If you’re new to the area, or just want to get to know it better, we’ve compiled a list of quintessential Detroit things you need to do.  If you have more suggestions for newcomers, let us know in the comments.

Want to get more up to speed on Detroit? Check out our Detroit primer. 

Where to go: Detroit Experience Factory What to do: Take a guided tour of the city Why it made the list: There’s no better way to acclimate yourself with downtown than by hanging out with the people who know it best. Visit their website to book a tour. Photo: Detroit Experience Factory Facebook
Where to go: The Riverwalk What to do: Walk, run, picnic, and people watch Why it made the list: The Riverwalk highlights everything that’s great about Detroit. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon, especially during the summer. Photo: Detroit Riverfront Facebook
Where to go: Pure Detroit Tour What to do: Take a tour of the Fisher and Guardian buildings Why it made the list: First of all, it’s free. Pure Detroit promises you’ll “Learn intimate details as well as see firsthand the exquisite design and ornamentation.” Visit their website for more information. Photo: Metro Times Staff
Where to go: The Redford Theater What to do: Watch a silent movie Why it made the list: The Redford opened in 1928 and has become a staple ever since. Their slogan says it best: “The way movies were meant to be seen.” Photo: The Redford Facebook
Where to go: The Detroit Institute of Arts What to do: View the collections or eat at the Cafe Why it made the list: The DIA is a Detroit staple. DIA.org puts it best, calling the museum “a beacon of culture for the Detroit area for well over a century.” Photo: The Detroit Institute of Arts
Where to go: Feather Bowling at Cadieux Cafe What to do: Feather bowl, eat, and drink Why it made the list: The Cadieux Cafe has been a Metro Detroit staple since the sixties. In addition to feather bowling there’s a restaurant and bar so you can make a full night of it. Photo: Craig Janson, Pinterest
Where to go: Greenfield Village What to do: Hang out in the 19th century Why it made the list: Going to Greenfield Village is like taking a step back in time. There are hundreds of things to do and see all over the village, like Thomas Edison’s laboratory and the Wright Brother’s house. Photo: The Henry Ford Facebook
Where to go: Campus Martius What to do: Eat and hangout Why it made the list: Located in the heart of downtown, Campus Martius is within walking distance of a half dozen food trucks. And there’s a beach if you want to stick your toes in the sand. Photo: Campus Martius Park Facebook
Where to go: Pewabic Pottery What to do: Visit the museum and education studio Why it made the list: Pewabic Pottery is a staple to downtown. You can visit the Stratton Gallery to see exhibits, or take a class in the education studio. Photo: Pewabic Pottery Facebook
Where to go: Kensington Metropark What to do: Hike, bike, swim, picnic Why it made the list: On the outskirts of Metro Detroit lies 1,200 acres of beauty. It’s a great place to spend a day when the weather is nice. Photo: Kensington Metropark Facebook
Where to go: Detroit Cycle Pub What to do: Pedal and drink Why it made the list:Hello, you get a tour of Downtown Detroit while you drink. Photo: detroitcyclepub.com
Where to go: The Heidelberg Project What to do: Walk down the block and see for yourself Why it made the list: The Heidelberg Project is unlike anything else you’ll find downtown. Photo: Heidelberg Facebook
Where to go: Belle Isle Aquarium and Zoo What to do: Visit the isle, tour the aquarium and zoo Why it made the list: Belle Isle is the best reprieve from city life, located just minutes from downtown. There’s plenty to do on Belle Isle, but don’t leave without going to the aquarium or zoo. Visit their website for hours of operation. Photo: Belle Isle Conservancy Facebook
Where to go: Detroit Historical Museum What to do: Get to know Motown better Why it made the list: The Detroit Historical Museum has a number of permanent exhibits that tell the history of the city. Photo: Detroit Historical Museum Facebook
Where to go: Eastern Market What to do: Eat, shop, explore Why it made the list: There’s something for everyone at Eastern Market. You can take a tour, tailgate on the weekends, and there’s tons of food and shopping. Photo: Eastern Market Facebook
Where to go: John K. King Used & Rare Books What to do: Browse and shop Why it made the list: This glove factory turned bookstore has four stories filled with hundreds of used and rare books. Photo: John King Used & Rare Books Facebook
Where to go: The DSO What to do: See a show Why it made the list: The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is a must for any music lover. Photo: The Detroit Symphony Orchestra Facebook
Where to go: The Detroit Zoo What to do: See the animals Why it made the list: The Detroit Zoo is the perfect way to spend a summer afternoon. It’s beautiful, has dozens of animals, and is home to a brand new Penguinarium. Photo: The Detroit Zoo Facebook
Where to go: The People Mover What to do: See Detroit from above Why it made the list: It’s not a practical form of transportation, but it’s a fun way to see the city. Photo: Metro Times Staff

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Since 1980, Metro Times has been Detroit’s premier alternative source for news, arts, culture, music, film, food, fashion and more from a liberal point of view.