Detroit does not rank among the top cities that people want to visit in America. The abandoned housing and projects form a basis for this outlook. However, the city has come a long way and is improving over time. Determined entrepreneurs are revamping old buildings and setting them up for business to reclaim Detroit to its former glory.
There are many historical and fun places to visit while in Detroit. Some of what Detroit has to offer includes:
Detroit Masonic Temple
If you want a unique and popular place to visit, then the Masonic temple is the place to go. Built from Indiana limestone, this temple is often used to host concerts and other events. It has three areas to explore: the auditorium, shrine club and the ritualistic tower. If you want to experience one of the largest Masonic temples in the world and a testament of American gothic architecture, then the Detroit Masonic Temple is the place to be.
Detroit Institute of Arts
On 5200 Woodward Avenue lies the Detroit Institute of Arts. This fine institution has collections from Oceania, Africa and Indigenous Americas. It houses some masterpieces including works by Van Gogh and Picasso. If you want to experience culture and art from medieval times through to the present day world, then this institute offers that and so much more.
Motown Museum
The Motown Museum is located on 2648 West Grand Boulevard. It is the home of the Motown sound. The small building was the original studio where Motown sound was birthed. It was occupied for 25 years starting 957 through to 1972. Visitors are able to see the original studio where singers such as Marvin Gaye produced hit songs. The museum forms the heart of Detroit as well as the Motown sound’s origins.
Belle Island
The Belle Isle is one of the places to visit in Detroit. It is a small island located on Detroit River that measures 3 miles in length and one mile in width. The island has an aquarium that you can visit and the Great Lake Museum which is home to historical artifacts and models. In addition to history, the Belle Island also offers great terrain for those who like to hike or enjoy a nice long walk.
The Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History
Detroit was the last stop for the underground railways which played a crucial role in slave trade. This underground railway also made it possible for slaves to escape from Michigan into Canada. This and other topics are covered in the Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History which documents the role of blacks in the United States. The museum is located on 315 East Warren Avenue.
Conclusion
Detroit has a lot to offer in terms of places to visit. With each and every one of the highlighted places, you get to learn something about Detroit and its position and role in the country as well as the world. The Henry Ford Museum and the Historic Fort Wayne are some of the other places that you should also visit.