New to Detroit? Here's 20 things you need to do

By Metro Times Staff

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.

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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