Don’t Forget the Motor City: 7 Detroit Neighborhoods to Visit

Whether you are looking to dine at a top restaurant, root for a hometown team or shop locally, Detroit has a neighborhood for you. Here are seven neighborhoods to check out that have so much to see and do that you may be tempted to extend your visit:

1. Entertainment District

This tourist-mecca is perfect for the first-time visitor or anyone looking for a fun night out. You will find theaters and music spots, as well as major sports venues.

When in the Entertainment District, visit:

Punch Bowl Social: This complex will keep you entertained all day long. From the bowling alley to the karaoke setup, the killer food and beverage program are the icing on top.

Comerica Park: There’s nothing more American than a day spent at the ballpark. Cheer on Major League Baseball’s Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park.

Ford Field: Football season is extra fun at Ford Field, home to the NFL’s Detroit Lions as well as a regular roster of A-list entertainers.

2. The District Detroit

The name of this neighborhood may seem confusing, but the reasons to visit are clear: It’s where the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings and NBA’s Detroit Pistons play.

When in The District Detroit, visit:

Little Caesars Arena: This venue is the home of the Red Wings and Pistons, as well as the site of concerts and other events.

Detroit Opera House: Treat yourself to a night at the theater while in Detroit. There’s something for all kinds of arts enthusiasts, from opera to ballet to Broadway shows.

QLine: Take a ride on this modern street car line. Getting around the city has never been easier.

3. Eastern Market

Home to the 150-year-old Eastern Market, this neighborhood offers a great way to connect with traditional Detroit.

When in Eastern Market, visit:

Saturday Market: The busiest day for Eastern Market, where you can shop for everything from local art to produce to flowers—and almost everything in between.

Supino Pizzeria: A stop at the Eastern Market’s Supino Pizzeria is a must for lovers of New York-style pizza.

Wasserman Projects: Step outside the typical tourist attractions and visit the offbeat Wasserman Projects, a modern art experience with constantly evolving exhibits.

4. Greektown

As its name suggests, this neighborhood offers a direct link to old world Greek traditions. Authentic dining, coffee houses, festivals, locally owned boutiques and one of the city’s three casinos await. Greektown also participates in a neighborhood-wide happy hour every Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m.

When in Greektown, visit:

Greektown Casino: Roll the dice at Greektown Casino, for a fun-filled night in this 24/7 attraction.

Santorini Estiatorio: Experience upscale Greek cuisine at this restaurant, which is known for its updates of traditional dishes.

Old St. Mary’s Church: The architecture of Old St. Mary’s Church, which dates to 1885, is a breathtaking example of Pisan Romanesque and Venetian Renaissance styles.

St. Andrews Hall: This beloved music venue opened in 1907 and has been going strong ever since. Spend an evening listening to local bands, indie performers and DJ’s.

5. Rivertown

Rivertown helps anchor the Detroit International RiverWalk, a 5.5 paved pathway with easy access to bars, restaurants and recreational sites.

When in Rivertown, visit:

Hart Plaza: This lovely 14-acre riverfront plaza has hosted concerts, festivals and other events since 1975.

Milliken State Park Lighthouse: This Instagram-worthy spot is perfect for an afternoon picnic or stroll along the riverfront.

Gabriel Richard Park: Featuring butterfly gardens, a labyrinth and birding station, and b and more, this park is a serene place to relax in the city.

Wheelhouse Detroit: Cover more ground with a bike rental from Wheelhouse. Explore on your own or sign up for a tour.

6. Midtown

Midtown is made up of art galleries and museums, outdoor markets, boutiques and perhaps the hottest dining scene in the city.

When in Midtown, visit:

Detroit Institute of Arts: This venerable museum has one of the largest collections in the country.

Avalon International Breads: This popular local chain is known for its fresh-baked traditional—and vegan—breads and sweet treats.

The Whitney: Once home to the one of the wealthiest men in Detroit, The Whitney is now a restaurant and event space.

Shinola: Shop from this iconic Detroit maker of watches, leather goods, jewelry and bicycles.

7. Corktown

The oldest neighborhood in Detroit is the traditional home to the city’s Irish community. It’s a place of pubs, live music, breweries and record shops.

When in Corktown, visit:

Astro Coffee: Fuel up for a busy day or relax after a long afternoon at this chill cafe.

Two James Spirits: Spend an afternoon enhancing your palate at this local distillery, which produces a range of spirits, including gin, bourbon and rye.

Batch Brewing Co.: This brewery offers 16 of its beers on tap and a full menu of pub fare.

Hello Records: Browse among a wide selection of vinyl at this neighborhood haunt.