The sun is starting to stick around, the breeze is warmer, and there’s a great buzz in the air – summer has finally arrived in Detroit! And while we can’t all ditch daily jobs for beach days and bike rides, remote workers have one glorious advantage: location flexibility. If your laptop can go where you go, why not let the city itself become your office?
Detroit is full of unexpected gems – green parks, lively patios, shady greenways, and coffee spots with character – that are perfect for getting things done with a side of sunshine. So whether you’re Zooming in from a picnic table or sending emails with an iced latte in hand, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite places to make your 9-to-5 feel more like a summer field trip.
Think of this as downtown’s outdoor living room. With shaded tables, amazing landscaping, plenty of seating, and food trucks nearby, Campus Martius is the ultimate remote work vibe. Need a little break? Wiggle your toes in the sand at the urban beach or grab a bite from a local vendor.
EL MOORE GARDENS
El Moore Gardens + Seasons Market (Midtown)
This hidden oasis tucked behind the historic El Moore Lodge next to Seasons Market is a green sanctuary with a sustainability mission. Grab a snack from the Market, find a quiet bench or table among the garden plots, and enjoy the Midtown calm. It’s peaceful, and full of “where has this been all my life?” energy.
Coffee, sandwiches and outdoor tables with a perfect view of people and pups? Bodega is small but mighty—and a great mid-morning or afternoon landing spot to knock out a few tasks. The energy is lively but never too loud.
ROBERT C. VALADE PARK
Located along the riverfront with picnic tables, hammocks, and plenty of green space, Valade Park is a dream if you want a bit more elbow room. There’s a seasonal bar and food available on weekends, plus unbeatable river views to gaze at between tasks.
Sure, Red Hook has three locations, but this one stands out. It’s got a tucked-away courtyard feel and sits right next to Breadless, which makes it dangerously easy to grab a killer energy bowl or snack without interrupting your workflow. Add great coffee and strong Wi-Fi, and you’ve got your workstation for the day.
SPKRBOX is a tiny, funky downtown coffee shop ambiance, especially if you like a playlist with your productivity. It’s intimate but energetic, with sidewalk seating perfect for laptop sessions on a sunny day. Grab a cold brew and dive into your deadlines.
CANNELLE
Kiddy Corner from SPKRBOX Canelle offers French pastries, amazing food, and plenty of people-watching. The sidewalk café vibe makes it a top-tier spot for anyone who needs a side of croissant with their calendar updates.
Bring a blanket, find a picnic table, or perch at the water’s edge—Belle Isle lets you turn a workday into a low-key retreat. There’s no Wi-Fi here, but sometimes that’s the point. Use it for brainstorming, journaling, catching up on reading, or offline creative work that needs space to breathe.
Kresge Court (Detroit Institute of Arts)
Inside the DIA but outdoors-adjacent, Kresge Court is a picturesque courtyard full of ivy-covered walls, cozy tables, and unique creative energy. It’s ideal for writers, thinkers, or anyone who wants to feel immersed in Detroit’s artistic soul while knocking out a few emails.
It’s not just for walking. The Detroit Riverwalk is dotted with benches, picnic tables, and open spaces that make it surprisingly remote-work friendly. Plug in some headphones, take in the water views, and use the energy of passersby to fuel your productivity. Bonus points if you pause for a walk to stretch between calls.
GABRIEL RICHARD PARK
Need a little quiet? Gabriel Richard Park is your spot. Just east of the MacArthur Bridge to Belle Isle, this riverside escape offers plenty of green space, low foot traffic, and shaded spots perfect for setting up a remote workstation. It’s peaceful, scenic, and great for when you need to focus without too many distractions.
Working remotely doesn’t have to mean being stuck inside. Detroit’s neighborhoods are bursting with spots that invite creativity, clarity, and a fresh perspective—especially when the weather finally says yes.
So grab your laptop, pack some SPF, and explore a few new “offices” this summer.
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