Midtown-New Center Travel Guide

Discover all the top attractions, food and drink spots, best places to stay, and safety tips while exploring Midtown-New Center in Detroit through this comprehensive travel guide.


Midtown-New Center is a vibrant neighborhood in Detroit that is located in Wayne County, in Metro Detroit, in Southeast Michigan, in Michigan, in Midwest, in United States of America, in North America. Known for its rich cultural heritage, abundant museums, and historical landmarks, Midtown-New Center is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a unique blend of urban art, culture, and nature.

Introduction to Midtown-New Center

Located in the heart of Detroit, Midtown-New Center is a neighborhood that is known for its diverse range of cultural attractions, world-renowned museums, and historical landmarks. The neighborhood is home to some of the most iconic landmarks such as the Detroit Institute of Art, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and the Fisher Building. Midtown-New Center is also known for its vibrant art scene, which can be seen in the form of public murals, street art, and galleries.

List of Places to Visit in Midtown-New Center

The following is a comprehensive list of the top places to visit in Midtown-New Center:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Detroit Institute of Art: The Detroit Institute of Art is one of the largest and most significant art museums in the United States. The museum is home to over 60,000 works of art from around the world, ranging from ancient to contemporary art.
  • The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History: This museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich and vibrant history of African Americans. The museum has a collection of more than 35,000 artifacts, artworks, and archival materials.
  • The Fisher Building: The Fisher Building is an iconic landmark in Midtown-New Center. It is known for its stunning architecture and is often referred to as one of the most beautiful buildings in Detroit.
  • The Detroit Historical Museum: This museum explores the rich history of Detroit with a collection of over 200,000 artifacts. The museum features exhibits on everything from the city’s automotive industry to the Motown music scene.

Natural Attractions of Midtown-New Center: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Dequindre Cut Greenway: The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a 2-mile-long paved path that runs through the heart of Detroit. The path is known for its beautiful murals and sculptures and is a popular destination for cyclists and joggers.
  • The Detroit Riverfront: The Detroit Riverfront is a scenic destination that offers stunning views of Canada and the Detroit skyline. The riverfront offers a variety of activities, including walking, cycling, and kayaking.
  • Belle Isle Park: Belle Isle Park is a 982-acre island in the Detroit River that is home to a variety of attractions, including a zoo, an aquarium, and a conservatory. It is also a popular destination for picnicking and nature walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Midtown-New Center

Midtown-New Center is home to a variety of hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Some of the notable routes include:

  • The Dequindre Cut Greenway: The Dequindre Cut Greenway is a 2-mile-long paved path that runs through the heart of Detroit. The path is known for its beautiful murals and sculptures and is a popular destination for cyclists and joggers.
  • The RiverWalk: The RiverWalk is a 3.5-mile-long pathway that runs along the Detroit River. The path offers stunning views of the river and Canada and is a great destination for leisurely walks or runs.

Best Things to Do in Midtown-New Center: Activities and Tours

There are a variety of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Midtown-New Center. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Detroit Urban Adventure Tours: These tours take visitors on a journey through the history, culture, and landmarks of Detroit.
  • Detroit Bus Company Tour: The Detroit Bus Company offers bus tours that take visitors to some of the most iconic landmarks in the city.
  • Street Art Tours: Midtown-New Center is known for its vibrant art scene, and visitors can take guided tours to see some of the best street art and murals in the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Midtown-New Center

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Midtown-New Center, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Detroit Institute of Art and explore the Midtown neighborhood
Day 2 Take a tour of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History and the Motown Museum
Day 3 Hike or bike along the Dequindre Cut Greenway and explore the Riverfront district
Day 4 Take a tour of the Fisher Building and the Detroit Historical Museum
Day 5 Visit Belle Isle Park and see the Detroit Zoo, the Belle Isle Aquarium, and the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory
Day 6 Take a street art tour of Midtown-New Center, and see some of the most interesting murals and installations
Day 7 Enjoy some of the best food and drink spots in the neighborhood and take a Detroit Bus Company Tour to cap off your week

Food and Drink Scene of Midtown-New Center

Midtown-New Center has a thriving food and drink scene that offers visitors a wide range of options to choose from. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in the neighborhood:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Coney Dog: A Detroit staple that features a hot dog topped with a beef chili sauce.
  • Soul Food: Midtown-New Center is home to some of the best soul food restaurants in the city, such as Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles and Beans & Cornbread.
  • Detroit-style Pizza: A deep-dish pizza that features a crispy crust and a generous amount of toppings.

Local Beverages

  • Vernors Ginger Ale: A popular ginger ale drink that has been a Detroit icon since the 1860s.
  • Faygo Pop: A range of delicious fizzy drinks made in Detroit and available in a variety of flavors.

Where to Stay in Midtown-New Center: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Midtown-New Center has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in the neighborhood:

  • The Inn on Ferry Street: A historic hotel that offers modern amenities and cozy rooms.
  • Hostel Detroit: A budget-friendly option for backpackers and travelers looking for a more communal experience.
  • The El Moore Lodge: A sustainable and eco-friendly hotel that features beautifully designed rooms and a rooftop garden.

What to Buy in Midtown-New Center: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Midtown-New Center has a variety of unique products that visitors can take home to remember their trip. Some of the best souvenirs and products include:

  • Detroit Apparel: Midtown-New Center has a range of stores that offer Detroit-themed apparel, such as Pure Detroit and Detroit Vs. Everybody.
  • Motown Records Merchandise: Visitors can buy Motown-themed souvenirs and merchandise at the Motown Museum gift shop.
  • Local Art and Crafts: There are a variety of stores and galleries in the neighborhood that offer locally made art and crafts, such as Signal Return Press and Nora.

Local Culture and Customs of Midtown-New Center

Midtown-New Center is a neighborhood that is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant art scene. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions, and dress appropriately when visiting cultural attractions and places of worship. It is also important to be mindful of the local community and to practice responsible tourism.

Best Time to Visit Midtown-New Center

Midtown-New Center can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall when temperatures are moderate and the foliage is beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Midtown-New Center

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs when visiting cultural attractions and places of worship.
  • Explore the neighborhood by foot or bike to experience the local art and culture.
  • Try the local food and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful to the local community or the environment.
  • Leave valuables in your car or unattended when exploring the neighborhood.
  • Engage in any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Midtown-New Center

Midtown-New Center is generally safe for visitors, but it is important to practice caution and be aware of your surroundings. Visitors should avoid walking alone at night and should be careful when walking through quiet or deserted areas.

Health in Midtown-New Center

Visitors should ensure that they are up to date on all of their routine vaccinations before traveling to Detroit. It is also important to take precautions against the sun and heat, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Midtown-New Center: Transportation Options and Logistics

Midtown-New Center is easily accessible by road, air, and public transportation. Here are some of the best ways to get to Midtown-New Center:

Airports Near Midtown-New Center

  • Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport: Located approximately 20 miles southwest of Midtown-New Center.

Bus Stations Near Midtown-New Center

  • Greyhound Bus Station Detroit: Located approximately 3 miles south of Midtown-New Center.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: Midtown-New Center is easily accessible by train through the Amtrak station in Detroit.

How to Get Around in Midtown-New Center

Midtown-New Center is a very walkable and bike-friendly neighborhood. Visitors can easily explore the neighborhood by foot or by bike, and there are also a variety of public transportation options available, such as buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Midtown-New Center: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Midtown-New Center is located in a prime location that is close to a variety of nearby destinations and excursions. Some of the best nearby destinations include:

  • Downtown Detroit: Detroit’s downtown area is home to a variety of attractions, such as the Renaissance Center and Greektown.
  • Corktown: Corktown is Detroit’s oldest neighborhood and is known for its historic architecture and trendy food and drink scene.
  • The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation: This museum is located in Dearborn, Michigan, and is home to a collection of artifacts that showcase American innovation throughout history.

Conclusion

Midtown-New Center is a vibrant neighborhood that offers visitors a unique blend of art, culture, and nature. From its world-renowned museums to its scenic outdoor spaces, Midtown-New Center has something to offer everyone. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can explore the neighborhood’s top attractions, food and drink spots, best places to stay, and safety tips with ease.

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