Detroit is known as the Automotive Capital of the World for a reason. The Henry Ford, also known as the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village or the Edison Institute, explores the city’s rich history and contributions to the world of transportation. This indoor and outdoor museum complex showcases many significant items that influenced the Industrial Revolution, shaped American history and changed the world.
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.
You will also find the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory in Belle Isle Park. This gorgeous greenhouse and botanical garden covers 13 acres. Built in 1904, this conservatory still overflows with beautiful plant life. Formal perennial gardens, annual flowerbeds, a rose garden and lily pond garden surround the domed conservatory, which is filled with exotic tropical and desert plants.
Enjoy the outdoors and a lovely scenic view of the Detroit International Riverfront as you stroll, jog or bike along the Detroit River Walk. This paved pathway essentially consists of a 5.5-mile promenade that runs from the Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle Park. Stop along one of the plaza or pavilions for some fun at the carousel, butterfly garden or fishing piers.