Detroit holidays

Local dishes in Detroit

Exploring the food and drink scene in Detroit is a highlight of any visit, with dishes and desserts to please all palates.

Some typical dishes

• Coney Island Hot Dogs: A Detroit classic, these hot dogs are topped with chilli, mustard and onions, all served in a steamed bun. Lafayette Coney Island and American Coney Island are two of the most famous spots to try them.

• Detroit-style Pizza: Known for its thick, crispy crust and rectangular shape, this pizza is topped with cheese that extends to the edges, creating a deliciously caramelised crust. Buddy’s Pizza is a local favourite for this.

• Slows Bar BQ: This restaurant is famed for its mouthwatering barbecue dishes, such as the Yardbird Sandwich (smoked chicken with cheese and mushrooms) and its hearty Mac and Cheese servings.

Street food

• Shawarma: Reflecting Detroit’s significant Middle Eastern community, shawarma is a popular street food. These tasty wraps are filled with spiced meat, usually chicken or lamb, along with vegetables and sauces.

• Falafel: These deep-fried balls (made from ground chickpeas or fava beans) are a staple street food, often served in pitta bread with salad and tahini sauce.

Sweets and desserts

• Paczkis: These Polish doughnuts are filled with a variety of sweet fillings, such as custard, jam or chocolate.

• Vernors ginger ale floats: A unique Detroit treat, this dessert drink is made with Vernors Ginger Ale and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a sweet and spicy float.

Local drinks

• Faygo: This locally produced soda comes in a variety of flavours, from the classic Redpop to Rock & Rye. It’s a beloved beverage in Detroit.

• Detroit craft beer: The city has a growing craft beer scene, with breweries like Atwater Brewery and Detroit Beer Co serving up a variety of local brews.

• Detroit Distillery spirits: For something a bit stronger, sample the spirits from Detroit Distillery, which produces a range of craft liquors including bourbon, vodka and gin.

Best things to do in Detroit

Detroit is a city with a rich history, a vibrant culture and a dynamic arts scene. From iconic museums to picturesque parks, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy during your holidays to Detroit.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Detroit Riverwalk: A scenic waterfront promenade offering beautiful views of the Detroit River and the Windsor skyline across the border in Canada.

• GM Renaissance Center: Head up to the Detroit Marriott’s seventy-second floor for stunning panoramic views of the city and the river. The Renaissance Center is also home to shops, restaurants and a fascinating visitor centre.

The best districts

• Downtown Detroit: The heart of the city is bustling with restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. Visit Campus Martius Park, a vibrant gathering spot with year-round events.

• Midtown: Known for its cultural institutions, Midtown is home to the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

• Corktown: Detroit’s oldest neighbourhood is full to the brim with historic charm. Be sure to check out the iconic Michigan Central Station.

Parks and gardens

• Belle Isle Park: This beautiful island park on the Detroit River is home to a zoo, aquarium and conservatory. There’s also plenty of space for picnics and outdoor activities.

• Eastern Market: While primarily a market, this area also boasts some lovely green spaces and murals.

Historic monuments

• Motown Museum: Also known as Hitsville USA, this museum is the birthplace of the Motown sound. The tours here provide a fascinating look into the history of Motown Records and its legendary artists.

• Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation: Located in nearby Dearborn, this expansive museum showcases the Rosa Parks bus and some of the first Ford cars.

Day trips in the area

• Ann Arbor: A short drive from Detroit, Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan, some charming downtown streets and a number of beautiful parks.

• Greenfield Village: Part of the Henry Ford complex in Dearborn, this outdoor museum offers a step back in time with historic buildings, working farms and vintage rides.

Activities for families in Detroit

Detroit is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of activities that cater to all ages.

• Detroit Zoo: Families will love the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak, which is home to more than 2,000 animals and has attractions like the Arctic Ring of Life and the Australian Outback Adventure.

• Michigan Science Center: This interactive museum makes learning fun with hands-on exhibits in science, technology and engineering.

• Legoland Discovery Center: Located in Auburn Hills, this indoor attraction is perfect for families with younger children, featuring Lego-themed rides, a 4D cinema and play areas.

• Belle Isle Park: Beyond its zoo and aquarium, Belle Isle offers numerous playgrounds and open spaces for children to run and play. The park is also home to the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory and the Belle Isle Aquarium.

Free things to do in Detroit

Detroit offers plenty of free activities, making it easy to explore the city on a budget.

• Detroit Riverwalk: This scenic walkway along the Detroit River offers stunning views and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

• Campus Martius Park: Located in the heart of downtown, this park hosts free events throughout the year, including concerts, movie nights and ice skating in winter. There’s also a sandy beach that’s popular in the summer.

• Detroit Historical Museum: The museum offers free admission and hosts fascinating exhibits on the city’s rich history, from its founding to its automotive legacy.

• Eastern Market: One of the oldest and largest year-round markets in the US, the Eastern Market is free to explore.

• Heidelberg Project: This outdoor art environment in the McDougall-Hunt neighbourhood features colourful and thought-provoking installations made from found objects. Better still, this open-air art gallery is completely free to visit.