Downtown/Campus Martius
Downtown Detroit is the bustling urban core of the city. Campus Martius Park serves as the heart of downtown, with its iconic fountain and seasonal ice skating rink. Nearby you’ll find the landmark Renaissance Center, home of General Motors’ headquarters. History buffs will love checking out the Detroit Historical Museum to learn all about the city’s past innovations and developments. And no visit downtown is complete without seeing the magnificent Guardian Building with its Aztec-inspired art deco details.
Midtown
Bordering downtown to the north, Midtown Detroit is home to several of the city’s top cultural institutions. The Detroit Institute of Arts showcases artistic masterpieces from around the world. Right next door you’ll find the main branch of the Detroit Public Library with its impressive original architecture. For live music and entertainment, historic venues like the Detroit Opera House, Music Hall, and Fox Theatre deliver world-class performances.
New Center
Just north of Midtown you’ll come across the New Center neighborhood. This area is home to the Fisher Building, a National Historic Landmark known for its jaw-dropping art deco lobby. Be sure to also check out the Motown Museum, located in the original headquarters where Berry Gordy founded the iconic Motown record label. Nearby you can take a stroll through the lush gardens of the Marygrove College campus.
Mexicantown
No visit to Detroit is complete without experiencing Mexicantown, located along West Vernor Highway southwest of downtown. As the name implies, this vibrant neighborhood is the heart of Mexican culture in Detroit. Spend an afternoon browsing the shops and taco stands along Vernor, then stop for a meal at one of the many delicious family-owned Mexican restaurants in the area like Taqueria Lupitas or Taqueria Nuestra Familia.
Greektown
Near downtown along Monroe Street, Greektown transports visitors to the Mediterranean. This charming historic area is home to several Greek restaurants where you can feast on moussaka, dolmades, gyros, and more. After dinner, try your luck at one of Greektown’s three bustling casinos: MotorCity Casino Hotel, Greektown Casino, and Casino Bar & Grille Detroit. The neighborhood’s Hellenic influence shines through in the many Greek shops, churches, and cultural centers.
Eastern Market
Foodies flock to Eastern Market, which has served as Detroit’s central food hub since 1891. Every Saturday this wholesale market transforms into a lively farmers market where you can shop for produce, spices, and artisanal treats. Stroll through the colorful open-air sheds and be sure to stay for lunch—there are plenty of delicious food vendors and restaurants nearby. Murals and street art throughout the neighborhood add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Corktown
Historic Corktown, Detroit’s oldest neighborhood, is the perfect spot to step back in time. Many of the buildings here date back to the mid-1800s, retaining their original Victorian architecture. A highlight is exploring the grounds of the long-abandoned Michigan Central Station, a towering Beaux-Arts structure that once welcomed rail travelers. For a bite, check out Slows Bar BQ, Sugar House, or any of the other trendy new restaurants opening their doors in Corktown.
West Village
Tucked along the river just west of downtown, West Village exudes small-town charm right in the heart of the big city. Tree-lined streets with bright, colorful homes make it perfect for an afternoon stroll. Make sure to browse the stylish boutiques and home furnishing stores that give this neighborhood its artsy flair. When hunger strikes, grab a craft beer and pizza at Craft Work or sandwiches at Red Hook. The possibilities are endless in West Village.
Indian Village
Adjacent to Detroit’s East Riverfront, Indian Village is one of the city’s most prestigious historic neighborhoods. This residential area along the Detroit River is known for its lavish early 20th century homes designed in various architectural styles like Tudor Revival and Colonial Revival. Take a driving tour through the winding tree-lined streets to admire the beautifully preserved historic mansions and charming vintage streetlamps.
Palmer Woods
North of Highland Park, Palmer Woods is a historic neighborhood reminiscent of an affluent New England village. Among its winding tree-lined streets you’ll find stately Tudor homes, classical colonials, and distinctive architectural gems. The scenic neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to some of Detroit’s elites.
Boston-Edison
Northwest of downtown, the Boston-Edison neighborhood is characterized by its grand historic mansions. During Detroit’s boom years, this coveted area was home to auto industry tycoons and business magnates. Today, visitors can admire the preserved elegant homes built in styles like English Tudor, Beaux-Arts, Spanish Colonial, and Georgian Revival.
Woodbridge
Located between Downtown and Midtown, charming Woodbridge has emerged as an arts and culture hub. Young creatives and hip new businesses have moved into this rapidly developing neighborhood. Spend a day exploring the funky art galleries, cozy cafes, and green community parks and gardens scattered throughout Woodbridge’s tree-lined blocks.
Rivertown
Encompassing the lower east riverfront, Rivertown provides easy access to the Detroit River. Here you’ll find riverside parks like Gabriel Richard Park and William G. Milliken State Park, perfect for taking a leisurely stroll along the water. Also be sure to visit the outdoor sculpture garden at the Outdoor Adventure Center. Cap off your visit with spectacular riverfront views of downtown Detroit.
Lafayette Park
This unique neighborhood northeast of downtown was an early experiment in urban revitalization and mixed-income housing. Lafayette Park was designed in the mid-20th century by renowned architect Mies van der Rohe. His modernist vision resulted in a “streetless” neighborhood with pedestrian walkways and charming townhouses, high-rises, and innovative green spaces.
Book a Bus With Us
The best way to experience Detroit’s diverse neighborhoods is together on board a Party Bus Detroit charter bus. Our fleet of modern buses is available for any size group to explore Detroit in comfort and style. Our experienced team knows the city inside and out and can provide narration and tips during your neighborhood tour. Contact us today at (313) 209-8428 to reserve your party bus and start planning your customized Detroit itinerary!