If you visit Detroit for the first time, you can’t help but feel like you’ve been away from home. The heart and soul of America’s middle class and culture outside of New York, Motown is a collection of fascinating cultural attractions, museums, nightlife, sports, and some amazing eats. If this sounds like fun, give this guide a read to discover Detroit’s cultural mecca.
Why Detroit Should Be On Your List
Detroit’s culture scene is fierce, resilient, and ever-evolving. There is much more to Detroit than catching Tigers and Lions games or saying that you visited Motown. Walk into any of the many Detroit art galleries and Detroit museums, and it will reveal itself, tale by tale, painting by painting. If you like modern work, traditional African pieces, or everything in between, the city has something you won’t find in other major cities. With famous towns like Ann Arbor just a short drive away, the cultural attractions in the Detroit Metro will need several articles to write about.
Getting Straight to the Art Scene
Occupying a former auto dealership, The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) offers a diverse mixture of temporary and permanent exhibits. The forward-thinking exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit are constantly rotating, so it’s definitely a place you could come back to time and again. Past exhibits have included experimental films and mixed-media sculptures, photography, collages, and prints, as well as interactive events like artist talks and workshops. Admission is $12. Admission is free for children 12 and under. Parking is free in the lot across Garfield Street.
Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts
Though the Detroit Institute of Arts has long been recognized for the strength of its Native American collection. Some of the most notable artifacts from the Anishinaabe tribe celebrate their ancient teachings, stories, and way of life. There are more than 90 fascinating works of art dating back to the early 1890s. The exhibition’s gallery, which features cloth from that time, is translated from Anishinaabemowin to foster a deeper cultural connection.
Celebrate Motown’s Greatness
Celebrate a brand of music that changed the course of music at the Motown Museum. Berry Gordy Jr. started Motown Records in 1959, and his label produced hits for musical legends from Stevie Wonder to The Supremes. Today, the bungalow that became Motown’s headquarters – also known as Hitsville USA – is packed with rotating musical artifacts, including records and concert posters.
Greektown Is Alive
Planning a trip to Detroit? One of the first places you should consider visiting is Greektown. It’s a lively and vibrant neighborhood that offers some of the best food, culture, and entertainment, as well as a cultural hub in the heart of the city. Whether you’re looking for delicious Greek cuisine, traditional music and dance, having the time of your life at the three big casinos near me and countless tourists, or a fun and interactive museum experience, Greektown has something for everyone. To make your visit even easier, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 Best Things to Do in Greektown, Detroit, for a Memorable Trip. So pack your bags, grab a friend, and get ready to experience the magic of Greektown.
No matter which restaurant you choose, you will not be disappointed by the authentic Mediterranean cuisine served in Greektown, Detroit including moussaka and gyros.
One of the most popular restaurants in Greektown, Detroit, is New Parthenon. A landmark family-owned restaurant has had the heart of Detroit for over 40 years. Another popular option in the neighborhood is Pegasus Taverna. New Pantheon is a cultural phenomenon for its incredible atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes.
Final Thoughts
When you think about going to Detroit, Michigan, as a family with children, don’t forget to check the best adventures. If your family is into adventure, history, nature, or a little bit of each, Detroit, Michigan, is full of kid-friendly attractions. In fact, the area lacks any Disneyland-type tourist trap; instead, most attractions cater to the younger crowd. In the heart of the Midwest, a weekend getaway to Detroit, Michigan, is all you need to feel like a kid in elementary school once more.
