How to Plan a Summer Vacation in Detroit

If you plan a summer vacation in Detroit, you will quickly realize that this city has once again returned to its status as one of the nation’s great cities. Besides a visit to the Ford Motor Company and museum, there is the port and its plethora of activities and entertainment options. No trip to Motor City is complete without a stop at one of the numerous niche museums, including the Motown Museum. Follow these steps to plan a summer vacation in Detroit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Choose how you are going to get to Detroit. Planes and buses will get you there, and each has advantages and disadvantages in cost and convenience. Detroit is served by one of the nation’s largest airports and is a hub for many airlines. Buy tickets and keep them in a safe place.
2. Take care of your home while gone. Make arrangements for pet and house sitting. Have someone check your mail or have your mail held at the post office until you get back. Leave emergency contact numbers with someone in case they need to get a hold of you while you’re gone.
3. Pack accordingly. Detroit is hot in the summer but can get cold and rainy without warning, so be sure to pack for all kinds of weather. If you plan on doing a lot of walking, be sure pack extra changes of clothes. You should also pack at least one work-casual outfit for a night on the town.
4. Book a hotel. Always have your hotel booked before you leave. Use an Internet travel booking site to get an idea of costs. You should book a hotel downtown as this is where a majority of your sightseeing destinations and other activities are. Although downtown rooms may costs more, you’ll save money on taxi and bus fares. Make reservations and keep a receipt handy.
5. Get to know your way around the place. Are you planning to use public transportation or renting a car? Get maps of the city and study them in preparation for your trip. Learn which sections of town you should avoid. You should have a working knowledge of the major avenues and streets around your hotel and in the neighborhood of any attractions that you will be visiting.
6. Research destinations within the city. Before leaving, make a list of all the sites you want to see. Create a flexible schedule of what days you plan on doing what. Keep in mind that museums and theaters are often closed one day a week and sports teams are not always in town. Have alternatives in case of foul weather.
7. Look at tours and tour guides. The best way to see the Ford Museum is through a guided tour. Sports fans will want to get tickets to a Pistons, Red Wings, Tigers or Lions game, depending on the season.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan for transportation costs. A taxi from the airport into the city costs $20.00. Check to see if your hotel provides free shuttle service.
• Plan your trip over Labor Day weekend. For three days the city plays hosts to the lively Montreux Detroit Jazz Festival.