
Detroit has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to entertainment options and sights to see. One could always go see a Tigers game at Comerica Park or see the Lions play at Ford Field. However, these are traditional options that are very typical for tourists and visitors to partake in. Detroit has less known sights and places to offer, many of which rival their more popular counterparts in terms of what they have to offer. These unique destinations all have something great about them, and can be a great way to spice up a trip. Here are five unusual destinations in Detroit that you should consider checking out.
Henry Ford Museum
If artifacts from history pique your interest and intrigue you, then the Henry Ford museum may just be the place for you. Built in 1929, the museum is dedicated to achievements in technology and innovation and also includes plenty of artifacts from American history. The founder, Henry Ford, was a major player in the automotive industry. This can be seen in display pieces such as JFK’s infamous limousine and the Rosa Park bus. However, the museum also has other interesting artifacts from American history such as the chair from Lincoln’s assassination. It may not be your typical museum, but the Henry Ford Museum definitely has a lot to offer and is an interesting place to visit.
New Centre Park
If you’re looking for outdoor activities and events, then you may want to take a visit to New Centre Park. The park hosts a wide variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, all with the intention of bringing the community closer together. For example, the park displays outdoor movies, allowing you and friends to come out and enjoy cinemas in the great outdoors. In addition, the park also plays host to several concerts and festivals and always seems like some sort of special event is going on. Finally, the park is gorgeous to just walk around and explore, even if no special event is going on at the time. If you’re in Detroit you should definitely give this place a look to see what event is going on.
Belle Isle Park
Belle Isle Park isn’t just your traditional park as it is located on an island in the Detroit River. It is the largest city-owned island park in the U.S. and has plenty of options to satisfy your entertainment needs.
If nature and its inhabitants interest you, then you can visit the Belle Isle Aquarium or Belle Isle Nature Center. If history and education are more up your aisle, then you can always visit the Great Lakes Museum that’s located on the island. Finally, the island also offers outdoor recreational activity in the form of golf and water sports. If you’re looking for an interesting and unique stop during your Detroit trip, then you can’t go wrong with Belle Isle Park.
GM Renaissance Center
The “RenCen” is perhaps the most famous and iconic piece of Detroit real estate. The seven interconnected towers that make up the center are all extremely tall, making the center extremely prominent in the Detroit skyline. In fact, one of the towers is the tallest building in the entire state of Michigan. Originally built by Henry Ford and his Ford Motor Company, the complex is now owned and operated by General Motors. In terms of visiting the center, there are plenty of tours and displays to look at, making for some very interesting insight into the company. In addition, the view from the top floors of the center is breathtaking and can be matched by only a few other skyscrapers in the city.
The Heidelberg ProjectThe Heidelberg Project is one of the most famous and inspiring pieces of outdoor art in the U.S. The project was started to oppose violence in Detroit’s East Side, a form of silent protest. Instead of succumbing to the violence around him, the artist instead tried to better the community. As a result, the beaten and battered community turned into a sight to behold. Vacant and abandoned houses became massive pieces of art while other areas of the neighborhood became decorated with beautiful designs. The Heidelberg Project is a beautiful sight to see, but what makes it so special is the message behind it. You don’t have to succumb to being a product of your environment, you can instead better it by using your talents. This message is exactly why the Heidelberg Project is such an interesting part of Detroit.