Day 1
Bring reusable bags and wear walking shoes when you visit Eastern Market, a huge historic public market. These restaurants, food stalls and shopping sheds sell amazing cheeses, flowers, produce, chocolate and so much more. Plus, through the fall, there’s an artisans’ market. detroiteasternmarket.com
While you’re in the neighborhood, try waffles with Michigan syrup or the killer Reuben at Russell Street Deli. The communal tables get crowded, but the fresh ingredients are worth the sacrifice in elbow room. russellstreetdeli.com
After lunch, head to RiverWalk; what was once a desolate pile of rocks has blossomed into a landscaped 3-mile path along the Detroit River. detroitriverfront.org Then check out Comerica Park for a Tigers game and a ride on the tiger-theme carousel. detroit.tigers.mlb.com
Clink cocktails over dinner on the beautifully landscaped patio at the Rattlesnake Club, nestled along the river. rattlesnakeclub.com
Before you curl up on luxurious bedding at the wonderfully restored The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, indulge in a snack at the on-site Roast, which piles pulled pork, jalapeños and cheddar cheese on hot dogs. bookcadillacwestin.com
Day 2
Museums both within the city and a short drive away easily fill a second day (or more). Check websites for hours and days to see which fit best with your schedule.
The collection is staggering at the Detroit Institute of Arts, but this museum is best known for Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry mural and for emphasizing the relevance of each piece on display. dia.org
Ten minutes north of downtown sits the birthplace of Motown Records, now Motown Museum. Exhibits of costumes and instruments are great; guides are entertaining. motownmuseum.com
Near the Motown Museum, grab lunch at Good Girls Go to Paris Crepes, where luscious sweet and savory fillings line perfect crepes. goodgirlsgotopariscrepes.com
For the afternoon, visit the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House manor in Grosse Pointe Shores, 15 miles northeast of Detroit (fordhouse.org).
If your travels extend another day, or you want to spend the whole day in one destination, head for The Henry Ford in Dearborn, where an expansive and evolving roster of family-friendly activities, events and exhibitions celebrates history and its continuing impact (thehenryford.org).
Sweet deal: At just 75 cents a ride, Detroit’s People Mover is a steal. It operates on a loop through downtown, with stops close to Comerica Park, Greektown and the RiverWalk (thepeoplemover.com).
See reviews and ratings of Eastern Market, Russell Street Deli, RiverWalk, Comerica Park, The Rattlesnake Club, The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, Good Girls Go to Paris Crepes, Edsel and Eleanor Ford House and The Henry Ford.
For more information: Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau (800) 338-7648; visitdetroit.com
