Dymin Studios

Just north of the city limit, the Detroit Zoo offers guests an up-close animal adventure. Observe more than 270 different species in naturalistic habitats and learn fun and fascinating facts as you explore the attractions throughout seven major exhibits: Arctic Ring of Life, Australian Outback Adventure, Great Apes of Harambee, National Amphibian Conservation Center, Holden Museum of Living Reptiles, Penguinarium and Butterfly Garden!

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.

Formerly known as the Tri-Centennial State Park and Harbor, the newly christened William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor is Michigan’s first state park located in an urban area. This park covers 31 acres of natural wildlife habitat, restored wetlands and riverfront. Visit the lighthouse, fish along the shore, enjoy a picnic outdoors or head out in a boat at this beautiful park.

The most popular park in Detroit, the gigantic Belle Isle Park is actually an entire island. Wonderful for people of all ages and activity levels, this island park has something for everybody. Visit the Dossin Great Lakes Museum; go swimming at the beach; hike along the lovely wooded trails; plan a pleasant picnic outdoors; and much, much more!