Best Things to Do in Detroit: From History and Sports to Virtual Reality

Detroit has long carried a complicated reputation, but today the city tells a very different story. It’s bold, authentic, and full of character. More importantly, it offers far more experiences than many people expect.

Detroit is not a city you "check off" once. It constantly surprises with its mix of history, sports, culture, food, and technology. Below is a curated guide to the best things to do in Detroit — from iconic landmarks to immersive virtual reality experiences.

If you want to understand Detroit, this is where to begin. Located in Dearborn, The Henry Ford Museum is far more than a car museum. It’s a powerful journey through American history.

Here you’ll find Rosa Parks' bus, President Kennedy’s limousine, Abraham Lincoln’s chair, and many other artifacts that shaped the country. Everything is authentic and deeply meaningful.

Tickets cost around $ 46, and it’s easy to spend an entire day here without running out of things to explore.

Anvio offers a full-scale virtual reality experience unlike traditional gaming. Players move freely through large virtual spaces, interacting with environments and completing missions together.

The experience ranges from sci-fi adventures to survival scenarios and cooperative quests, all built around advanced free-roam technology and cinematic storytelling. It’s a modern, high-tech way to experience entertainment in the heart of Detroit.

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is one of the most respected art museums in the United States. Its collection includes works by Van Gogh, Diego Rivera, and artists closely connected to Detroit’s identity.

In addition to its galleries, the museum features a café and a small theater. Admission is free for residents of select counties; for others, tickets cost about $ 20. Plan to spend several hours exploring.

Detroit’s connection to cars is legendary, and the annual auto show reflects that legacy. Visitors can explore new models, concept cars, and interactive exhibits from major manufacturers like Ford and General Motors.

It’s a hands-on experience where guests can sit behind the wheel, explore cutting-edge designs, and see where automotive innovation is heading.

The Detroit Tigers are a core part of the city’s identity. Attending a game at Comerica Park offers more than baseball — it’s a social and cultural experience tied deeply to Detroit itself.

Many visitors pair the game with a stop at Buddy’s Pizza, famous for its Detroit-style square pizza.

The Detroit Zoo spans 125 acres and is home to more than 2,000 animals. Highlights include the underwater polar bear tunnel and the kangaroo habitat, where visitors can walk nearby without traditional barriers.

The zoo is spacious, well-designed, and enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

Located next to The Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village offers an open-air historical experience. Visitors can walk through recreated neighborhoods, see vintage cars in motion, and interact with costumed interpreters.

The village includes the homes of Thomas Edison and the Wright brothers, providing a hands-on way to experience American history.

Pine Knob Music Theatre is one of Michigan’s most iconic live music venues. With lawn seating, relaxed vibes, and great views from almost anywhere, the experience goes beyond the performance itself.

The venue hosts artists across all genres, making it a favorite destination for live music fans.

Detroit’s riverfront offers a unique view of the city. Boat tours like Diamond Jack’s combine skyline views with local history for around $ 25.

For those who prefer to captain their own adventure, nearby lakes such as Lake St. Clair and Lake Orion are popular options.

Few events capture Detroit’s spirit like the Woodward Dream Cruise. Thousands of classic cars line Woodward Avenue, drawing more than a million spectators.

The event is free to attend and celebrates the city’s deep automotive roots through design, sound, and nostalgia.

Local orchards and cider mills are a beloved part of the Detroit area experience. Blake’s Orchard, Big Red Orchard, and Yates Cider Mill are popular destinations for fresh donuts, apple cider, corn mazes, and classic Midwest flavors.

Detroit is also known for its large-scale haunted attractions. The Erebus Haunted House in Pontiac is one of the largest and most intense haunted houses in the country.

It’s a must-visit for thrill-seekers, and tickets often sell out in advance.

Detroit Lions games at Ford Field are loud, energetic, and packed with emotion. Even visitors unfamiliar with American football can appreciate the atmosphere, crowd energy, and sense of city pride.

Detroit blends history, sports, music, food, and innovation in a way that feels real and unpolished — and that’s exactly its strength. There’s always something happening, something to explore, and something unexpected to discover.

And for those who want to step beyond the usual attractions, virtual reality at Anvio offers a chance to experience Detroit from a completely different angle — immersive, modern, and unforgettable.

📍 Anvio VR Club
1030 Randolph St, Detroit, MI 48 226

A visit here is an easy way to turn a day in the city into a true adventure.