Once at the heart of the USA’s industrial boom, Detroit famously struggled at the beginning of the 21st Century. Now, this historic music and automobile hub is undergoing a serious regeneration, attracting a cool and creative crowd and making it an increasingly exciting destination for visitors. Accommodation options include heritage B&Bs and swish city hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Head downtown for art deco buildings, warehouses-turned-distilleries, edgy cafés and live music bars — many of which are within walking distance of the best places to stay in Detroit.
Unravel the metropolis’ roots, the possibilities of the future, the potential risks and rewards of gentrification, and everything from urban gardens to community music initiatives with a knowledgable guide on a walking or cycling tour. Architecture buffs will adore spotting the imposing, 40-storey Guardian Building, the Fisher Building, Michigan Central Station and the Renaissance Centre, amongst other big-hitters.
Key art hubs include the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit and the Scarab Club. Admire outdoor murals, graffiti and sculptural pieces at the City Sculpture Park, Lincoln Street Art Park and the wacky Heidelberg Project. Detroit grew wealthy as the home of much of the US automobile industry, and the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is now an excellent museum — complete with Henry Ford’s preserved 1908 office. To delve into Detroit’s iconic musical heritage, try the Motown Historical Museum. Look out for top-notch live gigs and community events at Beacon Park and Hart Plaza during the summer months.
Finally, check out the thrumming Eastern Market and venture out onto the Detroit River for kayaking, walking and zoo visits at Belle Isle Park. The riverfront — right on Michigan's Canadian border — is also well worth a wander. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends and family or for business, the best places to stay in Detroit promise something for everyone.