7 Ways to Spend a Kid-Free Weekend in Detroit

Ah, fall. The dark, cold days of Michigan winters may be looming, but moms and dads everywhere are craving routine again as the summer has come to an end, and the school year has commenced. Whether you and your spouse are empty nesters with kids now in college or simply feel like a well-deserved night (or hey, maybe even a whole weekend!) to yourselves after a summer full of youth activities, why not spend some alone time in The D?

Here are seven kid-free possibilities for you and your spouse in Detroit:

1. A trip to the DIA

The Detroit Institute of Arts, more commonly referred to as the DIA, is always a great spot for a couple looking for some one-on-one time. Struggling to convince your spouse to go to an “art museum”? Pass on the word that between Friday Night Live, movies at the Detroit Film Theatre and a variety of special events hosted there throughout the year, the DIA is much more than its already-impressive 100-plus galleries and extremely popular and often-rotating exhibitions. Plan to be there during a mealtime? No problem! There are crowd-pleasing dining (and even shopping) options. For more information, visit the Detroit Institute of Arts’ website.

2. Take a stroll around Belle Isle

Don’t worry, Belle Isle Park is not only popular because of its kid-friendly zoo and aquarium (although many adults really do enjoy it, too!). “Rich with history and natural beauty,” the 982-acre park is located on the Detroit River, making it an ideal place for a walk, bike ride or even a quiet, relaxing picnic with your partner. Check out Belle Isle Park’s website for more visiting information and ideas.

3. Savor a peaceful cup of coffee

Do you even remember the last time you were able to sip coffee in peace? Fortunately, Detroit has a latte options: Anthology Coffee, Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Co., Astro Coffee, Coffee Beanery, Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters, Sweet Ride Coffee Shop, The Bottom Line Coffee House and so many more!

4. Enjoy a Michigan-made craft beer

Even though Detroit is known as being the “Motor City,” there was a time in history when Michigan had the most production breweries in the country! Atwater, Motor City Brewing Works and Detroit Beer Co. are three great options for you and your spouse to visit. Cheers!

5. Indulge in a romantic dinner out

Whether you’re in the mood for salad, seafood, pasta or steak, Detroit has you and your honey covered. Check out this list of seven romantic restaurants in Detroit or view this post about the new Detroit restaurants you have to savor. You should also take the opportunity to try out Visit Detroit’s dining search function to find whatever most appeals to you and your spouse’s palettes; simply customize your search by choosing “Select Options & Filters” and, before clicking Search, make sure to select Downtown Detroit as your preferred destination.

6. See an entertaining show

Whether you prefer live music or a play, you always have many options in The D as far as entertainment is concerned. Check out Visit Detroit’s entertainment search function to see what shows will be occurring during your planned kid-free night(s) in Detroit.

7. Spend an overnight stay at a hotel

Many couples prefer hotels with a casino, such as MotorCity Casino Hotel, Greektown Casino-Hotel or MGM Grand Detroit. Not you? No worries! Detroit has a variety of hotel options; click this link to Visit Detroit’s “where to stay” search function but be sure to specify Downtown Detroit prior to searching.

First time hanging out in The D? Here are the places to hit, as well as some suggestions as to how to spend an evening in Detroit. Also, do keep in mind that the cities surrounding Detroit also have a lot of kid-free options, as well. For example, you can always check out these metro-Detroit anniversary hotspots or any of the restaurants listed on this metro-Detroit dining guide for a guaranteed enjoyable night out with your loved one.

See more things to do in Detroit.