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!
Put your pedal to the metal and bike through the most interesting parts of Detroit. Wheelhouse Detroit, a cycling shop on the RiverWalk, offers specialized two-wheel tours that range from a short trip down the River Walk to day-long excursions to Detroit’s Underground Railroad, the Dequindre Cut, Heidelberg Project and much more.
Learn about the role the waterways played in shaping Detroit and vice versa at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Belle Isle Park. This special interest maritime museum outlines the history of ships and water travel along the Great Lakes and the Detroit River. You’ll be able to get up close to artifacts from the 1800s as you explore this ship-themed building.
Right beneath the Magic Stick, you’ll find the Garden Bowl. The oldest still-operating bowling alley in the country, this historical landmark is a blast to visit. Open until 2AM Monday through Sunday, the Garden Bowl offers an excellent alternative to the traditional bars. Enjoy drinks and the tunes from a jukebox as you show off your bowling skills.