Detroit, Michigan is a lively city with a rich and vibrant history. It’s also home to a wide variety of hidden gems. From unique museums to the country’s oldest hat shop, here are the top 7 off-the-beaten-path things to do the next time you’re in Detroit.
1. Browse Over A Million Books At This Bookstore
Here’s a great choice for book lovers! This sprawling bookstore consists of four stories. John K. King Used and Rare Books has offered customers a huge selection of used books ranging from rare collecter’s editions to antiques since the 1970s. Today, the current bookstore is home to an estimated one million books that you can peruse. Even if you aren’t in the market for antique editions, the bookstore still features a unique and impressive of books and can be a fun stop!
2. Grab A Drink At Grand Trunk Pub
Looking to grab a drink the next time you’re in Detroit? Consider stopping by the Grand Trunk Pub. This memorable bar is located in a converted railway station, offering an experience you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. Visitors can look forward to a variety of craft bears, as well as an expansive food menu offering everything from quick bites to larger meals. Notably, the Grand Trunk Pub also offers to-go beer and wine, perfect for those looking to enjoy a drink back at home or at their hotel and still wanting to check out the railway station it’s located in.
3. Check Out Belle Isle Aquarium
Head out to Belle Isle to experience the Belle Isle aquarium. This aquarium may not be the largest, but it’s still home to a variety of wide variety of aquatic animals. It also boasts a long and interesting history. It was once the longest continually operating aquarium in the United States, having originally opened in 1904. It eventually lost that title after closing from 2005-2012, but its doors are now open and welcoming visitors once again.
4. Catch A Show At The Redford Theatre
This historic theatre has been entertaining guests since the 1920s! While it has since been renovated, it has still maintained much of its classic charm. The perfect place for a night out, the Redford Theatre hosts a variety of live shows as well as films. Their upcoming show schedule, as well as tickets, are available online.
5. Visit The Nation’s Oldest Hat Shop
Head over to Henry The Hatter to see the nation’s oldest hat shop! Even if you’re not in the market for some new headgear, this is still a pretty fun shop to visit. Henry The Hatter offers everything from the casual beanie to a more formal dress hat. For those who are interested in purchasing a hat, you can check out their website for daily hours and some examples of what they offer.
6. Stop By The Guardian Building
This is the sort of hidden gem that’s hidden in plain sight. This skyscraper sits in Detroit’s financial district. While it does feature some notable, interesting architecture on the outside, the real treasure lies in the form of Art Deco-style colorful mosaics and stained glass windows that line the interior.
7. Visit Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum
If you’re looking for a truly quirky, off-the-beaten-path attraction in Detroit, check out Marvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum. Located about 30 minutes from the heart of Detroit, the trip is worth it for the one-of-a-kind experience This unique museum features a collection of a wide variety of mechanical oddities, from sideshow Fortune Teller animatronics to antique games. Admission to the museum is also free, making this a great option for those looking for some budget-friendly options as well!
