Hey everyone, About 8 of my friends and I will be visiting Detroit this upcoming weekend for my friend's bachelor party, and none of us have ever been to the city! We have a night planned with mostly brew pubs, but other than that are searching for other ideas! I saw a kayaking company, but it seemed pretty focused on tours of the city instead of leaving people to their own devices, which is honestly probably what we would prefer. I am searching for good outdoor ideas as well as any must-see's or awesome bars/restaurants/pretty much anything. Philly has a website called uwishunu.com that posts a lot of cool events going on in the city week to week. Does Detroit have anything like this? Thanks for any and all help in advance
Coming to Detroit mid March with a group of around 6 to stay a night and go watch Pistons/Raps on Sunday. Wondering the best areas to stay and to go out on Saturday? Looking to get a large AirBnb and I see quite a lot of cool looking places. Any issues with safety? Any cool spots to check out during the day Saturday? Thanks!
It isn't set in stone, but it looks like I'm going on a work conference trip to downtown Detroit at the end of May. When I get these opportunities, I like to get up early the day before and see the city. What should I see in Detroit? Where are good places to eat? I'm a beer nerd; are there good local beers to try? Detroit pizza worth it for the experience? Seems like a pan pizza fried in butter, which I am very on board with. If so, where's the best place to get it? Also, I see that there's a casino in Windsor and a few in downtown Detroit. I'd be interested in gambling a couple hundred dollars at craps or blackjack. My very quick internet research would seem to indicate that the casino in Windsor is better (cleaner, no smoking, etc), but any insight of which casino is better from the perspective of the guy who wants to just spend an hour or so at the table games is appreciated. Thanks.
A STADIUM'S WALKABILITY: Using Google Maps, I look at each stadium's walkability and locale
Walkability is something that's important to a stadium. There has to be activity around the stadium for fans to do before and after games. A few stadiums have excellent walkability, while others are terrible. I'll analyze each stadium using Google Maps, as I haven't been to many of these places, and I'd appreciate input from you guys about other things from each stadium that add to the walkability of a stadium.
HONDA CENTER (ANAHEIM): The area around Ponda seems a little low-key. There's several microbreweries and restaurants, but they seem to be more towards the baseball stadium or on the other side of the river. Walkability seems a little limited in this regard, especially since there's a train station directly serving the stadium.
GILA RIVER ARENA (ARIZONA): Okay, this stadium gets a lot of shit for how remote it is, but it has an entertainment plaza with lots of activity right in front of the stadium, similar to LA Live. Is this plaza any fun? It looks like fun on gamedays.
TD GARDEN (BOSTON): I'm not familiar with Boston, but the stadium is surrounded by highway ramps. That being said, there seems to be a lot of action directly outside the stadium. Great for some quality gameday grub. It's all close together too in concentric avenues in a triangle-shaped block. Really spiffy.
KEYBANK CENTER (BUFFALO): Parking lots, a casino, a couple restaurants, and a huge marina. Oh, and there's a minor league ballpark. I don't know much about Buffalo, but there doesn't seem to be a whole lot of action. Maybe there's more than what's being presented?
SADDLEDOME (CALGARY): Served directly by rail, the Saddledome appears to be a part of the Stampede fairgrounds complex. But the Stampede is after hockey season, so aside from the museum and some country-western bars, what's there to do come gametime?
PNC ARENA (CAROLINA): .......I'm not seeing anything. There's a college football stadium, a high school football field, a large horse stable, and a tiny bistro. Help me out here. This looks really really sad.
UNITED CENTER (CHICAGO): The action seems to be several blocks away in Greektown. This part of Chicago doesn't really have the best reputation, so I'm not sure if I wanna be in this area after dark, especially since there's nothing directly outside the stadium. Walkability is pretty iffy.
PEPSI CENTER (COLORADO) There's a freakin' amusement park! Doesn't look too big but it looks like it could be fun. The stadium is also next to where the Broncos play. Doesn't seem to be a whole lot of restaurants, but there's two restaurants called Brooklyns, wonder if they're any good?
NATIONWIDE ARENA (COLUMBUS): I do believe this stadium is the crown jewel of Columbus' walkable urbanism. There's a lot to do around the stadium! Bars, restaurants, shops all within an arm's reach! This is what an NHL stadium should have. Bravo!
AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER (DALLAS): There's a plaza thingy right outside the stadium, which is neat, also there's a lot of bars and stuff a couple blocks up from the stadium. It looks very encouraging.
LITTLE CAESARS ARENA (DETROIT): I know this stadium, along with Comerica Park and Ford Field, are supposed to be catalysts to revitalize Detroit's downtown. There are tons of restaurants and bars, even a casino, and it looks like a lot of fun. I beg the question...how safe is Downtown Detroit?
ROGERS PLACE (EDMONTON): Your gaudy airplane-hangar-of-a-stadium is right in downtown, with lots of things to do all within an arm's reach of the stadium. I love how part of the stadium has a skyway over the street. A vast improvement over your old stadium, which doesn't have anything of note.
BB&T CENTER (FLORIDA): There's a large outlet mall, an IKEA, and a boulevard full of chain restaurants. Not easily accessible by public transport. Pathetic. Next!
STAPLES CENTER (LOS ANGELES): LA Live is the shit! A great place to hang out on gamedays. Lots of activities and fun to be had. Served by the LA Metro. They really knocked it out of the park here. This is peak walkability.
XCEL ENERGY CENTER (MINNESOTA): Located in St. Paul, Minneapolis' more cultured, preppy, bougie older brother. There's a neat little park area and a lot of bars and eateries along 7th Street. Looks like a fun stadium to be around. St. Paul looks bloody beautiful and the stadium is in a great location.
CENTRE BELL (MONTREAL): Well, it's Montreal, famous for its food and nightlife, and the stadium location seems to be within a stone's throw of it all. Nothing really to complain about, looks like a lot of fun.
BRIDGESTONE ARENA (NASHVILLE): Well, this doesn't disappoint. Museums, legendary music venues, plenty of bars and restaurants, and the stadium is close to it all. The stadium really set out to be part of the Music City and god damn I am envious on how great the walkability is. A+, I truly am envious.
PRUDENTIAL CENTER (NEW JERSEY): There's a few bougie breweries, some chain restaurants, a famous deli nearby, and a Planned Parenthood. It's fucking Newark. I value my life dearly. Sorry.
BARCLAYS CENTER (NY ISLANDERS): A crown jewel of gentrification. This stadium doesn't look like it belongs in the neighborhood, like it was tacked on haphazardly. I mean, there's a lot of bars and restaurants, but how many are there as a result of Brooklyn's ongoing gentrification? I look at this one rather carefully, as it feels rather inauthentic. Sorry Isles fans, I hope your stadium issue gets fixed soon.
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN (NY RANGERS): It's a stadium in Manhattan that sits on top of a train station. It's had peak walkability since it was built, although I can imagine Manhattan can be quite expensive. Literally anything and everything is surrounding the stadium. Words simply can't do it justice.
CANADIAN TIRE CENTRE (OTTAWA): An outlet strip mall and a Costco. Fucking what. Next!
WELLS FARGO CENTER (PHILADELPHIA): I understand South Philly isn't the safest of neighborhoods, but that parking lot is massive. There's a building called Xfinity Live that's supposed to be a hub for all three stadiums, with entertainment options. What is there exactly?
PPG PAINTS ARENA (PITTSBURGH): It's next to a college campus, but the fun stuff outside of the stadium seems to be in Downtown a couple blocks down. Doesn't seem like a bad time.
ENTERPRISE CENTER (ST. LOUIS): Considering it's downtown, you have to walk a few blocks to get to the fun part of town, but it doesn't seem too bad. I can't really see a whole lot, so help me out please?
SAP CENTER (SAN JOSE): I don't think they had walkability in mind when they built the Tank. Everything is very spread out, I mean there looks like to be good stuff but you have to drive several blocks down to get to anything. This stadium would really benefit from a BART extension.
AMALIE ARENA (TAMPA BAY): I'm gonna hate saying this because they're a rival team, but I fucking LOVE Tampa's Channelside neighborhood. Friendly atmosphere, lots of good times to be had, and it's peak Florida fun. This was a great place to put a stadium, it's no mystery how the Bolts packs the house every night, win or lose.
SCOTIABANK ARENA (TORONTO): What can I say? It's a stadium on the waterfront of a major North American city, downwind from an iconic world landmark and a couple blocks away from the fucking Hockey Hall of Fame. Anyone that can't find anything fun to do around the stadium is a fool. The sentiments I had for Madison Square Garden, I echo those sentiments with Toronto.
ROGERS ARENA (VANCOUVER): This area looks like a lot of fun. Gastown looks like a grand old time. There's a marina, several nightclubs and bars, and it just overall looks like I'd be entertained around these parts.
T-MOBILE ARENA (VEGAS): It's the fucking world-famous Las Vegas Strip in Paradise, Nevada. Get a clue. Next!
CAPITAL ONE ARENA (WASHINGTON): It's in Chinatown with lots to do and the US Capitol building is nearby. This looks like a prime location for a stadium. Kinda confusing to consider that this team once played in bumfuck Maryland.
BELL MTS PLACE (WINNIPEG): I know Winnipeg has a poor reputation for lacking in nightlife and activities, but I'm not seeing a whole lot outside of the stadium. A bar here, and restaurant there, which is odd considering the stadium is surrounded by buildings. I expected there to be a lot more and I'm just not seeing it.
If anyone has anything to add or correct, please comment. Thank you!
Visiting Detroit with an RV in Mid July. Need Local advice!
My friends and I are visiting 6 different baseball parks in mid July and Detroit is on our list. The 10 of us rented an RV but we will also be getting one hotel room at each city. Our plan for most places was to have half sleep in the room and the other half in the RV, but figured we would get two rooms in Detroit. We are looking to stay downtown close to the stadium. I've heard some horror stories about Detroit so I wanted to see if any locals could give advice on a good hotel( I think we're looking at holiday inn express downtown) because they seem to have a lot we can pay to park in. It would also be helpful if you could give us advice on anywhere else we could park the RV close to the hotel that might be safer and anywhere you would recommend we go to for drinks or fun after the night game. Also any tips on areas to avoid or might be dangerous? Were all from Chicago and appreciate any help.
My brother and I are coming to Detroit to see the Canucks take on the Wings Nov. 10th. Can anyone recommend a place to stay walking distance from the Joe and places to drink and hang out? We'd like to stay safe sorry to say the stigma of Detroit being an unsafe city is overwhelming.
Visitor's Guide to Red Wings hockey at Little Caesers Arena
It’s the inaugural season of the new Little Caesers Arena (LCA). Many pilgrims are making the trek to the new arena to watch the Detroit Red Wings play. This is my first version of this guide for first time visitors modeled after the one I put together for The Joe. I hope you find it helpful. Suggestions welcome!
Safety around the LCA as well as nearby Detroit city streets is very good. Detroit has a reputation of having high crime however in the 25 years I've been going to games in downtown Detroit I've never felt threatened for my safety. Immediately around and inside the LCA there are Detroit City and Michigan State Police as well as Olympia Security before, during, and after the game. The city streets around the LCA and out to the restaurants and hotels are walkable. But like in any modern city, keep your eyes and ears open and don't be stupid. Walk in groups. Stay (reasonably) sober. Don't go down the sketchy alley. Stay on the well-lit streets. Park in a guarded structure or lot not on a dark side street far away. Lock your car doors. Don't leave visible items inside the car. In other words don't be a victim. You'll be fine and you'll have a good time.
A guided tour of the LCA is available by scheduling in advance on specific dates. Check the LCA tours webpage for more information on prices and scheduling.
Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster, or at the LCA box office (if not already sold out), or through a reseller like Stubhub or even Ticketmaster's Ticket Exchange. Join the mailing list and check out the Red Wings social media for short notice deals like student and military rush ticket pricing and Fan Packs. Be advised the special offers are typically for low demand games like weekdays. Friday and Saturday games especially near holidays or against Canadian teams are high demand and typically not going to have special offers. These games will most likely not have cheap seats even on the reseller market. Ticket prices for the first season of the LCA have been higher than historically at the Joe.
Joe Louis Arena is still standing but no longer being used. The Joe is designated to be torn down but that date is currently not public. You can visit the Joe at 19 Steve Yzerman Dr, Detroit, MI 48226.
I personally do not have much experience with hotels in Detroit but I know people who have stayed at the Westin Book Cadillac and the nearby Ilitch-owned Motor City Casino which also has free shuttle to the LCA or an 8 block walk. MGM Casino is also nearby with a shuttle. On the cheaper side is the Holiday Inn Express next to the Westin Book Cadillac. Check out TripAdvisor Detroit for other hotel options.
With all of the new good food options I recommend checking out a restaurant inside the LCA. Sure the food is stadium prices but there are now three full restaurants located inside the arena as well multiple food stall vendors serving a variety of tastes. The free game day program at the LCA contains a map. I am partial to The Coop. If you want a complete Ilitch experience then get a slice or whole pie of Little Caesars pizza to go or sit down at Mike’s Pizza Bar. Outside the arena I also recommend somewhere iconic such as a coney from American or Lafayette (PROTIP: Lafayette). There are many good restaurants near the LCA and beyond. Check out the /detroit sidebar for more Detroit restaurant suggestions in and around the city. Popular spots include Hockeytown Cafe and flaming cheese in Greektown.
Harry’s Bar and Temple Bar are neighborhood bars that are within a 2 block walking distance to the LCA if you want to drink and hangout with fans before or after. The Chevy Plaza outside the southwest corner of the LCA has beer stands. The /detroit sidebar has more bar suggestions in and around the city. PROTIP: take the QLINE streetcar (US$1.50/3 hours) to the Canfield stop and quaff a few brews over crack fries at HopCat then take the QLINE south 2 stops (10 blocks) to the LCA stop at Sproat St. Be advised the northbound QLINE LCA stop is Adelaide St.
For convenience, park at the LCA VIP parking structure. It may be pricier (US$40 as of 2017-11-09) but it is a comfortable sheltered stroll to the LCA. If you are up for a short walk and would like to save a buck park at the MGM Casino or Motor City Casino for free. From there you can walk 8 blocks or take their free shuttle. The further away you park from the LCA the cheaper it is. There are several surface lots and structures nearby, some let you pay in advance. Some bars also have shuttles for free or a couple bucks. PROTIP: Nemo's has the best shuttle drivers. Regardless, remember where you parked, how you got to the LCA.
Coming from Canada? There is a Windsor tunnel bus US/CAN$5.00 each way from the bus terminal downtown Windsor (Chatham and Church) to Cass Ave. and the I-75 service drive next to the LCA. Getting through immigration takes a few minutes. Have your passport and don't be drunk. Check the link above for service times and details.
The LCA doors open 1.5 hours before game start. There are four sets of doors one at each corner. The Chevy Plaza at the southwest corner has a large screen that shows pre-game hype videos and on occasion the live game. There are also beebeverage stands in the plaza as well as picnic games (e.g. corn hole). You will have to pass through security to enter the Chevy Plaza but no ticket scan until you enter the arena doors.
You can sort of watch the players arrive by car (and visitors by bus) into the parking structure off Clifford north of the I-75 service drive.
The best photos of the LCA exterior are from the east side of Woodward just north of the westbound I-75 service drive looking at the building from the southeast corner. Photo
Will Call tickets at the box office located at the northeast corner of the arena off Woodward Ave.
There is a strict bag size policy enforced at the door. I’ve seen some upset people turned away at the doors. Know before you go.
You will have to go through a metal detector and may be subject to extra screening to enter the LCA.
Free WIFI is available inside as well as outside of the arena.
There are free programs inside the LCA at the entrances. Grab one because it has an arena map with section numbers and vendor locations. Sometimes there are interesting articles too.
There is souvenir shop called the Team Store in the southwest corner of the LCA. The authentic signed gear and memorabilia located in the east end of the store. There are also vendors scattered around the via and upper concourse selling souvenirs. PROTIP: the LCA prices are high for swag. Buy your gear ahead of time online or at Detroit Athletic in Detroit or Hockeytown Authentics up in Troy.
Friendly ushers are everywhere to help out and answer your questions. Most will take your photo for you if you ask politely.
There are local Detroit and Michigan craft beer vendors scattered around the arena priced at around US$10. Check the map in the free program for locations.
During warmups, fans congregate around the glass. Players come out at 30 minutes before game time for warmups. PROTIP: I recommend watching the Red Wings shoot at the net during warmups from behind the net on the glass in section 102/103. Hearing the puck smack the glass inches from your face is neat. Same for aisle for 115/116 on the visiting team side behind the net. The ushers will let you down to the ice level for warmups even if you don’t have tickets in that section.
The sea of banners is gone but the retired jerseys and Stanley Cup Championship banners remain. They are not the originals (those are hanging in the practice rink below the main rink) but are retractable. The banners share the ceiling with the Pistons banners on the other side. PROTIP: The best photo op for the Red Wing banners is in front of the Fox Sports Detroit broadcast desk at the top of section 219. Say hi to Keats for me.
There is a nice mix of old and new artwork in the LCA. Take some time before the game to walk around the lower and upper level concourses to see the manholes, the Howe/Lindsey/Delvecchio statues from the Joe, the original Olympia sign, murals of Red Wing greats. Look for the Red Wing logo at the northeast corner lower concourse made of auto parts. There are multiple selfie and photo spots too like the Red Wings bench and Little Caesars spear. The LCA is shared with the Detroit Pistons basketball team so you will see artwork and displays featuring their greats as well.
Every seat at the LCA has a great view of the ice. Some seats in the upper level (rows 6 and above between the red lines) have obstructed views of the center ice score board but there displays mounted behind the gondolas. The layout of the seats are steep and from the ice it looks like the stands are stacked on top of you. Sections, rows, and seats are on your ticket but navigation is based on portals. Check your ticket for your portal, go to that, then find your section/row/seat. Sit in your own seat. If you see seats that are still empty well into the first period then move to them. If someone asks you to move out of their seat just do it. Explore the arena to check out different seat views. PROTIP: go up to portals 78-82 to check out the vertigo inducing view down from the gondola.
Get to your seat 10 minutes before puck drop to see the pre-game on the huge scoreboard and on-ice projection.
The LCA now has a legit organ with in-house organists. They're pretty entertaining. Check it out the upper concourse behind section 301.
Don't be disrespectful during the national anthem(s). Just stand politely and shut up. Some visitors don't understand how disrespectful they can be. It's like 2 minutes, put the phone down.
Most Red Wings fans are friendly people and quite knowledgeable about their team and the sport. Strike up a conversation and you'll probably learn something new.
Cheer for your visiting team but don't be a dick about it.
DO NOT STAND UP OUT OF YOUR SEAT WHILE THE PUCK IS IN PLAY.
The LCA has a strict no smoking policy. There is no smoking area outside of any door. If you leave the LCA to smoke you will not be readmitted.
We know the goal horn recording sucks. We've already told the Red Wings organization about it. They know. They're working on it.
There are a lot of restrooms in the LCA. I haven’t see any long lines like the Joe had. Sadly(?) there are no urinal troughs in the men’s rooms.
Don't leave early! If the Red Wings win the DJ will play Don't Stop Believing in the final seconds or right after the game ends for you and thousands of your friends to sing along. The arena DJ plays music from multiple genres from Motown to country to pop and is known to take suggestions. He can be reached on Twitter @thehockeyjockey.
There is no public accessible spot for athlete autographs. The best opportunity for autographs is an event created for that purpose such as the Season Ticket Holder Open House, Fan Day Open House, or charity events like Toast of Hockeytown, Charity Poker Tournaments, as well as autograph signing events posted at https://www.facebook.com/DRWautographs/.
Post-game ride share pickups are along the I-75 service drive south of the LCA. Shuttles will pick you up where they dropped you off.
Have fun and enjoy the game!
Edit 1: typos and ride share info Edit 2: photo spot location and photo
Which large U.S. city is the least successful at getting tourism despite serious efforts?
I mean when the city has infrastructure for tourists, visitors, and leisure spending, but it's usually underused. Some cities won't bother and focus on residents, schools, ubiquitous retail chains, office parks, etc. so not those cities.
Alternate History: Woodward gets his Way, An Essay on the Woodward Plan and what Detroit would be Like had the Plan been Implemented.
Leading Picture https://i.imgur.com/tBFvwfh.jpg Setting the Scene: The year is 1805. Detroit has a population of about 1000 people and has only been a part of the United States for two years. Alas, it doesn't take long for things to go horribly wrong, as the entire city burns down this year. Judge Augustus Woodward, the first Judge of the Michigan Territory, creates an ambitious and unique plan to rebuild it. Summary of what follows: Ultimately, for various reasons, only a small fraction of Judge Woodward's grand plan was actually implemented. My goal is to attempt to see what Detroit would be like had the Woodward plan been fully carried out, as well as educate about the details of the plan and its history. If you're just here for the pictures, here is a link to the complete album: https://imgur.com/a/y5hLS If you're still with me, without further ado, let's get started. What was Woodward's plan? I think it is best to show it in terms of what would change about Detroit as we know it, step by step: https://imgur.com/a/LjTL1 Key Points of the Woodward Plan
Triangles! The Woodward plan is based upon repeating triangular sections, not the typical rectangular grid.
Despite this, most of the building plots are still rectangular. Exceptions are the pentagonal ones around Campus Martiuses and the wedge and triangle ones around Grand Circuses
200' wide grand avenues running N-S and E-W. These create a familiar rectangular grid among the madness of the triangles.
120' radiating avenues are still pretty wide (for reference Michigan Ave Downtown is ~93' wide including sidewalks)
Parks, parks, and more parks. Each triangular Woodward section has one Grand Circus circle park, one Campus Martius rectangular park, and 8 triangle parks. Because of this, each Campus Martius park has a twin nearby. https://imgur.com/ji0l2Nn
This is nuts, how much of this was actually built? I've highlighted the buildings that exist in the city today according to the following scheme:
Green = 100% conforming to the Woodward plan
Yellow = Partially conforming to the Woodward plan
Red = Does not conform to the Woodward plan
First, here's the buildings on top of the existing street layout: https://imgur.com/P2uQaD3 Now, replace that street layout with Woodward's: https://imgur.com/JRYkclz Finally, destroy the nonconforming buildings and replace them with conforming buildings: https://imgur.com/ZOokpeJ This plan seems crazy, where did Woodward get the idea from? He was impressed and inspired by Washington D.C. and its diagonal avenues, but Woodward's plan takes it a step further. While Washington D.C. is simply a system of rectangular lots that happens to have diagonal avenues in it, the Woodward plan is a modular system entirely based on triangles that could be added as the city expanded. Are you saying the spoke roads are not a part of the Woodward Plan? Yes, this is a common misconception. The only relationship the spoke roads have to the Woodward plan is that they take roads that are part of the Woodward plan and extend them straight for ~40 miles. Why was so little of the plan implemented? Firstly, Woodward had limited authority to break up land that was already owned. For example, the government owned the area between Michigan Ave and Jefferson Ave and chose to arrange it in a conventional grid. Additionally, land in parcels perpendicular to the river owned by individuals, like the Brush family and the Beaubien family, could not be broken up and incorporated into the plan. Secondly, drafting up a city plan takes time and the people of Detroit grew restless as time passed after the devastating fire. The public also disliked the idea of so much public park space. Coupled with a general resistance for change, emnity toward Woodward's plan grew, so much so that others in Michigan's government would try to undo it while he was away. On one such occurrence, Woodward's detractors authorized the land north of Grand Circus park to be sold in rectangular parcels. Despite Woodward's alarm and protests that such a maneuver was illegal, the sale went through in 1817. This killed hope of implementing any more of the Woodward Plan. Part of Woodward's written complaint was as follows: “Nature had destined the city of Detroit to be a great interior emporium, equal, if not superior, to any other on the surface of the … globe. … In such a case that art of man should aid the benevolence of the Creator, and no restricted attachment to the present day or to present interests should induce a permanent sacrifice of ulterior and brilliant prospects.” And with that, Detroit's chance to develop as a truly one-of-a-kind city passed. The question of "what if" has reigned unchallenged ever since. Until now, that is. Working from Judge Woodward's original plans, I built the city street by street and building by building in Sketchup, creating "Woodward Detroit". I've included some famous Detroit buildings in Woodward Detroit, most of the rest are "filler" buildings meant to give the impression of a complete city. Now, I give you Detroit built per Woodward's own specifications. Some Aerial Photos and the Skyline https://imgur.com/tBFvwfhhttps://imgur.com/Yn4TJychttps://imgur.com/sVuvYse Transit in Woodward Detroit I see a lot of discussion around the subreddit about Detroit's transit woes so I did some thinking about transit, both from the present Detroit perspective of auto-dominance and an alternate rail and subway perspective. Roads Woodward could not have foreseen the explosive growth Detroit would see, eventually growing to a city of two million. I beilieve it is remarkable that he included 120' and 200' roads when designing the city in 1805; he showed remarkable foresight there that would lend itself well to Detroit's development as Motor City. However, I believe a limitation would show itself in the circle parks. Twelve roads all come together and you're stuck in a giant traffic circle. That sounds like a traffic nighmare. On an interesting side note, there is nothing special about Woodward Avenue in Woodward Detroit. It isn't even a grand avenue. In present Detroit after the Woodward plan was defeated, people came along afterward and extended Fort, Michigan, Grand River, Woodward, Gratiot, and Jefferson into the "spokes" we know today. Ironically, the defeat of the Woodward Plan allowed Woodward to become a household name by having his name attached to the major thoroughfare of M-1. While I have depicted the medians in the grand avenues as solid, there is no reason they couldn't be crossed with streets as they are presently on Washington Blvd, for example. The layout of one way streets in the small Woodward portion of present Detroit gives a clue what the layout in Woodward Detroit could be like. The circle park road is one way, like a giant roundabout, then the outer concentric circular roads are also one way in alternating directions. https://imgur.com/1dB9WLT Writing my own fantasy history, we'll say that the parks contributed to traffic in Woodward Detroit becoming the worst in the country by the 1950s. Citizens of Woodward Detroit unified in such an uproar at the idea running highways through their unique city that the city was forced to look at more efficient ways of moving people... Rail / Subway The 200' wide grand avenues leave ample room for light rail in the medians, one track each way. However, unlike in present Detroit, where roads run dozens of miles without interruption, the grand avenues of Woodward Detroit are full of parks. One possible course of action is to use the Campus Martius style parks as stations and the Circle parks as interchanges for the trains. https://imgur.com/WDPDvAz A second option is more familiar: spokes. These lines could be on the surface or a subway system, but I call them "the subway" in the rest of the post, so we'll go with that. I like this spoke option because it solidifies Grand Circus park as the center of the city, with subway lines stretching out to the suburbs in a similar fashion to the spoke roads today. I don't know what the Grand Circus park station would look like, with the logistics of six subway lines all intersecting there, but I'm sure the result would be a marvel of the transit world. I chose to leave it to the imagination and have them all mash together, beacuse such a station is beyond my skill to create. https://imgur.com/lCh1UWQ Thirdly, the "why not both?" option ensures ample transit coverage. https://imgur.com/sd5R4Z6 Now, with all of these lines, subways, and stations, it seems we need some way to move people around between them. Hence, the People Mover takes its place in Woodward Detroit. The People Mover can finally serve its intended purpose of moving people between different transit lines. https://imgur.com/51MRHuq Both sets of rail and the people mover create a robust transit system. https://imgur.com/27WzjJ9 Looking at specific famous Detroit buildings / locations Renaissance Center Since the unique part of the Woodward plan applies to only above Jefferson Ave, the Renaissance Center can stay exactly where it is in present Detroit. https://imgur.com/VpLTfFZ One Detroit Center, One Woodward Ave, McKinsey, Crowne Plaza https://imgur.com/F4G5vis Penobscot Building, Guardian Building, 211 Fort St. https://imgur.com/OtgdTft Campus Martius, First National Building, One Campus Martius, One Kennedy Square The first two buildings conform to the Woodward plan, One Kennedy Square was reshaped. https://imgur.com/lXWFtS7 Monroe Block, First National, Cadillac Tower, Cadillac Square Cadillac Square is not a square any longer; instead it is just a part of Michigan Grand Ave. I've included a concept for the upcoming development on the Monroe block. https://imgur.com/VoGyaiV Hudson's Site Based upon the latest renderings, though the tower of apartments is more inspired by the first rendering. Standing 800' tall to its roof, this new skycraper is a focal point for present Detroit and Woodward Detroit alike. https://imgur.com/z6NuGkB View from top of David Whitney Building https://imgur.com/9D9HaWA Book Skyscraper In my made up history, the Woodward plan allowed Detroit's boom and surge to reach even greater heights before the Depression, enabling the construction of grand plans that were shelved in present Detroit because of the Depression. One such building is the 82 Story Book skyscraper attached to the Book Tower we know and love, standing about 900' tall! https://imgur.com/27v3W27 Grand Circus Park Grand Circus Park would be quite a sight, to be standing in the center of the full circle with all twelve lots occupied by towers (though I didn't have the heart to remove the eternal parking lot at Adams and Madison (apparently now called Aretha Franklin Way)). In this alternate history, it is the transit hub of Detroit, served by six subway lines and the People Mover. https://imgur.com/6hCgcTL Water Board Building https://imgur.com/VOHe101 Detroit Library https://imgur.com/cssXTnA Michigan Central Station https://imgur.com/ntN6jHMhttps://imgur.com/MPXMKgi Greektown / Casino https://imgur.com/hQICX6D Fisher Building Another Detroit building that was prevented from reaching its full potential by the Depression. The Fisher Building we know today is less than a third of the original plan. You can read more about that in my post here: https://www.reddit.com/Detroit/comments/5vu97d/alternate_history_the_fisher_building_is_finished/?st=j89fj0h5&sh=928a4c31 In my alternate history, the Fisher brothers, seeking to cement their legacy with the largest commercial building in the world, finally convinced the city to allow the construction of their tower inside a circle park, ensuring that it is visible as the terminating vista on 12 streets. The Albert Kahn firm spared no expense and created a lavish limestone 60 story tower flanked by two 30 story towers, crowned by gold leaf roofs and all joined together by a U shaped, three-story lobby filled with decadent gold leaf, bronze, frescos, and murals. Finished just months before the 1929 Great Depression, it stands as a nationally-recognized high point of Art Deco architecture. https://imgur.com/Bk17fXV (Aside: How tall is it? There is a problem with the scale of the Fisher Building model. The width is correct at 800' and the footprint actually does just barely fit inside a circle park. However, the roof height (not including spire) of the 30 story part is 301' in the model while the actual roof height is 418.3'. Applying this scale factor would put the actual height of the 60 story roof at 938.3'.) Riverfront Towers, Cobo, Joe Louis https://imgur.com/v0WPDBn Comerica Park and Ford Field I experimented to see if these stadiums could fit inside circle parks. https://imgur.com/AtGJUJR https://imgur.com/g1n75ZF Views Aerial Views and Views from the tops of buildings https://imgur.com/QyRFaqZhttps://imgur.com/UE4TfN1https://imgur.com/LpIYRNThttps://imgur.com/NtHsBd8https://imgur.com/U6D40h0https://imgur.com/DhQs0Ylhttps://imgur.com/v7V2uz4https://imgur.com/Wf6gOjm Matched Photo I attempted to match an aerial photo I found https://imgur.com/N7tf2lRhttp://banana1015.com/files/2016/03/Spencer-Platt-Getty-Images.jpg Bonus Woodward Detroit's one-of-a-kind layout has created a close knit city with an atmosphere like no other, with world leading architecture, innovation, and a robust transit system. Naturally, a certain tech company looking for their second HQ chose it as their first choice, claiming "there weren't ever really any other options." I had some fun making a circle park and its surrounding buildings into one unified HQ complex. And it does lie on one of the subway lines. https://imgur.com/3lY5Rtn Conclusion & Sources For further reading about the history of the Woodward plan, I recommend this excellent three part article, from which I sourced much of my information: http://detroiturbanism.blogspot.com/2016/04/the-woodward-plan-part-i-origins.html Some information also came from here, a shorter summary focusing on the plan's downfall: https://www.metrotimes.com/news-hits/archives/2015/06/01/the-detroit-that-never-was-how-the-woodward-plan-died-197-years-ago In conclusion, once I learned about Woodward and his grand plan for Detroit, I voraciously devoured any information I could find about it. The combination of its true uniqueness among urban designs and the fact that just enough of the plan was built to stimulte curiousity but not enough to indicate what the whole city would look like sent me on this path. My goal was to create what Woodward could not and provide an alternate vision for what Detroit could have been. I greatly enjoyed following Woodward's own procedure to lay out a section and then populating with all the buildings and details. I am very pleased with the final results and hope you are too. I undertook this project out of passion and interest. I hope you enjoyed reading and that I arranged the content in a clear manner. Thanks for reading! Acknowledgements A wonderful tool in Sketchup is the ability to import models created by others. I used this to build more of a connection from my virtual Woodward Detroit to the Detroit we know today and I feel the results of my project would not have been even half as good without them. A big thank you to the following Sketchup users:
City of Detroit: finalcutjoe
Ally building: C M.
Guardian, Penobscot, David Stott, Cadillac Place, Cadillac Tower, Fisher Buildings: wyliepoon (Fisher Building was modified to its "full" version by me)
First time in Detroit for the game on Sunday, have a few questions.
Hi guys, I'm a diehard Habs fan coming down to see the game on Sunday. I've never been to Detroit before and I'm a bit wary just based on the bad hype the city gets. I have a few questions for you.
Are there any attractions within walking distance around the Joe Louis that would be worth coming early to see?
Would it be a bad idea to wear a Habs jersey? I know I won't get killed or anything but I'd rather not get harassed at all.
Is the Joe Louis parking garage a good place to park? I'm not really worried about cost, just walking distance to the arena (and safety of the walk). If you have any places that might be better, let me know.
Also, would parking there fill up at 5:30? I'm probably gonna go in when doors open just to take the whole experience in.
I'd appreciate if you guys took some time to answer my questions. Thanks a ton, should be a good game.
Happy New Year /Detroit! Every day people come to ask "What should I do in the city??" and this updated thread is our chance to tell them. It's been 3+ years since its been updated so a lot has changed. Keeping a similar format to the 2014 and 2011 editions comment below with any suggestion(s) and a short reason why you recommend it. Everyone's collective picks will be added into the list below and then added to the sidebar. Closed businesses have already been removed, new Museums section now broken out, if you have any adds/deletes/edits to existing list, just shout it out, I'll leave this post as a sticky and open over the next week so all have a chance to contribute. See below:
Entertainment & Attractions
Public Spaces/Parks:
Belle Isle Michigans most visited State Park; from Sunset Point to the Conservatory and Aquarium, many beaches there's lots to discover here.
Eastern Market one of the largest and oldest open-air farmers markets in the country
Campus Martius highly regarded as one of the best city parks in the country and home to many events throughout the year. Home to Detroit's Christmas tree and an ice-skating rink in the winter.
Detroit People Mover it's not the most useful system for transit, but is actually a good way to see downtown in a quick 20-30 minutes
Riverwalk A walkable view of Canada and Detroit River.
Rouge Park for great outdoor times
Chandler Park
Historic Fort Wayne when open
Entertainment Venues:
El Club Music venue in Mexicantown that also has amazing NY style pizza
Marble Bar Music venue that also hosts WDET's monthly Moth storytelling
Garden Bowl/Magic Stick Historic bowling alley, dive bar and concert venue under one roof.
Baker's Keyboard Lounge top-notch jazz club
PJ's Lager House live music, local beer on tap
Theaters Detroit is home to the second largest theater district in the Fillmore, Fox Theater, Masonic Temple, Fisher Theater, Gem, Music Hall, St. Andrews, Detroit Opera House, City Theater, Majestic, Max M. Fisher Music Center
Seasonal:
Detroit City Football Club (also see /DetroitCityFC) amazing soccer team, nationally recognized.
Detroit Derby Girls Bouts take place at the Masonic Temple
Other:
Detroit Film Theatre 1,200 seat auditorium located at the DIA, catch a screening.
Cinema Detroit Movie theater located in Midtown, select indie films and new releases
Casinos We have three! Greektown, MGM Grand and Motor City.
Museums & Exhibits
Detroit Institute of Arts Free for Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb county residents.
Motown Museum the birthplace of Motown music, located in New Center
Henry Ford Museum/Greenfield Village Good for vistors if they have a few hours and transportation.
MOCAD Contemporary Art Museum in an amazing raw space, always changing exhibitions and a nice little shop inside. Located on Woodward in Midtown.
Michigan Science Center hands-on exhibits, IMAX Dome, Planetarium, mad scientists with liquid nitrogen and lightning. good for kids, located in Midtown.
Outdoor Adventure Center located in the newly restored Globe Trading Building.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History
Tuskegee Airmen Museum
African Bead Museum
Dossin Great Lakes Museum located on Belle Isle
Ford Piquette Plant historic auto production facility and birthplace of the Model T.
Retail & Shopping
John K. King Books Downtown; Largest used bookstore in the state, located in an old glove warehouse
Pewabic Pottery near Islandview; Detroit original, lots of original ceramic art work to view and purchase
Third Man Records Retail store and Vinyl Manufacturing plant, owned/operated by Jack White
City Bird Midtown; Handmade goods from local and regional designers
People's Records Gratiot in Eastern Market; Internationally renowned treasure trove of rare vinyl, with a focus on Detroit produced stuff
Hello Records Corktown; Newer record shop with a great collection of new and old vinyl
Pure Detroit Downtown and New Center; Detroit themed t-shirts, magnets, etc.
Shinola Flagship Store watches, bikes and leather goods.
The Hub A Bicycle shop with a charitable bent and affordable bikes.
Avenue of Fashion Located at Livernois and Outer Drive; shopping district off the beaten path
Run Detroit Running gear store in Midtown, hosts a welcoming run club every Saturday morning at 8am
Paramita Sound Record store in West Village
Places to eat:
Coney Islands Lafayette or American, take your pick. Duly's Place in Mexicantown as another OG contender.
Supino Pizzeria Eastern Market; Best NY style pizza in the city, delicious fresh ingredients
Cass Cafe Restaurant and art gallery in Cass Corridor.
Green Dot Stables Grab your saddle, best sliders in the city.
Johnny Noodle King one of Detroit's ramen noodle houses
The Bronx Midtown. Classic dive bar with an equally classic jukebox and a burger that's out of this world.
Sweetwater Tavern Downtown, /Detroit's pick for 'Best Wings in the City'
Buddy's Pizza Original Detroit style pizza, well regarded by foodies and chefs.
Rock City Eatery on Woodward in Midtown. Cheap drinks and great food.
Dutch Girl Donuts Palmer Park. Best donuts in the city, been doing it the same way forever.
Mudgies Deli Corktown fresh sandwich shop with patio, recently expanded.
Cadieux Cafe Jazz music throughout the week and authentic Featherbowling.
Slow's BBQ Corktown. BBQ that put Corktown as a food destination on the map. Check out Slows-To-Go in Midtown if you're looking to skip the wait.
The Food Exchange famous for the Big Baby burger
Vincente's Great Cuban food. Salsa dancing. 20+ types of tequila
Ottava Via Italian joint in Corktown. Great food, laid back atmosphere.
Mercury Bar Good food and beer selection and the atmosphere is really cool.
Townhouse located Downtown
Bucharest Grill Amazing Shawarma and good prices, 3 locations around the city.
Scotty Simpson's Northwest side for fish and chips
Polish Village Cafe Eat your Polish Grandmother's cooking. A Hamtramck staple.
The Whitney Restaurant in a gorgeous historic mansion. Ambience is spectacular, food has gone through down periods. Good spot for an important date night. Don't be surprised to see a marriage proposal.
Giovanni's Arguably the best Italian food in the city. Neighborhood is what happens when you zone Heavy Industrial in Sim City, but the food, service and ambience are world-class.
London Chop House A famous Detroit restaurant name brought back to life, it's a classic dark-wood, old-school steakhouse. Frank Sinatra and Henry Ford II had tables there. Just opened a cigar bar in the same building for after-dinner lounging.
Roast "Iron Chef" Michael Symon's restaurant in the Westin Book Cadillac hotel. Things happen to meat here that you never thought possible.
Joe Muer's Seafood Like the London Chop House, a classic name from Detroit restaurant history brought back to life. Located in the ground floor of the GM Renaissance Center, lunch is comprised almost entirely of GM suppliers taking their customers out to lunch, but dinner is another matter.
Golden Fleece Greektown. "Best Gyro in town" and other greek specialties.
Mexicantown Most authentic Mexican food in the city, can't go wrong: Los Altos, Taqueria Lupitas, Taqueria Nuestra Familia, Taqueria El Rey, or Taqueria Mi Pueblo.
** Takoi** Northern Thai inspired restaurant. James Beard finalist
Selden Standard Fine dining, local, small plates. Also great brunch.
Wright & Co Fine dining, local, small plates.
Republic Fine dining, local, small plates.
ima Corktown, Udon noodles.
Flower's of Vietnam Vietnamese restaurant run by a Lebanese chef in an old Mexicantown coney. Only in Detroit.
Polonia Restaurant Home style Polish and Eastern European food, located right next to Polish Village cafe in Hamtramck.
Apparatus Room Fine restaurant & bar in the Detroit Foundation Hotel near Cobo Center.
People's Bakery One of Southwest's finest local shops.
Brunch Spots
Cliff Bells Foxtown. Bottomless mimosas and bloody Mary's and great selection of French and Soul Food inspired dishes
Hudson Cafe Downtown. Red velvet pancakes, graham cracker-crusted French toast, and Voodoo Eggs Benedict
Seva Midtown. great Brunch for Vegan's and Vegetarian's- Small but good beewine selection
Brooklyn Street Local Corktown. banana pancakes with caramelized walnuts, an inevitably delicious quiche-of-the-day, and of course, the Hangover Special, and some damn good Poutine!
La Dolce Vita North Detroit. smooth jazz, salmon hash, and the shrimp Benedict make for a fabulous brunch experience
The Dime Store Downtown. a great selection of Omelets, Benedicts, Sandwiches, and Hash (from Executive Chef Josh, who has spent 2 decades in award winning restaraunts in Chicago, NYC, and A2) and of course, BOOZE! (Their Duck Rueben is out of this world)
Foran's Grand Trunk Pub Downtown. Great meal options throughout the day but their brunch is great (May I recommend their Corktown sandwich or the Lobster Benedict) with a great local beer selection to boot
Rose's Fine Foods Rivertown. Homesick for mom's cooking? This place has incredible baked goods and delicious sandwiches that make you feel right at home
The Clique Breakfast spot on Jefferson in Rivertown area
Honest Johns Midtown. Good all around menu, drink list and Chicken & Waffles.
Detroit Institute of Bagels Traditional bagels plus soups & sandwiches in an airy, industrial space with counter seating.
Places to drink:
Breweries:
Batch Brewing Co. Corktown small batch brewery with 15+ beers on tap and Louisiana-style food.
Detroit Beer Co. Great beer as well as great food. The Hair of the Dog burger is fantastic.
Atwater Detroit brewery near the Riverfront
Brew Detroit Contract brewing facility with a great open space and their own brews. Across the park from Batch. The Loaded Die hosts Tuesday boardgame nights here.
Eastern Market Brewing Company The large pink elephant mural is hard to miss.
Founders taproom Needs no introduction
Motor City Brewing Works Midtown; Microbrewery with delicious beer and uniquely-topped pizzas, rooftop seating in the Summer
Jolly Pumpkin Brewery Tap room specializing in Sour Beer and Ciders
Bars:
Motor City Wine located in Corktown.
SugarHouse Carefully crafted cocktails in a hunting lodge sharing a wall with Slow's. Hells yea.
Woodbridge Pub
Cafe D'Mongo's a unique and eclectic "speakeasy." reasonably priced and strong cocktails, live music every night (Fri & Sat only)
Cliff Bells a solid jazz club right downtown (could be under entertainment as well)
Dakota Inn Rathskeller a German underground beer hall that transports you straight to Europe, featuring German food, music, and beer. Especially popular during Oktoberfest (mid-September to end of October).
Jacoby's Biergarten good selection of draft beer, solid German food, and a huge international beer selection
Jolly Ol' Timers North Cass Corridor. If they're open, you won't find a bar full of more interesting people.
Old Miami Midtown. A Veterans bar, During the summer, the back yard is the best place to drink in the city.
Foran's Grand Trunk Pub Downtown; great selection of local Michigan beers, with decent food to accompany it
Northern Lights Lounge New Center bar with a great patio and decent food.
Two Way Inn One of the oldest bars in the city
The Skip Popular alley bar in The Belt
Ready Player One Barcarde
Checker BaOffworld Arcade Burger bar & Barcade near Campus Martius
Coffeeshops:
Astro Coffee a popular cafe in Corktown
Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Co. Chill coffee bar with beer, wine and some food.
Socre Tea A tea shop/cafe in midtown. Tucked away on Garfield and John R. Super quiet and relaxing.
Ashe Supply Co. Small-batch java drinks plus pastries, sandwiches and other goods just off Grand Circus Park in Downtown
Dessert Oasis Espresso, house-roasted coffee & pastries served in a brick-walled space with artwork & live music. Good window views located Downtown in Capital Park.
Visitor's Guide to Red Wings hockey at Joe Louis Arena
It’s the last season for Joe Louis Arena. Many pilgrims are making the trek to the Hockeytown holy ground to watch the Detroit Red Wings play. I’ve posted this guide over the years for first time visitors to the Joe. I hope you find it helpful. Suggestions welcome!
I've been asked about safety in and around the Joe as well as nearby Detroit city streets. Detroit has a reputation of having high crime and some will say it was earned. However in the 20 years I've been going to games at the Joe and spending time around the Joe I've never felt threatened for my safety. Immediately around the Joe there are Detroit City Police officers and Olympia Security before and after the game. Inside the Joe there is Olympia Security. The city streets around the Joe and out to the restaurants and hotels are walkable and you should feel safe. But like in any modern city, keep your eyes and ears open and don't be stupid. Walk in groups. Stay (reasonably) sober. Don't go down the sketchy alley. Stay on the well-lit streets. Park in a guarded structure not on a dark side street far away. Lock your car doors. Don't leave visible items inside the car. In other words, be smart. Don't be a victim. You'll be fine and you'll have a good time.
A guided tour of Joe Louis Arena is available by scheduling in advance. It only costs US$6 for adults and US$3 for children. Tours are only available on certain dates. Check the Red Wings website for more information and scheduling.
Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster, or at the Joe box office (if not already sold out), or through a reseller like Stubhub or even Ticketmaster's Ticket Exchange. Join the mailing list and check out the Red Wings social media for short notice deals like student and military rush ticket pricing and Fan Packs. Be advised the special offers are typically for low demand games like weekdays. Friday and Saturday games especially near holidays are high demand and typically not going to have special offers. These games will most likely not have cheap seats even on the reseller market.
The new Little Caesars Arena is still being built. You can see the progress at 66 Sibley St, Detroit, MI 48201 just west of Woodward Ave. north of I-75.
Locals don’t know much about hotels in Detroit but I’ve known visitors with money to stay at the Westin Book Cadillac which is walking distance to the Joe. On the mid range side check out the Ilitch-owned Motor City Casino which also has free shuttle to the Joe. On the cheaper side still within walking distance is the Holiday Inn Express next to the Westin Book Cadillac.
I recommend eating at a restaurant somewhere else besides the Joe before the game - unless you like stadium food at stadium prices. If you must eat at the Joe check out the free playbill for vendor map. If you want a complete Ilitch experience then get a slice or whole pie of Little Caesars pizza. On the lighter, fresher side is East End Joe’s deli with good subs and salads. There aren't many restaurants immediately near the Joe. I recommend somewhere iconic such as a coney from American or Lafayette (PROTIP: Lafayette) both of which are a reasonable walking distance to the Joe. Check out the /detroit sidebar for more Detroit restaurant suggestions in and around the city. Popular spots include Hockeytown Cafe and flaming cheese in Greektown.
Tommy’s and Cobo Joe’s are neighborhood bars that are walking distance to the Joe if you want to drink and hangout with fans before or after. Again /detroit sidebar has more bar suggestions in and around the city.
For convenience, park at the Joe Louis Arena parking structure. It may be pricier (US$25 as of 2016-10-23) and take a while to get out if you're in a rush but it is a comfortable sheltered walk down the habitrail to the Joe. If you are up for a short walk and would like to save a buck I recommend the Cobo basement for US$15. The further away you park from the Joe the cheaper it is. Many locals will park at the Greektown Casino and take the People Mover elevated tram for US$0.75 to the Joe Louis Arena stop but the line gets long after the game. Some nearby bars also have shuttles for free or a couple bucks. PROTIP: Nemo's has the best shuttle drivers and they let you bring roadies. Regardless, remember where you parked, how you walked to the Joe, and which door you came in. I’ve seen many visitors get turned around after a couple beers and a good game.
Coming from Canada? There is a Windsor tunnel bus US/CAN$4.50 each way from the bus terminal downtown Windsor (Chatham and Church) to the front of Cobo. From there it is a 10 minute walk, mostly indoors. Getting through immigration takes a few minutes. Have your passport and don't be drunk. Check the schedule and give yourself at least an hour. The last bus is half an hour after the game ends. (thanks poodletown!)
The Joe doors open 1.5 hours before game start but people sometimes start casually queuing before then. If there is a giveaway that game, people will queue earlier before doors open. If you want that bobblehead, get there before the doors open.
If it is cold or inclement weather and the doors aren't open yet you can shelter in the Box Office below the Gordie Howe entrance or on the river side inside the closest Cobo doors to the Joe. PROTOP: In the Box Office you can pick up the #JLAwifi WIFI against the wall closest to the rink.
The best photos of the Joe exterior are from street level at the corner of Jefferson and Yzerman, the Riverwalk along the Detroit River, and from the People Mover on the way to the Cobo stop. There is a Farewell to the Joe mural of sorts on the outside face of the iconic steps at both entrances. Get there early for a good photo op.
Will call tickets are at the Box Office on street level at the Gordie Howe entrance of the Joe. PROTIP: Across from the will call door is the player parking entrance. If you get there early enough (2-3ish hours?) you can see the Red Wings drive up. Opposing team’s bus unloads near the river side entrance.
There is a strict bag size policy enforced at the door. I’ve seen some upset people turned away at the doors. Know before you go.
You will have to go through a metal detector and may be subject to extra screening to enter the Joe.
Cell service inside the concrete bunker of the Joe sucks. However the Joe has free WIFI. Point your device at SSID #JLAwifi - no password but there is a click through screen.
There are free playbills inside the Joe at the entrances. Grab one because it has an arena map with section numbers and vendor locations. Sometimes there are interesting articles too.
There is no single large pro-shop at the Joe. However there are a couple vendors scattered around the concourse selling shirts and memorbilia. There are also some vendors setting replica jerseys and signed authentic jerseys and gear. PROTIP: the Joe prices are high for swag. Buy your gear ahead of time online or at Detroit Athletic in Detroit or Hockeytown Authentics up in Troy.
There are local Detroit and Michigan craft beer vendors on the Joe concourse, check the map in the free playbill. They're priced around US$10. I'd rather overpay for good local beer than overpay for shit beer. PROTIP: Founders has had some yummy seasonal beer this year on tap at the Joe.
The Olympia Club in the Joe is meh unless you're attending a specific event there. Unless you have a free pass I wouldn't bother going.
Friendly ushers are everywhere to help out and answer your questions. Most will take your photo for you if you ask politely.
During warmups, fans congregate around the glass. Players come out at 30 minutes before game time for warmups. PROTIP: I recommend watching the Red Wings shoot at the net during warmups from behind the net on the glass in section 101. Hearing the puck smack the glass inches from your face is neat. Same for aisle for 115 on the visiting team side behind the net.
The best spot for photos of the banners hanging from the rafters is the top row of the upper level in section 215. The Howe, Lindsey, and Delvecchio statues are on the concourse just inside the Gordie Howe entrance.
There are no bad seats at the Joe, just some people have preferences. OK, section 204b row 27 seat 10 sucks. Sit in your own seat. If you see seats that are still empty well into the first period then move to them. If someone asks you to move out of their seat just do it. PROTIP: if you want to hear some commentary sit in the last row (24) of sections 209-210 right below the media booths. Ken and Mickey are above 207.
Don't be disrespectful during the national anthem(s). Just stand politely and shut up. Some visitors don't understand how disrespectful they can be. It's like 2 minutes, put the phone down.
Most Red Wings fans are friendly people and quite knowledgeable about their team and the sport. Strike up a conversation and you'll probably learn something new.
Cheer for your visiting team but don't be a dick about it.
DO NOT STAND UP OUT OF YOUR SEAT WHILE THE PUCK IS IN PLAY.
There are usually no lines for the new restrooms built above the concourse vendors on both sides. The original men's restrooms can get long lines because no one knows there are new restrooms. PROTIP: check out the original men's restrooms for classic old hockey barn urinal trough nostalgia.
Don't leave early! If the Red Wings win the DJ will play Don't Stop Believing in the final seconds or right after the game ends for you and thousands of your friends to sing along. The arena DJ plays music from multiple genres from motown to country to pop and is known to take suggestions. He can be reached on Twitter @thehockeyjockey.
Unless you like the crush of humanity, wait a couple minutes until after the game to head out. The concourse can get pretty tight during well-attended weekend or playoff games. PROTIP: walk around the inside of the Joe to section 102 to avoid the concourse crush.
Have fun and enjoy the game!
Edit 1: added a section about safety. Edit 2: added sections on tours and inclement weather. Edit 3: updates and clarifications. Edit 4: updated Windsor Tunnel bus link
I'm travelling to Detroit on a business trip and looking for a good hotel for 7 days. Anywhere within 25 - 30mi from University of Detroit Mercy. I'd say no more than $200 - $215 per night or not much exceeding $1400. My last visit earlier this year (Jan/Feb 2018) I stayed at the Greektown Casino. It was OK.
Edit: I've looked at MGM, Motor City, Aloft, The Siren Hotel on Broadway recently caught my attention but I couldn't find a room within budget, and the same for Westin. Just looking for good recommendations. For example RiverWalk Hotel shows as a 4 star hotel, is in my budget, but has a 2 out of 5 review where 5 is best 1 is worst. The Crown Royal I do not want to stay at Greektown Casino again.
Unrelated? :At Greektown Casino - I loved the view and location downtown. The shower was fantastic. The AC in the room worked spectacularly. The food wasn't impressive, an old Holiday Inn breakfast was better. The room layout felt small, which was ok, but it also seemed a little dirty there too. Not a very good cleaning service. The robes were awesome to have but dirty/stained. There wasn't adequate storage in my opinion. Other guests were loud. WiFi... what WiFi? The lobby smelled really good and was always very clean, so it was nice coming and going. The staff was incredibly rude with the exception of a couple folks. The valet seemed slow and a waste of money. I really wouldn't complain overall but I wouldn't return to them to give them any of my money again.
Update: Thank you for all the wonderful suggestions. I never thought to check B&B's or a Lodge. My budget ended up getting cut, so the Westin and like hotels went off my radar. For what it's worth I'll probably never return to Greektown Casino simply because of the crummy food and valet. I'm going to go with Trumbull Porter! Will update the results.
Things to do in Detroit - Once and for all, again.
Alright its been 3+ years since we created Detroit's official sidebar "list of things to do" and a lot has changed. People keep asking so let's give it another go. I'll leave this post as a sticky for the next week so everyone's brains can stew over the best of the best in the city. Keeping the same format as last time, comment with your suggestion(s) and a short reason why you would recommend it. Everyone's collective picks will be added into the list below. Places to eat:
Coney Islands Lafayette or American, take your pick.
Supino Pizzeria Eastern Market; Best NY style pizza in the city, delicious fresh ingredients
Motor City Brewing Works Midtown; Microbrewery with delicious beer and uniquely-topped pizzas, rooftop seating in the summer
Cass Cafe Restaurant and art gallery in Cass Corridor.
Green Dot Stables Grab your saddle, best sliders in the city.
Johnny Noodle King Detroit's noodle house, a block from Green Dot on Fort St., owned by the same guy.
Rock City Eatery in Hamtramck. Cheap drinks and great food.
Dutch Girl Donuts Palmer Park. Best donuts in the city, been doing it the same way forever.
Roma Cafe Detroit's oldest Italian restaurant.
Mudgies Deli Corktown fresh sandwich shop.
Cadieux Cafe Jazz music throughout the week. and featherbowling.
Slow's BBQ Corktown. Hipsters will howl that it's overrated, but are you going to trust them or Slow's fantastic reputation that constantly sees them on national travel shows?
The Food Exchange famous for the Big Baby burger
Vincente's Great Cuban food. Salsa dancing. 20+ types of tequila
Ottava Via Italian joint in Corktown. Great food, laid back atmosphere.
Mercury Bar Good food and beer selection and the atmosphere is really cool.
Bucharest Grill Amazing Shawarma and good prices, located inside Park Bar.
The Clique Breakfast spot on Jefferson in Rivertown area
Northwest Side foods: Scotty Simpson's for fish and chips, Nu Wave (seafood), Aunt Betty's (soul food), J's Cafe (soul food)
Sweetwater delicious wings
Buddy's Pizza @ Conant/7 mile. Original Detroit style pizza well regarded by foodies and chefs
Mexicantown Can't go wrong: Los Altos, Taqueria Lupitas, Taqueria Nuestra Familia, Taqueria El Rey, or Taqueria Mi Pueblo.
Golden Fleece located in Greektown, best Gyro in town.
Coach Insignia high atop the Renaissance Center, best view you'll get of the city from a dinner table, food is pretty good as well.
Polish Village Cafe Eat your Polish Grandmother's cooking. A Hamtramck staple.
Guns and Butter Detroit's only Michelin Star style dining experience.
The Whitney Restaurant in a gorgeous historic mansion. Ambience is spectacular, food has gone through down periods. Good spot for an important date night. Don't be surprised to see a marriage proposal.
Giovanni's Arguably the best Italian food in the city. Neighborhood is what happens when you zone Heavy Industrial in Sim City, but the food, service and ambience are world-class.
London Chop House A famous Detroit restaurant name brought back to life, it's a classic dark-wood, old-school steakhouse. Frank Sinatra and Henry Ford II had tables there. Just opened a cigar bar in the same building for after-dinner lounging.
Coach Insignia Restaurant at the top of the GM Renaissance Center. Whatever restaurant has been in this space has always been more about the view than the food and this is no exception, but the view makes up for it.
Roast "Iron Chef" Michael Symon's restaurant in the Westin Book Cadillac hotel. Things happen to meat here that you never thought possible.
Joe Muer's Seafood Like the London Chop House, a classic name from Detroit restaurant history brought back to life. Located in the ground floor of the GM Renaissance Center, lunch is comprised almost entirely of GM suppliers taking their customers out to lunch, but dinner is another matter.
Dangerously Delicious Pies Midtown. Meat and sweet pies of several varieties. Located in the back of 3rd street bar.
Golden Fleece Greektown. "best Gyro in town" and other greek specialties.
Taqueria Lupita's** Mexicantown
Brunch Spots
Cliff Bells Foxtown. Bottomless mimosas and bloody Mary's and great selection of French and Soul Food inspired dishes
Fountain Bistro Campus Martius. Bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Mary Bar. Good place for french toast.
Hudson Cafe Downtown. Red velvet pancakes, graham cracker-crusted French toast, and Voodoo Eggs Benedict every day (Sunday: Expect a wait)
Seva Midtown. great Brunch for Vegan's and Vegetarian's- Small but good beewine selection
Brooklyn Street Local Corktown. banana pancakes with caramelized walnuts, an inevitably delicious quiche-of-the-day, and of course, the Hangover Special, and some damn good Poutine!
La Dolce Vita North Detroit. smooth jazz, salmon hash, and the shrimp Benedict make for a fabulous brunch experience
The Dime Store Downtown. a great selection of Omelets, Benedicts, Sandwiches, and Hash (from Executive Chef Josh, who has spent 2 decades in award winning restaraunts in Chicago, NYC, and A2) and of course, BOOZE! (Their Duck Rueben is out of this world)
Harmonie Garden Midtown. Middle Eastern Food meets Classic American Brunch!
Foran's Grand Trunk Pub Downtown. Great meal options throughout the day but their brunch is great (May I recommend their Corktown sandwich or the Lobster Benedict) with a great local beer selection to boot
Macabees Midtown. endless mimosas, champagne chocolate chip buttermilk pancakes, brisket benedict, and the salmon wrap are all delicious
Rose's Fine Foods Rivertown. Homesick for mom's cooking? This place has incredible baked goods and delicious sandwiches that make you feel right at home
Honest Johns Midtown. Good all around menu, drink list and Chicken & Waffles.
Places to drink:
Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Co. Chill coffee bar with beer, wine and some food.
Socre Tea A tea shop/cafe in midtown. Tucked away on Garfield and John R. Super quiet and relaxing.
Park Bar Downtown; Great beer selection, beautiful windows, delicious shwarma and curly fries from the Bucharest Grill next door
Motor City Wine located in Corktown.
PJ's Lager House live music, local beer on tap
Woodbridge Pub
Detroit Beer Co. Great beer as well as great food. The Hair of the Dog burger is fantastic.
SugarHouse Carefully crafted cocktails in a hunting lodge sharing a wall with Slow's. Hells yea.
Cafe D'Mongo's a unique and eclectic "speakeasy." reasonably priced and strong cocktails, live music every night (Fri & Sat only)
Cliff Bells a solid jazz club right downtown (could be under entertainment as well)
Dakota Inn Rathskeller a German underground beer hall that transports you straight to Europe, featuring German food, music, and beer. Especially popular during Oktoberfest (mid-September to end of October).
Jacoby's Biergarten good selection of draft beer, solid German food, and a huge international beer selection
Astro Coffee a popular cafe in Corktown
Foran's Grand Trunk Pub great selection of local Michigan beers, with decent food to accompany it
Old Miami Inexpensive drinks in your uncle's basement. On Cass in southern midtown.
Zenith Cuban/mexican fusion in new center, in the Fisher Building. Also they have a tiki bar.
Jolly Ol' Timers North Cass Corridor. If they're open, you won't find a bar full of more interesting people.
Old Miami Midtown. A Veterans bar, During the summer, the back yard is the best place to drink in the city.
Retail & Shopping:
City Bird Midtown; Handmade goods from local and regional designers
John K. King Books Downtown; Largest used bookstore in the state, located in an old glove warehouse
People's Records Midtown; Internationally renowned treasure trove of rare vinyl, with a focus on Detroit produced stuff
Hello Records Corktown; Newer record shop with a great collection of new and old vinyl
Pure Detroit Downtown and New Center; Detroit themed t-shirts, magnets, etc.
Shinola Flagship Store watches, bikes and leather goods.
Pewabic Pottery lots of original ceramic art work to view and purchase
The Hub A Bicycle shop with a charitable bent and affordable bikes.
Livernois and Outer Drive shopping district off the beaten path
Entertainment & Attractions
Belle Isle
Detroit Institute of Arts Free for Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb county residents. Concerts every Friday night in the Rivera Court (probably one of the most fantastic and important pieces of public art in the world). Just for the atmosphere alone it's worth going, and the music is generally great as well.
Detroit Film Theatre 1,200 seat auditorium located at the DIA, catch a screening.
Riverwalk a walkable view of Canada and Detroit River
Casinos we have three! Greektown, MGM Grand and Motor City.
Motown Museum New Center; Studio tours of the houses, really cool stuff.
MOCAD Midtown; Contemporary art museum in an amazing raw space, always changing exhibitions and a nice little shop inside.
Detroit City Football Club amazing soccer team, nationally recognized.
Detroit Derby Girls at the Masonic Temple
Garden Bowl/Magic Stick bowling alley, bar and concert venue under one roof.
Stadiums Ford Field, Comerica Park, Joe Louis Arena
Theaters Detroit is home to the second largest theater district in the Fillmore, Fox Theater, Masonic Temple, Fisher Theater, Gem, Music Hall, St. Andrews, Detroit Opera House, City Theater, Majestic, Max M. Fisher Music Center
Detroit People Mover it's not the most useful system for transit, but is actually a good way to see downtown in a quick 20-30 minutes
Eastern Market one of the largest and oldest open-air farmers markets in the country
Baker's Keyboard Lounge top-notch jazz club
Movement Festival worldwide-recognized annual Electronic music festival held every Memorial Day Weekend
Detroit Jazz Festival largest free jazz festival in the world (self-proclaimed, at least) held every Labor Day Weekend
Detroit Beer Festival one of four Michigan Brewers Guild annual festivals held the last weekend of October
Campus Martius highly regarded as one of the best city parks in the country and home to many events throughout the year. Home to Detroit's Christmas tree and an ice-skating rink in the winter.
Michigan Science Center hands-on exhibits, IMAX Dome, Planetarium, mad scientists with liquid nitrogen and lightning. good for kids, located in Midtown.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History
Tuskegee Airmen Museum
Rouge Park for great outdoor times
Chandler Park
Historic Fort Wayne when open
African Bead Museum
Outdoor Adventure Center located in the newly restored Globe Trading Building,
Dakota Inn Rathskeller Oktoberfest Six Mile and Woodward-ish. One of the coolest activities in all of Detroit, somehow unknown even among hardcore Detroiters.
Fisher Building "the worlds largest art project" and a prime example of Detroit's rich Art Deco history
Guardian Building another beautiful example of Art Deco architecture
Ford Piquette Plant historic auto production facility and birthplace of the Model T.
The Spirit of Detroit Woodward/Jefferson Ave.
Hart Plaza
Senator Palmer’s Font Hill Log House and fountain in Palmer Park (when open).
Son House in Mt. Hazel Cemetary for the music historian.
Tigers Stadium field located at Trumbull & Michigan Ave. walk the grounds at the former playing field for Detroit Tigers.
Edit #1: Added most of the suggestions from the comments already- but still a lot to get through! If you have descriptions, or tips for any of the places listed or would like to add more, just leave it below Edit #2: I've been slacking on the updates- but officially replaced the list in the sidebar! Will work on adding everyones in coming days. stay tuned.
An Essay on the Woodward Plan for Detroit, One of the Most Ambitious and Unique City Plans (x-post /r/Detroit)
Leading Picture https://i.imgur.com/tBFvwfh.jpg Setting the Scene: The year is 1805. Detroit has a population of about 1000 people and has only been a part of the United States for two years. Alas, it doesn't take long for things to go horribly wrong, as the entire city burns down this year. Judge Augustus Woodward, the first Judge of the Michigan Territory, creates an ambitious and unique plan to rebuild it. Summary of what follows: Ultimately, for various reasons, only a small fraction of Judge Woodward's grand plan was actually implemented. My goal is to attempt to see what Detroit would be like had the Woodward plan been fully carried out, as well as educate about the details of the plan and its history. If you're just here for the pictures, here is a link to the complete album: https://imgur.com/a/y5hLS If you're still with me, without further ado, let's get started. What was Woodward's plan? I think it is best to show it in terms of what would change about Detroit as we know it, step by step: https://imgur.com/a/LjTL1 Key Points of the Woodward Plan
Triangles! The Woodward plan is based upon repeating triangular sections, not the typical rectangular grid.
Despite this, most of the building plots are still rectangular. Exceptions are the pentagonal ones around Campus Martiuses and the wedge and triangle ones around Grand Circuses
200' wide grand avenues running N-S and E-W. These create a familiar rectangular grid among the madness of the triangles.
120' radiating avenues are still pretty wide (for reference Michigan Ave Downtown is ~93' wide including sidewalks)
Parks, parks, and more parks. Each triangular Woodward section has one Grand Circus circle park, one Campus Martius rectangular park, and 8 triangle parks. Because of this, each Campus Martius park has a twin nearby. https://imgur.com/ji0l2Nn
This is nuts, how much of this was actually built? I've highlighted the buildings that exist in the city today according to the following scheme:
Green = 100% conforming to the Woodward plan
Yellow = Partially conforming to the Woodward plan
Red = Does not conform to the Woodward plan
First, here's the buildings on top of the existing street layout: https://imgur.com/P2uQaD3 Now, replace that street layout with Woodward's: https://imgur.com/JRYkclz Finally, destroy the nonconforming buildings and replace them with conforming buildings: https://imgur.com/ZOokpeJ This plan seems crazy, where did Woodward get the idea from? He was impressed and inspired by Washington D.C. and its diagonal avenues, but Woodward's plan takes it a step further. While Washington D.C. is simply a system of rectangular lots that happens to have diagonal avenues in it, the Woodward plan is a modular system entirely based on triangles that could be added as the city expanded. Are you saying the spoke roads are not a part of the Woodward Plan? Yes, this is a common misconception. The only relationship the spoke roads have to the Woodward plan is that they take roads that are part of the Woodward plan and extend them straight for ~40 miles. Why was so little of the plan implemented? Firstly, Woodward had limited authority to break up land that was already owned. For example, the government owned the area between Michigan Ave and Jefferson Ave and chose to arrange it in a conventional grid. Additionally, land in parcels perpendicular to the river owned by individuals, like the Brush family and the Beaubien family, could not be broken up and incorporated into the plan. Secondly, drafting up a city plan takes time and the people of Detroit grew restless as time passed after the devastating fire. The public also disliked the idea of so much public park space. Coupled with a general resistance for change, emnity toward Woodward's plan grew, so much so that others in Michigan's government would try to undo it while he was away. On one such occurrence, Woodward's detractors authorized the land north of Grand Circus park to be sold in rectangular parcels. Despite Woodward's alarm and protests that such a maneuver was illegal, the sale went through in 1817. This killed hope of implementing any more of the Woodward Plan. Part of Woodward's written complaint was as follows: “Nature had destined the city of Detroit to be a great interior emporium, equal, if not superior, to any other on the surface of the … globe. … In such a case that art of man should aid the benevolence of the Creator, and no restricted attachment to the present day or to present interests should induce a permanent sacrifice of ulterior and brilliant prospects.” And with that, Detroit's chance to develop as a truly one-of-a-kind city passed. The question of "what if" has reigned unchallenged ever since. Until now, that is. Working from Judge Woodward's original plans, I built the city street by street and building by building in Sketchup, creating "Woodward Detroit". I've included some famous Detroit buildings in Woodward Detroit, most of the rest are "filler" buildings meant to give the impression of a complete city. Now, I give you Detroit built per Woodward's own specifications. Some Aerial Photos and the Skyline https://imgur.com/tBFvwfhhttps://imgur.com/Yn4TJychttps://imgur.com/sVuvYse Transit in Woodward Detroit I see a lot of discussion around the Detroit subreddit about Detroit's transit woes so I did some thinking about transit, both from the present Detroit perspective of auto-dominance and an alternate rail and subway perspective. Roads Woodward could not have foreseen the explosive growth Detroit would see, eventually growing to a city of two million. I beilieve it is remarkable that he included 120' and 200' roads when designing the city in 1805; he showed remarkable foresight there that would lend itself well to Detroit's development as Motor City. However, I believe a limitation would show itself in the circle parks. Twelve roads all come together and you're stuck in a giant traffic circle. That sounds like a traffic nighmare. On an interesting side note, there is nothing special about Woodward Avenue in Woodward Detroit. It isn't even a grand avenue. In present Detroit after the Woodward plan was defeated, people came along afterward and extended Fort, Michigan, Grand River, Woodward, Gratiot, and Jefferson into the "spokes" we know today. Ironically, the defeat of the Woodward Plan allowed Woodward to become a household name by having his name attached to the major thoroughfare of M-1. While I have depicted the medians in the grand avenues as solid, there is no reason they couldn't be crossed with streets as they are presently on Washington Blvd, for example. The layout of one way streets in the small Woodward portion of present Detroit gives a clue what the layout in Woodward Detroit could be like. The circle park road is one way, like a giant roundabout, then the outer concentric circular roads are also one way in alternating directions. https://imgur.com/1dB9WLT Writing my own fantasy history, we'll say that the parks contributed to traffic in Woodward Detroit becoming the worst in the country by the 1950s. Citizens of Woodward Detroit unified in such an uproar at the idea running highways through their unique city that the city was forced to look at more efficient ways of moving people... Rail / Subway The 200' wide grand avenues leave ample room for light rail in the medians, one track each way. However, unlike in present Detroit, where roads run dozens of miles without interruption, the grand avenues of Woodward Detroit are full of parks. One possible course of action is to use the Campus Martius style parks as stations and the Circle parks as interchanges for the trains. https://imgur.com/WDPDvAz A second option is more familiar: spokes. These lines could be on the surface or a subway system, but I call them "the subway" in the rest of the post, so we'll go with that. I like this spoke option because it solidifies Grand Circus park as the center of the city, with subway lines stretching out to the suburbs in a similar fashion to the spoke roads today. I don't know what the Grand Circus park station would look like, with the logistics of six subway lines all intersecting there, but I'm sure the result would be a marvel of the transit world. I chose to leave it to the imagination and have them all mash together, beacuse such a station is beyond my skill to create. https://imgur.com/lCh1UWQ Thirdly, the "why not both?" option ensures ample transit coverage. https://imgur.com/sd5R4Z6 Now, with all of these lines, subways, and stations, it seems we need some way to move people around between them. Hence, the People Mover takes its place in Woodward Detroit. The People Mover can finally serve its intended purpose of moving people between different transit lines. https://imgur.com/51MRHuq Both sets of rail and the people mover create a robust transit system. https://imgur.com/27WzjJ9 Looking at specific famous Detroit buildings / locations Renaissance Center Since the unique part of the Woodward plan applies to only above Jefferson Ave, the Renaissance Center can stay exactly where it is in present Detroit. https://imgur.com/VpLTfFZ One Detroit Center, One Woodward Ave, McKinsey, Crowne Plaza https://imgur.com/F4G5vis Penobscot Building, Guardian Building, 211 Fort St. https://imgur.com/OtgdTft Campus Martius, First National Building, One Campus Martius, One Kennedy Square The first two buildings conform to the Woodward plan, One Kennedy Square was reshaped. https://imgur.com/lXWFtS7 Monroe Block, First National, Cadillac Tower, Cadillac Square Cadillac Square is not a square any longer; instead it is just a part of Michigan Grand Ave. I've included a concept for the upcoming development on the Monroe block. https://imgur.com/VoGyaiV Hudson's Site Based upon the latest renderings, though the tower of apartments is more inspired by the first rendering. Standing 800' tall to its roof, this new skycraper is a focal point for present Detroit and Woodward Detroit alike. https://imgur.com/z6NuGkB View from top of David Whitney Building https://imgur.com/9D9HaWA Book Skyscraper In my made up history, the Woodward plan allowed Detroit's boom and surge to reach even greater heights before the Depression, enabling the construction of grand plans that were shelved in present Detroit because of the Depression. One such building is the 82 Story Book skyscraper attached to the Book Tower we know and love, standing about 900' tall! https://imgur.com/27v3W27 Grand Circus Park Grand Circus Park would be quite a sight, to be standing in the center of the full circle with all twelve lots occupied by towers (though I didn't have the heart to remove the eternal parking lot at Adams and Madison (apparently now called Aretha Franklin Way)). In this alternate history, it is the transit hub of Detroit, served by six subway lines and the People Mover. https://imgur.com/6hCgcTL Water Board Building https://imgur.com/VOHe101 Detroit Library https://imgur.com/cssXTnA Michigan Central Station https://imgur.com/ntN6jHMhttps://imgur.com/MPXMKgi Greektown / Casino https://imgur.com/hQICX6D Fisher Building Another Detroit building that was prevented from reaching its full potential by the Depression. The Fisher Building we know today is less than a third of the original plan. You can read more about that in my post here: https://www.reddit.com/Detroit/comments/5vu97d/alternate_history_the_fisher_building_is_finished/?st=j89fj0h5&sh=928a4c31 In my alternate history, the Fisher brothers, seeking to cement their legacy with the largest commercial building in the world, finally convinced the city to allow the construction of their tower inside a circle park, ensuring that it is visible as the terminating vista on 12 streets. The Albert Kahn firm spared no expense and created a lavish limestone 60 story tower flanked by two 30 story towers, crowned by gold leaf roofs and all joined together by a U shaped, three-story lobby filled with decadent gold leaf, bronze, frescos, and murals. Finished just months before the 1929 Great Depression, it stands as a nationally-recognized high point of Art Deco architecture. https://imgur.com/Bk17fXV (Aside: How tall is it? There is a problem with the scale of the Fisher Building model. The width is correct at 800' and the footprint actually does just barely fit inside a circle park. However, the roof height (not including spire) of the 30 story part is 301' in the model while the actual roof height is 418.3'. Applying this scale factor would put the actual height of the 60 story roof at 938.3'.) Riverfront Towers, Cobo, Joe Louis https://imgur.com/v0WPDBn Comerica Park and Ford Field I experimented to see if these stadiums could fit inside circle parks. https://imgur.com/AtGJUJR https://imgur.com/g1n75ZF Views Aerial Views and Views from the tops of buildings https://imgur.com/QyRFaqZhttps://imgur.com/UE4TfN1https://imgur.com/LpIYRNThttps://imgur.com/NtHsBd8https://imgur.com/U6D40h0https://imgur.com/DhQs0Ylhttps://imgur.com/v7V2uz4https://imgur.com/Wf6gOjm Matched Photo I attempted to match an aerial photo I found https://imgur.com/N7tf2lRhttp://banana1015.com/files/2016/03/Spencer-Platt-Getty-Images.jpg Bonus Woodward Detroit's one-of-a-kind layout has created a close knit city with an atmosphere like no other, with world leading architecture, innovation, and a robust transit system. Naturally, a certain tech company looking for their second HQ chose it as their first choice, claiming "there weren't ever really any other options." I had some fun making a circle park and its surrounding buildings into one unified HQ complex. And it does lie on one of the subway lines. https://imgur.com/3lY5Rtn Conclusion & Sources For further reading about the history of the Woodward plan, I recommend this excellent three part article, from which I sourced much of my information: http://detroiturbanism.blogspot.com/2016/04/the-woodward-plan-part-i-origins.html Some information also came from here, a shorter summary focusing on the plan's downfall: https://www.metrotimes.com/news-hits/archives/2015/06/01/the-detroit-that-never-was-how-the-woodward-plan-died-197-years-ago In conclusion, once I learned about Woodward and his grand plan for Detroit, I voraciously devoured any information I could find about it. The combination of its true uniqueness among urban designs and the fact that just enough of the plan was built to stimulte curiousity but not enough to indicate what the whole city would look like sent me on this path. My goal was to create what Woodward could not and provide an alternate vision for what Detroit could have been. I greatly enjoyed following Woodward's own procedure to lay out a section and then populating with all the buildings and details. I am very pleased with the final results and hope you are too. I undertook this project out of passion and interest. I hope you enjoyed reading and that I arranged the content in a clear manner. Thanks for reading! Acknowledgements A wonderful tool in Sketchup is the ability to import models created by others. I used this to build more of a connection from my virtual Woodward Detroit to the Detroit we know today and I feel the results of my project would not have been even half as good without them. A big thank you to the following Sketchup users:
City of Detroit: finalcutjoe
Ally building: C M.
Guardian, Penobscot, David Stott, Cadillac Place, Cadillac Tower, Fisher Buildings: wyliepoon (Fisher Building was modified to its "full" version by me)
If you have a chance to come Detroit, I highly recommend: Breakfast - The Original Pancake House pretty good breakfast, but still nothing compares to an Eat 'n Park breakfast buffet. Lunch - Vinsetta Garage has excellent food and drink selection. Isn't that far from the Detroit Zoo or downtown. Dinner - Slow's BBQ it's heavenly, but in a shitty neighborhood of Detroit. Most say it's worth it. Dessert - Astoria Pastry Shop for the best God Blessed Baklava you'll ever have in your life. Drink - Michigan is known for their micro-brew selection. One that is on par with Yuengling as far as best cost-to-taste ratio would be Bell's Two Hearted Ale Non-Gameday Entertainment - Erebus Haunted House is the best Haunted House in all of Michigan. Highly recommend it if you're in the area. Gameday Entertainment - Any of the casino's (Greektown, Motor City, etc.) are a good way to spend your day and also have decent food. Parting words of advice - Don't wear any Penguins or Sydney Crosby gear. The hate and butt-hurt for this is very real in Michigan.
Dan Gilbert selling Greektown Casino-Hotel for $1 billion
This is the best tl;dr I could make, original reduced by 63%. (I'm a bot)
Businessman Dan Gilbert has reached an agreement to sell his Greektown Casino in Detroit for $1 billion. In a phone interview Tuesday night with the Free Press, Gilbert said the sale is only for Greektown Casino and not his other gaming properties, including casinos in Cleveland and Cincinnati. Gilbert and his partners bought Greektown Casino in early 2013 when it had been through a bankruptcy reorganization. Located in downtown's Greektown district, Greektown Casino-Hotel employs some 1,800 workers and features about 2,800 gaming machines, dozens of table games, a poker room, multiple bars and restaurants, and a 400-room hotel. The sale marks the largest by Gilbert of any of the dozens of properties he and his partners acquired in downtown Detroit after he moved his Quicken Loans headquarters downtown in 2010.Among other uses for the cash from the sale, Gilbert could put the money into his Hudson's site development, now in its early construction stage, or in other projects he has in planning, including a major redevelopment of the Monroe Block east of Campus Martius Park or his development on the former Wayne County jail site off Gratiot north of Greektown Casino. The Greektown Casino-Hotel in Detroit as photographed on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2018.Is Dan Gilbert trying to buy Detroit Tigers? Here's what we know.
Summary Source | FAQ | Feedback | Topkeywords: Gilbert#1Casino#2Greektown#3Detroit#4games#5 Post found in /news. NOTICE: This thread is for discussing the submission topic. Please do not discuss the concept of the autotldr bot here.
Just got back from visiting Detroit. Here are my thoughts!
Some background: I was born in Detroit in 1989, but my parents moved to Lincoln, Nebraska in 1993 because my dad got a better job. Our entire extended family still lives in either the Detroit or Kalamazoo areas and we go back pretty much every holiday season for about a week, and sometimes we try visit other times in the year as well. Well, this past week, I was in the area. Last Monday night I got together with two old friends who live in Gross Pointe, but have never really experienced downtown Detroit because their entire family is afraid of going anywhere near the city. I convinced them to go downtown to check out the bars because I had heard good things. We started out at the casino in Greektown. The night turned into a party, with plenty of bar hopping and food at American Coney Island. We actually ended up staying in the Ren Cen for the night, which was very nice (albeit a little hazy haha). It was a great time and I would definitely recommend the bar scene in downtown Detroit to anyone. I never felt unsafe in the downtown, despite my parents and every older person I know getting very upset when they learned we went downtown. They would ask if our car got stolen, if we were mugged, etc. I mean, I don't really blame people like my dad for disliking downtown so much considering he had witnessed the decline of the city (he was born there in 1951) and he has also witnessed some pretty bad shootings. He has also been mugged at gunpoint a few times back in the 70's-80's when he worked downtown. But really, it was very nice when I went there. I felt no less safe than downtown Omaha, Kansas City or Minneapolis. I actually felt like it was better than the times I had been to downtown Chicago. Also, there was a (I think college?) hockey game being played at Coamerica park while we were down there, so the hockey bars were packed. I got to go to Hockeytown and Cheli's Chili, which is awesome because I am a huge Red Wings fan. I even stopped by the merch shop down there and picked up a Zetterberg jersey. I love hockey, so it was nice to see a bar scene packed with people who are actually interested in the sport. In Lincoln, NE, everything is all football this and that and the few hockey fans around here are either Avalanche fans or Blackhawks fans -_-. Also, one of the friends I was hanging out with got to go to the Winter Classic game. I was so envious! I didn't end up doing everything I wanted to do, but that's ok. I know I'll be back again! Overall, I had a great time!
Explore Detroit’s hottest scene. Thanks to our unbeatable location in the hub of the Greektown district, it’s impossible to be any closer to the action. With 400 stunning guestrooms and suites devoted to your comfort, our 30-story hotel is the perfect place to relax and recharge after a night on the town, to get ready for a trip to our casino, or just to see what sights and destinations ... VICI NY REIT Purchases a downtown Detroit Greektown Casino In Michigan From Penn National Gaming Inc For 1 Billion Dollars. MotorCity Casino Hotel is to open at 10 a.m. Wednesday, followed by Greektown Casino-Hotel at 2 p.m. MGM Grand Detroit will open for invite-only VIP customers Wednesday and Thursday, and at 10 a.m ... Greektown Casino Ich bin schon seit Jahren im Greektown Casino und sie versuchen, die Skalierung auf ein anspruchsvolleres Casino und Hotel zu verbessern, haben aber noch einiges vor sich. Sie bieten bestimmten Mitgliedern Werbegeschenke an, die sie verdient haben, aber es gibt Stammgäste, die viel Geld ausgeben und nichts bekommen Veranstaltung in Detroit! With 400 stunning guestrooms and suites and breathtaking skyline and river view, Greektown Casino-Hotel is the perfect place to relax and recharge after a night on the town, get ready for an action packed trip to the casino, enjoy some delicious food or just to see what sights and sounds the dynamic and exciting Greektown district has in store. Aside from the world-class casino, Greektown Casino-Hotel is located in the heart of Greektown Detroit, which holds the best bars, bakeries, night clubs and Greek restaurants in the city. Greektown Casino is also opening a brand new food hall which will include Asian, barbecue, and Detroit classic cuisine. Need help planning an event? Greektown is a historic commercial and entertainment district in Detroit, Michigan. Located northeast of the heart of downtown Detroit, along Monroe Avenue between Brush and St. Antoine Streets, it is... I love visiting the Golden Fleece Restaurant when I'm in Greektown. Walking distance to many wonderful shops, restaurants, bakeries, and casino. Das Hotel liegt 1,6 km vom MGM Grand Detroit Casino entfernt. Vom Flughafen Detroit Metro trennen Sie 29 km. Paare schätzen die Lage besonders – sie haben diese mit 9,1 für einen Aufenthalt zu zweit bewertet. Greektown Casino-Hotel heißt Booking.com-Gäste seit 23. Dank der ausgezeichneten Lage (Downtown) ist dieses Hotel zu Fuß nur 10 Minuten entfernt von: Cobo Center, GM Renaissance Center und Campus Martius Park. Ebenfalls nur 15 Minuten entfernt: Greektown Casino und Detroit Opera House. RTD-Station Theatre District/Convention Center und Peoplemover-Station Financial District sind höchstens 5 ... Get lucky at Greektown Casino with slots, poker and table games. The 30-story hotel has 400 guest rooms and suites, many with views of the Detroit River and Canada. Dance the night away at Detroit bars Flood’s Bar & Grille or Delux Lounge.
