Itineraries for Your Trip to Detroit
1 Day in Detroit for First Timers
Detroit is always full of surprises, which is the main reason I'm always up for a road trip or an extended stay. Even if I've been there recently, I never tire of checking out a new museum or enjoying live music at one of the jazz spots in town. A visit to the Motown Museum is a must, and if you have time to head out to Belle Isle Park, you'll be shocked you're still in the city. With one day in Detroit, a walking tour is the best way to see the city. This 1-day Detroit itinerary for first timers will get you started.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a stop at Belle Isle Park.
The summer is typically hot and sunny, and you'll get rain and snow in the winter.
If you're limited to just one day in Detroit, a walking tour may be the best way to get oriented. The city is very walkable, and you can check out spots like Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit before you visit The Henry Ford, the largest indoor and outdoor museum complex in the US. Don't miss a stop at the Monument to Joe Louis (The Fist); it's massive and a fun backdrop for your group photo.
Detroit's food scene is pretty impressive, and you've definitely worked up an appetite with your morning of sightseeing. Head out on a food tour to learn the difference between Chicago- and Detroit-style pizza, and pass by some of Detroit's best art deco architecture as you stroll. Learn about the Coney dog (a hot dog topped with a beef sauce) and pączki (Polish doughnuts, traditionally served on Fat Tuesday). With only one day in Detroit, a food tour is the way to go to try different cuisines.
You might be surprised to learn that you can head out on the Detroit River to view the skyline and Canada across the river. The evening is a great time for this activity, as you can spend a few hours enjoying Belle Isle Park before you board your electric boat to take in the sunset. Walking paths crisscross this state park, and you'll also find the Belle Isle Aquarium and playgrounds there.
