Fun Family Activities in Detroit

The Motor city is often seen as a dark, gritty metro center with little more to do than catch a ball game or concert. There couldn't be a statement further from the truth. Detroit is a vibrant city with activities for the young and old, ranging from viewing world-class art to strolling along the largest boarder crossing in the United States. No matter what your taste, if you are visiting Detroit with your family, there is a large number if activities for you to take in.

Detroit Zoo

Located just outside of the city in Royal Oak, Michigan (a suburb less than 10 minutes away) the Detroit Zoo is one of the largest animal exhibits in the United States. Although summer time is going to have the most public showings (and the largest crowds) the zoo is actually open all year round. The price for the zoo fluctuates, depending on your age and the time of year, but a discount is given to individuals living in the Detroit tri-county area. When visiting, make sure to take in the polar bear exhibit, situated in almost the exact middle of the zoo.

Detroit Riverfront

The Detroit to Windsor, Canada crossing is the nation's busiest international crossing point, as thousands of cars and trucks travel between the two gateway cities. Splitting the two cities is the Detroit river, and along the U.S. border is the Detroit riverfront. Located behind the GM Renaissance building and stretching north, the riverfront is made up of brick cobblestone with trees separating the waterway from the skyscrapers. Along the walkway is a ferris wheel, constructed water fountains and a gorgeous view of the turquoise water and the city of Windsor.

Detroit Institute of Art

The Detroit Institute of Art (DIA for short) is one of the nation's leading collectors of art. Although it doesn't have as large of a collection as its counterparts in New York and Chicago, there is a large number of pieces on display, designed to awe and inspire onlookers. From ancient Greek sculptures to paintings by Andy Warhol, Picasso and Rembrandt, it is find to find a little bit of everything at the Detroit Institute of Art.

Motown

Outside of motor vehicles, Detroit is most known for its connection to music and is often referred to Motown. Since the 1960s, Motown records released hit after hit from dozens of different musical artists. Although Motown has since been bought out, you can visit the place it all began at Hitsville U.S.A.