13 free things to do in Detroit

Looking for budget-friendly things to do in Detroit? Add these 13 Detroit-area experiences to your bucket list, because they’re totally free!

The auto capital of the world is a city made for visitors because there are always things to do in Detroit. From its rich history to stunning architecture to vibrant cultural and community scenes, there’s always something happening in D-town. 

What’s even better about visiting Detroit is that many of its famous landmarks, exciting events, and beautiful nature can be enjoyed completely free. We’ve rounded up 13 totally free things to do in Detroit, whether you’re a local or just visiting. The free things to do range from family-friendly experiences to places to enjoy alone, as a couple, or with a group. 

1. Belle Isle Aquarium 

• Location: 3 Inselruhe Ave., Detroit, MI 48207
• Cost: Free, donations encouraged
• Hours: Friday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 

The Belle Isle Aquarium is a Detroit gem, because not only is it an absolutely gorgeous place to visit, but it holds the title of being the single oldest operating aquarium in all of America. Amazing, right? And you and your family can visit this living piece of history for free.

Our family was fortunate enough to visit the Belle Isle Aquarium several years ago and we were amazed away by the history, exhibits, and beauty of the aquarium. The people who run and maintain the aquarium are also part of its charm—they care so deeply about this place and it resonates as the heart of Belle Isle. 

The colorful interior of Belle Isle Aquarium will take your breath away. (Chaunie Brusie)

2. Detroit’s Historical Museum 

• Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Sunday: 1-5 p.m. 
• Cost: Free for kids under 6 years old
• Location: 5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48202  

If you have kiddos under 6 years old, take them to learn more about the history of Detroit completely for free. Adults and kids over 6 years old will be charged for admission, but residents of Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park can register for a Detroiter membership, which grants free unlimited museum admission to one adult and their children under age 18. 

Some favorite exhibits include the popular Streets of Detroit display, where families can walk the “real” streets of historic Detroit, and the exhibit about Detroit’s role in the Underground Railroad. 

3. Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory 

• Location: 4 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207
• Cost: Free admission and free parking
• Hours: Wed-Sun, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Also located on Belle Isle, the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is an homage to the past, as it was built in 1902, as well as a spark of hope for the future because it’s teeming with life. The Conservatory hosts and holds exotic and rare collections of plants from around the world and is the oldest continually-running conservatory in the entire U.S. 

I took my kids to visit the Conservatory in the middle of winter and it felt like stepping into a lush, tropical destination. We even got to see bananas growing! You can also enjoy other beautiful plants like cacti, trees, and palm trees. The entire property spans 13 acres, so in warmer months, there’s a lot of beauty to enjoy outside as well. 

The Anna Skrips conservatory dome building and topical plants. (Chaunie Brusie)

4. Michigan DNR Outdoor Adventure Center 

• Location: 1801 Atwater Street, Detroit, MI 48207-4020
• Cost: Varies, but you can get a free pass through the Michigan Activity Pass or pay just $1 with a SNAP or WIC card
• Hours: Wed-Sat 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday noon- 4 p.m.m

The DNR Outdoor Adventure Center typically costs admission, but you can get a free pass through the Michigan Activity Pass or pay just $1 per person for yourself and up to 5 guests with a SNAP or WIC card, so it is possible to visit for free or at a very low cost.

The center looks like a downright blast for kids especially to visit, with 20 interactive outdoor-themed exhibits that display Michigan’s rich experiences available. For example, there are fishing exhibits, kayaking displays, camping, and even hands-on trail riding to enjoy. I mean, there’s a 35-foot-tall bur oak tree from top to bottom with a suspension bridge, people. Even I want to try that!

Outside the Michigan DNR Outdoor Adventure Center. (Michigan DNR Outdoor Adventure Center)

5. Belle Isle Nature Center 

• Location: Belle Isle
• Cost: Free admission and free parking
• Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

With daily free admission and over 5 acres to explore, the Belle Isle Nature Center is another Detroit gem. (Hours do vary, so check online before you go, just in case.) The center has hands-on learning experiences, educational displays, and special events. 

There is so much to do and see—our favorite part of the nature center was the visible bee colony, where the kids saw the full process of where honey comes from. We visited in the winter months and even without full access to the outdoor exhibits (which are plentiful), my kids had a great time. 

The honeybee exhibit in the hallway of the nature center. (Belle Isle Nature Center)

6. Detroit Public Library 

• Location: Multiple locations throughout Detroit
• Cost: Free admission and free parking
• Hours: Vary, check with the location

OK, so the “Detroit Public Library” title may be a little misleading because there are actually 22 branch locations and a mobile library option as well. But still, all of the locations are free to visit and park and each one offers a plethora of free events and resources. 

The main Detroit branch on Woodward is also a historic location, so it’s a fun place to visit to see the beautiful architecture and artwork. 

7. Guardian Building 

• Location:  500 Griswold St, Detroit, MI 48226
• Cost: n/a
• Hours: n/a

The Guardian Building primarily functions now as office space, but it can still be a fun (and free) place to visit in Detroit. The building was built in 1929 and designated a National Historic Landmark, the highest honor given by the National Park Service. The design is an example of art-deco architecture, renowned for its beauty, even despite—and perhaps because of—the year it was built, which just happened to be the year of the Stock Market crash.

The building has Native American and Aztec elements and was designed, built, and constructed by Michigan workers. Behind-the-scenes historical tours are available. 

8. Detroit Riverfront

• Location: 588 E Jefferson Ave. 
• Cost: Free
• Hours: Daily 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

The Detroit Riverfront hosts three million visitors annually for recreation like running, walking, and biking, along with events like music, art, and shows. It’s also just a wonderful place to connect and hang out with friends and loved ones. 

Cullen Plaza along the Detroit Waterfront. (Detroit Riverfront Conservancy)

Some of the attractions along the riverfront include the Cullen Plaza, the Valade Park, wetlands, a lighthouse, and Riverwalk Garden rooms. The Detroit Riverwalk is also free and located at 1340 Atwater St as a place to stroll, bike, or run. 

9. Heidelberg Project 

• Location: 3600 Heidelberg St, Detroit, MI 48207
• Cost: Free
• Hours: Daily 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

The mission of the Heidelberg Project is to “challenge the status quo, create a community for art, and cultivate a unique gathering space for all who seek inspiration outside museum walls.” The museum is open daily and welcomes visitors to its outdoor art spaces. Directors do ask that visitors are mindful of neighbors and don’t park in their driveways or in front of their houses. 

10. Detroit Institute of Arts

• Location: 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48202
• Cost: Free for certain residents
• Hours: Tues, Wed, Thurs: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Sat & Sun: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

General admission to the Detroit Institute of Arts is completely free for residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties. According to the website, members of the counties with free admission will need to bring a valid ID to the museum entrance booth to get their free tickets. The museum features static and evolving exhibits, highlights local artists (including students!), and hosts ongoing events and music performances. 

The DIA’s collection includes more than 65,000 works and is one of the top six art collections in the entire country, with masterpieces such as Van Gogh’s Self-Portrait housed within its walls.  

11. Greektown 

• Location:  Monroe St. 
• Cost: Free
• Hours: n/a

Greektown is not just one place—it’s an entire neighborhood full of vibrant Greek life, culture, and food. If you want to plan a visit, it’s a great idea to check out the Greektown event guide, which lists ongoing events as well as seasonal experiences. 

For instance, the annual Greektown Heritage Festival in the heart of historic Greektown Detroit is a free highlight you won’t want to miss—it features everything you could dream of to celebrate the Greek heritage, from live music to street-roasted lambs, to dancing and family-friendly games. Opa! 

12. GM Renaissance Center 

• Location: 400 Renaissance Center, Detroit, MI 48243
• Cost: Free for some attractions
• Hours: Varies

Constructed in the 1970s, the GM Renaissance Center near River East is home to many specialty shops, services, and restaurants that you can visit. There are also two free attractions inside, the GM Wintergarden, a 5-story atrium that celebrates Detroit and GM World, which showcases GM’s latest vehicles and is a permanent year-round auto show experience. 

13. Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Gardens 

• Location: 22314 Northline Rd, Taylor, MI 48180
• Cost: Free
• Hours: Daily 5 a.m.-8 p.m.

The Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Gardens welcome visitors daily to enjoy the outdoor gardens and trails for free from dusk until dawn.  There is no charge to visit, but the organization does require a photography permit if you plan on taking any type of photos there. 

The Conservatory also welcomes volunteers if you love gardening or just want to get your hands dirty, you can get involved in supporting the gardens for free by applying on their website.

Surround yourself in green at the Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. (Taylor Conservatory and Botanical Gardens).

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.