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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Detroit

Interesting fun activities

A day spent doing something genuinely interesting is the only way to break the monotony.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Motown Museum image 1

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.

Tours offer a fun and educational experience focused on music history. Guides like Roy, Anton, and Calvin Hobbs provide detailed and personable commentary that keeps the tour engaging.

Motown history comes alive with detailed exhibits and stories. A knowledgeable guide shares facts that make the visit both educational and entertaining.

People are saying

"The historical sites here are so engaging and knowledgeable."

"The guide made the tour fun and let us sing in Studio A."

"The tour guides here are so informative and fun!"

Good to know

1

Tickets for the Motown Museum often sell out, so purchase in advance.

2

Guided tours are the only way to experience the museum; no self-guided tours available.

3

The entry fee is $20 per adult, payable online or at the museum.

02
DYNO Detroit Climbing image 1
Rock climbing gym

Climbing gym offers tall walls with interesting terrain and unique routes for all skill levels. Atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming, fostering a strong sense of community and safety. Spacious facility includes well-equipped training areas and a yoga room, blending fitness and climbing seamlessly.

A fun and safe environment welcomes climbers of all levels. Both the routes and boulders offer engaging challenges within a friendly climbing community.

Routes feature interesting wall angles and varied terrain that keep climbing engaging. Staff support and facilities add to the overall fun and challenging experience.

People are saying

"The people at this rock climbing gym are so friendly and welcoming."

"The bathrooms here are always clean and well maintained."

"The staff here makes the fun activities so easy and informative."

Good to know

1

The bathrooms and locker rooms are always clean.

2

The free parking lot is very helpful.

3

You need to complete the waiver online in advance.

03
The Whiskey Factory - Detroit City Distillery image 1

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 great fun and are informative. Michael leads with engaging and knowledgeable commentary.

The tour offers a great fun and informative experience, showing the entire operation from start to finish. The space has a relaxed vibe that brings local life into the venue.

People are saying

"The whiskey tour was fun, educational, and the best I've experienced."

"The tour guide Michael was so fun and knowledgeable!"

"I found the tour really interesting, learning about the history and seeing the whole operation."

Good to know

1

Tours are available but not frequent, allowing for more interaction with guides.

2

Reservations are recommended for the BYOB blend your own bourbon tour.

3

The venue can be customized for events, including table and chair selection.

04
Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum image 1

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.

Tours feature a retired Ford engineer as guide, making them both fun and informative. The museum offers a lively way to explore the history of Ford, especially for car enthusiasts and older kids.

Displays and descriptions reveal the build process Ford used to manufacture cars. Guided tours share a great story about early automotive history and feature old Model T's and other vintage Ford cars.

People are saying

"The guided tours are passionate and highly knowledgeable."

"I found the automotive history here really interesting."

"The guided tours here are really fun and informative."

Good to know

1

The museum hosts weddings and special events on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for private events at the museum.

3

The museum closes at 4 p.m. daily.

05
Outdoor Adventure Center image 1
Recreation center

Repurposed old warehouse hosts interactive exhibits like an indoor waterfall, rope bridge, and simulators for snowmobiling and kayaking. Busy, kid-friendly atmosphere encourages hands-on learning and play in a compact space. Features include private nursing and quiet rooms, enhancing comfort for families.

Many interactive activities keep kids engaged and entertained. Virtual experiences add a unique, fun twist to the outdoor setting. The center offers affordable options for family fun and learning.

Attractions and stations offer top-notch and unique exhibits that engage families. The center provides lots of interesting learning experiences.

People are saying

"It's a really fun, kid-friendly place with lots of interactive exhibits."

"It's a fun place with interactive activities for the whole family."

"It's an interesting introduction to the outdoors for kids and adults."

Good to know

1

Admission is $7 for ages 13 and up, $5 for kids aged 2 to 12, and free for children under 2.

2

Parking costs $5 in the dirt lot near the Outdoor Adventure Center.

3

The elevator is currently out of order, so plan accordingly.

06
Parade Co image 1
Association / Organization

Warehouse space filled with intricate floats and vibrant colors creates a unique cultural experience. The atmosphere is family-friendly and educational, with a focus on parade history and craftsmanship. Visitors often receive fun memorabilia, enhancing the engaging tour.

Tours offer a fun and informative experience with lots of interesting things to see. The floats are enjoyable to look at, and the activity is great for all ages, especially kids who love it.

Tours include interesting history and fun facts shared by guides. Lots of engaging stories make the visit memorable.

People are saying

"The tours here are really fun and informative."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly outing that brings the spirit of Thanksgiving to life."

"I found lots of interesting things to see and learned about the history."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and accessible at Parade Co.

2

Dress warmly as the warehouse can be quite cold.

3

The tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

07
Belle Isle Nature Center image 1

Small nature center offers interactive exhibits, animal enclosures, and an outdoor play area designed mainly for children. Atmosphere stays calm and educational, though it can get lively with kids around. Visitors enjoy scenic views and a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces for learning and relaxation.

Plenty of indoor and outdoor activities keep things lively, including a fun playground and easy walking trails. Exhibits at the nature center are interactive and enjoyable for kids and adults alike.

Exhibits feature a variety of interesting habitats with fun facts about animals. Volunteers share engaging information that makes the experience more memorable.

People are saying

"It's a really kid-friendly spot with engaging exhibits and animals."

"It's interesting seeing all the snakes, lizards, turtles, and frogs here."

"It's a fun and educational experience for kids and adults."

Good to know

1

The entrance to Belle Isle Nature Center is free of charge.

2

The center hosts many events throughout the year for people of all ages.

3

The Nature Center has several interactive exhibits and native creatures to observe.

08
Lincoln Street Art Park image 1

Open-air space filled with local street art and graffiti murals creates a creative, laid-back vibe. Diverse crowds gather for community events like parties and bonfires, making it a unique urban art venue. The setting feels like a colorful oasis amid a gritty neighborhood.

Events happen often and bring a lively vibe. Night visits offer a unique and fun atmosphere. The spot consistently delivers enjoyable experiences.

An installation on the side of the recycling place stands out with its unique design. The urban art throughout creates an interesting vibe that feels fresh and engaging.

People are saying

"I found the street art here to be beautiful and constantly changing."

"I always had a fun time with all the things to do."

"I thought the urban art here was really interesting."

Good to know

1

Parking at Lincoln Street Art Park is challenging but worth the effort.

2

Visitors should be cautious of sharp sculptures and rough surfaces.

3

There are no usable restrooms available at the park.

09
John K. King Used & Rare Books image 1

Four floors of tightly packed shelves fill a historic warehouse with over a million books, creating a labyrinthine and eclectic environment. Low lighting and creaking floors add to the old-school and inviting atmosphere that draws in book lovers for long, contemplative browsing sessions.

Exploring the bookstore offers a fun search for rare books and hidden gems. Staff join in the expedition, making the experience even more engaging.

A huge bookstore with a wide variety of books and antiques offers many interesting older books and vintage Star Wars materials. The collection ranges from quick reads to obscure titles.

People are saying

"The bookstore staff is so helpful, they even helped me carry books."

"It's so fun exploring the floors packed with books."

"I found the huge collection of books here really interesting."

Good to know

1

The store has four stories filled with over a million books.

2

Unique finds include rare books and antiques not found elsewhere.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it accessible for all book lovers.

10
Eastern Market image 1

Large market with multiple buildings and outdoor areas creates a maze-like layout filled with colorful flowers and urban murals. Lively atmosphere buzzes with live music, food trucks, and diverse crowds, making it more than just shopping. Friendly energy and vibrant cultural experiences define the space.

Wandering indoors and outdoors offers a fun way to connect with the community through local produce, plants, and goods. Events like Girls Shopping Day and tailgating create memorable outings for families and friends.

Variety of interesting markets and local producers offers a chance to explore new things. Ingredients for international cuisine make it a fun spot to try different flavors.

People are saying

"I love this grocery store for its fresh produce and meats."

"It's a fun place to wander around indoors and outdoors."

"I found it interesting and fun."

Good to know

1

Entry to Eastern Market costs $10 per person.

2

Parking can be difficult, especially on busy market days.

3

Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept cards.

11
Michigan Central image 1
Historical landmark

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.

Tours offer fun and informative experiences. Plenty of fun things to do make it great for hanging out and enjoying events.

Renovations show a nicely restored historic building with well presented artifact displays. The place brings Detroit history back to life in an engaging way.

People are saying

"The historical restoration of this building is truly impressive."

"The guided tour here is really interesting and well done."

"It's a beautiful space, perfect for hanging out and having fun."

Good to know

1

Entry to Michigan Central is free for all visitors.

2

Currently, only the lower levels are accessible for visitors.

3

Parking is available a block away from Michigan Central.

12
Museum of Illusions image 1

Museum offers interactive illusions and photo opportunities in a compact space with a well-designed layout. Atmosphere ranges from quiet to crowded, with a steady flow of visitors creating a lively energy. Staff engage actively, enhancing the fun and inviting vibe throughout.

Interactive exhibits spark creativity and curiosity for all ages. The experience blends mind-bending illusions with family-friendly fun.

Creative exhibits offer a wonderful adventure that captures attention. The displays are consistently interesting and appeal to groups like families, friends, or office outings.

People are saying

"It's a fun and unique experience for the whole family."

"The museum staff took great photos and explained the exhibits."

"It's a creative and interesting adventure."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to visit the Museum of Illusions.

2

Book tickets online in advance to secure your spot.

3

Expect a wait of at least 5 minutes for each exhibit due to crowds.

13
Vintage Eastern Market, LLC image 1

Antique store with organized booths showcasing decades of vintage items creates a nostalgic atmosphere filled with unique furniture and retro fashion. The space buzzes with energy on weekends, attracting those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures across clothing, jewelry, and collectibles.

Spending an afternoon here offers fun activities that invite regular visits. The place keeps things interesting enough to check out often.

A wide range of second-hand products fills the space, covering many fields. Many items stand out as interesting and useful for home decoration.

People are saying

"This vintage shop is overflowing with character and nostalgia."

"I found so many cool vintage treasures, from clothing to decor."

"I found a great variety of interesting items here."

Good to know

1

The market has a variety of vintage and antique items.

2

Cash is recommended, but credit cards are also accepted.

3

Expect to find a large selection of vintage clothing and accessories.

14
Dequindre Cut image 1

Urban trail transforms former railway into a 1.75-mile path lined with colorful murals and graffiti art. Atmosphere balances peaceful green space with edgy, modern design, offering a clean, family-friendly environment. Popular for walking, biking, and relaxing amid vibrant public art and open seating areas.

An outdoor space with fun graffiti creates a lively vibe for all ages. Various events throughout the year make it a memorable family tradition and a festive atmosphere without political content.

Urban waste along the trail offers a unique visual interest. Walls feature colorful murals and buildings show distinctive architecture that catch the eye.

People are saying

"I found the fun activities here to be great for all ages."

"The food trucks here had heavenly chicken tenders and superb brisket fries."

"I noticed interesting murals and architecture on the buildings."

Good to know

1

There are multiple free parking lots near the entrances of the Dequindre Cut.

2

Security posts along the route provide a sense of safety during visits.

3

House music events occur every Sunday in the summer at Dequindre Cut.

15
Hart Plaza image 1
Event venue

Event venue spans waterfront with beautiful river views and a large fountain feature. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful and comfortable to lively and energetic during festivals with live music and dancing. Space fully utilized for concerts, drawing diverse crowds enjoying food vendors and multiple stages.

Events like the Jazz festival and Pride bring lively crowds and great energy. Festivals create a space where people come together for fun and good vibes.

Many monuments and interesting fixtures offer chances to learn about the city. The plaza gets busy and lively during events like Independence Day fireworks.

People are saying

"You get a beautiful view of Canada across the river."

"I loved the fun festivals and weekend happenings here."

"It's an interesting place with a beautiful city view."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, but be cautious about where you park.

2

Wheelchair access is available, ensuring safety and security for all patrons.

3

Food trucks and vendors offer a variety of options during events.

16
Nuevo Seoul image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant blends California-style design with a hipster ambiance and heated outdoor patio. Music plays lively tunes, creating a fun, energetic vibe. Full bar offers unique cocktails like dragon fruit margaritas and tiki drinks served in baby pineapples.

A 5-course meal pairs with signature cocktails and a movie, creating an interactive dining experience. The venue feels trendy and offers fun interactive elements tied to the dishes.

Korean and Mexican fusion creates a unique menu with interesting dishes and drinks. The restaurant offers a chill atmosphere that complements the food well.

People are saying

"The birria quesadilla's consomme is out of this world."

"It's a unique dining experience where dishes are part of the movie."

"The Korean and Mexican fusion menu is really interesting."

Good to know

1

A mandatory 20% gratuity is added to all bills without prior notice.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

The Tuesday taco special features 3 tacos for $10, with mix-and-match options.

17
The Heidelberg Project image 1
Tourist attraction

Outdoor art installations create an eclectic, visually enticing environment filled with unique, thought-provoking displays. The space feels quiet and cool, inviting reflection on themes of community and rebirth. Visitors encounter imaginative house paint and numerous clocks, making it a distinctive cultural landmark.

Walking around reveals a super unique assemblage of artistic elements. The place offers a fun artistic experience with lots to see and enjoy.

Creative urban art fills the space with a mix of junk and ideas. The project offers an interesting and unsettling way to experience a cityscape transformed by one person's vision.

People are saying

"The art installations here are amazing and thought-provoking."

"I found the urban art and the artist's vision really interesting."

"It's a super unique and fun artistic place to see."

Good to know

1

The Heidelberg Project is free of charge.

2

It is not a museum, so manage your expectations accordingly.

3

The project is located in a neighborhood that some may find intimidating.

18
Russell Industrial Center | Exhibition Center image 1

Historic industrial building offers spacious warehouse layout with multiple stages and food trucks outside. Atmosphere blends authentic industrial vibe with vibrant energy, though indoor sound can be intense. Large parking and open outdoor areas support diverse events and crowds.

Lots of fun activities happen here, including events with engaging artists and exhibitions. The venue offers a cozy feel and a fun journey from the parking lot.

A big parking area and an industrial vibe set the scene for unique and interesting pieces. The exhibition space sparks creativity for artists and entrepreneurs with its fun and engaging atmosphere.

People are saying

"Parking available is free and safe."

"I had so much fun at the events here."

"It's an interesting industrial vibe with a big parking area."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on-site, but fees vary depending on the event.

2

Expect long wait times for women's bathrooms during large events.

3

The venue can get very hot and humid, especially in summer.

19
Masonic Temple image 1
Masonic center

Historic architecture and intimate lighting create a romantic atmosphere with rich acoustics. The venue hosts live music and wrestling events, drawing diverse crowds who enjoy the balcony views and inclusive amenities. Lines can be long, but the space offers comfortable bars and accessible features.

Events offer a fun and unique experience with a candlelight ambiance that suits classical music performances. The venue stays clean and safe while hosting lively shows like wrestling and interactive performances.

The building features interesting architecture and a unique structure. The ascending tour highlights these aspects, making the visit quite engaging.

People are saying

"This historic theater's architecture makes for a visually stunning performing arts experience."

"It's a fun and unique experience, a joy to visit."

"I found the building's architecture and structure really interesting."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for $20 on the street near the venue.

2

Reservations for parking are recommended before attending events.

3

The venue has only one entrance, which can lead to long wait times.

20
The Siren Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel showcases beautiful restoration and vintage style with stylish, unique aesthetic throughout. Atmosphere feels cozy and romantic with lively energy in the lobby, cocktail bar, and karaoke areas. Bars and lounges offer excellent cocktails and a playful, whimsical charm.

Two bars open at night add social value. Karaoke at Sid Goldโ€™s offers a memorable experience. Candy Bar inside the lobby provides a convenient fun spot.

Eclectic bohemian quirkiness shapes the entry lobby and rooms, which feature interesting artwork and a distinctive vintage coolness. The building's restoration story adds to the relaxed and safe vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff here is super friendly and helpful."

"The bars here are super fun and amazing."

"The architecture and decor are interesting, with a quirky, vintage vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations for karaoke are recommended to secure a spot.

2

Karaoke sessions are limited to 1.5 hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is available in a structure across the street from the hotel.

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Detroit, Michigan

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