Whether you’re a longtime Motor City resident or an occasional visitor, there’s nothing better than exploring the area’s many marvelous attractions. The roadways that make our city complete offer adventurous folks the chance to appreciate history, modern destinations, eateries, and so much more. Here are six iconic streets in Detroit that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
Commonly known as the "Main Street" of Detroit, Woodward Avenue is home to a vast and impressive array of restaurants, shops, and attractions galore. The street is also referred to as M-1 and extends for upwards of 21 miles through the city and its suburbs. Its history is rich, as the road was first established in 1805 before becoming an official state highway in 1913.
As one of the earliest streets to exist in the city of Detroit, Gratiot Avenue is equally rich in history. Its earliest roots date back to 1805, while it extended to its present state and length in the 1970s. Gratiot connects Detroiters to all sorts of important spots, winding through residential neighborhoods and business districts alike. If you choose to traverse the road, you’ll spot famous places like Ford Field and the Renaissance Center.
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3. West Grand Boulevard
West Grand Boulevard, W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI, USA
Extending for approximately 11 miles, West Grand once marked Detroit’s city limits and housed portions of a streetcar line through the area. Today, guests who choose to stroll or drive along the street will notice icons like the Motown Museum, the Hotel St. Regis, and the fantastic Fisher Building. What’s not to love?
Grand River Avenue extends from surrounding regions through the heart of Detroit, offering access to attractions like beautiful Beacon Park, Grand Lawn Cemetery, and more. You might not be able to walk the entire length of this impressive road, which technically makes its starting point in Lansing and continues for over 210 miles, but we recommend checking out at least a few portions of it.
While it’s not technically a street, the breathtaking Detroit RiverWalk is one of the most popular thoroughfares in the city -- even though most folks explore it on foot or by bicycle. There’s something simply magical about strolling alongside the Detroit River on this 5.5-mile pathway, which leads visitors past everything from public art pieces to a lighthouse at Milliken State Park. Does it get much prettier?
Take a walk through the heart of Greektown when you explore Monroe Street, which is home to timeless attractions like Astoria Pastry Shop and Fishbone’s. If you’re a fan of gambling, you’ll enjoy visiting nearby Greektown Casino to try your hands at some slots and tables. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, simply peruse the restaurants and shops that make the area so unique.
Have you walked or driven along any of these iconic streets in Detroit? Did we include any of your favorite places on our list? Share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment or let us know which famous roadways deserved a mention by filling out our official nomination form here.
