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City Guide
- Overview
- The Basics
- Contacts
- Attractions
- Excursions
- Events
- Airports
- Transport
- Climate
- Photos
- Hotels in Detroit
Maps
Directory
Time
Why? Sport, the history of the automobile, the
distinctive Motown sound, and a rather unique downtown riverfront.
These are some of the reasons why people choose to holiday in
Detroit, the bustling major metropolis in the state of Michigan.
Travel to Detroit to worship at the automotive shrines of Cadillacs
and Fords, but also to tick a major box in your exploration of the
country's great cities.
When? The perfect times to holiday in Detroit are
during spring and autumn, when the weather is less extreme; autumn
is especially picturesque when the trees display gorgeous colours.
In the height of Summer the city can be uncomfortably hot and in
winter, well into April, temperatures are below freezing and snow
is driven by icy winds.
Who for? Anyone who loves cars should make a
pilgrimage and travel to Detroit, but even if your interest is
marginal, take a look-see at what has driven the automotive
industry. Music buffs, too, will get a kick out of a Detroit
holiday, the city that spawned Stevie Wonder and the Motown
label.
More Info: What is the time in Detroit? What can I
see there? What facilities are there at the Detroit Metro Airport?
How will I get around? All these questions and many more are
answered in our comprehensive Detroit travel guide, which is
regularly updated, to help you plan a wonderful Detroit
holiday.
Overview
The sprawling industrial city of Detroit, the oldest city in America's mid-west, began life as a trading post when French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac landed on the banks of the Detroit River in 1701 and established a fort. He was later removed because of bad conduct, but unlike its outpost commander, the settlement of Detroit was flourishing. In 1796 Detroit became American, and by the early 19th century had already earned a reputation as a centre for the manufacturing industry, particularly kitchen ranges. As most people now know, however, Detroit did not go on to become the stove-making capital of the world. Today it is renowned as being the automotive centre of the globe, birthplace of the motorcar and home to some of the nation's top brands. Originally automobile empires were established by Detroit families like Ford, Olds, Chevrolet and Dodge, which have become household names, thanks to the invention and perfection of the motor vehicle production assembly line, which all began in Detroit.
It is not only hard work and industrial enterprise that drives Detroit, however. The city in southeast Michigan is also famous for the Motown record label, founded by former autoworker Berry Gordy Jr, which has introduced the world to stars such as Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, the Temptations and Diana Ross, to name but a few.
Modern 'Motown' Detroit is a little decayed and shabby, but efforts are being made to increase the city's appeal as a tourist destination, and there are several attractions worth seeing. In the downtown area new hotels and restaurants are appearing to complement a new sports stadium, and there is a focus on the arts, particularly in the city's historic theatre district. The Rennaissance Center, a group of seven interconnected skyscrapers, provides the best views of downtown Detroit.