20 Free Things to Do in Detroit, Michigan

With the weather starting to get nicer (hello sunshine), I have found myself heading to Detroit and hanging out around the city. No matter what season it is Detroit is filled with plenty of things to do, including FREE things to do. That’s right, I said it you can actually adventure around the Motor City and see a lot of things for free or for a small fee. There is something new to do every weekend in Detroit, so why not start exploring. If you need a place to start here are 20 free things to do in Detroit.

1. Explore the DIA (Detroit Institute of Arts). Residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties can get in for free. 

2. Visit MOCAD (Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit). Here you will see the best in edgy contemporary art.

3. Hang out at Campus Martius. Located in the heart of Detroit there is always something going on. From ice skating in the winter to a grassy lawn and sandy “beach” in the summer, there is sure to be something to do.

4. Visit Comerica Park, and have your picture taken with the giant tiger out front.

5. Explore the Z Lot. The Z Lot is a parking garage that has a ton of painted murals, perfect for any photo opt!

6. See The Belt. Once you’ve walked around the Z Lot, visit The Belt located next to the lot.

7. Walk the Riverfront, and don’t forget to wave hello to our friends across the river in Windsor.

8. Stop by the Spirit of Detroit and get your picture taken.

9. Visit the GM Renaissance Center. 

10. Take a stroll through Hart Plaza. During the warmer months, you will find concerts and festivals. 

11. Have your picture taken while fist-bumping Joe Louis’ arm in downtown Detroit.

12. Hang out in Greektown. At night you can expect to see street performers, live music, and more.

13. Explore the Detroit Public Library and get lost in the stacks among all the history.

14. Wander around Eastern Market. Saturdays the market really comes alive with local vendors, but any day of the week you can find eye-catching murals that make great picture opportunities. 

15. Bike around the Dequindre Cut, a two-mile, urban recreational path.

16. Go see the historic Pewabic Pottery. Located in Detroit’s Jefferson Corridor.

17. Make a stop at Belle Isle State Park. With a Michigan Recreation Passport, you can enjoy Belle Isle and everything it has to over. Don’t forget to explore the aquarium, nature center, bike the trails and more.

18. Visit the Guardian Building, one of Detroit’s most historic landmarks.

19. Check out the Heidelberg Project.

20. Take a ride through Detroit on the People Mover. (It may not be free, but it is low cost.)