Things to do in Detroit now go far beyond museums and sports games, as the city has redefined itself through arts, history, food, and waterfront transformation.
Over the past decade, Detroit’s revival has turned once-industrial spaces into vibrant cultural hubs, drawing tourists, creatives, and families from across the Midwest and beyond.
From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the Motor City now offers a diverse mix of urban experiences that reflect both its history and its comeback.
Detroit’s Must-See Cultural Landmarks
At the heart of the list of things to do in Detroit are its globally recognized cultural institutions.
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The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) remains one of the most significant art museums in the United States, housing Diego Rivera’s famous Detroit Industry Murals and a world-renowned collection of global art.
Nearby, the Motown Museum continues to draw visitors eager to explore the birthplace of one of the most influential musical movements in American history.
Both institutions serve as pillars of Detroit’s cultural identity and are central to any first-time visitor’s itinerary.
The Riverfront & Outdoor Experiences
Outdoor recreation has become one of the most popular things to do in Detroit in recent years.
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The Detroit RiverWalk offers miles of scenic walking and biking trails with views of Canada, downtown skyline, and public art installations.
Belle Isle Park, located on a 982-acre island in the Detroit River, provides nature trails, a conservatory, a beach, an aquarium, and panoramic skyline views.
Our local coverage:
Detroit Riverfront Renaissance: How the Waterfront Is Reviving the City
Detroit’s Food & Dining Experiences
No list of things to do in Detroit is complete without exploring the city’s food scene.
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Detroit-style pizza, coney dogs, Middle Eastern cuisine, and farm-to-table dining experiences reflect the city’s cultural diversity.
Neighborhoods like Corktown, Midtown, and Downtown have become culinary destinations, while Eastern Market remains one of the oldest and largest public markets in the country.
More food guides here:
How Detroit Became a Foodie City
Live Music, Sports & Entertainment
Music and sports are essential parts of Detroit’s identity and central to modern things to do in Detroit.
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Live music venues like the Fox Theatre, The Fillmore Detroit, and Saint Andrew’s Hall host national and local artists year-round.
Detroit’s professional sports teams — the Lions, Tigers, Pistons, and Red Wings — play in world-class downtown stadiums that also anchor major entertainment districts.
Sporting events, concerts, and comedy shows drive significant tourism and local activity throughout the year.
Historic Architecture & Urban Exploration
Exploring Detroit’s architecture is one of the most visually captivating things to do in Detroit.
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The Guardian Building, Fisher Building, and Michigan Central Station showcase Detroit’s architectural legacy and modernization efforts.
Self-guided architecture tours across Downtown and Midtown allow visitors to experience Art Deco buildings, restored train stations, and contemporary skyline additions.
Urban photography and walking tours have also grown in popularity, attracting visitors fascinated by Detroit’s unique cityscape.
Museums, Innovation & Science
Educational attractions continue to expand the list of things to do in Detroit.
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The Michigan Science Center, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and the Henry Ford Museum (in nearby Dearborn) showcase Detroit’s contributions to science, civil rights, and American industry.
These institutions provide interactive learning for families, students, and history enthusiasts.
For official visitor planning resources, see Visit Detroit:
Visit Detroit Official Guide
Neighborhood Exploration & Local Experiences
Many of the best things to do in Detroit come from simply exploring its neighborhoods.
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- Corktown for historic charm and restaurants
- Midtown for arts, museums, and student culture
- Eastern Market for food and community events
- Mexicantown for authentic cuisine and cultural flavor
Each neighborhood offers a unique perspective on Detroit’s identity and ongoing revival.
Seasonal Festivals & Major Events
Another major category of things to do in Detroit includes its annual events and festivals.
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Major events like the Detroit Jazz Festival, Movement Electronic Music Festival, Woodward Dream Cruise, and the Thanksgiving Parade attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Seasonal markets, art fairs, and cultural celebrations continue to position Detroit as a year-round destination.
Future Tourism Growth in Detroit
The list of things to do in Detroit continues to grow as redevelopment and investment continue.
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Ongoing projects like the Hudson’s site development and riverfront expansion are adding new attractions, dining, and entertainment options.
Tourism officials predict continued growth as Detroit further repositions itself as a Midwest travel hub.
Conclusion
Things to do in Detroit now reflect a city that has moved beyond its stereotypes and into a new era of creativity, culture, and regeneration.
From historic institutions to modern waterfronts, Detroit’s evolution offers one of the most dynamic urban experiences in the United States.
