Fall is full of bright leaf backdrops, and with so many new places to enjoy all over Detroit, it only makes sense to shine a light on them to help all who visit make the most of autumn's magical moment in the Mitten’s best city of all. It's almost time to fall in love with Detroit's picturesque Fall backdrop all over again - and this time, we have plenty of new places to enjoy.
Make A Point to Visit Detroit’s Michigan Central Station
The historical landmark, Michigan Central Station, is a sight to behold. Some may say the fact that it still stands today is a miracle. Having closed 35 years ago in 1988, the site was slated for demolition in many different moments of time leading up to the ultimate saving grace when it was sold to Ford Motor Company.
Just in front of the hub now known for being the epicenter of innovation is the freshly reopened and beautifully polished Roosevelt Park. The location could not be more prime as it is surrounded by Corktown’s finest array of restaurant offerings all right along Michigan Avenue. Grab a bite wherever you wish, and take a stroll through the park after your meal. Sit on a brand new swinging bench to admire the Michigan Central Station surrounded by soaring trees soon to provide the most spectacular autumnal backdrop, making every occasion extra special.
Where to Nosh Near Roosevelt Park
The restaurants on Michigan Avenue right up the street from Roosevelt Park make it difficult to decide what’s for dinner. Options include the incredible, iconic Slows Bar BQ, where the food is so good, I temporarily disregard my otherwise strict vegetarianism because those burnt ends will do that. I didn’t even know what burnt ends were before we experienced them at Slows.
In terms of picturesque beauty, Slows has a stunning door perfect for a photo op if you’re a door person, too. Even if you’re not, you might be after you see the grand entrance to Slows. The inside is decorated to impress the eye as much as the food pleases the taste buds, too.
Speaking of sweet doors, another phenomenal dining option a few doors down from Slows is a delightful ramen spot called ima izakaya. Of all the places to enjoy a meal, ima is by far the most picturesque from the moment you step up to the kaleidoscopic entrance. The entry door is a gem all its own, and the cozy, artistic vibe inside is the most perfect backdrop to a delicious meal in Corktown. The outdoor terrace is equally stunning. Safe to say this is our favorite spot, and it is the one we frequent most for feel-good food. The dedicated, loyal restaurant staff at ima is simply amazing, and the happy hour menu is truly unbeatable.
North End Buzz for the Books
Speaking of cozy places, let’s head to the North End for the ultimate coffee shop experience.
Home to the most unique and architecturally stunning outdoor seating I’ve yet to see at a cafe, Black Coffee Cafe is a reason to visit the North End neighborhood in Detroit. The inside is as magical as the courtyard is out back, and the coffee is the best I’ve had here in the D!
Whether you’re stopping in for a morning jolt or staying to get some work done, Black Coffee Cafe is a place for quality coffee lovers to enjoy. It is also perfectly picturesque all around.
Behold the Beauty of Belle Isle
Belle Isle is Detroit’s best-kept secret, though it is safe to say the secret’s out based on the crowds that gather with good reason to enjoy being on Belle Isle. It’s just that - a beautiful place to be. Walk around to admire the many gorgeous elements to discover throughout the island park, from the iconic fountain to the aquarium, conservancy, nature center, museum, and beaches on offer. It makes perfect sense that Belle Isle is called the Jewel of Detroit. This stunning summer destination becomes an incredibly gorgeous backdrop all throughout autumn, as well. Bring a blanket to cozy up next to the river and enjoy the breathtaking views all around Belle Isle.
Green Turns Gold Downtown
Downtown may be a city center full of skyscrapers, but there is plenty of nature all around. This is Detroit, after all - it’s not quite the concrete playground that NYC is known to be, and we are glad for that. Hidden amidst all the city buzz is a beautiful splash of nature awaiting the change of the seasons surrounded by the bustle. Even downtown becomes a renewed picturesque sight to behold come autumn!
It seems that no part of Detroit goes untouched by the beauty of summer’s slow burn into autumn’s golden hour. Enjoy every moment, and make time to sit and watch the leaves dance as they twirl in the wind before gracing the ground this season. And when they do, rake them up to jump right in! There’s no age limit to enjoying the fullness of autumn’s abundant harvest in all its glory. Happy Fall in Detroit!
