Put on your walking shoes, pack the wagon or stroller and explore downtown. Downtown Detroit is walkable and fun. There’s plenty to do but here are 3 specific suggestions (ALL FREE) and a few additional ideas.

Spirtit Plaza

Get your picture in front of the Spirit of Detroit and let the kids play on the playground. The geometric shapes are fun to climb, there are swings and musical instruments. barricaded from cars, you can take in the city sites safely. There are often food trucks and music to enjoy. Walk along the pedestrian median up Woodward towards Campus Martius and you’ll find swinging benches. Address: 1 Woodward Ave

Lafayette Greens

Take the coney challenge and order hot dogs from Lafayette and American and take them to Lafayette Greens – a community garden park next to the building. There are tables to eat at, gardens to explore and public art to get your picture with. Address: 132 W Lafayette Blvd

Beacon Park

Beacon Park has a new outdoor art installation. Horizons is best experienced at night but kids will have fun any time of the day swinging in the egg shaped cocoons that light up and make natural sounds. Address: 1901 Grand River Ave

More downtown fun

  • Check out the Hudson site. It’s not everyday you can watch a skyscraper be built. Give your kids the chance to tell their kids how they saw the building before it was fully constructed. Address: 1208 Woodward Ave
  • Ride the People Mover. The city’s monorail is a great way to view the city and especially fun for kids who love trains.
  • Get a sweet treat. Huddle, Milk & Froth, the Sugar Factory, Jojo’s Shake BAR are delicious places to endulge.
  • Wander the RenCen and hit up the Riverfront. The Renaissance Center is iconic and the circular towers are fun to get lost in (there’s a People Mover stop to make entry easy) and you can exit the building and find yourself on the Detroit Riverfront.

Parking

Parking in any downtown can be a hassle, here are a few quick options to keep in mind.

  • Congress Lot: Flat $5 it’s easy to access and affordable. A bit outside the hustle and bustle but an easy 5 minute walk. 589 E Congress
  • Jefferson Ave: Underground parking that provides easy acces to the Riverfront and Spirit Plaza. 30 East Jefferson
  • Z Lot: In the middle of it all, slightly more expensive. 219 Gratiot Ave
  • MGM or Greektown: Both casino’s offer free parking.
  • Huntington Place: Hop on the People Mover and get off at the destination of your choice.