The 60-Mile Scenic Drive Along M-29 Near Detroit That You’ll Want To Take As Soon As You Can
Sophie Boudreau
Author
Looking for a simple way to get out of the house and appreciate some of Metro Detroit’s most marvelous natural attractions? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by cabin fever, but we’re lucky to live within driving distance of many lovely locales. When you’re ready for an adventure, hop in the car and enjoy a jaunt along one of the best scenic drives in Detroit.
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Have you enjoyed this lovely riverfront and lakefront drive? What are some of your favorite attractions along M-29 near Detroit? Share your thoughts in the comments or recommend destinations for a future article by filling out our nomination form.
Want to keep exploring? Read about another of the beautiful scenic drives near Detroit. And if you’re headed on the road, don’t forget the best road snacks to take with you!
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Scenic Drives In Detroit
What is the most famous road in Michigan?
Woodward Avenue (M-1) stands out as the most famous road in Michigan, particularly for its deep roots in the state's automotive history. Stretching approximately 27 miles from downtown Detroit to Pontiac in the northern suburbs, this iconic roadway is often called "Detroit's Main Street." It boasts the distinction of hosting the country's first mile of concrete-paved roadway. Beyond its automotive significance, Woodward Avenue is a cultural artery for Detroit, intersecting with several renowned neighborhoods and districts. Every August, it becomes the backdrop for the Woodward Dream Cruise, one of the world's most significant one-day automotive events, drawing over a million spectators and a procession of over 40,000 classic cars. With a mosaic of historic landmarks, from the Detroit Institute of Arts to the Fox Theatre, Woodward Avenue encapsulates the essence of Michigan's rich cultural and automotive heritage.
What is the most scenic drive in Detroit?
Detroit, often called the "Motor City" because of its historical ties to the automobile industry, is in southeastern Michigan. While Detroit is an urban environment, scenic drives in and around the city offer a blend of architectural, historical, and natural beauty.
Here are the most scenic drives in Detroit:
- Detroit's Historic Neighborhoods: Explore neighborhoods like Indian Village, Boston-Edison, and Corktown. These areas showcase Detroit's rich history with beautifully restored mansions, historic homes, and landmark buildings.
- Detroit Riverfront: The Detroit Riverwalk extends for miles along the Detroit River, offering views of Canada on the other side, the Detroit skyline, and several parks. While it's primarily a walking path, driving along Jefferson Avenue, which runs parallel, provides lovely views.
- Belle Isle Park: In the Detroit River between Detroit and Windsor, Canada, Belle Isle is a 982-acre island park with a zoo, conservatory, and beautiful views of the Detroit and Windsor skylines. A drive around the island allows you to experience its natural beauty and architectural treasures.
- Woodward Avenue: Known as Detroit's main thoroughfare, Woodward Avenue stretches from downtown Detroit to the city's northern suburbs. Driving along this route, you'll pass landmarks like the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Fox Theatre, and the historic churches of Piety Hill.
- Day Trip to Ann Arbor: About 45 minutes west of Detroit, Ann Arbor offers cultural and natural beauty. The drive takes you through the countryside of southeastern Michigan. Once in Ann Arbor, you can explore the University of Michigan campus, the vibrant downtown area, and the scenic Huron River.