Kick-off Summer in Detroit: 30 Things to Do in June

1. The Detroit International Riverwalk—Grab your camera for one of the most stunning riverwalks in the U.S. This 5.5-mile picturesque promenade stretches from the Ambassador Bridge to the MacArthur Bridge. Lined with colorful landscaping and QR-coded exhibits, the public pathway boasts river views of Detroit and Ontario, Canada. You will love morning jogs, family outings and sunset strolls. To bike the Detroit Riverwalk, rent a MoGo bike at the Ren Cen & Riverwalk station. A one-hour pass is $10.

2. Campus Martius Park—Meet at Detroit’s gathering place, named USA Today’s “Top Public Square” three years in a row. This summer, Campus Martius transforms into Downtown’s “urban beach” where sandcastles meet the skyline. If it’s too hot outside, cool off at Cabana 313, a two-story glass lounge with cold drinks, food, skyscraper views and live music. The QLINE is just steps away, so it’s easy to go from lounging to exploring.

3. Comerica Park—In Detroit, the Old English D is synonymous with Tigers baseball. Watch them take on the Cubs, Reds, Pirates, Athletics or Twins this June. Sundays at Comerica Park feature kid-friendly activities like free Ferris wheel rides and base runs. Pricing varies by game and seating. To avoid post-game traffic for day games, walk to District Market Detroit in Little Caesars Arena for lunch before heading home.

4. Ford Field—Home of the Detroit Lions, Ford Field is within walking distance of Comerica Park. During the off-season, the stadium hosts summer events like the Kendrick Lamar and SZA tour on June 10. However, you don’t need concert tickets to appreciate the stadium. The 8-foot Barry Sanders statue, honoring the career Lion, is worth seeing.

5. Michigan Central Station—Admire the remarkable renovation of Corktown’s former train station. After an extensive six-year renovation project, Michigan Central Station’s beauty has captivated thousands since reopening last year. Visit the lobby and shops 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily (hours are subject to change). Book a 90-minute public tour through Detroit History Tours for $20 per person.

6. Mexicantown—Experience this Southwest Detroit neighborhood’s Mexican culture through colorful murals, authentic food and community. Stroll along W. Vernor Highway for sweet treats at Mexicantown Bakery.

7. Eastern Market—If you like fresh produce and meat, flowers, unique crafts and group yoga, this open-air market is for you. Just a mile from Downtown, it has hundreds of vendors, businesses and murals. The 43-acre site is stroller and wheelchair-accessible. There is free entry and parking in designated areas. Visit early or during weekdays to avoid crowds.

11. Motown Museum—Step inside the little house with distinguishable blue lettering to learn about the history of Motown. “Hitsville U.S.A.” was the home of Motown Records founder Berry Gordy and became the recording studio for Motown Music legends like Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Temptations and Stevie Wonder. Immersive storytelling and exhibits transport you into an era that has connected generations. Tours run Tuesday-Sunday (adults $20, seniors 62+/students/veterans $17, children 5-17 $17, children 4 and under free). Tip: Videography, luggage, backpacks, strollers, food and drinks are not allowed.

12. Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)— Whether you find yourself amid Ancient Egyptian artifacts or studying Diego Rivera’s murals, there’s so much to see with 140 DIA galleries. General admission is free to children and residents of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Visitors residing outside of the tri-county area pay admission (adults $20, seniors or college students (ID required) $1O, children 6-17 $8).

13. The Guardian Building—Step into the Roaring 20s when you visit this breathtaking skyscraper. Earning a Michelin 3-star rating, this Art Deco skyscraper is a masterpiece of art-fused architecture. Take a tour to explore the building’s history, discover hidden bank vaults and more. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at tourdetroit.com.

14. Heidelberg Project—Pick a sunny day to visit this museum without walls. The brainchild of Tyree Guyton, this project turns trash into treasure. It features stuffed animals, rusted cars and everything in between. For nearly five decades, the Heidelberg Project has sparked debate on the definition of art and remains a cultural landmark. Entry is free and open to the public from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. Avoid parking in front of neighbors’ homes.

19. Rocket Classic—On June 25-29, the historic Detroit Golf Club will host the 2025 Rocket Classic. Be among the spectators and witness golf greatness from a premier course in the city. Tickets start at $73. Children 15 and under can access the grounds (on-site public venues) at no cost when accompanied by an adult with a ticket.

20. Juneteenth Jubilee Celebration 2025—Commemorating the day that enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned they were free, the Charles H. Wright Museum will host its free annual Juneteenth celebration on June 19 from 10 a.m.- 9 p.m. Come early for silent yoga and stay for discussions with descendants of the Clotilda slave ship, historian accounts, storytelling, African dance performances and an evening concert. Activities include horseback riding, chalk drawing and face painting. The event schedule will be posted on the museum’s website soon.

21. Motor City Pride—Join Michigan’s LGBTQ community at the state’s largest pride festival and parade June 7-8 at Hart Plaza. Wear your Pride-centric outfits and accessories and prepare for live performances on four stages, hundreds of crafts and local food trucks. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

22. Wednesday Jazzy Nights at the Aretha—Relax by the river with the return of Wednesday night concerts. Grammy Award winner Samara Joy kicks off this year’s lineup at the Aretha Franklin Ampitheatre on June 4. Norman Brown, Najee and Howard Hewett will also headline later shows in June. Purchase tickets at Ticketmaster or the Aretha Box Office (no fees). Pricing varies by artist and seating.

23. Tons O’ Trucks—View more than 50 vehicles at this family-friendly celebration of transportation in Macomb. This event promises refreshments, giveaways, train rides and face painting at Seneca Middle School on June 14, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

24. Summer Sundays at Beacon Park—Spend your Sunday at Beacon Park, where fun meets wellness on select Sundays beginning June 22. Start with family activities and games from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Try a meal at Lumen Detroit before heading back for free outdoor fitness at 5 p.m. Registration is required.

28. Coreander’s Children’s Bookshoppe—If you’re looking for somewhere to take your children, nieces or nephews, look no further than this hidden gem in Gross Point Park. This enchanted space has an extensive collection of books, games and unique finds in a setting pulled from a fairytale. There’s even a section for adults.

Look for the hidden elevator!

29. Movie Night in the D— Bring chairs or blankets to watch Friday night movies at Campus Martius beneath the evening sky. Join family and friends for the 7 p.m. screening of “Mufasa” on June 13 and return for “Sonic 3” (June 20) and “The Fall Guy” (June 27). Get there by 6 p.m. for pre-show activities. Make the evening complete with Jetta’s Gourmet Popcorn. Visit the pop-up tent and decide whether the westside or eastside popcorn mix dominates “The D.”

30. The Detroit Zoo—Centrally located in the tri-county area, the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak is a summertime staple. Mingle with the peacocks, feed the giraffes and watch the sea lions frolic as you discover the habitats of more than 2,000 animals. Kids will love Dragon Forest and the one-way railroad. Capture memories that last a lifetime with pictures at Rackham Memorial Fountain. General admission tickets can be purchased in advance or in person and range from $12-$24 per person. Children under two get in free.