Top things to do in Detroit
Detroit rewards visitors with outstanding museums, musical heritage and a city in the midst of revival.
- Detroit Institute of Arts — One of America’s great art museums, home to Diego Rivera’s monumental Detroit Industry murals.
- Motown Museum — Hitsville U.S.A., the modest house where Motown Records produced legendary hits.
- The Henry Ford — In nearby Dearborn, a museum of American innovation plus the open-air Greenfield Village.
- Detroit RiverWalk — A riverside path with parks, plazas and views across to Canada.
- Belle Isle — An island park in the Detroit River with a conservatory, aquarium and beaches.
- Eastern Market — A historic public market with food stalls, murals and weekend crowds.
- Architecture — Admire Art Deco landmarks such as the Guardian Building and the Fisher Building.
Best time to visit Detroit
Detroit has a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. May to October is the best time to visit, with pleasant weather for the RiverWalk, Belle Isle, outdoor dining and festivals; summer can be hot and humid, while September and October bring crisp days and autumn colours.
Winter, from December to March, is cold with regular snow, but museums, theatres and sports venues keep the city lively. The long-established North American International Auto Show, held in Detroit, is a major event for car enthusiasts; check dates in advance, as its timing has varied in recent years.
Getting from the airport
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is in Romulus, roughly 30 km south-west of downtown Detroit. The drive usually takes 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are the most common ways into the city, with pick-up areas at both the McNamara and Evans terminals. Public SMART buses connect the airport with downtown, and hotel shuttles serve many nearby properties. Car hire is widely used, as the metropolitan area is spread out.
Where to stay
Stay central to walk to many attractions, or in the suburbs if you have a car.
- Downtown — Hotels near the riverfront, sports arenas, theatres and Campus Martius Park; ideal for first-timers.
- Midtown — Close to the Detroit Institute of Arts, universities and a growing restaurant scene.
- Corktown — The city’s oldest neighbourhood, with trendy bars and restaurants.
- Dearborn — Convenient for the airport and The Henry Ford, with well-known Middle Eastern cuisine.
Travel tips
- Money: Cards are accepted almost everywhere; tipping of around 15–20% is customary in restaurants and for taxis.
- Getting around: The QLine streetcar and the People Mover serve central areas; a car is useful for the wider region.
- Crossing to Canada: Windsor is across the river, but crossing the border requires a passport and meeting Canadian entry requirements.
- Winter: Pack warm, waterproof clothing if visiting between December and March.
- Safety: As in any large city, stay aware of your surroundings and use well-lit, busy areas at night.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Detroit?
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), in Romulus, about 30 km south-west of downtown.
How do I get from the airport to downtown Detroit?
Taxis and ride-hailing apps take around 30–40 minutes. SMART buses and hotel shuttles are also available.
What currency is used in Detroit?
The US dollar (USD). Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Do I need a visa to visit the United States?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before you travel.
When is the best time to visit Detroit?
May to October offers the best weather for outdoor sightseeing; winters are cold and snowy.
Why is Detroit called the Motor City?
Detroit became the centre of the American car industry in the early 20th century, home to major manufacturers such as Ford, General Motors and Chrysler.
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