmosphere pulses with palpable history and energetic vibes, inviting singing and interactive experiences. Visitors encounter a feel-good music environment that transports them back to the golden era of soul.
Focuses on American music history with exhibits that highlight the Motown era. Offers a deep dive into a significant chapter of U.S. cultural heritage.
The museum offers a cool experience with lots of original equipment used by famous Motown artists. It captures the history and essence of Motown music in a way that feels full of life.
"The historical sites here are so engaging and knowledgeable."
"The museum tours are so engaging and fun!"
"It's a cool experience seeing history in person."
Good to know
Tickets for the Motown Museum often sell out, so purchase in advance.
Guided tours are the only way to experience the museum; no self-guided tours available.
The entry fee is $20 per adult, payable online or at the museum.
Historic factory building showcases early Ford automobiles with original wood floors and brickwork that create an authentic early 1900s atmosphere. The space feels relaxed and uncrowded, maintaining an industrial vibe amid a somewhat rundown surrounding area. Rows of vintage cars line the interior without barriers, offering a close-up experience of automotive history.
Original wood floors and brickwork create an authentic historic atmosphere. The museum showcases Henry Ford's office and the original skunkworks office, offering deep insight into automotive history.
Historic building hosts a collection of antique Fords that draws car enthusiasts. Guided tours add a fun and engaging layer, making it a cool experience for visitors and events.
Good to know
The museum hosts weddings and special events on weekends.
Reservations are recommended for private events at the museum.
The museum closes at 4 p.m. daily.
Historic train station showcases majestic architecture and a stunning restoration that honors Detroit's legacy. Surrounding park offers swinging benches, a tree swing, and open spaces for relaxation and play. Indoor areas include cozy seating, a coffee shop with notable donuts, and spaces for live music and local art.
A beautifully renovated building with outstanding historical restorations that honor its past. Every corner reflects significant history and artistic value, making it a key landmark to explore.
The place features a cool restoration with lots of interesting rooms and a shop to explore. The renovation is nicely done and highlights the restoration process well.
Good to know
Entry to Michigan Central is free for all visitors.
Currently, only the lower levels are accessible for visitors.
Parking is available a block away from Michigan Central.
Old-style dive bar with wood paneling and a sunken bar area creates a warm, lively atmosphere filled with nostalgic charm. Entertainment includes pinball, pool, and board games, attracting a friendly, family-oriented crowd. Historic features and Prohibition-era roots give the place a unique, authentic vibe.
A local pub with rich history and paranormal stories offers detailed insights from longtime staff. The venue blends authentic dive bar character with a deep connection to the neighborhood's past.
Old dive bars with tons of history create a cool vibe. The bartender adds to the atmosphere, and there might be a ghost or two hanging around.
Good to know
Reservations are needed for large parties; call ahead to secure a spot.
Parking is available behind the bar, but street parking is also an option.
Visitors must be buzzed in to enter the bar.
Industrial, moody space surrounds barrels of spirits, creating a unique and elegant atmosphere. Upstairs banquet area offers a charming, modern setting with a bar, suited for weddings and events. The venue balances rugged style with comfortable versatility, hosting lively tours and tastings.
Tours offer a mix of humorous storytelling and detailed history lessons about the facility and its role in the city's past. Guides share insights on whiskey production alongside local historical context.
The venue stands out with its unique design and beautiful appearance. It offers great bourbon and attracts a crowd that adds to its cool vibe.
Good to know
Tours are available but not frequent, allowing for more interaction with guides.
Reservations are recommended for the BYOB blend your own bourbon tour.
The venue can be customized for events, including table and chair selection.
Art Deco architecture fills the space with intricate details and a church-like interior that creates a nostalgic atmosphere. The lobby and atrium impress with luxurious design that evokes an era of opulence and elegance. Visitors experience a vibrant energy that blends history with a sense of grandeur.
A historic building constructed in 1928 with stunning art and architecture that reflects the city's rich past. The free tour offers access to floors not usually open and shares detailed history.
Art Deco architecture stands out with a cool, striking design. The interior features a cool-looking vault in the basement and some unique retail shops in the lobby.
Good to know
Taking a tour after 4pm grants a special treat.
Visitors are only allowed on the first level of the Guardian Building.
The entrance is free to access.
Intimate jazz club with classy decor and historical ambiance honoring Detroit's jazz and soul legacy. Atmosphere stays relaxed and supportive, featuring excellent live jazz and a high-quality sound system. Space feels cozy and sometimes crowded, creating a close-up music experience.
The space feels very intimate and historic with a lot of history in its walls. The cafe inside the Arts building serves as a beautiful historic venue for jazz and other events.
A cool jazz club atmosphere sets the tone with top-notch service from bartenders and staff. Walls display Aretha memorabilia including some of her Grammys, adding to the vibe.
Good to know
Jazz jam sessions occur every Sunday night, featuring various artists.
Food and drinks are reasonably priced, enhancing the overall experience.
A 20% service charge is automatically added to bills.
Old dive bar with vintage style and family-owned history spanning six generations creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Regulars enjoy a jukebox, cigar room, and hidden back spaces for games and chilling. The bar embraces a no-frills, local vibe with cash-only payments and minimal food options.
A neighborhood bar with a six-generation family history shows deep pride and passion for its past. The place feels like a vibrant, historical hole in the wall with strong ties to its community.
A vintage style inside gives the bar a cool old vibe. The barbershop room adds a unique touch, and its history spans six generations in the same family.
Good to know
Abick's Bar accepts only cash payments.
The bar does not serve food, only some chips and basic drinks.
Expect a relaxed atmosphere with a rich history spanning over a century.
Historic pottery studio showcases beautiful tiles and unique glazes in a light-filled, well-preserved building. The atmosphere blends artistic legacy with contemporary craftsmanship, attracting those interested in art, history, and hands-on workshops.
The site showcases 120 years of history with a historic building and studio that add to its charm. Staff provide knowledgeable insights about the art, history, and craftsmanship behind the work.
Unique Pewabic Pottery items stand out in a very cool space right in the heart of the city.
Good to know
Admission to the museum and gift shop is free.
Raku day in October features a fun mix of art, science, and fire.
Saturday events include music and a food truck.
Bronze forearm and clenched fist sculpture hangs 24 feet high, symbolizing strength and resilience. Urban setting near riverwalk offers bold public art with a powerful historical message about fight against racism. Area feels safe and busy, inviting reflection on city's spirit and perseverance.
A monument stands at a busy intersection downtown, honoring heavyweight champion Joe Louis with a giant fist sculpture. Visitors can get close, take photos, and see it as a tribute to a true champion near the river walk.
The Monument to Joe Louis "The Fist" stands as a bold sculpture that draws attention. It offers a cool photo spot and serves as a striking tribute to Joe Louis.
Good to know
Parking is available in structures or on the streets, payable via the Detroit parking app.
The cost to see the sculpture is free.
There are no bathrooms at the site.
Art Deco architecture defines the space with timeless sophistication and European-inspired details. The atmosphere buzzes with excitement, especially around the intimate theater known for cozy seating and fantastic plays. Shops and unique amenities add to the vibrant, historic experience.
Striking art deco architecture defines this historic building, featuring a beautiful theater inside. Tours highlight its rich history and cultural significance in Detroit's architectural heritage.
Inside features opulent architecture and a mini theater about Hare Krishna. Tours include local historian stories enriching cultural and historic knowledge.
Good to know
Parking at the Fisher Building is free if registered online ahead of your visit.
The Fisher Building offers free tours on Saturday afternoons for architecture enthusiasts.
Expect long lines for the women's restroom as only one is open with limited stalls.
Bar and grill with old-school Detroit sports memorabilia and a 180-year-old bar featuring historical tunnels from Prohibition. Atmosphere feels like a friendly dive bar with a fun, lively vibe and plenty of TVs for watching games. Offers free popcorn and shuttle service to local sports events.
This site holds deep history tied to the Underground Railroad and the Purple Gang's illegal transport of free African captives and prohibition liquor. The building itself offers tours that highlight its role in these historic events.
Chill and super cool vibe with no pretentious attitude. Inside features lots of TVs for games and sports memorabilia that highlight its cool history.
Good to know
Tommy's offers free parking that is well-lit and monitored with cameras.
The menu prices are often inaccurate and subject to change without notice.
Tommy's provides a free shuttle service to nearby sports events.
Old school Irish pub with historic decor including firefighter helmets and antique pistols above the bar. Atmosphere feels like a close-knit neighborhood spot with a relaxing vibe and occasional live blues or jazz music. Small inside with a large outdoor patio featuring a fire pit and friendly dogs.
Built in 1902, this pub holds a spot on the Historic Registry and offers a truly historic atmosphere. It stands out as a classic example of an Irish pub with deep roots in its community.
An old house vibe shapes the pub's atmosphere, giving it a historic bar feel. The small patio adds a cool touch during warmer weather.
Good to know
Expect large crowds, especially after events like the St. Patrick's Day parade.
Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a spot.
Uber is recommended for transportation after visiting due to limited parking.
Historical building offers an intimate ambiance with classic decor and eclectic vibe. Amenities include a spa suite and a saltwater hot tub, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere. Live music and bar areas bring lively energy, especially on upper floors.
An upscale historical building offers a unique setting with historic decor and an eclectic vibe. The third floor showcases some of the site's rich history alongside dining options.
Historical rooms with classic charm create a cool vibe. Lack of air conditioning or heating means the space stays natural and unaltered.
Good to know
The bar is closed on Sundays after a Lions game.
The bar is also closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so no food or drinks are available those days.
Happy hour specials are available in the library with old school Detroit vibes.
State park offers beautiful river views and historic structures like an aquarium and conservatory. Atmosphere stays peaceful and family-oriented, with trails and playgrounds supporting biking, hiking, and kids' activities.
Historic structures like the Belle Isle Aquarium and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory stand out. The park offers a mix of historic houses, a fountain, and sites tied to the lake's history.
Graffiti Bridge offers a very cool backdrop for photos. Belle Isle Park stands out as a cool island park with natural attractions like an aquarium and beach.
Good to know
There is a $14 entry fee for non-Detroiters to access Belle Isle Park.
The aquarium and conservatory at Belle Isle Park are free to visit.
Food trucks sometimes set up near the aquarium during events.