Michigan summers are wonderful! The Great Lakes, outdoor activities, and beautiful scenery make it a fantastic place to enjoy the warm weather. While those experiences are an absolute must for someone visiting Michigan, downtown Detroit is my favorite summer activity to share with friends and family.
Downtown Detroit has a lot to offer, from great restaurants and bars to cultural attractions like the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Motown Museum. Detroit has grown by leaps and bounds over the last several years. Woodward still serves as the main corridor, but with the growth of Corktown, anchored by the newly renovated Central Train Station, and other unique neighborhoods, there is much to do and see in the city now.
Once you have had your fill of restaurants, bars, and Tiger’s baseball games, you can relax and enjoy the Detroit Riverwalk and Belle Isle. The Riverwalk offers beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere, while Belle Isle provides a mix of nature and attractions like the conservatory and aquarium. Of the two, Belle Isle is my personal favorite. I have fond memories of growing up on the east side of Detroit and visiting often during the summer months. The giant slide was always my favorite and family cookouts there are always a great way to enjoy the island.
If you are lucky enough to have a friend who owns a boat, evenings on the river are second to none. Boating on the Detroit River has its own culture, and they call it simply Boatlife. People arrive at their marinas in the morning, socialize with other boat owners, and then head out on the river for an afternoon run. In the evening, many will head off the river to catch a concert at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheater. A day on the boat is a whole vibe in Detroit.
If someone is visiting Michigan in the summer, starting your Michigan adventure in the city is a must. By the time you experience Summertime in the D, you will then be ready to take in all that Michigan has to offer by way of outdoor activities. Whether that is golfing at Acadia Bluffs, camping at Sleeping Bear Dunes, or relaxing on Mackinac Island, summers in Michigan has it all!
