Detroit is overflowing with fantastic things to do and see. In fact, you could spend a lifetime in the Motor City and never truly experience it all. When you’re crunched for time, though, never fear: there’s still plenty to be explored in our fantastic city when you’ve only have an hour to spare.
There’s nothing more beautiful or relaxing than a walk along the stunning banks of the Detroit River. Our city’s body of water has always instilled us with a sense of peace, and visitors seem to enjoy it just as much as we do. When you need a quick break from reality, venture to the waterfront.
Walk into one of our city’s countless coney island restaurants for a fast and fantastic meal. Nothing says Detroit like a mouthwatering coney dog, and we promise you’ll be tempted to purchase six more once you finish your first few bites!
Pewabic Pottery offers a firsthand look into one of the Motor City’s most unique and beautiful artforms, and you’ll certainly enjoy strolling through the shop and gallery. Marvel at the stunning technique that sets this pottery style apart. If you just can’t get enough, take home a piece for yourself!
Located on Woodward Avenue, this iconic monument is named for Detroit’s beloved boxer. There’s something genuinely empowering about visiting the Fist, and you’ll want to pose for a photo or two in front of this beautiful work of public art.
Only have thirty minutes or so? No problem! Hart Plaza is one Detroit’s loveliest outdoor spaces and you’ll find plenty of spots to sit and enjoy a quick lunch or a bit of conversation. Enjoy amazing skyline views as you chat with family members or friends.
Unfortunately, it usually doesn’t take too much time to lose money at any casino, but don’t let that stop you from having a brief blast at this adult playground, which features everything from uniquely themed slot machines to blackjack tables.
You’d be hard-pressed to find another city that offers such quick and easy access to our Canadian neighbors. We Detroiters are proud to live so close to Windsor, and there’s something incredible about driving across the Ambassador Bridge. Marvel at the river below as you approach the border.
The attractions on Belle Isle require much more than an hour to fully explore, but there’s still something special about spending a shorter amount of time here. Make your way to the city’s most famous island park just before sunset to catch gorgeous views of the water and skyline. You’ll be mesmerized.
If you’re a fan of architecture, interior design, or art in general, you’ll be blown away by the beautiful interior of the Guardian Building. When you’re searching for a quick way to experience a fascinating piece of history, simply step inside this building and look up— it’s tough to imagine a prettier scene.
10. Go on a mini shopping spree at Eastern Market.
No matter what you’re searching for, you’ll find it at Eastern Market. From handicrafts to delicious fresh produce, this one-of-a-kind destination brings the Motor City to life with its bustling atmosphere and countless products. Grab your reusable bag and head out for a bit of shopping!
Are there any other activities in Detroit that don’t require a massive time commitment? We’d love to hear your recommendations in the comment section below, so drop us a note!
Even if you've spent a fair amount of time in Metro Detroit, there are still many attractions to see and explore. This means that there’s always something new and exciting to discover, even if you feel like you’ve seen it all. To help you plan for the next time you’re searching for a fun way to make wonderful memories when you're in the Motor City, we've put together a list of unique things to do in Detroit.
Whether it’s the Halloween season or the middle of spring, something is exciting about checking out a haunted locale—and Detroit has more than its fair share. If you’re a fan of all things spooky, take time to cross the Belle Isle Bridge, also referred to as the MacArthur Bridge. This gem along Jefferson Avenue was built in 1923 and is purported to house the ghosts of people who’ve jumped from it. For all the eerie details, check out our previous article about one of the most unique places in Detroit.
You might be familiar with some of Detroit’s more popular parks, including Campus Martius in the heart of downtown and the beautiful Belle Isle. If you’re keen on exploring underrated spots, venture to Maheras-Gentry Park on Avondale. This awesome destination offers views of the Detroit River, plenty of space for fishing, greenery, a bike trail, basketball courts, and more. Read more about one of the best places to visit in Detroit in our previous coverage.
Ready to shop ‘til you drop? Hop in the car and make the quick journey to Dixieland Flea Market in Waterford Township, which boasts a whopping 90,000 square feet of space and upwards of 200 vendors. Whether you’re on the lookout for something specific or simply in the mood to treasure-hunt, it’s almost impossible to leave empty-handed. Visitors have been shopping here since the mid-1970s and you’ll surely be back for another visit. In our previous piece about this destination, discover why it's one of the best places to visit in Detroit.
Detroit and its surrounding areas are home to plenty of history. While you might have read about our storied past in textbooks or visited a few museums, there’s nothing better than exploring an immersive village that brings history to life. Luckily for us, Metro Detroit is home to an assortment of living history villages that make it easy to embrace earlier eras. Some of our favorite local historical villages are highlighted in this piece about unique things to do in Detroit.
When temperatures are warm enough to warrant a day along the shore, many Detroit locals flock to Belle Isle Beach. If you’re searching for something slightly outside the city, we recommend heading to Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area in Waterford Township. This amazing spot is home to more than a half-mile of shoreline along Pontiac Lake itself: the longest of its sort near the Motor City. Read more in our previous coverage about one of the best places to visit in Detroit.
Eager to support a local business while digging into some of the most delicious fare imaginable? Sweet Potato Sensations in Detroit has been drawing in customers since the ‘90s with its impressive menu full of sweet potato fare. With an impressive combination of both savory and sweet items, this Motor City diner is one family-owned operation that deserves your attention and business. Learn more by reading about one of the most delicious things to do in Detroit.
You don’t have to be religious yourself to appreciate a breathtaking church. Ste. Anne de Detroit is a sight to behold no matter what you believe. The physical cathedral, which was constructed in 1886, houses the oldest parish in Detroit: founded in 1701 by French colonists. When you step inside, you’ll be amazed by the cathedral’s frescoes, stained glass, and historical relics. Details can be found in this coverage of one of the most unique places in Detroit.
If you’re not too creeped out by mentions of all things macabre, we suggest heading to Wayne State University for a visit to their Mortuary Science Museum. As its name implies, this destination allows visitors to learn about everything from embalming to funeral history to religious practices surrounding death. You might just be surprised by how much you learn during your experience, so learn more about one of the most unique things to do in Detroit in our previous coverage.
Detroiters are no strangers to great food, and we’re especially fond of pizza. While square Detroit-style pizza certainly tops our list, Pie-Sci is a must-visit when you're in the Motor City. This small but mighty restaurant is home to some of the most inventive and delicious pizza creations, including a BLT pizza, a kimchi option, and so much more. You can dive into the details by reading our previous article on one of the most unique places in Detroit to grab a bite.
You might not be familiar with Indian Village Centennial Garden, but we’re confident that it will soon be one of your new favorite destinations within Detroit. This underappreciated gem along Charlevoix Street within the Indian Village historic district, offers a full corner lot with lush greenery, carefully maintained flowers, a walking path, and more. If you’re interested in finding out more, read our feature piece about unique things to do in Detroit.
If you ever find yourself longing for the good old days, we’ve got just the destination. 1Up Arcade Bar in Farmington is an exciting destination where visitors can embrace all things retro, including more than 30 arcade games. Try your hand at Mr. Pac-Man or sip a few beers while partaking in a Mario Kart tournament. Does it get much more thrilling than this? To check out our full piece about 1Up, read our previous coverage about unique things to do in Detroit.
12. Do some shopping in a converted Motor City post office
There’s something fascinating about exploring a business that sits within a history-rich building, and Post is one such spot in Detroit. This lovely store, which features all sorts of home goods and creative pieces, is located within a former 1940s post office in the Motor City. Peruse wares made by Michigan artisans, a significant percentage of whom are Detroit-based women, as you appreciate the unconventional setting. To learn more about Post, check out our previous article about one of the best places to visit in Detroit.
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13. Get happily lost among the trees at an aerial adventure park
Are you ready to get some major air while taking in some stunning woodland scenery? We’ve got just the place for you. TreeRunner Adventure Park in West Bloomfield is a family-friendly destination that’s home to everything from aerial trails to zip lines, each with its own unique challenges and vantage points. If you’re up for a real adventure, there’s no better place to spend the afternoon. Learn more why this place is considered one of the most unique places in Detroit.
Did we include any of your favorite Detroit destinations or attractions on our list? Are there any other spots that should have been added? We’re always eager to hear from readers, so feel free to share your thoughts about things to do in Detroit in the following comments section.
If you're searching for even more Motor City excitement, read about these seven waterfront destinations around Detroit. I also invite you to take a look at our guide to staycations. Perhaps that will inspire you to visit one of the unique places in Detroit that are on this list.
A dose of less-than-perfect weather shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a fun family outing. Whether you’re five years old or fifty, there’s something magical about a massive indoor playground - especially when the play area offers food, drinks, and plenty of seating for parents to appreciate. There’s one such spot in Metro Detroit that the whole family will go wild for, and you might never want to leave.
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Jungle Java sits at 6481 N Canton Center Road in Canton, just 40 minutes from Detroit.
This exciting jungle adventure for the whole family is absolutely worth the short drive from the city.
In conjunction with its sister locations in Farmington Hills and Clinton Township, this unforgettable playground offers fun and excitement for visitors of all ages.
Children as young as one year old are welcome to the indoor playground to enjoy everything Jungle Java has to offer. There's a separate play area for children under three to keep everyone safe and enjoying themselves. And there's plenty for adults to experience as well.
As its name suggests, Jungle Java features an awesome jungle theme. As soon as you arrive, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into an exciting new world.
Who knows, in addition to sparking the imagination and exploratory instincts in kids, it may also inspire an interest in travel down the road.
While areas of the indoor playground are available for private party rental, the facility is also open to the public seven days per week. Prepare for an adventure!
Though the park is jungle themed, fear not, they're fully equipped with WiFi for those waiting for imperative work e-mails or posting photos of the affair on social media.
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Admission is just $4 for children under 2, $10 for children over 2, and free for adults. As kiddos play, parents can enjoy a beverage or bite from the on-site cafe.
Children will have a blast perusing the playground. From towering trees to colorful slides to jungle foliage galore, it’s nearly impossible not to have fun playing here.
There are a few different sections of the park, including an open play area where kids can freely explore different jungle gyms and adventure sets in one large space. This makes it easier to keep track of kids while they're having fun.
Catch up on work or enjoy a good book as your little ones explore the extensive play equipment that exists here. Of course, you might just be tempted to join the fun!
Jungle Java is a clean and safe environment for your family to enjoy, which relieves a lot of the stress of finding an appropriate place for a family day out.
Whether you’re a parent looking for an outing that will please the whole family or a child hoping to release some energy, you’ll fall in love with Jungle Java in no time at all.
If you really enjoy the experience and you're located close by, you may want to consider purchasing a membership. This three-month pass saves you lots of money and allows the family to visit Jungle Java whenever they want. It's a no brainer for active families who want a resource available for healthy fun.
For more information about this unique indoor adventure in Metro Detroit, click here. Have you visited this spot or its other locations in years past? We love hearing about your experiences, it helps give us a better sense of how these activities appeal to a wide variety of people. Share your experiences with us in the comments below!
