In a city built for cars, spending a day without one might seem unlikely. But Detroit is increasingly embracing mobility alternatives that make car-free exploration not only possible but enjoyable. With expanding public transit, greenways, bike lanes, and walkable neighborhoods, it’s never been easier to experience the city on foot, two wheels, or rails.
Whether you live nearby or are just visiting for the day, here’s how to explore Detroit — no car required.
Start your morning by heading to one of Detroit’s crown jewels: the Detroit Riverwalk — recently named the best in the country by USA Today for the third time. Find the MoGo Bike station on Atwater Street, near the intersection of Woodward Avenue and steps from Hart Plaza. Rent a bike and you’re on your way.
QLINE
Enjoy the Riverwalk by riding east from Hart Plaza past the Renaissance Center toward the entrance of the Dequindre Cut. The Riverwalk is bike-friendly, and along the way, you’ll find parks, pavilions, food trucks, and incredible views of Canada across the Detroit River.
From the Riverwalk, hop onto the Dequindre Cut Greenway — part of the Joe Louis Greenway — which connects the waterfront to the heart of Eastern Market. Here you’ll encounter fellow cyclists, joggers, walkers, murals, and plenty of greenery.
Take the Cut 1.65 miles north and exit at Wilkins Street to reach Eastern Market. If it’s a Saturday, stroll through the open-air sheds, do some people-watching, and stop for a bite or a drink.
From there, head west on Wilkins to Brush Street. Take Brush Street south to Adams, then continue west to Woodward Avenue, where you’ll arrive at Grand Circus Park. It’s time to leave the bike behind and continue your adventure on rails.
Return your MoGo bike at the station near Grand Circus Park and take the QLine — Detroit’s 3.3-mile streetcar that connects Downtown, Midtown, and New Center. The QLine is an ideal way to explore cultural institutions and neighborhoods without driving.
CAMPUS MARTIUS
Get off at Canfield Street for a walk through Midtown, where you can browse indie bookstores like Source Booksellers, sip a cold beer at Motor City Brewing Works, pop into Shinola for luxury Detroit-made goods. If you’re up for it, hop back on the Qline to the Ferry Street stop and visit the Detroit Institute of Arts.
From there, head back downtown and transfer to the Detroit People Mover, the city’s elevated light rail loop. It’s a quick and easy way to reach points of interest like Greektown, Campus Martius, and the Guardian Building. If you’re feeling ambitious, ride the full loop just for the views.
When you’re ready for a slower pace, downtown Detroit’s green spaces offer great car-free respites. Campus Martius Park offers picnic tables, food kiosks, and — in warmer months — a sandy beach complete with lounge chairs. A few blocks away, Capitol Park offers more shaded seating, local coffee from Cannelle, and a host of food options.
Grab a snack from Eatori Market and enjoy a casual picnic under the trees. Then, take a leisurely walk to Beacon Park, which often hosts art installations and community events, especially during the summer.
Detroit’s car-free dining options are plentiful if you plan around the QLine, People Mover, and walkable districts. For lunch or dinner, check out Selden Standard in Midtown for small plates, or Bakersfield on Woodward for Mexican, or head to Supino’s for some great pizza.
GRAND CIRCUS PARK
Or, not far from Campus Martius is American Gastropub, Central Kitchen, or you can grab a quick burger at Shake Shack or try Grand Trunk for classic pub fare.
Greektown, a short ride on the People Mover, offers a range of restaurants and bars, from Firebird Tavern to Fishbone’s and Pegasus.
For a nightcap, try The Skip, or enjoy a cocktail from the seasonal Spritz Bar at San Morello.
Whether you’re pedaling the Riverwalk, traveling down Woodward on the QLine, or just wandering from one pocket of the city to the next, Detroit proves that a day without a car doesn’t mean a day without adventure. In fact, you might just find that the best way to fall in love with the city is to slow down and let the Motor City move you — no engine required.
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