Detroit has had its ups and downs, but these days it’s vibing on retro glam that won’t break the bank. Downtown will pop your eyeballs, from the extraordinary art deco skyscrapers to the whimsical public parks and edgy street art.
It doesn’t seem to matter how you want to tackle the Motor City – be it through museums, poetry slams, or classic cars – Detroit has plenty to do for zilch. From riverside walks to outdoor cinema, here are the best free things to do in the city.
Detroit International RiverWalk
Regularly regarded as one of the best waterfronts in the country, the Detroit International RiverWalk is also home to one of the city’s coolest green spaces, Valade Park. When it’s hot and sunny, families cool off by the Detroit River. Along this three-mile scenic stretch which runs from the Belle Isle Bridge to Rosa Parks Boulevard, there are cafes, a carousel, beach volleyball, and much more. In the winter months, it is transformed into a winter wonderland with everything from bonfires to ice sculptures, even sledding for the little ones.
Take a Self-Guided Mural Walking Tour
Street art decorates the walls of buildings throughout Detroit. In the early 2000s, the city became a magnet for graffiti and mural artists to help revive the art scene. Detroit boasts one of the largest 3-D murals in the country at 19 stories tall on the Frank Murphy Hall of Justice, a true display of expressive innovation. A self-guided walking tour is an excellent way to get familiar with this charming city and its artistic offerings.
Admire More Than Art at The Detroit Public Library
Designed by the prominent architect Cass Gilbert and completed in 1865, the grand, white Vermont marble Detroit Public Library is stuffed to the rafters with art and history. The painted stained-glass windows are all original. Visitors can enjoy free programming for all ages including kid’s story time and engaging presentations for adults. Walk the grand stairs made out of marble and then look up at beautifully crafted Italian Renaissance-themed ceiling murals. Dynamic paintings exclusive to Detroit, such as Man’s Mobility by John S. Coppin, can be appreciated in Adam Strohm Hall.
Get a Historical Perspective
Purveyors of locally inspired gifts also offer guided tours of some of the city’s best sights, including the Fisher Building and the Guardian Building. Knowledgeable and friendly local historians are keen to share Detroit’s rich heritage.
See Classic Cars at the Woodward Dream Cruise
On the third Saturday in August, car lovers from around the world assemble to show off their four-wheeled treasures and cruise down Detroit’s main drag. With a sprawling footprint, the party offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy classic cars, especially along Woodward and neighboring streets.
Peruse the Shops at Eastern Market
Eastern Market is alive with produce, cheese, spice, and flower vendors filling large halls on Saturdays. However, the market is also bustling Monday through Friday with specialty shops and cafes. From June through September, Tuesday and Sunday markets offer a chance to enjoy local crafts and food trucks. Moreover, Eastern Market has become an internationally renowned hotspot for street art.
Walk the Dequindre Cut Greenway
The city’s riverfront path runs for three miles along the Detroit River from Hart Plaza to Mt. Elliott St., passing several parks and outdoor activities. Along the way, visitors can enjoy scenic views, fishing spots, and even outdoor theaters.
Explore the Iconic Fisher Building
This 1928 masterpiece from Albert Kahn features an imposing art deco exterior made from Minnesota granite and Maryland marble, with an interior to rival any Italian cathedral. The soaring vaulted ceilings display intricate, hand-painted patterns, while Hungarian artist Géza Maróti’s mosaics add visual delight.
Shop for Vinyl at Third Man Records
Third Man Records offers a fun browsing experience with records, turntables, T-shirts, and more. Visitors can make their own records in the recording booth or peek into the record pressing plant. Moreover, free concerts and performances often grace the in-store stage, providing ample entertainment.
Tour the Guardian Building
This distinctive 40-story redbrick building was the world’s tallest masonry structure when it opened in 1929. The interior features a colorful explosion of marble, mosaics, and murals that draw from various influences, making it a true architectural gem.
Ponder the Heidelberg Project
With polka-dotted streets and technicolor paint blobs, the Heidelberg Project is a block-spanning art installation aimed at beautifying the community. It showcases artist Tyree Guyton’s creative vision and continues to evolve over time, creating a vibrant outdoor art space.
Admire the City Sculpture Park
Local artist Robert Sestok transformed a forlorn lot into a captivating public space filled with hulking abstract sculptures made from scrap metal. A visit here is a quick but impressive experience.
Gather in the Sun at Beacon Park
A community gathering space across from the GAR Building, Beacon Park hosts food trucks, free concerts, interactive art installations, and yoga classes throughout summer months, making it a lively local hub.
See a Free Movie at a Drive-In
Drive-in cinemas are gaining popularity, and Detroit features several, including the Monroe Street drive-in, known for its free walk-in access and unique heated pods for sitting.
Take a Step Back in Time at the Scarab Club
This historical club embodies a rich past of arts appreciation with a stunning interior full of Tiffany lamps. The building promotes vibrant artistic endeavors such as exhibitions, poetry readings, and sketch sessions.
Immerse Yourself in the Lincoln Street Art Project
With vivid graffiti and sculptures made from found objects, the Lincoln Street Art Project is a quintessential slice of urban Detroit, constantly evolving as local artists contribute fresh pieces.
See a Summer Concert at Hart Plaza
This location is famous for free summer weekend festivals and concerts. While visiting, don’t forget to check out the iconic sculpture of Joe Louis’ mighty fist.
Gaze at Views from the Renaissance Center
As the tallest building in Michigan, the Renaissance Center is an ideal spot to soak in city views while benefiting from free tours and excellent riverfront access.
Enjoy the Ride on The People Mover
This tourist attraction features a three-mile loop on elevated tracks providing fantastic views of the city and riverfront, making it a unique travel experience.
Attend a Downtown Spoken Word Open Mic Night
Detroit is home to a thriving poetry scene, with open mic events at venues throughout the city where creative wordplay takes center stage, offering a vibrant cultural experience.
This article was first published on February 22, 2021, and updated on February 23, 2022.
