13 Things To Do In Metro Detroit When You Thought You’d Done Everything
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Sophie Boudreau
Author
Even if you’ve spent a fair amount of time in Metro Detroit, there are still many attractions to see and explore. This means that there’s always something new and exciting to discover, even if you feel like you’ve seen it all. To help you plan for the next time you’re searching for a fun way to make wonderful memories when you’re in the Motor City, we’ve put together a list of unique things to do in Detroit.
MacArthur Bridge, 7200 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48214, USA
Whether it’s the Halloween season or the middle of spring, something is exciting about checking out a haunted locale—and Detroit has more than its fair share. If you’re a fan of all things spooky, take time to cross the Belle Isle Bridge, also referred to as the MacArthur Bridge. This gem along Jefferson Avenue was built in 1923 and is purported to house the ghosts of people who’ve jumped from it. For all the eerie details, check out our previous article about one of the most unique places in Detroit.
Maheras-Gentry Park, 12550 Avondale St, Detroit, MI 48215, USA
You might be familiar with some of Detroit’s more popular parks, including Campus Martius in the heart of downtown and the beautiful Belle Isle. If you’re keen on exploring underrated spots, venture to Maheras-Gentry Park on Avondale. This awesome destination offers views of the Detroit River, plenty of space for fishing, greenery, a bike trail, basketball courts, and more. Read more about one of the best places to visit in Detroit in our previous coverage.
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Dixieland Flea Market, 2045 Dixie Hwy, Waterford Twp, MI 48328, USA
Ready to shop ‘til you drop? Hop in the car and make the quick journey to Dixieland Flea Market in Waterford Township, which boasts a whopping 90,000 square feet of space and upwards of 200 vendors. Whether you’re on the lookout for something specific or simply in the mood to treasure-hunt, it’s almost impossible to leave empty-handed. Visitors have been shopping here since the mid-1970s and you’ll surely be back for another visit. In our previous piece about this destination, discover why it's one of the best places to visit in Detroit.
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Troy Historic Village, 60 W Wattles Rd, Troy, MI 48098, USA
Detroit and its surrounding areas are home to plenty of history. While you might have read about our storied past in textbooks or visited a few museums, there’s nothing better than exploring an immersive village that brings history to life. Luckily for us, Metro Detroit is home to an assortment of living history villages that make it easy to embrace earlier eras. Some of our favorite local historical villages are highlighted in this piece about unique things to do in Detroit.
Pontiac Lake Recreation Area, 7800 Gale Rd, Waterford Twp, MI 48327, USA
When temperatures are warm enough to warrant a day along the shore, many Detroit locals flock to Belle Isle Beach. If you’re searching for something slightly outside the city, we recommend heading to Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area in Waterford Township. This amazing spot is home to more than a half-mile of shoreline along Pontiac Lake itself: the longest of its sort near the Motor City. Read more in our previous coverage about one of the best places to visit in Detroit.
Sweet Potato Sensations, 17337 Lahser Rd, Detroit, MI 48219, USA
Eager to support a local business while digging into some of the most delicious fare imaginable? Sweet Potato Sensations in Detroit has been drawing in customers since the ‘90s with its impressive menu full of sweet potato fare. With an impressive combination of both savory and sweet items, this Motor City diner is one family-owned operation that deserves your attention and business. Learn more by reading about one of the most delicious things to do in Detroit.
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Basilica of Ste. Anne de Detroit, 1000 St Anne St, Detroit, MI 48216, USA
You don’t have to be religious yourself to appreciate a breathtaking church. Ste. Anne de Detroit is a sight to behold no matter what you believe. The physical cathedral, which was constructed in 1886, houses the oldest parish in Detroit: founded in 1701 by French colonists. When you step inside, you’ll be amazed by the cathedral’s frescoes, stained glass, and historical relics. Details can be found in this coverage of one of the most unique places in Detroit.
Department of Mortuary Science, 5439 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
If you’re not too creeped out by mentions of all things macabre, we suggest heading to Wayne State University for a visit to their Mortuary Science Museum. As its name implies, this destination allows visitors to learn about everything from embalming to funeral history to religious practices surrounding death. You might just be surprised by how much you learn during your experience, so learn more about one of the most unique things to do in Detroit in our previous coverage.
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Pie-Sci Pizza, 5163 Trumbull, Detroit, MI 48208, USA
Detroiters are no strangers to great food, and we’re especially fond of pizza. While square Detroit-style pizza certainly tops our list, Pie-Sci is a must-visit when you're in the Motor City. This small but mighty restaurant is home to some of the most inventive and delicious pizza creations, including a BLT pizza, a kimchi option, and so much more. You can dive into the details by reading our previous article on one of the most unique places in Detroit to grab a bite.
Centennial Garden, 8299 Charlevoix St, Detroit, MI 48214, USA
You might not be familiar with Indian Village Centennial Garden, but we’re confident that it will soon be one of your new favorite destinations within Detroit. This underappreciated gem along Charlevoix Street within the Indian Village historic district, offers a full corner lot with lush greenery, carefully maintained flowers, a walking path, and more. If you’re interested in finding out more, read our feature piece about unique things to do in Detroit.
1Up ARCADE BAR, 33316 Grand River Ave, Farmington, MI 48336, USA
If you ever find yourself longing for the good old days, we’ve got just the destination. 1Up Arcade Bar in Farmington is an exciting destination where visitors can embrace all things retro, including more than 30 arcade games. Try your hand at Mr. Pac-Man or sip a few beers while partaking in a Mario Kart tournament. Does it get much more thrilling than this? To check out our full piece about 1Up, read our previous coverage about unique things to do in Detroit.
POST, 14500 Kercheval St, Detroit, MI 48215, USA
There’s something fascinating about exploring a business that sits within a history-rich building, and Post is one such spot in Detroit. This lovely store, which features all sorts of home goods and creative pieces, is located within a former 1940s post office in the Motor City. Peruse wares made by Michigan artisans, a significant percentage of whom are Detroit-based women, as you appreciate the unconventional setting. To learn more about Post, check out our previous article about one of the best places to visit in Detroit.
TreeRunner Adventure Park West Bloomfield, 6200 Drake Rd, West Bloomfield Township, MI 48322, USA
Are you ready to get some major air while taking in some stunning woodland scenery? We’ve got just the place for you. TreeRunner Adventure Park in West Bloomfield is a family-friendly destination that’s home to everything from aerial trails to zip lines, each with its own unique challenges and vantage points. If you’re up for a real adventure, there’s no better place to spend the afternoon. Learn more why this place is considered one of the most unique places in Detroit.
Did we include any of your favorite Detroit destinations or attractions on our list? Are there any other spots that should have been added? We’re always eager to hear from readers, so feel free to share your thoughts about things to do in Detroit in the following comments section.
If you’re searching for even more Motor City excitement, read about these seven waterfront destinations around Detroit. I also invite you to take a look at our guide to staycations. Perhaps that will inspire you to visit one of the unique places in Detroit that are on this list.
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More to Explore
Things to do in Detroit
What are some things to do in Detroit on a rainy day?
The following list highlights some things to do in Detroit on a rainy day.
- Belle Isle Aquarium: This volunteer-run public destination is open from Thursday through Sunday, from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm.
- John K. King Used & Rare Books: There's something for everyone in your family at this epic bookstore in the heart of Detroit.
- Detroit Institute of Arts: This massive museum has more than 100 galleries featuring American art.
What are some unique places in Detroit to have dinner?
Here are some unique places in Detroit to have dinner:
- The Grand Trunk Pub: Housed in a former train station, this quirky restaurant is the place to go for a filling meal.
- Grey Ghost Detroit: Aside from its chill vibe, head to this restaurant for a cocktail and steak made to order.
- The Dakota Inn Rathskeller: If you can't make it to Octoberfest, stop by this beloved German restaurant for an authentic experience.
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Detroit, MI, USA