Meredith’s favorite activity in Detroit is attending the weekly Eastern Market on Saturday. There are produce, flower, pasta, pastry, condiment, beverage, and other vendors spanning five sheds. The hustle and bustle doesn’t feel overwhelming, instead providing an old school nostalgic feel on how everyone used to go about shopping. Check out the neighboring DeVries Specialty store and Gratiot Central Meat Market (a short walk across the highway) for more goodies that are available on a more daily basis.
One of the largest art museums in the United States, the DIA covers art from around the world as well as local pieces with a focus on the automotive industry. Their collection of American and Western European art is particularly impressive, but there are exhibits covering Asia, Africa, and Oceania as well. One particularly great exhibit during the time of our wedding is the annual celebration of el Día de Muertos, the Mexican Day of the Dead, which features ofrendas, or offerings, by local artists.
If you’re a music lover or just interested in the 1960s and 1970s, the Motown Museum is a fantastic blast to the past. Rob went with his parents during their first visit to Detroit back before his college days at UM and they still talk about the museum to this day.
This 3.5-mile stretch along the Detroit river has been revitalized over the past 20 years, becoming a home for restaurants, themed events, festivals, and more. Check out what events might be happening over the wedding weekend to see if anything tickles your fancy, or just go for a nice, crisp fall walk along the river!
The Dequindre Cut is a two-mile walking path that connects the riverfront to the Eastern Market and goes through several residential areas. It’s a fun way to explore some key areas of Detroit while on foot!
One of the largest bookstores in the United States, John K. King Books is lodged in a four-story building near the river. The bookstore is home to more than 1 million books and includes a specific room for rare items. Book lovers can and will get lost in the maze of aisles and can easily spend hours exploring without getting bored.
This 31-acre state park is free to enter and located along the Detroit river. It’s a great place to take a break from the city and enjoy the fresh air, greenery, and people watching.