Swing by the largest jazz festival in North America! The Detroit Jazz Festival has changed names, and sponsors, over the years, but it continues to bring in huge crowds over Labor Day Weekend. Spend some time at this premier jazz event and you’ll see why–five stages, 100 acts, fireworks, artists meet-ups and, best of all, free admission.
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!
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.
Get a bit of an adrenaline rush while still enjoying some quality time with family and friends at the C.J. Barrymore’s Entertainment Center in Clinton. This family entertainment center and amusement park is fun for all ages. Enjoy everything from leisurely games of mini-golf and arcade games to go-karts, bumper boats, recreational rock-climbing and laser tag.