Explore Detroit Block by Block: Woodward Avenue Edition

Story by Stephanie Angelyn Casola | Photos by Bill Bowen, Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Co., Calexico

Michigan’s own Highway 1 extends from the northern suburbs to the city center in Campus Martius Park then heads straight toward the scenic international waterfront of the Detroit River.

Along the way, we’d suggest a stop at the following:

Explore Detroit’s Woodward Avenue

Hear

Woodward Avenue is home to sports, theater and music fans alike. Take in a Detroit Tiger’s game or concert at Comerica Park. Make it a night out with live music at The Fillmore Detroit, The Garden Theater or The Majestic Theatre complex. Grab tickets to a show at the stunning, historical Fox Theatre, or travel north and find a flare for drama at the Bonstelle Theatre.

Sip

Visitors to Detroit won’t go thirsty along Woodward Avenue, either. Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Co. rules Midtown with a full bar and menu along with fine coffees, while The Roasting Plant and Starbucks manage crowds closer to the river. Seeking something stronger? Discover your favorite whiskey at The Whiskey Parlor, Cornerstone Barrel House or the Whiskey Disco. Sip wines and sample charcuterie at newcomer The Royce.

See

Make time to take in the scenery, whether that means snapping a selfie with the Spirit of Detroit or the Monument to Joe Louis known locally as the Joe Louis Fist. Those who appreciate art and architecture may opt to get lost in the beauty of the Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Public Library and Detroit Historical Museum. The art deco, awe-inspiring interior of the Guardian Building is a must-see to add to any list.

Shop

Take a little slice of Detroit where ever you go, or find what you need in the shops along Woodward Avenue. Fashion found a new home within Detroit is the New Black and John Varvatos. Even some big name chains have taken up shop along this road. Be sure to check out Under Armour Brand House, The Nike Store, Madewell, Bonobos, lululemon and G-Star Raw.

Taste

It’s virtually impossible to wander Woodward Avenue without getting hungry. From longtime favorites like breakfast at The Hudson Cafe or happy hour at Grand Trunk Pub to exciting new additions like Chef Nikita Sanches’ adventurous menu at Rock City Eatery; the elegance of the 2016 Detroit Free Press Restaurant of the Year Chartreuse Kitchen and Cocktails, the dining scene has never been more vibrant. Woodward Avenue also plays host to small plates and serious libations with a second-story view at Wright & Company; Pho Lucky’s comforting Vietnamese choices; and sweet finds at Detroit Water Ice Factory. Down near Little Caesars Arena, check out Woodward Avenue for great places to grab a bite before a game or concert. Mike’s Pizza Bar offers all of your pizza favorites; Bakersfield serves tacos and margaritas to die for; and there is a menu made for cocktail fans and carnivores at Grey Ghost.

Check out Grey Ghost’s episode of Eats in The D.

Read more about places to see in Detroit.

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