The city of Detroit has been celebrated in national news for several years running. And there’s no wonder why when we look at what this great city has to offer. There’s no better day than March 13th to celebrate what we love most about Detroit.
Better known as 313 Day, a namesake of the area code and most notably a modern trademark, 313 Day is a public celebration of what makes this city incredible.
Whether you are new to the area or have been a resident of metro Detroit your entire life, these are the top 10 places to celebrate the city.
1. The Detroit Historical Museum
If you need a history lesson on Detroit, the Detroit Historical Museum is your first stop. Located in the heart of midtown, across from popular museums like the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) and the Michigan Science Center, the historical museum is a treasure trove of all things Detroit.
Exhibits walk you through the city’s roots in sports, to the automotive industry, to companies like Faygo and Better Made, and everything in between. Celebrating 100 years this April, the museum has a unique display of Detroit memorabilia and history that we love to claim.
2. The Motown Museum: Hitsville U.S.A.
Detroit is not only the birthplace of the automotive industry, but also the place where a genre of timeless music began. Motown music has captivated listeners for decades. Visit the original recording studio, Studio A, where chart topping hits were created, and immerse yourself in the history of music that defined Detroit to celebrate 313 Day.
3. The Eastern Market District
Eastern Market has been the centerground for fresh, locally sourced food in Detroit since the late 1800’s. It has grown through the decades and in the last ten years has become a society of Detroit-born, Detroit-raised entrepreneurship. The Eastern Market Partnership has been founded on building a “healthier, wealthier, happier Detroit”.
Year-round you can visit the market sheds every Saturday for not only fresh produce, but a diverse array of made-in-Detroit goods from local artists and entrepreneurs. The Market is also open on Tuesdays and Saturdays from June through September. The district itself is packed with storefronts, restaurants, and free family-friendly activities all year round that highlight our incredible Detroit community.
4. The Dequindre Cut Greenway
Formally a 1.35-mile stretch of railroad, this paved recreational path connects the Eastern Market District to the Detroit Riverwalk. Walk, bike, run, or skate through this greenway any time of year. You’ll find murals and art displays created by city natives. In the warmer months, the Dequindre Cut hosts pop-up events, bars, festivals, and family-friendly fun.
5. The People Mover
Celebrate 313 Day in Detroit by taking a ride on the iconic People Mover. The People Mover is a staple for easy travel to and from popular downtown areas. It may not journey more than a three-mile radius, but through it’s 13 stops, you get a glimpse of the city’s amazing architecture and stunning views of the Detroit River. Rides are only 75 cents, plus kids under five are free.
6. The Detroit Riverwalk
Named best riverwalk by USA TODAY in 2022, this Detroit landmark doesn’t disappoint. The walk spans more than three miles and captures the beauty of the Detroit River and the growing city beside it. Rent a bike, catch a performance at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheater, play at the Robert C. Valade Park playscape, watch the Detroit Princess Boat dock, or stand in awe as the sun sets against the Ambassador Bridge.
The Detroit Riverwalk even provides access to some of Detroit’s most cherished sights like The GM Renaissance Center and Hart Plaza. Both are accessible by the riverwalk and are a short walk to notable landmarks like The Fist Monument to Joe Louis and The Spirit of Detroit Monument.
7. Campus Martius
The ever-changing public square is a gathering space for all ages, all year round. An ice rink in the winter and a beach in the summer, Campus Martius is filled with people and events celebrating Detroit. Take a seat at the Woodward Fountain and watch the Q-Line. Or, eat at one of the many acclaimed restaurants within walking distance. Campus Martius is a beacon of Detroit worth visiting on 313 Day.
8. Lafayette Coney Island and American Coney Island
One of Detroit’s oldest and most notable rivalries stands at the corner of Lafayette and Griswold by way of Michigan Avenue. You haven’t experienced Detroit until you’ve enjoyed coneys at both Lafayette and American. And you are only a true Detroiter when you have cast a vote on which diner serves it the best. Whether you favor Lafayette’s chili over American’s hot dogs or vice versa, celebrate 313 Day in Detroit immersed in the rivalry that has lasted almost 100 years.
9. Belle Isle
Belle Isle is a Detroit gem. It consists of 982 acres of preserved greenspace filled with historical landmarks and the sandy beaches of the Detroit River. On any given day, you are sure to find amazing Detroit camaraderie and community here. Open daily with many family fun sights and activities, spend the afternoon or simply drive through to celebrate 313 Day.
Check out the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Belle Isle Aquarium, or the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. In addition, take pictures at the James Scott Memorial Fountain, the William Livingston Memorial Lighthouse, or in the Belle Isle Nature Center. Or, see the Giant Slide that catapulted Detroiters into national news last summer.
10. The Heidelberg Project
Stop and explore a Detroit neighborhood that has been transformed by art over the last 35 years. The Heidelberg Project, founded by artist Tyree Guyton, is an east-side outdoor art space that encompasses Detroit’s progression from desolation to remarkable growth.
Designs made from recycled objects and community artistry have transformed two city blocks of abandoned houses and vacant lots into a community gathering place for reflection, creativity, and change. The Heidelberg Project is a real image of the incredible, vibrant, and devoted Detroit community that has restored, preserved, and prevailed a city against all odds.
Celebrate 313 Day in Detroit enjoying your favorite places off this list or spend the entire day working your way from one to ten, or ten to one. Above all, each spot is filled with tons of Detroit love and big Detroit adventure. Engross in everything Detroit and have a happy 313 Day!
