Weird & Unusual Attractions in Detroit, United States
1. Heidelberg Project
An outdoor art environment created by artist Tyree Guyton, using found objects and house facades.
- Creative Expression: Showcases the unique artistic vision of a local artist
- Urban Renewal: Aims to revitalize a once-neglected neighborhood in Detroit
- Community Engagement: Encourages dialogue between artists, residents, and visitors
2. Detroit Institute of Arts - Diego Rivera Murals
A series of 27 murals painted by Mexican artist Diego Rivera between 1932 and 1933.
- Cultural Exchange: Illustrates the collaboration between artists from two different cultures
- Historical Significance: Depicts significant events in both Mexican and American history
- Art Preservation: Protects and maintains a significant piece of public art
3. MotorCity Casino Hotel - Sound Board
A music venue located within the MotorCity Casino Hotel that hosts concerts and events.
- Entertainment Destination: Provides a unique concert experience in a casino setting
- Artist Diversity: Features a wide range of musical artists and genres
- Casino Integration: Offers gaming opportunities alongside live entertainment
4. Elephant and Ponderosa Sculpture Park
A park featuring two giant sculptures of an elephant and a ponderosa tree made from scrap metal.
- Scrap Metal Artistry: Demonstrates the transformative power of recycled materials
- Community Involvement: Created by local artist John A. Sward and community members
- Urban Landmark: Serves as a unique symbol for the city of Detroit
5. Museum of Innovation and Technology - MOCADAT
A museum dedicated to digital art, science fiction, and popular culture.
- Digital Art Showcase: Offers a unique perspective on the intersection of technology and art
- Sci-fi & Pop Culture: Explores the influence of science fiction and popular culture on society
- Educational Opportunities: Provides workshops, lectures, and events for visitors of all ages
6. Detroit Observatory
An astronomical observatory located on the campus of Wayne State University.
- Stargazing Experience: Allows visitors to observe celestial objects through telescopes
- Scientific Education: Offers workshops, lectures, and events focused on astronomy
- Historic Preservation: Houses a historic telescope from the 19th century
7. Detroit's Ghostbusters Firehouse
A fire station used as the headquarters for the fictional Detroit team in the film 'Ghostbusters'.
- Film Tourism: Attracts fans of the Ghostbusters franchise
- Historic Preservation: Protects and maintains a significant piece of film history
- Local Engagement: Serves as a venue for events, tours, and exhibitions
8. The Rustbelt Market
An indoor marketplace featuring local vendors selling unique goods, food, and art.
- Local Artisans Showcase: Highlights the creativity of Detroit-based artists and makers
- Food Experience: Offers a wide variety of food from local vendors
- Community Gathering Space: Provides a space for the community to connect and engage
9. Robocop Statue
A statue of the fictional character RoboCop in downtown Detroit.
- Pop Culture Landmark: Attracts fans of the Robocop franchise
- Urban Sculpture: Serves as a unique symbol for the city of Detroit
- Photo Opportunity: Provides an iconic backdrop for photos and souvenirs
10. The Factory in the Forest
An art installation located in a forest near Detroit, featuring a large metal sculpture of a factory.
- Art Installation: Offers a unique and immersive artistic experience
- Natural Setting: Incorporates the beauty of a forest into the art installation
- Interactive Art: Encourages exploration and interaction with the sculpture
11. The Hantz Farm Project
A large urban farm project started by entrepreneur John Hantz aiming to transform vacant lots into productive farms.
- Urban Agriculture: Addresses food deserts and urban blight in Detroit
- Community Involvement: Involves local residents in the farming process
- Environmental Sustainability: Promotes sustainable farming practices and local food production
12. The Belt Alley Mural
A colorful mural located in an alleyway featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
- Street Art: Brightens up a typically dull and gritty urban space
- Community Engagement: Involves local artists in the creation and maintenance of the mural
- Photography Opportunity: Serves as a unique backdrop for photos and social media posts
13. The Shinola Hotel
A boutique hotel in downtown Detroit featuring a restaurant, bar, and retail store.
- Luxury Accommodation: Offers a unique and upscale experience for visitors
- Local Brand Showcase: Highlights the quality craftsmanship of Detroit-based brand Shinola
- Community Engagement: Involves local artists, artisans, and businesses in various aspects of the hotel
14. The Detroit Fountain Company
A foundry specializing in creating custom-designed fountains and sculptures.
- Custom Artistry: Allows clients to commission unique, one-of-a-kind works
- Local Craftsmanship: Showcases the talent and skill of Detroit's artisans
- Functional Sculpture: Creates pieces that serve both as art and functional water features
15. The Belle Isle Casino
A historic building on Belle Isle Park used for various events and exhibitions.
- Historic Preservation: Protects and maintains a significant piece of Detroit's architectural history
- Community Gathering Space: Serves as a venue for events, exhibitions, and cultural activities
- Natural Beauty: Located within the beautiful Belle Isle Park, offering stunning views of the waterfront