Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3056 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 12:17 am: | |
It's that time again, the Target Fireworks are less than a week away. I've never actually viewed the show from downtown, and I'm wondering about the various places in and near downtown that you all think are good places to view them, and the time at which I should probably show up in order to get a spot. I'm hoping to get a lot of good possibilities. It seems that with the riverwalk open, there are a lot of great places along the waterfront opened up to the public, but space will still be really limited... |
Thecarl Member Username: Thecarl
Post Number: 1032 Registered: 04-2005
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 12:27 am: | |
tip: if travelling by automobile, bring a bicycle, and get to within a reasonable proximity of hart plaza (e.g., eastern market). cycle in and cycle out. |
Smogboy Member Username: Smogboy
Post Number: 5480 Registered: 11-2004
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 12:31 am: | |
My favorite vantage point has always been from Windsor. Detroit and its skyline is great, but toss in the fireworks and it's even that much better. I've also heard of people renting out rooms at some of the Windsor waterfront hotels (they charge a premium from what I'm told) for a more private viewing of the fireworks as well. But like with many good things, it's best to get there early. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3057 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 12:35 am: | |
Anyone remember where and when Woodward and Jefferson normally get closed off? Parking up by Eastern Market is a good idea. ...there's also a home Tiger game that night. |
Yupislyr Member Username: Yupislyr
Post Number: 219 Registered: 07-2004
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 12:38 am: | |
The Tigers game is actually at 1:05 |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3058 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 12:51 am: | |
Ah, you're right. Changed it due to the fireworks, I assume. I'm sure some people resented the traffic, but you did get a view of the fireworks from parts of CoPa. |
Spiritofdetroit Member Username: Spiritofdetroit
Post Number: 519 Registered: 11-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 8:21 am: | |
it was changed last year as well..... Last year I stood against the rail of the riverfront in front of the GM promenade....great view, I'll be headed over there again |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3060 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 9:23 am: | |
Spirit, what time did you get there? |
Thejesus Member Username: Thejesus
Post Number: 1455 Registered: 06-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 9:29 am: | |
I always like going to Windsor for this one... the new Detroit riverfront is great but it's just more laid back in Windsor, there's more grassy places to put a blanket down and chill, and remember that it was just a few years ago when 8 people got shot down at Hart Plaza... |
Downtown_remix Member Username: Downtown_remix
Post Number: 372 Registered: 03-2007
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 9:55 am: | |
I think im gonna just hang out on the top floor of Trolley Plaza Apts. Management is throwing a party for the residents. as a kid, my mom would take us to a small park near rivard and jefferson. |
Civilprotectionunit4346 Member Username: Civilprotectionunit4346
Post Number: 37 Registered: 06-2007
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 10:03 am: | |
Im currently looking for spots to go watch and view the works. |
Iheartthed Member Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 1016 Registered: 04-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 10:23 am: | |
The southern edge of Belle Isle would be my ideal spot, but you basically have to camp out overnight to get there. The park in s/w Detroit on the river is a really good spot too... I forgot the name of it but it is at the foot of W. Grand Blvd. I don't like watching it from Hart Plaza because 1) being that close to the exploding fireworks is deafening, 2) too many people. It will probably be a lot different now that all the people who try to squeeze into Hart Plaza can expand out on to the RiverWalk. |
Spiritofdetroit Member Username: Spiritofdetroit
Post Number: 520 Registered: 11-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 10:33 am: | |
Mackinaw- I went to the tigers game at one, when that ended we headed down towards Hart Plaza and it started to rain, so caught a movie in the RenCen.... After that, from about 7-10 we just sat in the grass area along the completed riverwalk and when the fireworks started veryone made their way to the fence.....Im sure this you will be much busier there though with the Riverdays going on right up to the show |
Spiritofdetroit Member Username: Spiritofdetroit
Post Number: 521 Registered: 11-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 10:34 am: | |
Regarding Windsor.... How early should I cross over if thats the plan? |
Jfried Member Username: Jfried
Post Number: 999 Registered: 11-2003
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 10:51 am: | |
"......and remember that it was just a few years ago when 8 people got shot down at Hart Plaza..." you really are an A-hole. |
Iheartthed Member Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 1019 Registered: 04-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 12:00 pm: | |
^LOL. |
Quozl Member Username: Quozl
Post Number: 849 Registered: 07-2005
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 12:04 pm: | |
quote:I forgot the name of it but it is at the foot of W. Grand Blvd. Riverside Park and Marina? |
Iheartthed Member Username: Iheartthed
Post Number: 1020 Registered: 04-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 12:06 pm: | |
^That seems to be it from the map. I thought it had a different name. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3061 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 1:07 pm: | |
At this point I'm planning on getting to the Riverwalk at about 6pm. Windsor clearly affords the best vista looking back at our skyline, but I'm not really up for Canada or crossing the border. |
Goat Member Username: Goat
Post Number: 9490 Registered: 10-2003
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 1:13 pm: | |
With regards ot teh viewing in Windsor you can get a spot around 2:00PM with great views anywhere along the river. I am having a gathering and all we have to do is walk east 1 block and we have the most spectacular view (with drinks in hand). |
Civilprotectionunit4346 Member Username: Civilprotectionunit4346
Post Number: 46 Registered: 06-2007
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 1:18 pm: | |
Ive found my spot....cool! Need to get my chair's and cooler's together. |
Thejesus Member Username: Thejesus
Post Number: 1458 Registered: 06-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 1:26 pm: | |
"you really are an A-hole." how am I an asshole? you don't think safety is a legitimate concern? you probably won't live a very long life then...sorry we were going to watch the fireworks from Hart Plaza that year, and at the last minute, we decided to go to Windsor instead...could have easily been me or my girlfriend hit by one of those stray bullets had we not changed our plans... you think I shouldn't pay attention to this because it might offend some people? f*ck off |
Bigjeff Member Username: Bigjeff
Post Number: 82 Registered: 08-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 1:33 pm: | |
<<< Was about ten feet away from shooting in Hart Plaza that year. Mom called me to make sure I was alright. Still has not scared me away from downtown, and I don't think it ever will. Although sad that a couple of bad apples soured that event. I know I have no control over it. Plus, many events I have encountered in and around Detroit that tells me to keep my head up high for this city. Detroit certainly has a good vibe going right now. This coming from a <gasp> "suburbanite" who is DAMN proud to spend my hard-earned money in my beloved city!!!!! |
Thejesus Member Username: Thejesus
Post Number: 1460 Registered: 06-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 1:44 pm: | |
^ wow that would be scary... the shooting didn't so much scare me away from hart plaza as it just gave me another reason to go to Windsor for the fireworks, since I love their grassy riverfront anyway... we still go down to hart plaza for all the events down there, like hoe down and blues festival.. |
Gistok Member Username: Gistok
Post Number: 4647 Registered: 08-2004
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 1:53 pm: | |
The_jesus, you better never ever go to New York City then, never know when an airplane might hit the hotel you're staying in! See how silly that sounds? Let's see 8 people out of 1 million got hit by stray bullets... and that was what 5 or 6 years ago? So now I would say your chances of getting shot at the fireworks are something like 1 in a million. Geeze, you have better odds of getting shot by a road rage guy, or getting shot at a party store, or in a bank... So you're a smart guy, and you know the odds... so yeah people are going to call you out for being overly paranoid. (Message edited by Gistok on June 22, 2007) |
Mackcreative Member Username: Mackcreative
Post Number: 73 Registered: 08-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 1:53 pm: | |
We watch from Belle Isle every year, never camp out, just ride on our bikes. Last year was awful though, maybe the weather, but all we could see was the smoke from the fireworks in front. |
Thejesus Member Username: Thejesus
Post Number: 1461 Registered: 06-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 2:17 pm: | |
"So you're a smart guy, and you know the odds" exactly...I know the odds of violent crime occurring during the fireworks on the Windsor side are far fewer than on the Detroit side...and since I like Windsor riverfront better anyway, this is a no-brainer....but I appreciate your concern... it's not about paranoia...all other things being equal, the Windsor side is safer in addition to being a more pleasant place to watch the fireworks imo...quit being so goddamn sensitive whenever someone brings up the very real crime issue that Detroit faces...you act like it's a taboo subject or some big secret that we don't want people to know about.. btw it was less than 3 years ago, not 6... P.S. You should really try not to sound so smug all the time...just some friendly advice... |
Rjk Member Username: Rjk
Post Number: 736 Registered: 11-2003
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 2:29 pm: | |
Speaking of the shooting at HP did they ever catch the shooter? My memory is somewhat hazy on what happened, but didn't they initially arrest the wrong person? |
Bigjeff Member Username: Bigjeff
Post Number: 85 Registered: 08-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 2:37 pm: | |
I don't think they ever charged anyone. They originally arrested and retained someone for a long time. Last I heard Geoffrey Fieger was hired to represent the person. Needless to say he was released without being charged. And a huge lawsuit was filed against the city for his detainment and being wrongfully charged. last i heard! |
Thejesus Member Username: Thejesus
Post Number: 1463 Registered: 06-2006
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 2:38 pm: | |
^ yeah the first guy they arrested is suing the city in federal court for $100 million alleging the city violated his 4th amendment rights and arrested him w/o probable cause because they wanted to arrest someone in order to quell the fears of the NFL officials who were in town that week prepping for the '06 Superbowl... last I heard the city got part of the case dismissed but the case as whole is still proceeding I don't recall ever hearing if they caught the real murderer... (Message edited by thejesus on June 22, 2007) |
Gistok Member Username: Gistok
Post Number: 4648 Registered: 08-2004
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 2:43 pm: | |
Aw, but I like being smug.... (just kidding). Point taken. I understand your point, Windsor is a better spot. But when you added the shooting incident to your comments, you made yourself sound like one of those "I haven't been to Detroit in 30 years" folk. And whenever someone on this forum sounds even remotely like that, there'll be people who are more than happy to call you out on it! So I'm not saying to tread on eggshells, just think a bit about what you're posting. I've typed many messages on this forum, only to reread it, and then cancel my post. Some things just aren't worth getting your blood pressure up over! (Which is why I usually avoid posting in Non-Detroit Issues!) |
Yupislyr Member Username: Yupislyr
Post Number: 221 Registered: 07-2004
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 3:13 pm: | |
Spiritofdetroit, when you should head over to Windsor really depends on how badly you want the best spots available and how much you can tolerate waiting in traffic. If it were me, since I hate traffic, I would cross over before the rush of Canadians coming home in the afternoon. So cross over by 3pm. At that time there's still plenty of green space left to stake out a viewing spot or you can occupy yourself somewhere else until closer to show time. Also keep in mind that the length of Riverside Drive and vehicle access to the downtown core of Windsor will be restricted, usually starting at 6pm Also, the return trip just to get across the border could easily take 2 hours or more. |
Harsensis Member Username: Harsensis
Post Number: 311 Registered: 07-2005
| Posted on Friday, June 22, 2007 - 8:39 pm: | |
I have never gone to Windsor since it usually takes so long to get out of the Downtown area. Every road out of downtown gets so clogged. The two times I did get out quick were when we parked in the structure next to Raymond James and the Miller lot by the Ren Cen. What I usually do is to drop off a car and then take the bus back down in the evening. When there use to be parking behind the Ren-Cen, I use to park there, that took a bit longer to get out, but it was nice having a van there to hang out in before the fireworks started. |
Ndavies Member Username: Ndavies
Post Number: 2660 Registered: 10-2003
| Posted on Saturday, June 23, 2007 - 10:34 am: | |
I like my spot slightly above the crowds.
|
Charlottepaul Member Username: Charlottepaul
Post Number: 1159 Registered: 10-2006
| Posted on Saturday, June 23, 2007 - 11:03 am: | |
"to a small park near rivard and jefferson." In the lots near Chene Park is an ok place to view them. You don't have to get there too much earlier than like 6 or 7pm. You basically park your car for like $10 and then just get out and tailgate and watch them once it gets dark. The works are launched from three barges along the river. The problem with being upriver or downriver is that you can't see the three displays seperately--they are all in line. But nonetheless, basically anywhere around downtown Detroit you can see them, but the best place is Hart Plaza. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3073 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Saturday, June 23, 2007 - 11:06 am: | |
Ndavies: what a showoff. |
French777 Member Username: French777
Post Number: 182 Registered: 10-2006
| Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2007 - 9:54 pm: | |
What about the parking deck by the Windsor-detroit tunnel |
Ndavies Member Username: Ndavies
Post Number: 2661 Registered: 10-2003
| Posted on Sunday, June 24, 2007 - 11:04 pm: | |
The parade company takes it over. You can go for $175. http://www.theparade.org/freed omfest/default.aspx?id=28 |
Smogboy Member Username: Smogboy
Post Number: 5516 Registered: 11-2004
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 12:04 am: | |
For those of you thinking about going over to Windsor, I would strongly suggest going to grab some decent Chinese food immediately after the Fireworks. Why not make a night of it? And for some reason, a lot of them seem to be open really late too. I think I saw that the Flying Tiger is open until 3:00 every night- and their food isn't too bad either. Make a night of it in Windsor. Wait for the crowds to die down before coming back stateside. |
Detroitstar Member Username: Detroitstar
Post Number: 654 Registered: 01-2006
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 12:20 am: | |
The last couple of years I have set up my tent at the extreme tip of Belle Isle around 10am. I will not be doing it this year...The last two years have been a disappointment because the winds blew all the smoke in that direction. I think I will camp out at tri-centennial this year. |
Clark1mt Member Username: Clark1mt
Post Number: 83 Registered: 06-2005
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 1:24 am: | |
Forecast for Wednesday night, from weather.gov, is a chance of thunderstorms. A cold front is forecast to sweep across the state around the time of the fireworks. Thus, winds out of the south or southwest. |
Sitlet Member Username: Sitlet
Post Number: 9 Registered: 03-2007
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 3:34 pm: | |
what about viewing from cobo roof? i really want to view from windsor, how is the traffic coming back in the US over the bridge after the show? i really dont feel like being stuck in that long line of cars waiting to cross the border. oh, and can you bring coolers on the people mover? if we watch from the detroit side, i was planning on parking by comerica and taking the people mover to the ren cen. somehow i think i remember seeing something that you cant bring large items on it. or maybe im just going crazy.... (Message edited by sitlet on June 25, 2007) |
Detroitstar Member Username: Detroitstar
Post Number: 659 Registered: 01-2006
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 3:42 pm: | |
Is alcohol allowed in Tri-Centennial State Park? |
Charlottepaul Member Username: Charlottepaul
Post Number: 1197 Registered: 10-2006
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 6:49 pm: | |
Alcohol is basically allowed anywhere for the fireworks as long as you aren't in like the center of it all at Hart Plaza and you keep it low-key. You can tailgate over by Chene Park, no problem. |
Charlottepaul Member Username: Charlottepaul
Post Number: 1198 Registered: 10-2006
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 6:52 pm: | |
Oh, meant to mention too, that there aren't a lot of bathrooms around these park areas, esp. considering all the million or so people that come out to see the works. Chene Park itself isn't open for example--big fence around it. |
The_rock Member Username: The_rock
Post Number: 1793 Registered: 11-2003
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 7:01 pm: | |
The fireworks in GPW last night were awesome. That will hold me over til next year. |
Charlottepaul Member Username: Charlottepaul
Post Number: 1199 Registered: 10-2006
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 7:29 pm: | |
Speaking of "viewing the fireworks," I was wondering if there was a web cast of them for those outside the Detroit area. I didn't see any link on the Parade Co's web page... |
Jimaz Member Username: Jimaz
Post Number: 2422 Registered: 12-2005
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 7:37 pm: | |
What's the view like from the Dossin webcam? |
Cmyk Member Username: Cmyk
Post Number: 1 Registered: 06-2007
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 7:56 pm: | |
I'll be honest, If I didn't live in a building with rooftop access then I probably wouldn't even look out my window let alone brave the traffic and mess for a few explosions of light. Maybe if I had children it would be different. However, because of the roof, it gives me an excuse to go into work with a headache on Thursday. |
Detroitstar Member Username: Detroitstar
Post Number: 661 Registered: 01-2006
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 8:03 pm: | |
I'm not gonna lie, part of the reason I chose to live in the Lafayette Park neighborhood was so that I could avoid traffic for events like ballgames, festivals and fireworks. This week is a prime example of this. |
Charlottepaul Member Username: Charlottepaul
Post Number: 1201 Registered: 10-2006
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 8:14 pm: | |
Well I enjoyed going to the fireworks almost entirely for the fact that there was a lot of people and traffic in the city. Personally I think that it is always great to see ppl out and having a good time. Seems to me that if I had children I would be less likely to go. |
Dustin89 Member Username: Dustin89
Post Number: 32 Registered: 07-2006
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 9:59 pm: | |
The Cobo Rooftop would be a fantastic place to view. I wonder what time they close the booth to enter it if there is no event @ Cobo? |
Lilpup Member Username: Lilpup
Post Number: 2372 Registered: 06-2004
| Posted on Monday, June 25, 2007 - 10:40 pm: | |
When I was a kid we parked at Cobo a few times, then started going to Canada. Mom and we kids would pack the car (station wagon) with food, games, blankets, lawn chairs, pillows, and pajamas, then scoot over to find a great spot by 1 or 2 pm. After lunch we'd wander downtown, check out the carnival stuff and the stores. Eventually my dad would turn up, having taken a bus to Jefferson, then the tunnel bus to Windsor. We'd go back to the car for dinner and games until the show started. After the show was over we kids would change into pjs and crash in the car while my parents read the newspaper or people watched. After about an hour the traffic had thinned out enough so the trip home was mild. My dad never saw the purpose of rushing to leave just to sit in a traffic jam for that long. One year I watched them from MGM's parking deck and another year from Motor City's parking deck (no one under 21 either place), but the hotel's taken over Motor City's view now. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3093 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 12:33 am: | |
The_rock, oh please. Maybe if all those seperate little shows in GP put their firepower together for one big show on the lake we'd have something good. If I had to choose one it would be the Grosse Pointe Farms show this Saturday. Let's hope the rain/storms are neither persistent nor dangerous on Wed. so we can go on with the show. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3094 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 8:46 am: | |
Are the fireworks moved to Thursday if it rains tomorrow? |
French777 Member Username: French777
Post Number: 185 Registered: 10-2006
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 9:50 am: | |
yes |
Sitlet Member Username: Sitlet
Post Number: 11 Registered: 03-2007
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 3:03 pm: | |
does anyone know when they will announce if they are cancelled? i dont want to drive all the way there and fight traffic, only to be told at 10 oclock they are cancelled and have to waste a night and come back thursday |
Billk Member Username: Billk
Post Number: 25 Registered: 09-2005
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 3:05 pm: | |
I think the riverwalk between Joe Louis and Rivard would be as good as anyplace to view the fireworks. |
Crash67 Member Username: Crash67
Post Number: 13 Registered: 05-2007
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 4:00 pm: | |
They will announce if they are a go on the fireworks at noon tomorrow. Also, Historic Fort Wayne is open for fireworks viewers, per the City's Recreation Department. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3095 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 4:19 pm: | |
Really, Crash? That would be great and help us all out on our planning. Looks like the chance of storms tomorrow is really high in the afternoon and nighttime. |
Motorcitydave Member Username: Motorcitydave
Post Number: 25 Registered: 11-2004
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 4:42 pm: | |
Best advice for viewing the fireworks (without all of the traffic)... is to park by Comerica and the Fox (close to the e-way entrance you will need at the end), walk down to the middle of Jefferson & Woodward intersection around 9:45, watch the show, walk back to your car and you'll be on the e-way before 11. Although, if you don't want to suck, then hit a restaurant or bar before, and one after, relax, and have a good time downtown.... stay a while. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3096 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 5:19 pm: | |
The latter approach is much more fun. I don't have a problem parking as far away as Brush Park, Eastern Market, or Lafayette Park, though. |
Auspower Member Username: Auspower
Post Number: 20 Registered: 02-2007
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 6:55 pm: | |
Detroit Princess Riverboat, will be docked at Joe Louis with live entertainment, dancing, food and bars. www.detroitprincess.com |
Terryh Member Username: Terryh
Post Number: 371 Registered: 11-2006
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 7:54 pm: | |
I went to Windsor last year and the year before to enjoy the fireworks. The ladyfriend who accompanied me last year has a lesbian daughter who was holding hands with her companion and nobody seemed to care. They lit up and toked down. Great crowd in Windsor. I had much more of a sense of freedom enjoying the fireworks in clean safe Windsor, hardly a cop in sight. Some hostile individuals with confederate flag tatoos and t-shirts(probably Americans who were ignorant of all the tolerance and diversity in our great neighbor to the North). I agitated my friends a little when I booed the American flag heh heh heh. Was a bitch coming back across, especially when we got to the American side. |
Lilpup Member Username: Lilpup
Post Number: 2374 Registered: 06-2004
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 8:11 pm: | |
Careful, Mackinaw, Fort Wayne got really bad review from those who went there for the fireworks last year. Pay to get in, the grass wasn't mowed, etc. |
Terryh Member Username: Terryh
Post Number: 372 Registered: 11-2006
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 8:15 pm: | |
Try to park close to the bridge or tunnel if possible and leave a few minutes early to beat the rush if you travel to Windsor. (Message edited by Terryh on June 26, 2007) |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3098 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2007 - 9:21 pm: | |
I'm staying downtown, and will not be in a rush. |
Warrenite84 Member Username: Warrenite84
Post Number: 125 Registered: 01-2007
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 2:02 am: | |
I parked on the Cobo Roof last year hoping to stay up there for the fireworks. Security swept thru and told everyone we couldn't stay up there during the display. I ended up in Hart Plaza, which was ok, (some areas have obstructed views). I admit I'm pretty jealous about the great pics you folks take with the silhouetted skyline. I am considering a similar view from one of the parking garage roofs further back. |
The_rock Member Username: The_rock
Post Number: 1796 Registered: 11-2003
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 7:29 am: | |
I beg to differ with you mackinaw( I am glad you are mackinaw rather than mackinac--it's more distinctive.) Many of us think that the GPW fireworks is really one great show. Sure the Farms fireworks over the lake is a beautiful site, but its not nearly as long, and the Woods "final thrust" is really a sight to see. The Woods has been putting it on for years, and has it down to a science as evidenced by the thousands who show up each year and not just those from the Pointes. They come from all the neighboring communities. Fortunately, we have the opportunity of seeing both the Woods and the Farms displays this week. Not that I don't miss the Detroit show from the roof of the Guardian Building. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3106 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 8:41 am: | |
That would be an amazing vantage point. |
Civilprotectionunit4346 Member Username: Civilprotectionunit4346
Post Number: 103 Registered: 06-2007
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 9:12 am: | |
Ive gotten with some of my friends about where we are going to meet for the works'. Some of the spots you mentioned are very good. I just have a diffrent spot then everyone... can't give it away. |
Scs100 Member Username: Scs100
Post Number: 1188 Registered: 12-2006
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 9:15 am: | |
quote:Many of us think that the GPW fireworks is really one great show. Sure the Farms fireworks over the lake is a beautiful site, but its not nearly as long, and the Woods "final thrust" is really a sight to see. The Woods has been putting it on for years, and has it down to a science as evidenced by the thousands who show up each year and not just those from the Pointes. They come from all the neighboring communities. It is a great show. I do wish that they would push the date back closer to the 4th as opposed to what they did this year, which was the 24th. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3107 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 12:38 pm: | |
Well some nasty thunderstorms with impressive rain and lots of lightning are coming through A2 and headed to Detroit, with more behind this. Any official word? I think it would be totally foolhardy to go forward with the preparations. Tons of people wouldn't go downtown them, and those who do go will get drenched and be outside in dangerous weather. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3109 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 1:28 pm: | |
http://freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll /article?AID=/20070627/NEWS01/ 706270338 ...assuming the D is getting the bad weather right about now... |
Civilprotectionunit4346 Member Username: Civilprotectionunit4346
Post Number: 123 Registered: 06-2007
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 2:05 pm: | |
Is there still any word about the works? Are they canceled? Im in Troy right now and it looks real bad outside |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3110 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 2:33 pm: | |
We've lost power in my A2 neighborhood. I'm sending this from a university building that has power. That Free Press Story said they'd make a decision between 2-4PM. There are more storms developing behind the current area of storms, though. |
Crew Member Username: Crew
Post Number: 1305 Registered: 02-2004
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 3:18 pm: | |
As of 3:07 p.m., WWJ is reporting that the fireworks are still on as scheduled. |
Chitaku Member Username: Chitaku
Post Number: 1451 Registered: 03-2006
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 3:18 pm: | |
the show is on!!!!!! |
Spidergirl Member Username: Spidergirl
Post Number: 282 Registered: 12-2004
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 3:19 pm: | |
Free Press says Fireworks are still on... http://freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll /article?AID=/20070627/NEWS01/ 706270338 |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3113 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 3:19 pm: | |
http://freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll /article?AID=/20070627/NEWS01/ 706270338 Seems a tad insane. It might not actually be raining at 10:06, but I can guarantee that the gathering crowd will be rained on at least a couple times during the evening. ...well I better get ready to go. |
Bumble Member Username: Bumble
Post Number: 193 Registered: 11-2004
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 3:38 pm: | |
You might want to bring an umbrella. |
Charlottepaul Member Username: Charlottepaul
Post Number: 1209 Registered: 10-2006
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 9:57 pm: | |
btw, live web cast: http://www.clickondetroit.com/ video/10671302/index.html |
Jimaz Member Username: Jimaz
Post Number: 2463 Registered: 12-2005
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 10:32 pm: | |
That severely lacked bass. Nice link though. |
Charlottepaul Member Username: Charlottepaul
Post Number: 1214 Registered: 10-2006
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 10:52 pm: | |
yeah, sometimes it is the best that you can do... |
Jimaz Member Username: Jimaz
Post Number: 2464 Registered: 12-2005
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 11:05 pm: | |
Thanks, Paul. That link was sincerely appreciated. It was a joy. |
Kid_dynamite Member Username: Kid_dynamite
Post Number: 53 Registered: 06-2007
| Posted on Wednesday, June 27, 2007 - 11:28 pm: | |
that was the worst grand finale I have ever seen |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3114 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 2:05 am: | |
Well that worked out well. Guess I always expect the worst...but all we got was a bit of a rain shower while south of Windsor got a thunderstorm. The show was great, as seen from the Riverwalk near St. Antoine. The crowd ended up being pretty thick. Kid_dynamite...I though the finale was a bit brief myself. Wow...what a police presence around downtown, even a couple hours after the show. They were on every corner of Woodward and other streets just standing, all over the riverwalk, on buses, and even on segways and horses. |
Paulc Member Username: Paulc
Post Number: 135 Registered: 03-2005
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 11:54 am: | |
Things certainly did work out for the best. My gal and I found (free) parking easily on W. Lafayette near the corner of Michigan, walked a few blocks during a brief shower... killed some time at the Buzz Bar for some great pizza... ended up watching the works from the gates near the GM Wintergarden - looks like the GM brass reserved the Riverwalk itself... great night, great weather - a true world-class Detroit tradition. Mackinaw - Good call on the police presence... we noticed this as well. |
Gravitymachine Member Username: Gravitymachine
Post Number: 1714 Registered: 05-2005
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 11:57 am: | |
from the top of the murray body company we could not only see the detroit fireworks, but some off on the east and northwest side suburbs....and no traffic! |
Detroit_stylin Member Username: Detroit_stylin
Post Number: 4337 Registered: 10-2003
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 12:06 pm: | |
I had a nice view of te fireworks from the top deck of the Motor City Casino parking structure... |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3116 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 1:35 pm: | |
Paulc, how amazing is that Buzz Bar pizza? |
Southen Member Username: Southen
Post Number: 211 Registered: 08-2006
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 1:48 pm: | |
Detroit_stylin: Have any shots from up there? Was it an event of some kind or did you just have rooftop access as long as you parked there? I thought my perch was pretty good but next year Id like to grab a new angle. |
Paulc Member Username: Paulc
Post Number: 136 Registered: 03-2005
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 4:55 pm: | |
Mackinaw - Very very good indeed. We originally went for the BBQ chicken, but no BBQ sauce - settled on the Hawaiian... waited nearly 2 hours... I guess they were strapped resource-wise, as they also had staff at the Riverfest... but worth it. Got some free drinks out of the ordeal. Cool place indeed. |
Andyguard73 Member Username: Andyguard73
Post Number: 239 Registered: 03-2006
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 5:22 pm: | |
Paul C, GM didn't have the riverwalk blocked off, just the parking lot they own. There were several access points for the public to get to the riverfront, where the crowds were great and the show was amazing! |
Sitlet Member Username: Sitlet
Post Number: 13 Registered: 03-2007
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 6:05 pm: | |
i was disappointed that you couldnt bring food or coolers into the riverfront. i had a cooler filled with chips, sandwiches, and pop. i parked a few blocks away, carried the heavy cooler all the way to the river front, and saw the sign that no outside food or beverages were allowed. so i walked all the way back to the car, and drove to find a spot near chene park and watched from there. i thought you were allowed to bring coolers in, just not alcohol? |
Terryh Member Username: Terryh
Post Number: 376 Registered: 11-2006
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 7:07 pm: | |
Im checking out the Buzz bar tonight. Dont drink alcohol but love that pizza. There was a great percussion combo there the last time I hung out on a Friday. |
Terryh Member Username: Terryh
Post Number: 378 Registered: 11-2006
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 7:33 pm: | |
Didnt make it this year but the last two years I went to Windsor seen lots of coolers chairs etc. No problems there. |
Mackinaw Member Username: Mackinaw
Post Number: 3118 Registered: 02-2005
| Posted on Thursday, June 28, 2007 - 8:34 pm: | |
Paulc, two hours is pushing but yeah that pizza is great. Tons of taste, very little grease. You should try their Detroit style pizza. I wish Bricktown would get built up a bit more so that there are more restaurants/bars near places like Buzz, and more housing, so that I can someday live near all those great eateries. |