Wayne County Travel Guide

Discover the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local customs, safety, transportation, and nearby excursions in Wayne County, Metro Detroit.


Introduction to Wayne County

Wayne County is a picturesque region nestled in Metro Detroit, in Southeast Michigan. It is located within the Midwest region of the United States of America, in North America. This county has stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and a robust economy. Home to diverse communities, majestic historical sites, and scenic parks, Wayne County offers a wide range of activities to tourists of all ages.

List of Places to Visit in Wayne County

Whether you want to explore historical landmarks, indulge in outdoor adventures, or enjoy local cuisines, Wayne County has it all. Here’s a list of some of the best places to visit in Wayne County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Wayne County has a rich cultural heritage and an abundance of museums and historical sites that reveal its history. Some of the must-visit culturally important attractions include:

  • The Henry Ford: It is the largest indoor-outdoor historical museum complex in America, featuring inventions, artifacts, and exhibits that represent the American way of life.
  • Motown Museum: This museum celebrates the legendary Motown sound and the life of its founder, Berry Gordy.
  • Detroit Institute of Arts: This museum has a vast collection of art and cultural artifacts from around the world, including ancient Egypt, medieval Europe, and contemporary America.
  • Ford Piquette Avenue Plant: This museum showcases the birthplace of the Ford Model T and has a fantastic collection of vintage automobiles and memorabilia.

Natural Attractions of Wayne County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Wayne County is not just about the city life. It also boasts natural attractions like parks and lakes, perfect for outdoor activities and scenic views. Here are some of the natural attractions that you cannot miss:

  • Detroit Riverwalk: This picturesque riverfront park offers breathtaking views of the Detroit skyline and is ideal for strolling, jogging, and biking.
  • Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy: This beautiful conservation area has trails to explore and abundant wildlife to observe.
  • Lake Erie Metropark: This park has something for everyone, from a golf course to a marina, hiking trails to swimming and fishing areas.
  • Ford Lake Park: This park is perfect for a relaxing picnic, boating, fishing, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wayne County

Wayne County has several hiking and biking routes that offer scenic views and great exercise. Here are some of the best routes in Wayne County:

  • Huron River Greenway: This 5.7-mile trail along the Huron River is perfect for hiking and biking.
  • Dequindre Cut: This urban trail in Detroit is suitable for walking, running, biking, and skating, and offers stunning murals and scenery.
  • Metro Parkway Bike Path: This 16-mile path is perfect for cycling and is smooth enough for inline skating.
  • Hines Drive: This scenic drive has multiple bike lanes and paths, and the section between Dearborn and Hines park is a favorite among bikers.

Best Things to Do in Wayne County: Activities and Tours

There’s something for everyone in Wayne County. Whether you are looking for entertainment, education, or adventure, there are numerous things to do and tours to take. Here are some of the top things to do in Wayne County:

  • Visit the Casinos: Wayne County has three casinos, MGM Grand Detroit, Greektown Casino, and MotorCity Casino, which offer a variety of gaming, entertainment, and dining options.
  • Go to a Game: The Detroit Pistons, Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, and Detroit Red Wings all call this region home, and catching a game is a fantastic way to experience the local sports culture.
  • Take a Brewery Tour: Several breweries in Wayne County offer tours and tastings, including Atwater Brewery, Dragonmead Microbrewery, and Kuhnhenn Brewing Co.
  • Explore the Music Scene: From jazz to techno, Wayne County has a broad music scene. The city has numerous jazz clubs, classical concerts, and techno clubs that offer an authentic music experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wayne County

To experience Wayne County to the fullest, you need at least a week. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Wayne County:

Day Activity
1 Visit The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village
2 Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts and Motown Museum
3 Go hiking at the Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy and watch wildlife
4 Take a tour of the breweries around Wayne County
5 Spend a day in Lake Erie Metropark and enjoy the lake and outdoors
6 Explore the local music scene by visiting Jazz clubs and techno clubs
7 Stroll along the Detroit Riverwalk and enjoy the beautiful views of the Detroit skyline

Food and Drink Scene of Wayne County

Wayne County has a diverse culinary scene, with numerous local delicacies and drinks. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Coney Dog: This Detroit-style hot dog is a local favorite, featuring a beef frank topped with chili, onions, and mustard, served on a steamed bun.
  • Detroit-style Pizza: This rectangular deep-dish pizza with a crispy crust, cheese, and toppings baked to perfection is unique to Detroit.
  • Potato Chips: Better Made Potato Chips is a Detroit staple and has been producing top-quality, salty goodness for over 90 years.

Local Beverages

  • Vernors Ginger Ale: This ginger ale originated in Detroit in the 1860s, and is now a local favorite with a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other ginger ales.
  • Faygo Pop: Faygo Beverages, founded in Detroit in 1907, produces over 50 flavors of soda pop, including a classic Red Pop and Orange Pop.

Where to Stay in Wayne County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wayne County has several options for tourists regarding accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit: This upscale hotel has luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, rooftop lounge, and on-site restaurants.
  • Aloft Detroit at The David Whitney: This hip, modern hotel offers loft-style rooms with a restaurant, fitness center, business center, and game room.
  • Hostel Detroit: This hostel offers affordable accommodations with shared or private rooms, a communal kitchen, and free Wi-Fi.
  • The Dearborn Inn: This historic hotel in Dearborn has a charming ambiance and fantastic amenities, including a restaurant, fitness center, and outdoor pool.

What to Buy in Wayne County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Wayne County offers a wide range of souvenirs and local products to take home as a memory of your trip. Some of the best options include:

  • Faygo Soda: A variety of flavors of Faygo pop can be brought home as a souvenir or a gift for family and friends.
  • Better Made Potato Chips: These crispy snacks have a unique flavor and could be an excellent choice for a crunchy souvenir.
  • Detroit Apparel: Detroit-themed clothing is teeming in the city, and buying a shirt, hat, or hoodie could be a great way to show love for the city.

Local Culture and Customs of Wayne County

Wayne County is home to a diverse population with a rich cultural background, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions. Here are some points to keep in mind:

  • Tipping: Tipping is customary in the US, and it is generally expected to tip around 20% of the bill in restaurants and bars.
  • Safety: Wayne County is generally safe, but visitors should be cautious and avoid deserted areas late at night.
  • Public Transport: Public transport in Wayne County is limited, and it is advisable to rent a car or use ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft.

Best Time to Visit Wayne County

The best time to visit Wayne County is summertime, from June to August, when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. Fall (September to November) also has pleasant weather for exploring cultural attractions and fall foliage. Winter has cold temperatures, and snowfall is not uncommon, making it ideal for indoor activities and skiing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wayne County

Do:

  • Try local cuisine and beverages.
  • Explore cultural landmarks and parks.
  • Go to a sporting event or concert.

Don’t:

  • Engage in illegal drug use.
  • Litter or be disrespectful towards locals.
  • Travel alone in deserted areas late at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wayne County

Just like any other city, tourists need to be careful while traveling in Wayne County. Here are some safety tips:

  • Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid deserted areas late at night.
  • Keep your phone charged and always keep a map or GPS handy.
  • Avoid flashing your money, jewelry, or expensive gadgets.

Health in Wayne County

Wayne County has several hospitals and clinics offering top-quality health services. Tourists are advised to have travel health insurance and carry their medications and prescriptions.

Getting to Wayne County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Wayne County is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.

Airports Near Wayne County

The Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, located in Romulus, is the major airport serving Wayne County.

Bus Stations Near Wayne County

Greyhound operates several bus stations in Wayne County, including in Detroit and Dearborn.

Other Options

Various car rental services operate in Wayne County and allow tourists to explore the region at leisure.

How to Get Around in Wayne County

Tourists can use ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft or rent a car to get around the county. Public transportation in Wayne County is limited, and the options available include buses, light rail, and people-mover trains.

Where to Go Next from Wayne County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Wayne County is an ideal base to explore other nearby destinations in Michigan. Here are some of the best options for excursions:

  • Ann Arbor: This college town has a vibrant arts scene, museums, and parks, and is just 40 minutes from Wayne County.
  • Saugatuck: This charming, artsy town on the shores of Lake Michigan is known for its beaches and galleries and is about a two-hour drive from Wayne County.
  • Greenfield Village: Located within The Henry Ford complex, Greenfield Village is a picturesque village that showcases America’s history.

Conclusion

Wayne County has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts to art lovers. With its bustling cities, stunning natural attractions, and diverse culture, Wayne County is a must-visit destination in the Midwest.



    Canton
    Detroit
    Garden City
    Livonia
    Northville
    Redford
    Romulus
    Southern Wayne County
    Westland