Learn about the rich history of this metro area at the Detroit Historical Society as you study 300 years worth of artifacts. Located in Midtown Detroit’s Cultural Center Historic District, this 80,000-square-foot museum has been around since 1928, making it both America’s largest and oldest museum dedicated to a metropolitan history. The exhibits and attractions here are both interesting and engaging.
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.
Located in the Detroit Theatre District, the Detroit Masonic Temple holds the record as the largest Masonic Temple in the world. You don’t have to be part of a Masonic organization to appreciate this magnificent piece of architecture, however. Come by the venue for various entertainment events, including concerts and Broadway plays, hosted on its 55 by 100-foot stage.
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.