What Is The Best Area To Stay In Detroit?

Detroit is a city with many distinct neighborhoods and communities, each with its own unique character, history, and attractions. Detroit’s diverse array of neighborhoods developed over decades as waves of immigrants and newcomers settled into Detroit and made the city their home. Many of Detroit’s iconic landmarks are situated in or near each neighborhood, representing touchstones of the city’s history. Walking tours offered in many neighborhoods let visitors see historic sites and learn about each community’s rich past and vibrant culture.

While each Detroit neighborhood has its own flavor, some of the most popular areas to visit and reside in as an out-of-towner include Downtown, Corktown, Midtown, New Center, Eastern Market, Mexicantown, Greektown, and Rivertown. In the sections below, we’ll highlight the key features and distinctive nature of these popular Detroit neighborhoods and what makes each one appealing for those looking to experience the best Detroit has to offer.

Downtown

Downtown Detroit has undergone major revitalization efforts in recent years and is now home to a bustling central business district. Some of the key benefits of staying in Downtown Detroit include:

Proximity to Amenities – Downtown offers easy access to amenities like the Riverwalk, Campus Martius Park, and the shops and restaurants at the Renaissance Center. Sports fans can easily get to event venues like Ford Field, Comerica Park, and Little Caesars Arena. There are also several museums nearby like the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Motown Museum.[1]

Walkable Neighborhood – The Downtown area is very walkable, especially along Woodward Avenue. New protected bike lanes have also made biking around Downtown safer and more accessible.[2]

Access to Transit – People mover stations, QLINE streetcar stops, and several bus routes make it easy to get around Downtown Detroit without a car. The transit options also provide access to other neighborhoods in Detroit.[3]

Proximity to Jobs – As the central business district, Downtown Detroit provides convenient access to major employers for those working in the city. Quicken Loans, GM, Ally Financial, and DTE Energy are among the major companies headquartered Downtown.

Urban Living – From lofts to high-rises, Downtown offers several residential options for those seeking an urban lifestyle. New upscale developments indicate growing residential momentum in the city center.

Corktown

Corktown is one of Detroit’s most historic neighborhoods, located just west of downtown. It’s known for its beautiful Victorian architecture and trendy restaurants, bars, breweries, and shops. Corktown has experienced a major resurgence in recent years as new businesses open up amidst the preserved 19th century buildings. It’s a great place to explore during the day, with popular stops like Slows Bar BQ, Astro Coffee, and the original Bobcat Bonnie’s. At night, the energy picks up as people flock to bars and music venues like PJ’s Lager House. With its hipster vibe and abundance of exposed brick, Corktown has become one of Detroit’s top destinations for dining and nightlife.

Midtown

Midtown is located along Woodward Avenue and has a central location that makes it convenient for getting around Detroit. Midtown is known for its cultural institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit. These Midtown Detroit attractions, many of which are along Woodward Avenue, attract over 1 million visitors per year (Source).

Midtown is also home to Wayne State University, which has over 27,000 students. Wayne State helps give Midtown an energetic, youthful vibe. There are many restaurants, bars, and shops in Midtown catering to the college crowd. Midtown offers a mix of historic and modern architecture and has been undergoing lots of revitalization and new development in recent years.

For those looking to stay in the heart of Detroit’s cultural and entertainment district, Midtown is a great area to consider. It provides walkable access to some of the top museums and attractions in the city.

New Center

New Center is a historic business and entertainment district located just north of Downtown and Midtown. Some of Detroit’s most famous landmarks are located in this neighborhood, making New Center a popular area for visitors.

The Fisher Building and the Cadillac Place building (formerly the General Motors Building) are two beautifully designed skyscrapers that anchor New Center. Both buildings were constructed in the 1920s and feature opulent Art Deco architectural details. In addition to office space, the Fisher Building contains a theater that hosts performing arts events.

Several world-class museums and cultural institutions are based in New Center, including the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the College for Creative Studies, and the Detroit Public Library Main Branch. The DIA houses a premier art collection, while the Charles Wright Museum chronicles the African American experience.

For performing arts, the Detroit Opera House, the Max M. Fisher Music Center, and Orchestra Hall are located in New Center. Throughout the year, you can catch productions by the Michigan Opera Theatre and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in these venues.

New Center has seen much revitalization in recent years. New restaurants, shops, parks, and residences have opened, making the neighborhood more vibrant. With its proximity to Midtown and Downtown, its cultural attractions, and its historic architecture, New Center is one of the most appealing areas for visitors to Detroit.

Eastern Market

Eastern Market is known as one of the largest and oldest public markets in the United States. Every Saturday, the neighborhood comes alive with the bustling Eastern Market farmers market. Over 150 vendors sell fresh produce, meats, flowers, and other specialty food items. It’s a foodie’s paradise.

Beyond the weekly farmers market, Eastern Market has a vibrant local food culture. The neighborhood is home to restaurants, cafes, bakeries, food production facilities, and more that contribute to Detroit’s reputation as a top food city. Murals and street art are also plentiful in Eastern Market. The murals help breath colorful life into the community and reflect its creative spirit.

For those looking to live in Eastern Market, it offers an authentic neighborhood feel while still being close to downtown. There are historic loft apartments as well as newer apartments and condos available for rent. Since it is such a popular area, availability can be competitive. Utilities may be included in some buildings. Rents range from around $700 for a studio to over $2,000 for a 2 bedroom in luxury buildings.

Sources:
https://www.zillow.com/eastern-market-detroit-mi/apartments/
https://www.apartmentguide.com/neighborhoods/apartments/Michigan/Detroit/Eastern-Market/utilities-included-4nu/

Mexicantown

Mexicantown is a vibrant neighborhood known for its rich Mexican culture and heritage. Located along Bagley Street, Mexicantown is home to many Mexican restaurants, bakeries, grocery stores, and murals that reflect the community’s roots. It’s an excellent area for families, with its walkable streets, Grand River median park, and the annual Cinco de Mayo street festival. Mexicantown is also very affordable compared to other parts of Detroit.

Some of the top Mexican restaurants in Mexicantown include Taqueria Lupitas, Taqueria Nuestra Familia, and Los Altos Mexican Bar & Grill. These restaurants offer authentic, homemade Mexican dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and tamales at budget-friendly prices. Bakeries like La Gloria bakery and Mexicantown Bakery are great spots to pick up fresh Mexican breads and pastries. Grocery stores like Honey Bee Market and E & L Supermercado sell ingredients to cook traditional Mexican meals at home.

Mexicantown is one of the best areas for families visiting Detroit. The neighborhood has several parks and green spaces for kids to play. Walking along Bagley Street, you’ll find colorful murals and public art reflecting the community’s Mexican American culture. Events like the Cinco de Mayo street festival feature mariachi music, folkloric dancers, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Mexicantown offers an immersive cultural experience in an affordable, welcoming neighborhood.

Greektown

Greektown is a historic neighborhood located just northeast of downtown Detroit. Known for its lively entertainment district, Greektown offers a unique blend of casinos, restaurants, and nightlife. The neighborhood takes its name from the large Greek immigrant population that first settled here in the early 1900s. Today, Greektown continues to celebrate Greek culture while also drawing visitors with its exciting attractions.

At the heart of Greektown is the casino district along Monroe Street. Three major casinos—MotorCity Casino Hotel, Greektown Casino-Hotel, and MGM Grand Detroit—line the main drag. These resort-style casinos feature thousands of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms for visitors hoping to try their luck. The casinos also offer multiple dining and entertainment options like concert venues, comedy clubs, and sports bars. At night, the neon lights of the casinos give Greektown an energetic ambiance.

Beyond the casinos, Greektown has an array of restaurants celebrating Greek cuisine. Pegasus Taverna, PizzaPapalis Taverna, and New Parthenon are popular spots for moussaka, souvlaki, spanakopita, and more. Bakeries like Astoria Pastry Shop are known for their spinach pies and baklava. There are also classic Greek diners and coffee shops throughout the neighborhood. At restaurants like Golden Fleece and New Hellas, visitors can enjoy a “Greek Islands” atmosphere.

Greektown comes alive at night with a lively nightlife scene. Monroe Street fills with people bar-hopping between Greektown’s clubs and lounges. Establishments like Firebird Tavern and TV Lounge play host to local bands and DJs. For entertainment, the Second City comedy club offers improv and sketch comedy shows. On weekends, visitors pack into Greektown’s restaurants and bars to experience the neighborhood’s dynamic energy.

With its concentration of casinos, Greek eateries, and nightspots, Greektown offers nonstop fun and entertainment. Visitors staying in this historic Detroit neighborhood can enjoy casino gaming, savor Greek cuisine, and experience Greektown’s famous nightlife all within a compact, walkable area.

Rivertown

Rivertown is known for its beautiful riverfront parks, upscale shopping, and historic architecture along the Detroit River. Some of the top attractions include:

• Riverwalk – This scenic 5.5 mile riverfront promenade features paved pathways, gardens, fountains, and several river overlooks. It’s a popular spot for walking, running, biking, and taking in views of the Detroit River.
• Rivertown Park – Located along the Riverwalk, this waterfront park includes a carousel, sandbox play area, pathways, and green space for picnics.
• Detroit Riverfront – Relax at a table by the river’s edge or rent a kayak and paddle along the shoreline for unique views of the Detroit skyline.
• Belle Isle – Referred to as the “jewel of Detroit”, this island oasis features an aquarium, conservatory, giant slide, and scenic trails.
• West Riverfront Park – This newer waterfront park features a skatepark, playground, splash pad, gardens, and harbour views.
• Upscale Shopping – Boutiques and galleries can be found along Jefferson Avenue. Top picks include Drought for eco-friendly wares, The Peacock Room for antiques, and Roberts Riverwalk Hotel luxury shops.
• Historic Architecture – 19th century warehouses along Atwater Street have been renovated into restaurants, condos, and retail spaces. Don’t miss the Detroit Yacht Club and the lovingly restored Westin Book Cadillac Hotel.

With its scenic river setting, vibrant parks, upscale shopping, and historic architecture, Rivertown is one of the most beautiful and appealing areas to stay in Detroit.

Conclusion

Detroit has several dynamic neighborhoods that offer their own unique vibes. Downtown is the bustling urban center with major attractions. Corktown has trendy restaurants and bars in historic buildings. Midtown is home to arts and culture with museums and music venues. New Center has beautiful architecture and green spaces. Eastern Market brings old-world markets and fresh foods. Mexicantown celebrates Latino culture and cuisine. Greektown feels like a Mediterranean getaway. Rivertown provides waterfront recreation and relaxation.

When choosing where to stay in Detroit, consider your interests and ideal location. Those looking for an energetic urban experience with amenities will love Downtown. Foodies and nightlife lovers may prefer Corktown or Greektown. Culture vultures flock to Midtown and New Center. Nature enthusiasts can opt for Rivertown. There’s a neighborhood to match just about any travel style in Motor City.