Museums in Detroit
When planning a trip to Detroit the first two things that come to mind are the auto industry and Motown. You can guess that there are museums in this town to cover both of those subjects. Even better, after you’ve enjoyed museums about cars and music, you’ll be overjoyed to know there’s more to learn and see in the way of Detroit Museums.
Motown Historical Museum is actually Detroit’s highest attended attraction. It draws people from around the world, keeping the legacy of Motown alive in their hearts and the streets of Detroit. You’ll learn the history and impact this music industry had on the 20th century. The museum is located in a small house where Berry Gordy Jr. first dubbed it Hitsville USA. You will love looking at historical photographs, artwork, costumes and the fully restored home of Mr. Gordy.
Henry Ford Museum offers viewing of classic Ford autos. But you won’t just find evolution of auto manufacturing, there are also histories on other American’s ingenuity including everyday household items all the way to airplanes. The building is a large hanger-type hall with tall 40 foot ceilings. Besides the relaxed stationary exhibits, there are always traveling exhibits such as the James Bond exhibit and the Chocolate exhibit. Don’t miss the Made in America exhibit which features history and information on the steam engine and other American inventions.
Detroit Children’s Museum has so many activities and exhibits that it is hard to pick just one outstanding feature of this museum. But, if one had to pick, the must see feature would have to be the planetarium. The “Autumn Constellation” is a don’t miss event if your are visiting Detroit during the fall months. The museum also helps children and adults discover world arts and cultures, sciences and history. For a fun and imaginative learning experience, the Detroit Children’s Museum is hard to pass up.
Detroit Historical Museum presents the history of southeast Michigan within 78,000 foot building. You’ll find a replica of the streets of Detroit during the 1840s, 1870’s and 1900s. This is truly the most popular feature of this museum where you can lose yourself, if even for a few moments, in the past life of Detroit. Don’t miss their special events such as African American History Day in February and Eggstravaganza in April. Admission is always free.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History explores the diversity and culture of African American History. It is the largest facility of it’s kind that is dedicated to the experience of African Americans. The museum is home to over 30,000 artifacts including the Blanche Coggin Underground Railroad Collection, the Coleman A Young Collection and the Harriet Tubman Museum Collection. There is also a 22,000 square foot multi-level interactive exhibit. Special events include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day in January and Malcolm X Day in May.
Detroit Lighthouse Depot is a new museum that was currently the headquarters for the U.S. Coast Guard. Originally it was an actual lighthouse depot, working as a supply storage location for illuminating oil, buoys, fuel and other maintenance equipment for lighthouses. This beautiful 3-story brick building was built in 1874.
Gospel Music Hall of Fame and Museum is dedicated to the education and joy of gospel music around the world. Each year a grand celebration takes place at the museum with an induction ceremony honoring the legends of gospel music. Some of the current inductees include Aretha Franklin, The Barrett Sisters, Della Reese, Edwin Hawkins, Leonard Scott and many more. Learn about all of your favorite gospel singers at the this museum.
National Museum of Tuskegee Airmen honors the African-Americans aviator fighters during World War II. Housed in historic Fort Wayne, you’ll be able to see authentic uniforms, equipment, aircraft and photographs depicting the reality of a point in time when the armed forces were segregated, yet true Americans did not let this stop them from fighting for their country. Large tours can be arranged at any time.
Automotive Hall of Fame celebrates the creativity of men and women of the motor vehicle industry. You’ll especially enjoy the classic car show held the last weekend in July. You may want to plan your trip around this event. Best yet, it’s close to the Henry Ford Museum making it a great day’s adventure for car buffs. Enjoy the “Design Your Own Car” interactive exhibit.
Lincoln Park Historical Museum preserves and collects historical artifacts, photos pertaining to Lincoln Park for the enjoyment and education of the public. You’ll learn about the French settlers and the original inhabitants of the area, the Potawatomi Indians. This location is also the home of the Downriver Geological Society.
Carver/Curtis Museum honors the memory and work of scientist George Carver Washington and Dr. Austin Curtis, his assistant. Take a tour to see how the natural skin care products are still made today.
Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) serves as a hub for contemporary art ideas. Make a day trip to enjoy the exhibitions as well as the bookstore and café included in this 22,000 square foot cavernous building. For those who enjoy modern and contemporary art pieces or those who enjoy all art. Admission is free.
More money in your pocket means you can afford to enjoy even more museums. Check out the great hotel deals for Detroit at Hotels Cheap.
Categories: Things to Do
