Ultimate Labor Day Weekend Guide for Detroit

Detroit Jazz Fest
Historically, Detroit has made incredible contributions to the jazz scene, with some of the most prolific jazz artists coming out of or performing in the city. For more than four decades, this history has been celebrated by hosting the world’s largest free jazz music festival, the Detroit Jazz Fest.

The festival always takes place over Labor Day weekend at Hart Plaza in downtown Detroit. Grab a bite to eat and a drink from one of the many food trucks and drink booths and enjoy the sounds of jazz with the city’s beautiful skyline as the backdrop!

Arts, Beats, & Eats
Hosted in Royal Oak, just north of Detroit, the Arts Beats, & Eats fest is one of the largest summer festivals in the state. With over 200 musical acts, a kids’ stage, art displays, over 60 food stations, and much more, Arts Beats, & Eats is great for the whole family.

Hamtramck Labor Day Festival
If you’ve never visited Hamtramck, a small city located within the city limits of Detroit and known because of its diverse population as “the world in two square miles,” the Labor Day Festival is a perfect excuse. The festival is packed with family-friendly events and attractions: a

Eastern Market: Saturday and Sunday Market
One of the largest and oldest public markets in the U.S., Detroit’s Eastern Market is a must-see attraction in the city. On Saturdays, the market hosts over 200 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, local art, clothing, and more, all alongside delicious food trucks and surrounding restaurants. On Sundays, there is a more scaled-back version focused primarily on arts and crafts vendors.

Museum District
The museum district, located in Detroit’s Midtown neighborhood, is packed with a range of museums, all within walking distance of each other.

The Detroit Institute of Arts is a world-class art museum that attracts visitors from across the globe to view its over 100 galleries, including pieces like the renowned Detroit Industry Murals by Diego Rivera.

For history lovers, the Detroit Historical Museum offers interactive exhibits and rotating displays to learn about Detroit’s rich culture, industries, and historic contributions.

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is an award-winning museum that has provided exhibitions, programs and events, and learning opportunities that explore and celebrate the diverse history and cultural legacies of African-Americans.

The Michigan Science Center is a celebrated institution where people of all ages can learn about science, technology, engineering, and math through interactive, creative exhibits, galleries, and attractions.

Tip: If you’re staying downtown, you can ride Detroit’s QLine, a streetcar that travels up and down Woodward Ave, to the museum district for free!

Belle Isle
Just outside of downtown Detroit, you can find Belle Isle, a beautiful 928-acre island park that is filled with options. Whether you want to visit the oldest aquarium in North American, the Belle Isle Aquarium, or the newly renovated Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservancy, get your feet wet on the Belle Isle beach, or simply take in the views of the city, Belle Isle is a unique oasis that will complete any trip to the city.

Fishing
With the Detroit River as a key part of the city’s geography, fishing is a common pastime in the city. There are plenty of places to cast in line in Detroit, including Belle Isle, Riverside Park, and Mt. Elliott Park.

City Bird
The beloved indie boutique is perfect for personal and gift shopping. City Bird carries a wide collection of houseware, accessories, and jewelry, many created by Detroit-based artists.

Jolly Pumpkin
Located across the street from City Bird, Jolly Pumpkin is a local favorite for pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, and a wide selection of beers on top. They’ve also got a great kids menu for your little ones!

Third Man Records
Third Man Records was founded in 2001 by Detroit-based musician Jack White. In 2015, the Detroit storefront opened. Today, Third Man Records is a multipurpose space: record store, novelties lounge, in-store performance stage, record booth, and vinyl record pressing plant.

John King Used & Rare Books
John King Used & Rare Books isn’t just a book store, it’s an experience. Book worms and antique enthusiasts will love exploring four floors of used and rare books. Don’t forget to grab a map upon arrival so you don’t get lost in the shelves!

The Lip Bar
Sold in retail stores across the country, The Lip Bar, a vegan cosmetic and beauty store, has its flagship location in downtown Detroit. With a full selection of makeup and skincare products, The Lip Bar is a trusted and knowledgeable institution for anyone looking for a glow-up!

San Morello
If you work up an appetite shopping at The Lip Bar, luckily you’re just steps away from San Morello, an authentic Italian restaurant located inside the stunning Shinola Hotel. At San Morello, you’ll find wood-fired dishes, pizzas and house-made pastas that can be paired with a wide selection of wines.

Rebel Nell
Are you a jewelry lover? Then don’t miss out on Rebel Nell during your visit to Detroit. Rebel Nell is a nationally-recognized jewelry store, known for making their unique products from sustainable and repurposed materials.

Vintage Flamingo
Located in Southwest Detroit, Vintage Flamingo is a thoughtfully curated vintage clothing store inside of a renovated art deco former department store. With pieces from the 1940s to present, Vintage Flamingo is perfect for anyone looking to add one-of-a-kind items to their closet.

Armando’s Mexican Restaurant
After you’ve got a new outfit from Vintage Flamingo, head over to Armando’s Mexican Restaurant. They’ve been serving authentic Mexican food for over 40 years in southwest Detroit, and their extensive menu has something for everyone!

Vault of Midnight
Proud nerds unite! Vault of Midnight is a book store with a wide selection of comic books, manga, board games, and apparel. And if you’re sitting on a vintage comic book and curious to know what it’s worth, they also offer appraisal services.