Detroit Architecture is Beautiful

7 Must Do Things in Detroit

I recently spent a week in Michigan’s biggest city and learned that, despite its reputation, Detroit is a really progressive city with rich cultural heritage, amazing architecture, limitless innovation and myriad things to do. 

I’m not a big fan of recommending things to do or making referrals unless I’ve done the things myself, so I’ll comfortable saying these seven awesome experiences in Detroit are worth every moment and every penny.  

If you’re going to be traveling to Detroit, here are some great things to do (and, when possible, suggestions to do the on the cheap): 

1. Have a Drink at the Top of the Renaissance Center

The Renaissance Center, famous as GM’s world headquarters, is one of the most imposing buildings looming over Detroit. Unlike other famous skyscrapers, though, there’s not really an observation deck; you can still take in sweeping views of the American and adjacent Canadian landscape, though, from Highland Steakhouse at the “Top of the Tower.”  Located on the 71st and 72nd floor of the RenCen, Highland is one of the most exclusive dinner spots in town. The price tag is comisurate with its exclusivity, but you can enjoy the experience (and the views) without breaking the bank. The bar is the first area you’ll encounter when you step off the elevator, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with grabbing a drink, pulling up a seat by the windows, and soaking up the experience. 

2. Tour Detroit’s Beautiful Architecture

In my last blog post, I called out the amazing architecture throughout Detroit. Dating back to the 1800s, the city is filled with hidden grandiose and ornate structures. Some of them are clearly visible, but you have to know where to look to see some of the most beautiful ones.   This Detroit Architecture Tour is a great way to discover the breathtaking beauty hidden all over town. 

3. Spend an Evening at the Opera

Opera may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s an experience everyone should have at least once.  If you’re only going to go to the opera one time, though, it should be at the Detroit Opera House.  Built in 1928, at the height of the Art Deco movement, the six-story Music Hall is so gorgeous on the inside that it earned a place on the US National Register of Historic Places.  You can dress to the nines for the event, but you don’t have to; you don’t even have to spend a fortune, either, with some of the seats farther from the stage going for as little as $25. Even better, the opera performances are top-notch, so you may just find yourself an opera fan after all.  

4. Catch a Game (No Matter what Sport You’re Into)

Detroit is a huge sports city, and every major sport has a team presence. The Detroit Lions (NFL), Pistons (NBA) and Tigers (MLB) all play in or near downtown, as well as Major League Soccer’s Detroit City Football Club. The Detroit Redwings (NHL) are the real superstars, as hockey is unbelievably popular in Detroit.  No matter when you visit Motor City, at least one of the professional sports teams will be in season. Tickets can be a little pricey, though, and tough to get, so consider using a service like TicketNetwork to find last-minute tickets and/or discounts. 

5. Eat Detroit-Style Pizza

Most major cities have at least one food for which they’re renowned, but you may not be familiar with one of the most popular dishes coming out of Motor City. If you haven’t had an authentic Detroit-style pizza, you’re missing out! This deep-dish pan pizza, served piping hot with the sauce on top is as addictive as it is delicious.  There are numerous places all over town where you can get authentic Detroit-style pizza, but Buddy’s Pizza claims to be where it all started.  I can attest that, even if they’re not truly the original, they make a darn good pizza. 

6. Enjoy the Detroit Symphony

Another world-class musical ensemble in another world-class, beautiful historic theater, the Detroit Symphony will leave you thoroughly enthralled. I was a band nerd in high school, and have been listening to everything from community bands through major philharmonic orchestras my entire life, but the performances I saw from the Detroit Symphony were among the best. DSO is one of the oldest performing orchestras in the United States, and their performance venue is also one of the most elaborate.  The acoustics in the Detroit Orchestra Hall are renowned, and are so good that the music is incredible even in the highest, cheapest seats.  Speaking of cheapest seats, you can score this incredible experience for $25 or less, depending on the performance. 

7. Tour the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

There’s no question that Detroit is home to some of America’s greatest innovations. The Henry Ford Museum showcases many of these in an engaging, unforgettable way. While you (like I) might expect the museum to be all about cars and assembly lines, it truly is a showcase of American innovations ranging from the telephone to aviation—and, yes, lots of automotive history.  Tickets are about $30 for adults, but you can get a better deal if you bundle in an all-in-one “Go Pass.” 

Forget the pre-conceived notions you may have about Detroit, and get ready to experience a city you may not know has been waiting for you.  Even if you only do a few of these seven things, you will leave Detroit feeling enriched and ready to return.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *