Detroit

Hidden Gems of Detroit

Detroit is full of surprises, from stunning architecture to underground music scenes. Whether you’re into art, history, music, or food, the city has a hidden side waiting to be explored. Here are some must-visit spots that might not be on your radar.

Unique Places to Explore

The Heidelberg Project – This outdoor art installation transforms an entire neighborhood with colorful, thought-provoking sculptures made from found objects. It’s a must-see for art lovers.

Pewabic Pottery – Step into Detroit’s artistic heritage at this historic ceramic studio. You can admire handcrafted pottery, learn about the process, or even take a class.

The Guardian Building – Known as Detroit’s “Cathedral of Finance,” this Art Deco masterpiece features breathtaking architecture and even hides a cozy coffee shop inside.

Detroit Riverwalk & Dequindre Cut – Perfect for a stroll or bike ride, this scenic riverside trail features public art, hidden parks, and a graffiti-covered greenway.

The Fisher Building – Often called “Detroit’s largest art object,” this architectural gem offers hidden shops, a stunning lobby, and even a rooftop tour with spectacular skyline views.

Belle Isle Aquarium – The oldest aquarium in America may be small, but its stunning green-tiled interior and unique sea creatures make it worth a visit.

Seldom Seen Vintage – A hidden gem for vintage lovers, this shop is packed with rare finds, from retro clothing to Detroit memorabilia.

The Congregation – Located in a restored church, this cozy café and bar is a great spot for coffee, cocktails, and community events.

Detroit’s African Bead Museum – This small but fascinating museum tells African history through intricate beadwork and vibrant outdoor sculptures.

Mariners’ Church of Detroit – Tucked away on the riverfront, this historic church is famous for its maritime history and its connection to the legend of the Edmund Fitzgerald.

Live Music Venues

Detroit’s music scene is legendary, and these spots offer some of the best live performances in the city.

Jazz & Blues:

  • Baker’s Keyboard Lounge – One of the world’s oldest jazz clubs, offering intimate performances and a rich history.
  • Cliff Bell’s – A stylish, 1930s-era jazz club with live music and a speakeasy vibe.

Indie & Alternative:

  • The Magic Stick – A staple for rock, indie, and electronic music, featuring a rooftop bar and bowling alley.
  • El Club – A trendy Southwest Detroit venue showcasing up-and-coming artists across multiple genres.
  • The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre – An outdoor riverfront venue hosting R&B, soul, jazz, and hip-hop performances during the summer.

Techno & Electronic:

  • Spot Lite Detroit – A hybrid art gallery, café, and dance club, known for intimate DJ sets and a fantastic vinyl selection.
  • Marble Bar – A go-to for underground house and techno music, with a top-tier sound system and a vibrant local crowd.
  • TV Lounge – A legendary after-hours club with an outdoor patio and deep Detroit techno vibes.

Open Mic Nights & Jam Sessions

  • Ghost Light (Hamtramck) – A cozy, welcoming bar with open mic nights featuring poetry, music, and comedy.
  • Detroit Shipping Company – A trendy food hall hosting open mic nights and live music, great for discovering local talent.
  • The Blue Nile (Ferndale) – Known for its reggae open mic nights, attracting a laid-back crowd.
  • Cliff Bell’s Open Jam (Wednesdays) – Jazz lovers shouldn’t miss this midweek jam, where top-tier musicians drop in.
  • The Old Miami – A legendary dive bar with an open mic night covering folk, punk, and hip-hop.

Best Record Stores for Vinyl Lovers

  • People’s Records – Specializing in soul, funk, and Motown classics, this is a crate digger’s paradise.
  • Paramita Sound – A boutique record store with an audiophile vibe, often hosting live DJ sets.
  • Hello Records – A small but mighty shop focusing on jazz, blues, and rock.
  • Third Man Records – Jack White’s label store, offering exclusive vinyl and limited pressings.
  • Detroit Threads (Hamtramck) – A unique mix of vinyl and vintage clothing, with a heavy focus on Detroit techno.

Underground Music & Rave Scene

For those looking to dive into Detroit’s legendary electronic music scene, check out these spots:

  • Tangent Gallery / Hastings Street Ballroom – A raw, industrial venue hosting underground raves, art shows, and experimental music nights.
  • Marble Bar – A staple in the underground dance scene, featuring top-tier house and techno DJs.
  • Spot Lite Detroit – A vinyl shop, art gallery, and club space featuring rare grooves and deep house sets.
  • TV Lounge – One of the most respected venues for Detroit techno, offering indoor and outdoor spaces for late-night dancing.
  • The Works Detroit – A go-to for hardcore techno and warehouse vibes, often hosting legendary underground parties.

Secret Speakeasies & Cocktail Bars

  • Bad Luck Bar – Hidden and reservation-only, this speakeasy offers expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.
  • Castalia at Sfumato – A cocktail bar where drinks are paired with fragrances for a unique sensory experience.
  • The Shelby – Tucked beneath a coffee shop, this cozy underground bar serves inventive cocktails.
  • Valentine Distilling Co. (Ferndale) – A craft distillery with some of the best locally made whiskey and vodka cocktails.
  • The Whisky Parlor – An old-school whiskey bar featuring rare spirits and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Haunted Places in Detroit

If you’re into ghost stories and eerie vibes, these spots are worth a visit:

  • The Masonic Temple – Rumored to be haunted by its original builder, this massive structure offers ghost tours.
  • The Whitney – A historic mansion-turned-restaurant, famous for paranormal activity and ghostly encounters.
  • Eloise Asylum (Westland) – An abandoned psychiatric hospital with chilling EVP recordings and ghost sightings.
  • Fort Wayne – A 19th-century military fort with rumored hauntings by soldiers and Native American spirits.
  • Michigan Central Station – Though under renovation, this once-abandoned train station has long been linked to eerie apparitions.

Ultimate Night Out in Detroit

Start your evening with a pre-dinner cocktail at Bad Luck Bar or Castalia at Sfumato. Then, enjoy dinner at Flowers of Vietnam for incredible Vietnamese flavors or Takoi for bold Thai fusion. Afterward, catch live music at Cliff Bell’s for jazz or head to Marble Bar for underground techno. Finally, wrap up the night with late-night eats at Lafayette Coney Island or Johnny Noodle King before heading home.

Detroit is full of hidden treasures. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, digging for vinyl, or dancing until sunrise, there’s always something new to discover. Happy exploring!