When you picture Detroit, you might not imagine peaceful canals meandering through neighborhoods. After all, most folks consider the primary Detroit River path to be the most famous and beautiful waterway in the Motor City – and for obvious reasons. But true locals know that there’s a series of canals right here in our hometown just waiting to be experienced. If you’re eager to learn about a lesser-known section of our metropolis, the Little Venice of Detroit boasts adventure, history, and charm.

Detroit’s all-too-frequently unmentioned Canal District, now primarily referred to as the Creekside area, sits on the city’s eastern side – just a stone’s throw away from Grosse Pointe Park and Grosse Pointe.
Google Maps
If you’ve never spent time in this area, you might not realize that the Detroit River gives way to a series of fascinating canals that flow past a yacht club, residential homes, private businesses, and much more.
Google Maps
For many, the canals of Detroit’s “Little Venice” have seemed inaccessible due to their location. In recent years, renewed interest has given way to educational kayak tours and other unique means of access.
Google Reviews/Dennis G.
Those who want to paddle their way through the so-called Eastside Canals can book a tour via Detroit River Sports, which offers a 2.5-hour jaunt that highlights the Fisher Mansion, nearby Greyhaven Island, and more.
Google Reviews/Monica Marie Jones

Related Stories

The Rouge Park Mountain Bike Trail Will Show You A Completely New Side Of Detroit

The Rouge Park Mountain Bike Trail Will Show You A Completely New Side Of Detroit

 Rent Your Own Pontoon Boat Near Detroit For An Amazing Time On The Water

Rent Your Own Pontoon Boat Near Detroit For An Amazing Time On The Water

 There’s A Little-Known, Fascinating Train Park Near Detroit And You’ll Want To Visit

There’s A Little-Known, Fascinating Train Park Near Detroit And You’ll Want To Visit
As you make your way through, you’ll be delighted to discover a previously unseen section of the Motor City. The canals flow past homes with docks, under bridges, and through overhanging foliage atop the water.
Google Reviews/Leonardo D.
Like much of Detroit, the Creekside neighborhood has experienced its fair share of ups and downs. You’ll see remnants of these struggles as you explore, but beautification efforts have made a significant impact here.
TripAdvisor/Roger B.
Of course, kayaking isn’t for everyone – but never fear, as Coriander Kitchen offers a more passive way to appreciate the Detroit canal district. This farm-to-table eatery offers canalside views and fresh fare galore.
Facebook/Coriander Kitchen and Farm
No matter how you choose to experience this lesser-known section of the city, one thing is for sure: the Little Venice of Detroit will help you fall even deeper in love with the landscape, lore, and treasures of Motown.
Google Reviews/Dennis G.

Have you and your family ever taken a kayak tour through the Little Venice of Detroit? What were your impressions of this oft-overlooked Detroit canal district? We’d love to hear from you, so share your experiences with us by leaving a Facebook comment – or recommend another unique day trip in Detroit by completing our official nomination form.

Seeking another unforgettable outing? Be sure to read about this incredible man-made waterfall near Detroit.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Unique Things In Detroit

Meghan Byers | March 13, 2024

What are some cool and unique things to do in Detroit?

There are a ton of cool and unique things to do in Detroit. Here are just a few:

  • Visit the Heidelberg Project, an outdoor community art project spanning two blocks and located on the east side of Detroit. Though some find it to be controversial, the art project seeks to make something beautiful out of abandoned homes left to decay.
  • Visit Belle Isle Park. This 982-acre island is in the middle of the Detroit River and is home to attractions like an aquarium, a museum, a nature center, and more.
  • Take a guided tour of the Guardian Building and marvel at the colorful Art Deco interior.
  • Stop by Dabls’ MBAD African Bead Museum, which features 18 outdoor installations in addition to the indoor African Bead Gallery, African Language Wall, and more.
  • See a show at the Redford Theatre. This theatre opened in 1928 and hosts live music events as well as showing classic films, and more.
  • Go to the oldest hat retailer in the country. Henry the Hatter has been in business since 1893.
  • Visit Lincoln Street Art Park, a sculpture garden and outdoor art gallery.
  • Browse at John K. King Used & Rare books. This huge bookstore spans four stories and has over a million books to browse through.
  • Take a Detroit lighthouse road trip and visit some of the prettiest lighthouses in and around Detroit.

 

What is Detroit famously known for?

Detroit is famously known for being the automobile capital of the world. It’s also known for being the original home of Motown Records, which itself is known for “the Motown sound” of the 1960s – a type of soul music with mainstream pop appeal.  Detroit is now home to the Motown Museum, which celebrates the history of the Motown genre.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Coriander Kitchen and Farm, 14601 Riverside Blvd, Detroit, MI 48215, USA
Detroit River Sports, 14601 Riverside Blvd, Detroit, MI 48215, USA