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Back to destinations Detroit, MI

Best of Detroit

Beyond the ruin photos — Eastern Market mornings, Coney dogs, and a riverfront that quietly came back.

7 daysLocal gems
Trip length
3-day5-day7-day10-day
Best time to visit: May to September

Warm months bring riverfront festivals, patio season and full Saturdays at Eastern Market. Winters are long and cold with lake-effect snow and short daylight.

Day 1·Welcome to Detroit: Riverfront and Renewal

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  1. Sightseeing

    Detroit Riverwalk

    A great way to see the revitalized waterfront and get your bearings.

  2. Sightseeing

    Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory

    Escape into a beautiful glasshouse filled with exotic plants.

  3. Food

    Lafayette Coney Island

    A classic Detroit experience, grab a chili dog and watch the bustle.

Day 2·Motown and Midtown Culture

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  1. Sightseeing

    Motown Museum

    Step into the hit factory where legends were made.

  2. Sightseeing

    Detroit Institute of Arts

    Spend an afternoon admiring world-class art and Diego Rivera's murals.

  3. Shopping

    Shinola Detroit (Midtown)

    Browse well-crafted goods in a stylish setting.

  4. Food

    Buddy's Pizza (Original Location)

    Taste the square, deep-dish pizza that started it all.

Day 3·Belle Isle Escape and Island Views

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  1. Activity

    Belle Isle Park

    Explore this sprawling island park with stunning skyline views and plenty to do.

  2. Sightseeing

    Dossin Great Lakes Museum

    Discover the maritime history of the Great Lakes on Belle Isle.

  3. Rest

    Detroit Yacht Club

    Enjoy a drink or a meal with a view of the Detroit River and Canadian shoreline.

Day 4·Eastern Market Delights and Street Art

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  1. Activity

    Eastern Market

    Immerse yourself in the vibrant market atmosphere, especially on a Saturday.

  2. Sightseeing

    Murals of Eastern Market

    Wander the streets to discover an incredible array of public art.

  3. Food

    Supino Pizzeria (Eastern Market)

    Savor some of Detroit's best New York-style pizza.

  4. Rest

    Trumbull & Porter, an Ascend Hotel Collection Member

    Relax with a drink on the patio of this stylish Corktown hotel.

Day 5·Heidelberg and Corktown Charm

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  1. Sightseeing

    The Heidelberg Project

    Experience this thought-provoking outdoor art environment.

  2. Sightseeing

    Michigan Central Station

    Witness the ongoing revitalization of this iconic landmark.

  3. Food

    Slows Bar BQ

    Indulge in some of Detroit's most famous barbecue in Corktown.

  4. Nightlife

    Nemo's Bar & Grill

    Grab a beer at a classic neighborhood bar with local character.

Day 6·Campus Martius and Downtown Exploration

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  1. Activity

    Campus Martius Park

    Enjoy this lively urban park, often with events or ice skating in winter.

  2. Shopping

    John K. King Used & Rare Books

    Get lost in a massive, multi-story wonderland for book lovers.

  3. Sightseeing

    The Guardian Building

    Step inside to admire the stunning Art Deco architecture and vibrant colors.

  4. Food

    Wright & Company

    Enjoy small plates and craft cocktails in a stylish, upstairs setting.

Day 7·Farewell Detroit: Coffee and Contemplation

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  1. Sightseeing

    Detroit Public Library (Main Branch)

    Take a moment to appreciate the grand architecture and quiet beauty.

  2. Food

    Avalon International Breads

    Grab a coffee and pastry for a delicious start to your departure day.

  3. Shopping

    Parks and Recreation (shop)

    Pick up a unique Detroit-themed souvenir or gift.

Make it your own

Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.

Or plan your own Detroit trip