Hamtramck-Highland Park Travel Guide

Explore the rich culture and stunning natural beauty of Hamtramck-Highland Park with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, dine, stay, and experience in this charming city in Metro Detroit.


Introduction to Hamtramck-Highland Park

Nestled within the city of Detroit, Hamtramck-Highland Park is a small town full of character and charm. Known for its diverse immigrant population and thriving art scene, Hamtramck-Highland Park has become a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the unique culture and history of the Midwest.

List of Places to Visit in Hamtramck-Highland Park

If you’re planning a trip to Hamtramck-Highland Park, here are some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hamtramck Disneyland
  • Polish Art Center
  • African Bead Museum
  • Highland Park Ford Plant
  • Hamtramck Historical Museum

Natural Attractions of Hamtramck-Highland Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Oakland Avenue Urban Farm
  • Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge
  • Belle Isle Park
  • Palmer Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hamtramck-Highland Park

  • Detroit RiverWalk
  • Dequindre Cut
  • Belle Isle Park

Best Things to Do in Hamtramck-Highland Park: Activities and Tours

  • Detroit Art Tours
  • Public Art Bike Tours
  • Motor City Brew Tours
  • Detroit Experience Factory

Week-Long Itinerary for Hamtramck-Highland Park

Day 1: Visit the Hamtramck Disneyland and the Hamtramck Historical Museum. Grab dinner at one of the many Polish restaurants in town.

Day 2: Explore the city’s art scene with a tour of the Heidelberg Project and a visit to the African Bead Museum. Grab lunch at a local cafe.

Day 3: Get outdoors with a hike in Palmer Park or a visit to the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. Treat yourself to dinner at one of the city’s top-rated restaurants.

Day 4: Take a guided tour of the Highland Park Ford Plant, followed by a stop at the nearby Oakland Avenue Urban Farm. Grab lunch at a cozy deli.

Day 5: Spend the day at Belle Isle Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views. End the day with dinner at a waterfront restaurant.

Day 6: Sample the local craft beer scene with a tour of Motor City Brew Tours or a self-guided brewery crawl. Grab dinner at a gastropub.

Day 7: Relax and take in the city’s laid-back vibe with a leisurely brunch and some shopping at one of the local boutiques.

Food and Drink Scene of Hamtramck-Highland Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Paczki: A Polish pastry typically filled with fruit preserves or custard.
  • Kielbasa: A smoked sausage made of pork or beef.
  • Coney dog: A hot dog topped with chili, mustard, and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Vernors Ginger Ale
  • Faygo soda
  • Local craft beer from Detroit breweries

Where to Stay in Hamtramck-Highland Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Inn on Ferry Street
  • The Trumbull and Porter hotel
  • Hello Hostel Detroit

What to Buy in Hamtramck-Highland Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hand-painted pottery from the Polish Art Center
  • Beaded jewelry and textiles from the African Bead Museum
  • Local craft beer from Detroit breweries

Local Culture and Customs of Hamtramck-Highland Park

Hamtramck-Highland Park is home to a diverse immigrant population, with a strong Polish influence. Visitors should be respectful of the community’s culture and customs, and be open to trying new foods and experiencing new traditions.

Best Time to Visit Hamtramck-Highland Park

The best time to visit Hamtramck-Highland Park is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events taking place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hamtramck-Highland Park

Do:

  • Explore the city’s art scene
  • Sample the local cuisine
  • Be respectful of the community’s culture

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Leave valuables visible in your car
  • Venture into unfamiliar neighborhoods without doing your research first

Safety and Health

Safety in Hamtramck-Highland Park

The city is generally safe for visitors, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe.

Health in Hamtramck-Highland Park

Visitors should be aware that the city has a high rate of air pollution, and should take steps to protect their health.

Getting to Hamtramck-Highland Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hamtramck-Highland Park

  • Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport
  • Coleman A. Young International Airport

Bus Stations Near Hamtramck-Highland Park

  • Detroit Greyhound Station
  • Megabus Detroit Station

Other Options

  • Amtrak train service to Detroit
  • Rental car service

How to Get Around in Hamtramck-Highland Park

  • Public transit: SMART bus service
  • Biking: Detroit bike share program
  • Car rental: Several rental car companies operate in the Detroit area

Where to Go Next from Hamtramck-Highland Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Detroit, MI
  • Ann Arbor, MI
  • Windsor, ON

Conclusion

Hamtramck-Highland Park is a charming small town with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this unique and vibrant city.