National Plan Your Travel Day: Vacay Any Day in Detroit

Story by Meghan Simonie | Photos by Detroit Foundation Hotel, Detroit Tigers and Bill Bowen

Over the last few years, the city of Detroit has been reinventing itself, bringing more tourists and locals down to the city.

The reinvention of the city has positioned it to welcome more visitors to the area and take in the vibe and rhythm that you can’t find anywhere but right here.

Time of Year to Plan Visit

Depending on the type of weather you enjoy, Detroit offers a climate that can suit any individual. From May to September the city harbors warmer temperatures, getting into the nineties in the summer months. However, spring and fall have more moderate climates to partake in either outdoor or indoor activities.

Winter may be extra chilly in Detroit but there isn’t a lack of activities to enjoy in and around metro Detroit, whether inside or outside.

Your Home Away From Home

Detroit Foundation Hotel

The MGM Grand Casino and Hotel is an ideal location nearby to the downtown Detroit action and houses a beautiful casino, delicious restaurants, a Top Golf Swing Suite and a sprawling spa.

If you prefer a quick walk to anything in downtown Detroit, The Westin Book Cadillac and The Shinola Hotel both provide a best-in-class hotel stay with views of the city.

When you want to center your trip around sporting events, the Aloft Detroit at the David Whitney and the Detroit Foundation Hotel are located near both Comerica Park and Ford Field, with a short walking distance to the newer Little Caesar’s Arena.

However, a staple of Detroit, and a must see for a tourist, would be to stay at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center. The views of both the city and Canada along the Detroit Riverfront are breathtaking during any time of year.

America's Great Sports City

Comerica Park tiger statue

Hosting many annual events, Detroit can be a fun-filled weekend. Take advantage of the four teams in four blocks. If you plan just right, you can catch all four major league teams in one weekend.

The following events happen annually and are currently scheduled for dates in 2022. These would be ideal, eventful sports focused weekends to center around your trip to Detroit.

Racing: Grand Prix – June 3-5

Golf: Rocket Mortgage Classic – July 25-31

Running: Detroit Free Press Half Marathon – October 15-16

Basketball: Pistons – October through April

Hockey: Red Wings – October through April

Baseball: Tigers – Home Opener April 8th, through September

Football: Lions – September through January

Must See Attractions

If sports aren’t really your thing or you want to mix it up all weekend, there are also some amazing cultural spots to check out during your trip to Detroit. The most popular venue is the Detroit Institute of Art (DIA). Featuring various well-known artists, it will surely entertain visitors of any age in the heart of midtown Detroit.

Not far from the DIA, the Motown Museum offers a wide selection of musical history on some of the most famous Motown musicians.

While still in the city, hop on a scooter, the Q-Line or take a ride over to Belle Isle to enjoy all the park has to offer, including an aquarium, botanical garden, and gorgeous views at all angles. Finally, for a slightly longer car ride outside the city, head up to Royal Oak where the Detroit Zoo is located. The large expanse of space and animals is a perfect location for an outdoor excursion.

Don't Forget to Bring Your Appetite

As you trip gets jam packed with events to do, you will inevitably need to make a pit stop somewhere to grab a bite to eat. Don’t just stop anywhere; try any of these fabulous hot spots around Detroit.

Selden Standard –Midtown Detroit; offers a wide variety of food at a slightly higher price point; centered around dinner

service.

Grey Ghost – Midtown Detroit; modern spot for steaks, cocktail drinks, and more; opens daily at 4 pm.

Green Dot Stables – Corktown Detroit; small plates and beer; open daily for lunch and dinner service.

Andiamo – Downtown Detroit Riverfront; Italian cuisine, wine, and cocktails; opens daily at 3 pm with earlier weekend hours.

Ottava Via – Corktown Detroit; Italian cuisine and boutique pizzeria; opens daily at 11 am for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Joe Muer Seafood – Downtown Detroit Riverfront; Seafood, steak, and wine at a higher price point; available for lunch and dinner service daily.

Vicente’s Cuban Cuisine – Central Downtown Detroit; Cuban Cuisine; opens daily for lunch and dinner service with evening live entertainment.

Slows Bar BQ – Corktown Detroit; Barbecue and beer; opens daily at 11 am.

The next time you think you need to try a new place or expand your travel horizons, look no further than a trip to Detroit, using this very itinerary to get you started or the brand NEW Detroit Travel Guide to customize you trip.

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