A Family Friendly Weekend in Detroit, Michigan
A Family Friendly Weekend in Detroit, Michigan
Nikki | Weekend Postcards
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Explore and enjoy a family friendly weekend in Detroit, Michigan by visiting museums, embracing local history, trying Detroit Style pizza and catching a game. Many of the museum locations offer fee-free days each month or take part in discount programs making them great stops for families. Detroit is also home to many professional sports teams. Cheer for the Lions, Tigers, Pistons and The Red Wings at a local sporting event - making it the best way to create life-long memories.
Detroit, Michigan is well known for the booming car industry in the late 1920's that lasted for decades, and the contributions to Motown music in the 1960's. Recently revitalized by passionate, local members of the community, Detroit has become a force to be reckoned with once again. It was recently named one of the best places to go in 2024. Check out the recommendations below to start planning your visit!
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Welcome to Detroit, Michigan
Detroit Classics - Food to Try
The biggest debate is always who has the best Detroit Style Pizza or best Coney Dog. You can't explore on an empty stomach, here are some of the top, local options for Detroit Style Pizza and Coney Island Dogs to test out.Â
Detroit Style Pizza
Known for its square shape and lack of crust, Detroit style pizza is delicious, cheesy, and baked to perfection. If you can't make it to one of these locations, Jet's Pizza is a chain that serves Detroit Style pizza and might make for an easier alternative option if you're a bit further from downtown.Â
Loui's Pizza
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Highly regarded by locals as one of the best options for authentic Detroit Style pizza.
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Michigan & Trumbull
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The battle for the best spot to enjoy Detroit style pizza is tight and T&M puts up a good fight to be top contender. Highly regarded by locals as a favorite spot downtown. I haven't been able to get here quite yet but its on my list to check out!
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Niki's Pizza
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Detroit Coney Dog
A Coney Dog has been a Detroit staple since 1917 when the first Coney Island opened in town. You might be wondering what exactly is a Coney Dog and how does it differ from a normal hot dog? A Coney dog is an all-beef frankfurter nestled in a soft, steamed bun. Its topping of an all meat, bean-less chili, diced white onions, and yellow mustard distinguishes it from the traditional, basic hot dog often served at ballparks.Â
Lafayette Coney Island
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When asking local residents, everyone says Lafayette's is a stop you can't miss.
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Zorba's Coney Island
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Duly's Place Coney Island
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Kerby's Koney Island
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Lipuma's Coney Island
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Located a bit further away from downtown Detroit, this is a great spot to enjoy a famous Detroit Style coney dog if you're in the area.
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Family Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family friendly activities available in Detroit. To make the most of your visit, explore the digital passes for additional discounts at general food locations, pizza joints, and specific activities. These are free to download directly to your phone, making it easier than ever to benefit from the local discounts.Â
DNR Outdoor Adventure Center
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An indoor experience with a range of hands on activities. Exhibits include interactive ways to learn about nature in MI. There is also a chance to try archery (pre-registration is required). $5 adult admission, $3 children admission and they are part of the museums for all program offering discounted $1 admission to those who meet the program criteria.
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Detroit Riverwalk Park
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Free activity to enjoy outside. Perfect for when the weather is nice. Walk the paved path along the Detroit River.
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Detroit Historical Museum
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Free admission on the 2nd Sunday of each month (June 9, July 14, August 11, September 8, October 13, November 10, December 8, and January 12, 2025). The signature exhibitions host over 300 years of Detroit history.
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Belle Isle Aquarium
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Free admission! If you can, and have the means, a $5 donation is recommended but not required. Part of the museums for all campaign bringing opportunities to all members in a community. It was recently named the most beautiful aquarium in the country.
Summer Hours: Only open Thursday-Sunday from 10am-4pm until August 29, 2024.
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Belle Isle Park
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Free to access the outdoor space of Belle Isle outside the aquarium. See the huge fountain, walk the trails along the Detroit River or just enjoy the beautiful flowers. Perfect family activity for when the weather is nice.
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Motown Museum
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Museum access by guided tour only. Part of the Bank of America - Museums On Us program offering free admission to bank of America cardholders the first weekend of each month. (Others in their group do have to pay their own admission.)
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Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)
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One of the most recommended Art spaces in the country. With stunning pieces, this makes for the perfect afternoon appreciating the fine pieces of art at the DIA.
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Eastern Market
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Eclectic market space well known for the art and local products. Often host special events like Eastern Market After Dark (COMING SOON: Thursday, Sept 19, 2024, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM).
Surrounded by local spots to eat and additional art spaces. Tons of wall murals in this area as well. Parking is available nearby.
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Ford Piquette Avenue Plant Museum
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Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit
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Michigan Science Center
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Ford House
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Part of the Blue Star Program and Museums for all program. Offers discounted $3 self guided admittance for those who have SNAP benefits.
Normal admission fees: $15 for adults, $7.50 for children.
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Activities Located in Dearborn, MI (Approx. 16 minute drive from downtown).
Ford Rouge Factory Tour
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Greenfield Village
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Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
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Activities located a bit further away - Neighboring Suburb Areas
Cranbrook Institute of Science
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Cranbrook Art Museum
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Detroit Zoo
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Bonus Addition - Not Family Friendly but great for a date night/night out with friendsÂ
Fо̄wling Warehouse Hamtramck
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Perfect mix between football and bowling - Fowling! This activity is not family friendly and everyone who enters will need to have their ID checked. Perfect for an adults night out with friends.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nikki | Weekend Postcards
Available for hire
Hi travelers! I am here to help you enjoy your weekend trips to the fullest to cities near, far, or even in your backyard.
Currently:đź“ŤLouisiana, U.S.A.
Just Posted: Lakeland, FL & Explore Berlin, Germany with a Local
Upcoming Trips: European Summer in Zablajk, Montenegro
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Michigander at heart but currently traveling the world one week at a time for work. When not on the road and living out of my suitcase, I am down to spend the day exploring the local city scene or out hiking in nature. I am an adventurous spirit and try to maximize my free time exploring the hidden corners of whatever city I am in. I've been traveling all over the U.S. and Europe for nine years and crave authentic experiences at local hot spots (and sometimes the touristy faves). As a young and avid traveler (16 Countries, 45 U.S. States, 24 U.S. National Parks & numerous cities) my goal is to help you reach your travel goals - no matter the destination.
On Thatch, I create super detailed guides and itineraries to destinations that I've personally visited. These destinations have a little bit of everything that I love about travel (adventure, city life, great eats, beach days and more). I can also create custom guides and itineraries to wherever you may be dreaming of traveling to.
Top bucket list items: Ride in a hot air balloon, visit all 50 U.S. states, and someday be on the Amazing Race with my sister.
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Check out my free and paid thatch travel guides on my profile, or for a customized itinerary for any of the locations featured, shoot me a message so we can connect. Let's explore!
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