Fun Things To Do in Detroit: Hidden Gems, Tasty Eats, and More

Ready to discover the best things to do in Detroit? As someone who has lived in this part of the Mitten State for many years both full-time and part-time, I figured it was time to share some of my personal favorites of this historic city.

It’s no secret that Detroit has had more than its fair share of hard times, but its resilience has never wavered. In fact, Detroit’s population grew in 2023 — a first in over six decades. Whether you know it as Motor City, Motown, Rock City, or simply The D, Detroit is a singular city that’s once again on the come up.

While it’s impossible to list all the incredible places and things to do in Detroit, you’ll get a good taste of what the city has to offer and live like a local with these iconic spots and hidden gems — including my favorite places for (mostly) plant-based meals.

Iconic Places to Visit in Detroit

There are many places to see and things to do in Detroit, particularly when it comes to art, culture, and architecture. If you have time, it’s worth exploring some of the city’s most famous edifices, including the Fisher Building, Guardian Building, Penobscot Travel, and Masonic Temple, most of which have tours. Here are several other sites you shouldn’t miss, most of which are free.

Detroit Institute of Arts

Back in the day, Detroit was known as the Paris of the Midwest, so it’s no surprise that the city has some of the most spectacular art on the planet. Sure, the Louvre has the Mona Lisa. But the DIA has Los Murales de la Industria de Detroit (The Detroit Industry Murals).

These awe-inspiring frescoes by Mexican artist Diego Rivera — aka Frida Kahlo’s husband — are a sight to behold. You could easily spend hours taking in all the symbolism, intricacy, and history. Consider delving into the story of Rivera and Kahlo’s time in Detroit — it’s fascinating.

If you can pull yourself away from Rivera Court, you’ll be treated to more than 65,000 artworks across the DIA’s three floors. Explore everything from African, Asian, Islamic, and Indigenous American art to iconic pieces from Van Gogh, Degas, Matisse, Monet, Picasso, Renoir, Warhol, and beyond. You’ll even see silverware created by Paul Revere. (Yes, that Paul Revere.)

Bonus: Admission is free for residents of Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties. Even if you’re not a full-time resident, as long as you have a piece of mail addressed to you within any of these counties, you’ll get free admission. Just take the piece of mail with you and show it to the person at the counter.

My Favorite Places to Eat in Detroit

There are plenty of places to enjoy a meal in Detroit, and Corktown is ground zero for foodies. Not only is it the city’s oldest neighborhood, but it’s also arguably the most dynamic area and my favorite zone for good eats and drinks.

Selden Standard

Selden Standard sets the gold standard for elevated modern cuisine that feels fancy yet totally approachable. Winter, spring, summer, or fall, all you have to do is call (or go online) for a reservation. This place often books up fast and for good reason.

The seasonal New American menu is top-notch and the wood-fired grill is literally fire. Get ready for deliciously smoky mushrooms, veggies, and seafood along with cocktails that taste as good as they look.

Yes, there’s a bit of sticker shock every time the check comes at the end of the meal, but my husband and I always come to the same conclusion: It was so worth it.

Grandma Bob’s Pizza

Detroit-style pizza is all the rage these days, and the best of the best is at Grandma Bob’s. Whether it’s the Sausage & Pistachio pie or the Big Mack — a decadent pizza-fied version of McDonald’s Big Mac that just so happens to be vegan — Grandma Bob’s turns out the best pizza in Detroit. Oh, and don’t forget the vegan-friendly milkshakes (boozy ones too).

Sugar House

Even if you’re totally over the hype of “craft cocktails,” don’t hold it against Sugar House. This place is the real deal with a menu featuring 101 classic cocktails, plus seasonal cocktails and a handful of snacks. It’s a fun place to hang before (or after) dinner next door at Slow’s BBQ, Ima Izakaya at the end of the block, or Grandma Bob’s just across the street.

There are also non-alcoholic drinks if you’re cutting back or living that zero-proof life. If that’s you, check out my non-drinker’s guide to wine country.

Nepantla Food Truck

As a Mexican American, I can’t not have a favorite taco spot in town. Thankfully, Detroit has Nepantla, which finally has a steady location in Mexicantown. From brisket, pollo, and baja fish tacos (made with banana blossoms) to quesadillas and burritos, the menu is loaded with belly-filling fare you’ll keep craving. The owner Rocky was even a 2024 James Beard Emerging Chef Semifinalist, so yeah, it’s good.

Batch Brewery

Good local brews, snacky bites, huge covered outdoor patio area with a giant flat-screen TV, and a spacious indoor area with board games. What more could you want for a relaxing hang in Detroit?

My Favorite Places to Shop in Detroit

There are always new shopping spots to discover in Detroit, but when I’m in the mood for a little browsing and buying, here are a few of my go-to boutiques and markets.

Mama Coo’s Vintage

This Latina-owned shop packs a punch, proving you don’t need much square footage to offer an enormous selection of treasures. Sandwiched between Folk Detroit cafe/market and Mink oyster bar (both also worth checking out), Mama Coo’s is the coolest spot for second-hand threads, jewelry, decor, and more.

The service is always friendly, the inventory changes fairly frequently, and the prices are wallet friendly. When weather permits, you can enjoy al fresco shopping in the front. I found a fantastic signed painting for $10 (!!!) by Marion Greenwood, an artist who I later learned apprenticed with Diego Rivera.

Flo Boutique

Located next to the space formerly occupied by Avalon Bakery, Flo Boutique is another woman-owned boutique that offers an assortment of funky and fun clothing, accessories, and gifts you won’t find anywhere else.

During my last visit, I was able to snag a cool camo-neon bag at a fabulous discount. There are always good sales going on here, so if you like something, best to get it then and there.

Eastern Market

Eastern Market is one of those places that’s synonymous with Detroit. Dating back to the 1840s, this market isn’t so much a market as it is a collection of vendors that sell everything from fresh produce and spices to cooked food, hand-crafted gifts, art, and knick-knacks.

During the warm season you can enjoy the outdoor area while the cold months take things indoors. If you’re in town during winter, the annual holiday market is a fun and festive time.

My Favorite Neighborhoods in the Greater Detroit Area

Not unlike the urban sprawl of my native Los Angeles, Detroit has a larger metropolitan area brimming with neighborhoods that deserve their own spotlight. Here’s my quick hit list of must-see places while in the Detroit area.

Birmingham, Michigan

I often compare Birmingham to Brentwood in LA or Nichols Hills in Oklahoma City because it’s very safe, clean, and urbane. Downtown Birmingham is especially walkable with plenty of upscale local shops and big brands. Granted, it’s not the most diverse neighborhood, but it is home to delicious Middle Eastern food. Some of my faves include:

Phoenicia Restaurant: It’s hard not to love anything you order here. I’ve eaten here dozens of times and it never disappoints. Whether you dine in or take out, try the blackened salmon, muhummara, tomato kibbeh, roasted garlic cloves, sautéed dandelions, green beans and onion, and hummus. OK, I’m hungry now.

Elie’s Mediterranean Restaurant: Between Phoenicia and Elie’s, you’re all set. Seriously. You can’t go wrong with the crushed yellow lentil soup (it’s vegan!), green beans with tomatoes, and lemon-herb salmon. Be sure to order the off-menu round pita pillows — those carby little discs are so good.

Bakehouse 46: This bake shop offers a big selection of cupcakes and mini cupcakes, including three daily vegan options — chocolate, vanilla, and a seasonal flavor. There’s another location in Ferndale.

Ferndale, Michigan

This is the closest thing to West Hollywood in LA and I love it. Ferndale is very much an inclusive and welcoming neighborhood, with a lot of LGBTQ+ events, businesses, and resources. My husband and I love the annual Pride Festival, art shows, and other activities throughout the year. Some of my fave local businesses are:

Voyager: Housed inside a former auto repair shop in a quasi-industrial area, this hidden gem turns out some of the best seafood in town. The vibe is coastal cool with nautical decor and a small umbrella-lined patio. The friendly staff, tasty eats (think oysters on the half shell, crudo, and the like) and potent house rum punch will keep you going back for more.

Natural Food Path: This locally owned market has a great selection of natural and organic products ranging from groceries to body care and wellness. It’s also the only place I can find those elusive vegan candy bars that mimic Snickers, Three Musketeers, Milky Way, and other childhood faves.

Quix Chocolate: This spot offers gorgeous homemade chocolate creations, including a decent selection of vegan options like amazing cherry cordials and insanely addictive dark-chocolate covered potato chips. FYI, if you don’t make it to Ferndale, you can find a mini outpost of Quix at the Detroit airport. Perfect for take-home gifts and in-flight treats!

Spacecat V-stro: Three words: Vegan. Mozzarella. Sticks. You’re welcome. Also, the cafe’s quirky cat decor is a whole vibe.

Golden Salon: Feminine, chic, fun, and woman-owned spot to get the most uber-stylish cuts and color.

Flip Salon: Another great salon offering accessible price points and a retro scene.

Drifter Coffee: Located in a converted house off the beaten path, this is a welcoming spot to grab a drink and chill. The outdoor patio is cute and the little lending library usually has some good reads. Drifter is where I discovered Fraser Tea, a local family-owned organic tea seller with incredible blends. (Chocolate cream rooibos, anyone?)

Splatter: Another hidden find, this art studio is where you can channel your inner Jackson Pollock and let loose with all the colors of the rainbow. Perfect for parties and kids.

Berkley, Michigan

Not to be confused with Berkeley, California, this family-oriented neighborhood feels a bit sleepy yet it’s quite vibrant. A throwback to a simpler time, Berkley has over 250 small businesses that give the town its own authentic charm. It’s very refreshing not to see big-box stores and billboards everywhere. Some of my Berkley favorites include:

Chazzano Coffee Roasters: Owned by a former cantor who roasts beans onsite, Chazzano specializes in coffee from select growers around the world. Along with a variety of drinks, you can get bags to go. For a non-coffee option, don’t leave without the house-blended mixes of hot chocolate powders — especially the cardamom.

Berkley Common: This spacious, rustic-industrial corner spot has changed its menu several times recently, but it’s usually a good bet for seafood and wine.

Odd Fellows Antiques: This gem is hidden inside a historic meeting hall that looks like a church from the outside. The building has been around since 1923 and now houses about 50 antique dealers selling just about anything you can imagine. Great for one-of-a-kind finds.

My Favorite Things to Do in Detroit Might Become Your Faves Too

Detroit is the first place I lived full-time outside of LA and it has been good to me. It’s where I first started my career as a journalist in 2001 and has been my second home ever since. It’s exciting to see how Detroit has boomed over the last 20+ years, making its mark with top-notch restaurants and shops as well as historic sites that stand the test of time.

Have you been to the D lately? What are some of your favorite things to do in Detroit? Please let me know in the comments below!