22 places in metro Detroit to take an out-of-towner

The Detroit Institute of Arts

5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit; 313-833-7900
Founded in 1885, the DIA has an expansive and diverse art collection that will be sure to capture anyone’s attention. And, this place has more than just art — there's plenty of programming for the whole family.
Photo via Facebook

Eastern Market

2934 Russell St, Detroit; 313-833-9300
A go-to destination in the city that’s become known as a bustling hub for fresh locally sourced food, restaurants, art, music, culture, and community. The Saturday market operates year-round from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., with more than 225 vendors converging into the market to sell their wares.
Photo via Instagram user @easternmarket

Ford-Wyoming Drive In

10400 Ford Rd., Dearborn; 313-846-6910
Many drive-ins have perished over the years, but the Ford-Wyoming Drive-In still stands tall. Enjoy some popcorn and soda while watching the newest movies right from the comfort of your own car.
Photo via Yelp user, Becki B.

Historic Fort Wayne

6325 W Jefferson Ave., Detroit; info@historicfortwayne.com
The Historic Fort Wayne Coalition is responsible for maintaining the historic fort located on the Detroit River. Here, visitors can go on guided walking tours, see re-enactors, visit the National Museum of the Tuskegee Airmen, and more. Keep an eye out for special events and programming.
Photo via Instagram user @arterial32

Heidelberg Project

3600 Heidelberg St., Detroit; 313-458-8414
The mission of the project is to improve the lives of people and neighborhoods through the use of art. The artist, Tyree Guyton, built this collective piece of art with his grandfather starting in 1986 when he realized a poverty stricken neighborhood needed inspiration. His grandfather encouraged him to pick up a paintbrush instead of a weapon, and this enormous outdoor installation is the result.
Photo via Instagram user @heidelbergproj

Henry Ford Museum

20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn; 313-982-6001
Spend the day learning about the fascinating history of American innovation — and don't forget to eat some period-appropriate cuisine while you're there. An on-going Pixar exhibit will entertain kids and adults.
Photo via Yelp user, Jay C.

Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum

31005 Orchard Lake Rd., Farmington Hills; 248-626-5020
Feeling nostalgic? Step into a grand hall lined with classic coin-operated animatronics, mechanical games, and other old arcade hall finds — equipped with all the bells and whistles. There are plenty of rare games and oddities, plus snacks on site too.
Photo via Instagram user @kimjoymilke

Michigan Science Center

5020 John R St., Detroit; 313-577-8400
The Michigan Science Center wants to inspire creative minds no matter their age. Get the creativity wheels of your visitor spinning with the center’s hands-on exhibits, IMAX theatre, and more.
Photo via Instagram, Michigan Science Center

Motown Museum

2648 W Grand Blvd., Detroit; 313-875-2264
Serving as one of Southeastern Michigan’s most popular tourist attractions, Motown Museum preserves the legacy of Motown Record Corporation. At its peak Motown had artists like Diana Ross and the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, and the Jackson 5. At the museum, you'll see Motown's first recording studio, known as Studio A, and one of Michael Jackson's hats.
Photo via Instagram user @motownmuseum

Outdoor Adventure Center

1801 Atwater St., Detroit; 844-622-6367
The Outdoor Adventure Center is a destination that offers plenty of hands-on experiences. To learn more about Michigan’s natural resources and state parks, this is the place to go.
Photo via Instagram user, DNR Outdoor Adventure Center

Pure Detroit tours

Sites include: Guardian Building, Fisher Building, and Packard Plant 855-874-7873
Pure Detroit isn’t just a storefront. The business also offers walking tours through some of Detroit’s most iconic architectural sites. There are opportunities to take selfies at the Packard Plant and learn more about automotive-manufacturing in one of America’s great industrial cities or get a view of the cityscape from the top of the Fisher Building.
Photo via Instagram user @puredetroit313