6 Outdoor Spaces in Detroit to Soak Up the Sun

Story by Katie Susko | Photos by Belle Isle by Vito Palmisano; Dequindre Cut and Detroit International RiverWalk by Bill Bowen; Campus Martius Park by Lynn Powell;

Sometimes you just want to spend time in the great outdoors.

And even though Detroit is the biggest city in Michigan, we have so many great ways to get outside and breathe some fresh air. We’ve rounded up our favorites below.

1. Belle Isle

Our island park in the middle of the Detroit River, Belle Isle is home to the Belle Isle Aquarium, Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, Belle Isle Nature Center and more. Sunset Point is a popular spot on the island, where you can get a beautiful view of the Detroit skyline. Be sure to check out the James Scott Memorial Fountain, one of Detroit's architectural gems.

2. Dequindre Cut

The Dequindre Cut is a bike and walking path created on top of an old Grand Trunk Western Railway line. Starting in Eastern Market, this scenic path is covered in murals and takes you all the way to the Detroit International RiverWalk. Take a break from walking and grab a drink at the Dequindre Cut Freight Yard or the pop-up lemonade stand.

3. Capitol Park

This newly reimagined area of downtown has become quite popular. It's surrounded by award-winning restaurants, quaint boutiques and salons, and beautiful architecture. The park itself has plenty of seating and often hosts pop-ups and markets. Grab a coffee from nearby Cannelle or Urban Bean and soak up the sunshine.

4. Detroit International RiverWalk

Our path along the Detroit River offers international views of Canada all year long. Featuring a carousel, bike rentals, fishing, a marina, and more, this popular destination has an almost-continuous path all the way to Belle Isle. Take in the sights of the Ambassador Bridge and the GM Renaissance Center.

5. Campus Martius Park

Detroit's most popular park is considered the heart of downtown Detroit. It's where we host our tree lighting and ice skating every winter, and where Detroiters gather in the sun for lunch breaks and after-work drinks. There's something going on in the park year-round, and nearby Cadillac Square is always hosting holiday markets, beer gardens and food trucks.

6. Atwater Beach

Atwater Beach is the newest spot in the city to take your little ones. Though it doesn't have direct access to the water, there is a large sandy area to lay and play in and playscapes for the kids. Soon, there will also be food and beverage stalls and retail.

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