Top Family Vacation Spots in Detroit, United States

1. Detroit Institute of Arts

Explore over 65,000 works from ancient times to the present, including European masterpieces and American art.

Art Variety: Offers a diverse collection that appeals to different tastes
Educational Programs: Provides guided tours and interactive activities for families
Free Admission: Open to the public without charge, thanks to the Cultural Center District Endowment Authority.

Step into America's past with iconic artifacts like Abraham Lincoln's chair and the bus where Rosa Parks made history.

Historical Relevance: Preserves and displays significant artifacts from U.S. history
Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on experiences for visitors to learn about inventions and innovations
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with accommodations for visitors with various needs

Experience the history of America by stepping into buildings like Thomas Edison's lab and Henry Ford's home.

Historic Buildings: Offers visitors a glimpse into American history through authentic buildings
Guided Tours: Provides informative tours to help families learn about each building's significance
Outdoor Activities: Features gardens, farm animals, and a steam train ride for added fun

Detroit's largest island park with scenic views, a conservation center, and the famous James Scott Memorial Fountain.

Natural Beauty: Offers beautiful landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities
Family-Friendly Activities: Includes a children's playground, bike rentals, and picnic areas
Historical Landmarks: Features several significant structures like the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory

Home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, including the popular Arctic Ring of Life exhibit.

Wildlife Diversity: Features a wide variety of exotic and native animals
Interactive Exhibits: Offers educational programs and animal encounters for visitors
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with accommodations for visitors with various needs

A scenic drive offering stunning views of Detroit's skyline and the Detroit River.

Scenic Views: Provides breathtaking vistas of the city and river
Rest Stops: Includes several picnic areas and rest stops along the route
Historic Significance: Runs along a portion of the historic Michigan Central Railroad

Home to the Detroit Tigers, enjoy America's pastime while taking in the city's energy.

Sports Entertainment: Offers a fun and exciting atmosphere during baseball games
Tours: Provides guided tours of the stadium when there are no games scheduled
Concessions: Serves a variety of food options, including local favorites like Coney Dogs

Get an up-close look at how Ford vehicles are made on this self-guided tour.

Manufacturing Insights: Offers a unique opportunity to learn about the car manufacturing process
Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive displays and simulations for visitors to engage with
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with accommodations for visitors with various needs

Explore the history of Motown Records and the artists that made Detroit famous.

Musical Heritage: Preserves the legacy of Motown Records and its influential artists
Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive displays, music studios, and exhibits on iconic artists
Guided Tours: Provides informative tours to help families learn about Motown's history

Ignite curiosity through interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Educational Experience: Offers hands-on learning opportunities for visitors of all ages
Interactive Exhibits: Includes exhibits on topics like weather, space, and health sciences
Family-Friendly Activities: Features a children's area with activities designed for young visitors

Explore Detroit's waterways on a kayak or paddleboard rental.

Outdoor Adventure: Offers a unique way to experience the city from the river
Rentals and Tours: Provides kayak and paddleboard rentals, as well as guided tours
Accessibility: Offers accessible kayaks for visitors with various needs

A historic library offering resources and programs for all ages.

Resource Center: Provides access to books, computers, and research materials
Programs: Offers educational programs for children, teens, and adults
Historical Significance: Located in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building with significant architectural features

An outdoor art environment showcasing creative expression and Detroit's spirit.

Artistic Expression: Offers a unique and thought-provoking artistic experience
Community Engagement: Supports local artists and fosters creativity in the community
Walking Tour: Provides a self-guided tour to explore the project's various installations

A historic marketplace offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and antiques.

Fresh Produce: Sells a wide variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other food items
Artisan Goods: Features handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and other unique gifts
Antique Shopping: Offers a variety of antiques for sale at numerous vendors

Explore contemporary art exhibitions that challenge perceptions and push boundaries.

Artistic Innovation: Offers thought-provoking contemporary art exhibits
Educational Programs: Provides workshops and discussions for visitors to engage with artists
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with accommodations for visitors with various needs