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.
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.
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.