7 Ways to Enjoy the Detroit Riverfront This Summer

The Detroit Riverfront is a hot bed of activity these days. Take advantage of our waterfront views with these perks.

The Best of the Best on the Detroit River

1. Check out Detroit River Days.

The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy invites you to kick off summer with Detroit River Days June 22-24, 2018. The three-day event will offer activities on both land and water, including sand sculptures, tall ships and live music.

2. Be dazzled by the Ford Fireworks.

Join spectators along the water in downtown Detroit and Windsor for this annual fireworks show, which is scheduled to light up the skyline on June 25 at 10 p.m. View the fireworks from the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center.

Fireworks courtesy of The Parade Company

3. Enjoy a free concert.

Rockin’ on the Riverfront, an annual free concert series, will return to the Detroit Riverfront this summer. No tickets are necessary. Concert dates include July 13, 20, 27, Aug. 3, 10, 17, 2018. Continue the fun after the show with a late dinner, dessert or drinks at Volt inside the Renaissance Center.

4. Attend a concert at Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre

Visit Chene Park, the 6,000-seat, city-owned amphitheater on the riverfront. Check the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre Box Office for a show lineup.

Concert at Chene Park

5. Take a boat tour.

Summer is the ideal time to explore Detroit by water. Several local companies, including Diamond Jack’s River Tours and the Detroit Princess, offer guided tours of the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair, or the chance to rent a self-propelled watercraft and explore on your own.

6. Participate in an organized run/walk.

Support the Rhonda Walker Foundation for the annual Give and Get Fit health and wellness event on July 29 at 8 a.m. in Rivard Plaza. Enjoy the amazing health fair or participate in a 5K run/walk, a 10K run or join Detroit Experience Factory for a free riverfront walking tour.

7. Get in shape with free fitness classes.

Join Urban Solace studio for free weekly yoga and Tai Chi classes from June through late August in the wetland area of Milliken State Park. Registration is necessary. Free parking is available at Cullen Plaza.

Read more about places to see in Detroit.