This is really like a museum of American culture. It has a lot of really random but cool things from America's start from cars to historical documents, to housing interiors from decade to decade. Rosa Parks bus! Lincoln's Ford Theatre Chair! All the presidential limos! The list goes on and on. Right next to the Henry Ford is Greenfield Village - an outdoor museum. What do you do when you have too much money? Collect buildings! Henry Ford collected all kinds of historical buildings like the Wright Brothers' house to Edison's laboratory. You can walk inside, and they have reenactments sometimes. They also have a lot of people dressed in period attire and role playing.
Belle Isle is a 982-acre island park located in the middle of the Detroit River with great views of the city. It is worth exploring if you have a chance. The park is home to the Belle Isle Aquarium (Oldest aquarium in the US!), Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, the James Scott Memorial Fountain, and the Detroit Yacht Club where we will be getting married! You can also see Canada on the other side of the Detroit River.
Home to the iconic Hitsville U.S.A the museum has an extensive array of Motown artifacts and memorabilia. Guests are transported through time while viewing curated exhibits, the actual apartment Berry Gordy lived in with his family during the label’s earliest days, along with original recording equipment and the legendary Studio A.
Eastern Market is a vibrant historic district in Detroit, Michigan, renowned for its bustling markets, diverse food vendors, and community atmosphere. Established in the 1800s, it is one of the largest and oldest public markets in the United States. Every Saturday there is a huge farmer’s market and there are quite a few antique shots, fine food shops, and murals to explore. We recommend Eastern Market Brewing Co., Supino Pizzeria, and Detroit City Distillery in the neighborhood.
The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is a renowned art museum located in Detroit, Michigan, celebrated for its vast and diverse collection spanning centuries and cultures. The museum houses works by renowned artists such as Diego Rivera, Vincent van Gogh, and Rembrandt, among many others. Its impressive collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and more, making it a cultural hub and educational resource for visitors from around the world.
A neat way to see a different side of Detroit. We would recommend the Historic Canal Tour, the Peche Island Paddle, or the Belle Isle Tour. All between 2-3 hours.
Iggy’s Eggies: Delicious breakfast sandwiches from a walk-up window. You can also get Lover’s Only famous smash burgers and fresh-cut fries at Iggy’s later in the day. Take your breakfast or lunch to a table at nearby Capitol Park. Cannelle: French patisserie good for on the go; good chai and tons of sweet and savory croissants / smaller menu options. Mad Cap Coffee: Coffee & Tea – have a small assortment of baked good that tend to be gone by afternoon. Dime Store: All-day Brunch in historic building. a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that effortlessly blends industrial chic decor with a cozy diner feel with a menu that focuses on elevated breakfast and brunch fare. Line can be long so go early!
Anita’s Kitchen To Go: Mediterranean food; good salads, bowls, and kabobs Green Dot Stables: Good sliders & beer. The menu of sliders – with 20-plus eclectric bun toppings – includes Cuban, Korean, and classic burgers. Mudgies: Located in the historic Corktown neighborhood of Detroit, Mudgies is a beloved establishment known for its deli sandwiches, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. Favorites include the House Smoked Pastrami Reuben and the Beef Brisket & Beer Cheese.
Leila: Named after the owner’s mother, this Lebanese restaurant pays homage to family traditions and heritage. From falafel to Kibbeh Niyee, there are lots of options and great shareables! Highlands & High Bar: Occupying the top two floors at the Renaissance Center (where some of you are staying!), there is a steakhouse and a more casual bar, both with incredible views of the Detroit River and neighboring Canada. Wright & Company: A stylish, upscale small plates restaurant with a rooftop patio, featuring inventive dishes and craft cocktails in a historic building setting. The Apparatus Room - Situated in the Detroit Foundation Hotel and featuring a seasonally driven menu of New American cuisine in a beautifully restored fire department headquarters setting. Marrow: This West Village restaurant is just a block away from where Liz lived when she moved to Detroit. It’s attached to a butcher shop so the meat dishes are exceptional but there is something on the menu for everyone.
The Breakman: A beer and rec hall featuring rotating drafts beers and serving up fried chicken and biscuits from its adjoining neighbor, Penny Red’s. The cocktail bar offers classic craft spirits and seasonal frozen drinks. Monarch Club: At the 14th floor of the Element Detroit Hotel located at the Metropolitan is the Monarch Club. It’s a beautiful rooftop bar with small plates and delicious classic cocktails. The Skip - A lively outdoor bar and cocktail lounge featuring creative drinks, communal seating, and a vibrant atmosphere in the Belt Alley art district. Lafayette Coney Island - For a taste of Detroit's iconic Coney Island hot dogs and diner fare, Lafayette Coney Island is a must-visit spot known for its quick service and delicious chili dogs. Mom’s Spaghetti – Eminem’s walk-up spaghetti restaurant – open until midnight