Celebrate Your Anniversary in Detroit
Story by Michelle Martin
Getting ready to celebrate an anniversary? Here’s where to stay, where to eat and what to do in Detroit.
Most couples can’t fly to Paris to celebrate their anniversary –– and that’s OK. There’s plenty to do in Detroit.
Detroit –– which, interestingly, was once known as the “Paris of the Midwest” –– has celebration-worthy hotels and B&B’s, top restaurants and countless things to do.
Where to Stay
Shinola Hotel
Located on Woodward Avenue, just steps away from some of the city’s best eateries and bars, this boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodations and personalized service. And just a few storefronts away is Shinola Detroit, known for its watches and other locally made goods – the perfect place to pick up an anniversary gift.
Frederick Stearns House
This bed and breakfast, located in the city’s West Village, is the former mansion of its namesake, a prominent pharmaceutical figure. The B&B not only provides R&R for couples, but it also has ballroom dance lessons and a cocktail bar.
Detroit Foundation Hotel
This hotel in the city’s Financial District was at time the headquarters of the Detroit Fire Department. In addition to maintaining the architectural integrity of the fire station, the hotel also is home to artwork from some the city’s best artists.
The Siren
Housed in an art deco building that at one time held one of the largest music stores in the world, The Siren hotel is now creating a history of its own. The upscale hotel is also home to Candy Bar, a cocktail venue that is the ideal place to spend an anniversary night.
Cochrane House
This 19th century mansion in Detroit’s historic Brush Park is within walking distance to many of the city’s attractions – including Comerica Park and the Detroit Opera House – and is just steps away from the Q Line.
Where to Eat
The Whitney
The Whitney is housed in a historic mansion on Woodward and has been a special place for celebrations since 1986. In addition to its fine dining, the restaurant is home to Ghostbar – a third-floor cocktail bar that is said to be haunted.
Highlands
Located on the 71st and 72nd floors of the Renaissance Center, Highlands offers unparalleled views of downtown Detroit and Windsor. And the restaurant’s reserve steak list will appeal to even the most selective steak connoisseur.
Shelby
Tucked away behind a blue door in the city’s Financial District, Shelby not only has been named Detroit’s best speakeasy – but it also offers small plates that are perfect for sharing.
London Chop House
London Chop House has a romantic atmosphere reminiscent of the ‘50s and ‘60s – perfect for celebrating an anniversary. Watch for live music on most nights.
What to Do
Detroit Institute of Arts
The Detroit Institute of Arts – known by locals as “the DIA” – has one of the six largest art collections in the United States. Be sure to see Mexican artist Diego Rivera’s “Detroit Industry” fresco – and take time to have lunch or a glass of wine in the museum’s Kresge Court.
Baker’s Keyboard Lounge
Baker’s is the longest-running jazz club in the world. Opened in 1934, the club has played host to some of the world’s best musicians including Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis and Nat King Cole.
Detroit Riverwalk
The Detroit RiverWalk is the ideal place for couples to explore the riverfront’s parks, pathways and pavilions. Activities include bike rental facility Wheelhouse Detroit; Diamond Jack River Tours and the Outdoor Adventure Center.
Campus Martius Park
There’s always something happening at Campus Martius Park. Named the No. 1 top public square in the United States by “USA Today,” the public space is home to a “beach” in summer and an ice-skating rink in winter. There’s also plenty of live music and food trucks – a great way to have an afternoon date.
Cadieux Café
Located on the city’s East Side, this bar has been popular with Detroiters since 1933 – and for good reason. It’s home to three-dozen Belgian beers, steamed mussels (along with other Belgian specialties) and the old Belgian game of feather bowling. It’s said to be the only place for feather bowling in the country.
Annual Events
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The Dark Harvest II
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A Christmas Carol
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Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo
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Welcome Home
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