  Sirrealone Member Username: Sirrealone Post Number: 216 Registered: 01-2007 |
I'm going to be turning 34 this Saturday and my wife and I will be spending the day downtown to celebrate. We've got tickets to the Tigers game, which will take care of 7pm on, but was looking for things to do before, and was hoping that the wonderful, knowledgeable folks of DYes could help put a few ideas together. I have done 'downtown days' in the past but they've sort of been hopscotch and probably not very well done, so I was hoping for some 'professional' advice, especially given how it will be a pretty busy weekend with all the extra events going on. I know that the two big events are the obvious ones, that being the Grand Prix and the Jazz Fest, but my guess is we'll probably steer clear. We have no interest in racing, and I'm not so much into the crowds of Jazz Fest, so I'm hoping to have alternatives, as I'd expect any visit there to be brief. I'm thinking that I definitely want to spend some time along the River Walk, but concerned of whether it will be open / too crowded due to the events. What are some other things to do or spots to enjoy? Also, what are some good places to go for a lunch/dinner, probably around 2-3pm that won't be too crazy busy but will be good. My plan is to get there early (late morning, early PM), park in the Ford Field Garage (it's still $15 that day, right?) then hop around the People Mover or walking to various points of interest. Any suggestions you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance! | ||
Lansingfire Member Username: Lansingfire Post Number: 105 Registered: 07-2007 |
First I'd park at Compuware $5. We walk it all the time to the games and after the games so it's safe (if that's what you're worried about) Plus you can take the people mover to the river walk, if that's where you're headed. There is some good food at eastern market, plus you can walk around the shops there. If you want to splurge on money, get down early and take the Detroit Princess Riverboat for lunch 11:30-2:30 $40 a person. | ||
French777 Member Username: French777 Post Number: 540 Registered: 10-2006 |
The Compuware Garage is the best place to Park! Check out some shops at Ren Cen Wintergarden | ||
Izzyindetroit Member Username: Izzyindetroit Post Number: 53 Registered: 07-2008 |
I tell people all the time that riding your bike in Detroit is the best way to experience it. I would suggest bringing bikes with you and parking outside of downtown for free, ie. MC Casino, Corktown, Midtown. Ride the Riverwalk, Chene Park, Belle Isle, Brush Park, Jazz Fest. get some exercise while enjoying a nice day and watching people at the events. I have also always felt an added type of security and freedom on bikes, which is part of the joy. If you don't have bikes of your own you can get some here: http://www.wheelhousedetroit.c om/ Hell if you wanted to you could even catch the smart bus to the state fair and ride around there too. Just my suggestion. You should also get here a little early and head out to Eastern Market for the morning. (Message edited by izzyindetroit on August 25, 2008) | ||
Mrsprunk Member Username: Mrsprunk Post Number: 17 Registered: 02-2006 |
the family and i just spent yesterday at the river walk. its so nice and relaxing just watching the boats go by with a nice big ice cream cone!! we ended the day with a drive thru indian village. great day! | ||
Neilr Member Username: Neilr Post Number: 782 Registered: 06-2005 |
Take a pre-opening walk through the Dequindre Cut. | ||
Boo_girl Member Username: Boo_girl Post Number: 6 Registered: 08-2008 |
If you are looking for some musical entertainment after the game, 313.jac upstairs from Jacoby's on 624 Brush St. has some excellent local singer-songwriters starting at 9pm there. Emily Rose and Audra Kubat are performing that night along with others. | ||
Raptor56 Member Username: Raptor56 Post Number: 427 Registered: 05-2007 |
Holy Crap! I totally forgot it's Labor Day weekend and the Jazz fest!! looks like I'll be spending all day downtown on Sunday. Tigers game followed by Jazz Fest = stellar good time! | ||
Busterwmu Member Username: Busterwmu Post Number: 516 Registered: 09-2004 |
Even if you're not in the mood for the Jazz Fest, you can wander down to Hart Plaza and take one of Diamond Jack's downtown Detroit River Tours, departing at 1:00 and 3:30 on Saturday. Check out the city from a more unique point of view. If the weather is nice, get there early, up to 1 hour, because this is the last weekend of tours and the Jazz Fest will no doubt mean full boats. | ||
Bloaf Member Username: Bloaf Post Number: 16 Registered: 08-2008 |
Never pay for parking, you can park for free just as easily. And hit up anything except Hockeytown Cafe. | ||
Bcscott Member Username: Bcscott Post Number: 54 Registered: 05-2008 |
Old Shillelagh after the game at the corner of Brush and Monroe. I'm going to the game too and that's where I'll be. Upstairs pounding on the tables, singing along with Black Mist. | ||
Kathleen Member Username: Kathleen Post Number: 3020 Registered: 10-2003 |
Renaissance Center tours - free - at 10, 12, 2, and 4; includes a stop at the Coach Insignia for a view of the city. Meets in the Wintergarden; check at the Information Desk. Stop by the Guardian Building and check out the beautiful lobby and mezzanine. Shop at Pure Detroit. Have a snack or beverage at the Rowland Cafe. Inside Detroit offers a two-hour Downtown Highlights Tour, which features all the major landmarks, the new developments, and some of the great historical gems, Saturdays, 1pm; $10/person; departs from the center of Campus Martius Park. http://www.insidedetroit.org/ | ||
Sirrealone Member Username: Sirrealone Post Number: 217 Registered: 01-2007 |
Thanks for the suggestions, all (keep 'em coming)! I've definitely got a lot of options. I appreciate the help! |
