ADI Design

Bibliophiles rejoice! John K. King Books in downtown Detroit boasts four above-ground floors and a basement full of rare and used books for the public to peruse and purchase. The largest independent bookseller in the state, this enormous collection (over 1 million books) accounts for most of the store’s business–but true book collectors will want to make an appointment to view the rarer antiques next door.

Watch the Detroit Red Wings soar across the ice in the Joe Louis Arena. Perhaps living so close to the Birthplace of Hockey has inspired this sports team–the Red Wings have managed to win the most Stanley Cup championships out of any NHL team in the US, and rank third internationally right behind the Montreal Canadiens and the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Spend an evening at the “world’s oldest jazz club.” Baker’s Keyboard Lounge has acted as a nightlife hotspot ever since 1934. Hear local and major acts present the ever-so-smooth stylings of blues, bebop and, of course, jazz while you dine on the best traditional soul food available.

Surround yourself with the beauty and tranquility of nature when you visit the University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens. The outdoor gardens are open for free to the public, although the conservatory itself requires an admission fee. Outside, you can wander around over a dozen different gardens, including a rock garden and a labyrinth, as well as walk along five different nature trails. And there’s even more on the inside!