Detroit Opportunity Zones Map
Detroit is a city that is often overlooked as a travel destination, but with the recent development of opportunity zones, there are plenty of reasons to visit. This travel guide will cover everything you need to know about exploring Detroit’s opportunity zones, including top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
If you’re looking for the top attractions in Detroit’s opportunity zones, look no further than the Detroit Institute of Arts. This world-renowned museum has an extensive collection of art from around the world, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Dali. Another must-see attraction is the Motown Museum, where you can learn all about the history of Motown music and see the recording studio where many famous Motown hits were made.
Hidden Gems
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Heidelberg Project, an outdoor art installation that has been created by local artist Tyree Guyton. The project features colorful houses and sculptures made from found objects, and it’s a great place to explore for a few hours. Another hidden gem is the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, which has a beautiful promenade along the Detroit River and offers stunning views of the skyline.
Food Scene
Detroit has a thriving food scene, and there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from in the opportunity zones. For a taste of Detroit’s famous Coney Island hot dogs, head to Lafayette Coney Island or American Coney Island. If you’re in the mood for pizza, try Buddy’s Pizza, which is known for its Detroit-style pizza. And for a more upscale dining experience, check out Grey Ghost, which has a menu of modern American cuisine and craft cocktails.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are still plenty of things to do in Detroit’s opportunity zones without breaking the bank. The Motown Museum and the Heidelberg Project are both affordable attractions, and you can also explore the city’s many parks and green spaces for free. For a cheap and delicious meal, try one of the many food trucks that can be found throughout the city.
Outdoor Adventures
Detroit may not be the first place you think of for outdoor adventures, but there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports in the opportunity zones. Belle Isle Park is a 985-acre island park in the Detroit River that offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, a beach, and a conservatory. The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a 2-mile rail trail that is great for biking and walking, and the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy offers kayaking and paddleboarding rentals.
Historical Landmarks
Detroit is a city with a rich history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore in the opportunity zones. The Henry Ford Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history, with exhibits on everything from the Wright Brothers’ plane to the Rosa Parks bus. Another important historical site is the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, which tells the story of African American history in Detroit and beyond.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Detroit’s opportunity zones. The Detroit Zoo is a popular attraction, with more than 2,500 animals from 240 species. The Michigan Science Center is another great option, with interactive exhibits on science and technology. And for a fun and educational experience, head to the Detroit Historical Museum, which has exhibits on the city’s history and culture.
Natural Wonders
For a break from the city, head to one of the many natural wonders in the opportunity zones. The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is a 5,700-acre refuge that is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and river otters. The Lower Huron Metropark is another great option, with hiking trails, a beach, and a golf course. And for a stunning view of the Detroit skyline, head to Belle Isle Park.
Vibrant Nightlife
Detroit has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from in the opportunity zones. The Fillmore Detroit is a popular concert venue that has hosted acts like Bob Dylan and the Foo Fighters. For a more intimate music experience, head to the Cliff Bell’s jazz club. And if you’re in the mood for a drink, check out the craft cocktails at the Sugar House.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for a taste of Detroit’s local food and culture, check out one of the city’s many markets. Eastern Market is a historic market district that has been in operation since 1891, and it’s a great place to sample local produce and artisanal foods. The Detroit Mercantile Co. is another great option, with a selection of locally made goods and souvenirs. And for a taste of Detroit’s famous coney dogs, head to Lafayette Coney Island or American Coney Island.
Beaches and Mountains
While Detroit is known for its urban landscape, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors in the opportunity zones. Belle Isle Park has a beach where you can swim and sunbathe, and there are hiking trails throughout the park. For a more mountainous experience, head to the nearby Mount Brighton ski resort, which offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter and zip lining and mountain biking in the summer.
Cultural Immersion
Detroit is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture in the opportunity zones. The Arab American National Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of Arab Americans in the United States. The Detroit Historical Museum is another great option, with exhibits on the city’s history and culture. And for a taste of Detroit’s famous music scene, check out a concert at the Fillmore Detroit or the Fox Theatre.
Art and Music Scene
Detroit has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and music venues to explore in the opportunity zones. The Detroit Institute of Arts is a must-visit for anyone interested in art, with an extensive collection of works from around the world. The MOCAD is another great option, with contemporary art exhibits and events. And for a taste of Detroit’s famous music scene, check out a concert at the Fillmore Detroit or the Fox Theatre.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Detroit’s opportunity zones is on foot. There are plenty of walking tours available that will take you through the city’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks. The Detroit Experience Factory offers a variety of tours, including a tour of downtown Detroit and a tour of the city’s street art. And for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, check out the Feet on the Street Tours, which offer tours of Detroit’s lesser-known neighborhoods.
Architectural Marvels
Detroit is a city with a rich architectural heritage, and there are plenty of stunning buildings to explore in the opportunity zones. The Guardian Building is a must-see, with its Art Deco design and colorful tilework. The Fisher Building is another architectural marvel, with its ornate marble lobby and stunning murals. And for a taste of Detroit’s industrial heritage, check out the Michigan Central Station, which has been abandoned since the 1980s.
Historical Sites
Detroit is a city with a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore in the opportunity zones. The Motown Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Motown music, and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is a great place to learn about African American history in Detroit and beyond. And for a taste of Detroit’s industrial heritage, check out the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, where the first Model T was built.
Biking Routes
Detroit is a great city for biking, with plenty of bike-friendly routes and trails in the opportunity zones. The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a 2-mile rail trail that is great for biking and walking, and the Detroit Riverwalk is another great option. And for a longer ride, check out the Detroit Heritage River Water Trail, which is a 52-mile trail that follows the Detroit River.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, there are plenty of options to choose from in the opportunity zones. The Detroit Yoga Lab offers a variety of yoga classes and workshops, and the Detroit Athletic Club has a fitness center and spa. And for a more holistic experience, check out the Detroit Community Acupuncture, which offers affordable acupuncture treatments.
Adventure Sports
For the adrenaline junkies, there are plenty of adventure sports to enjoy in Detroit’s opportunity zones. The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy offers kayaking and paddleboarding rentals, and the Mount Brighton ski resort offers skiing and