The Summer Solstice (A.K.A “June Solstice) and the first day of summer are officially here in the Northern Hemisphere. There are numerous activities/fun things to do in Detroit this summer! Whether you’re looking to splash around, play in the sun, relax under trees in parks, visit a garden, see the moon & stars, take a cool tour, see a concert/attend a Detroit music festival, or a mix of unique activities, then here’s just an idea of where to start. The nights are getting longer and we can feel the sweet warmth of the sun’s rays.
The Detroit community has it all. Don’t miss out on the free summer events as well. Detroitisit rounded up a unique list to soak up this 2023 summer in Detroit with your favorite people.
WORKOUT WEDNESDAY WITH FIRST RESPONDERS 4 FITNESS, PHOTO @DOWNTOWNDET ON INSTAGRAM
SUMMER IN THE PARKS
The Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) is your go-to for activities to do in Detroit this summer. What’s even more exciting is the fact that USA Today 10Best named Campus Martius Park the #1 public square in the U.S. for 2023! Summer in Detroit is going to be filled with fun for all ages. Locals and visitors are welcome to play outside with summer 2023 in the parks. They offer a variety of free events, programs, and classes like movie nights at Campus Martius Park. Other summer activities include Beach Parties, Family Fun Days, Fitness After Dark, Market Fridays, and more. Check out the brochure HERE to find more diverse ways of exploring Downtown Detroit parks.
COMERICA PARK, PHOTO @TIGERS ON INSTAGRAM
CATCH A TIGERS BASEBALL GAME
It isn’t summer in Detroit if you don’t catch the Tigers playing ball. Spending time with family at downtown Detroit’s Comerica Park to watch the Detroit Tigers is a timeless classic during the summer months. It doesn’t matter where you’re seated because of the wonderful views all around. Enjoy this naturally pumped environment on a nice afternoon or evening. There are also plenty of food options.
MICHIGAN SCIENCE CENTER, PHOTO COURTESY OF WEIGANDT COMMUNICATIONS
THE MICHIGAN SCIENCE CENTER
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. May 5; the event re-occurs the first Friday of each month; future dates include: June 2, July 7, Aug. 4, Sept 1, Oct. 6, Nov. 3, and Dec. 1.
In case you missed our It List from May, check out the stellar places to see stars in Detroit as well as other areas in Michigan for science exploration. The Michigan Science Center (Mi-Sci) already started extending its hours on Friday Nights. This is part of an ongoing series that occurs on the first Friday of each month. This opportunity is ideal for families and couples that aren’t always able to make it during traditional museum hours. Visitors can enjoy extra hours to experience Mi-Sci’s exhibits and theater shows after hours. Click HERE to view their website and to purchase tickets.
ALBERT KAHN BUILDING, PHOTO @DETROITISIT ON INSTAGRAM
ARCHITECTURAL BEAUTY AND HIDDEN GEMS WALKING TOUR
Fun things to do in Detroit often include tours, especially in the summer. Walking tours are a wonderful way to explore the city of Detroit and take time to appreciate it from a new perspective. Not to mention, it’s an easy exercise. On this tour, you’ll witness the city’s marvelous architecture and its world-famous landmarks like the Fox Theater and Fisher Building. The tour guide will take you on a stroll through the verdant Belle Isle among the shimmery water. The transformative Motown Museum will also be a quick stop. This tour costs $105 per person. Click HERE to book now.
GRAB A BITE OUTSIDE
This summer 2023 in Detroit guide wouldn’t be complete without some favorite places to eat outdoors in Detroit. You’ll most likely need a break at some point during all the fun and action, so we’re including some lovely patio spots in the city. There are plenty of patios and rooftop restaurants in Detroit that are welcoming you to cool down with food, drinks, and shade. Some favorites to keep in mind: Bumbo’s (in Hamtramck), La Dolce Vita (on the border of Ferndale and Detroit), and Detroit Shipping Company.
PHOTO @DIADETROIT ON INSTAGRAM
INDOOR MUSEUM FUN
In contrast to the outdoor food options, it also makes sense to provide indoor activities on days when the heat is too much. Why not take a trip to the Detroit Institute of Arts? After all, it’s the No. 1 art museum in the United States, according to USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice 2023 contest voters. Other favorites in & around Detroit worth visiting this summer are the Henry Ford Museum and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
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