Metro Detroit Zip Code Map
Introduction
Metro Detroit is a vibrant and diverse region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or art lover, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do here. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make Metro Detroit a must-visit destination.
Top Attractions
Detroit Institute of Arts
The Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the premier art museums in the country, with a collection that spans more than 60,000 works of art. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, there’s something for everyone here. Don’t miss the Diego Rivera murals, which depict the automotive industry that put Detroit on the map.
The Henry Ford Museum
The Henry Ford Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history. The museum’s collection includes everything from the first automobile to the Rosa Parks bus, as well as exhibits on the Civil Rights movement, the Industrial Revolution, and more. Plan to spend a full day here to see everything.
Belle Isle Park
Belle Isle Park is a 987-acre island park located in the Detroit River, offering stunning views of the Detroit skyline and Windsor, Canada. The park features a conservatory, aquarium, zoo, and plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing.
Hidden Gems
The Heidelberg Project
The Heidelberg Project is an outdoor art installation that’s as quirky as it is thought-provoking. The project uses abandoned houses and other structures in the neighborhood as a canvas for brightly colored murals, sculptures, and installations. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience.
The Detroit Riverwalk
The Detroit Riverwalk is a 3.5-mile pedestrian promenade that offers stunning views of the Detroit River and Windsor, Canada. The Riverwalk is home to several parks, restaurants, and attractions, including the GM Renaissance Center, the Detroit Princess Riverboat, and Hart Plaza.
The Guardian Building
The Guardian Building is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture and is often referred to as Detroit’s “Cathedral of Finance.” The building’s lobby is a sight to behold, with intricate mosaics, frescoes, and a vaulted ceiling that’s over 150 feet high.
Food Scene
Eastern Market
Eastern Market is the largest historic public market district in the United States and is home to over 150 food vendors. The market is open year-round on Saturdays and offers fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Don’t miss the famous Detroit-style pizza at Supino Pizzeria.
Coney Islands
Coney Islands are a Detroit institution, serving up hot dogs topped with chili, mustard, and onions, as well as Greek specialties like gyros and spanakopita. The two most famous Coney Islands are Lafayette Coney Island and American Coney Island, located right next to each other on Lafayette Boulevard.
Slows Bar-B-Q
Slows Bar-B-Q is a must-visit for anyone who loves barbecue. The restaurant serves up slow-smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, and ribs, as well as creative sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. Be sure to try the “Slows to Go” sandwich, which is piled high with brisket, pork, and bacon.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Concerts at Campus Martius Park
Campus Martius Park is a downtown park that hosts free concerts and events throughout the year. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the music under the stars.
Free Admission at the Detroit Institute of Arts
The Detroit Institute of Arts offers free admission for Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County residents on the second Saturday of every month. Check their website for more information.
Explore the Riverwalk
The Detroit Riverwalk is free to explore and offers stunning views of the Detroit skyline and Windsor, Canada. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking on the Detroit River
Kayaking on the Detroit River is a unique way to see the city from a different perspective. Rent a kayak from Riverside Kayak Connection and paddle past the Renaissance Center, Belle Isle, and other landmarks.
Biking on the Dequindre Cut
The Dequindre Cut is a 2-mile greenway that runs through the heart of the city, from the Riverfront to Eastern Market. The trail is perfect for biking, with stunning murals and graffiti art along the way.
Hiking in Rouge Park
Rouge Park is the largest park in the city of Detroit, with over 1,100 acres of natural beauty. The park features hiking and biking trails, fishing ponds, and plenty of wildlife.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Detroit Zoo
The Detroit Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, including tigers, giraffes, and polar bears. Don’t miss the new penguin exhibit, which features a 326,000-gallon aquatic area.
Michigan Science Center
The Michigan Science Center is a hands-on museum that’s perfect for kids of all ages. The museum features interactive exhibits on space, technology, and the environment, as well as a planetarium and IMAX theater.
The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village
The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village offer a fun and educational experience for the whole family. The museum features exhibits on American history, while the village is a living museum that showcases life in the 19th century.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Detroit Public Library
The Detroit Public Library is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture and is home to over 7 million books, manuscripts, and other items. Don’t miss the stunning Woodward Avenue entrance, which features a grand staircase and marble columns.
The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant
The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is the birthplace of the Model T and is now a museum that showcases the history of the Ford Motor Company. The museum features over 12,000 square feet of exhibits, including a replica of Henry Ford’s first workshop.
The Motown Museum
The Motown Museum is located in the house where Berry Gordy Jr. started Motown Records in 1959. The museum features exhibits on Motown’s history, as well as a recording studio where visitors can record their own Motown-style songs.
Natural Wonders
The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge
The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is a 5,700-acre refuge that stretches from Detroit to Lake Erie. The refuge is home to over 300 species of birds, as well as fish, mammals, and reptiles.
The Cranbrook Gardens
The Cranbrook Gardens are a stunning collection of formal gardens and natural areas located in Bloomfield Hills. The gardens feature over 40 acres of trees, shrubs, and flowers, as well as a reflecting pool and a Japanese garden.
The Michigan Dunes
The Michigan Dunes are a series of sand dunes located along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. The dunes offer stunning views of the lake and are perfect for hiking, picnicking, and swimming.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Belt
The Belt is a pedestrian alley in downtown Detroit that’s home to several bars and restaurants. The alley features murals and other art installations, as well as a lively atmosphere.
The Sugar House
The Sugar House is a craft cocktail bar located in Corktown. The bar features a rotating menu of creative cocktails, as well as a cozy atmosphere and live music on weekends.
The Fillmore Detroit
The Fillmore Detroit is a historic music venue that’s hosted everyone from Duke Ellington to the Rolling Stones. The venue features a spacious dance floor and balcony seating, as well as a full bar and snack menu.
Local Markets
The Eastern Market
The Eastern Market is the largest historic public market district in the United States and is home to over 150 food vendors. The market is open year-round on Saturdays and offers fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods.
The Rust Belt Market
The Rust Belt Market is a unique indoor market located in Ferndale. The market features over 50 vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts and artwork.
The Detroit Mercantile Co.
The Detroit Mercantile Co. is a retail shop located in Eastern Market that specializes in Detroit-themed clothing, gifts, and home decor. The shop also features a cafe that