Discover the tumultuous history of Detroit as you embark on a self-guided walking tour. Follow the route on the app to see the main highlights and hidden gems of the city. Walk past historic buildings, through artistic alleys, across world-class parks, and stop at fun food spots, learning about each location from your information app.
Set your own pace to explore Detroit
Learn about the highs and lows of the city
Avoid the hassle of a large group tour
An economical option—only one tour per group is needed
What To Expect
Parker Street
This brick-lined street is known as Parker’s Alley and it is named after Thomas Parker, a free black man who was one of the city’s first black landowners in Detroit.
3 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
The Belt
The Belt is named after the alleyway’s location in the former garment district which was shaped like a belt.
It is part of a larger project by the Library Street Collective to reimagine underutilized spaces throughout the city.
3 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Campus Martius Park
This park was created in 2004 and is a main hang out in Detroit. It was even named a “Top 10 Public Square” in the USA by USA Today. Not bad for an area that few people felt safe enough walking into 20 years ago.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Penobscot Building
When it was built in 1928, it was the 4th highest building in the United States and 8th highest in the world. It soars above you like the edge off a cliff with a series of setbacks at the top.
3 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
The Guardian Building
The Guardian building is one of the finest art deco skyscrapers in the United States. It was completed in 1929 and was originally called the Union Trust Building. It also had the rather cute nickname of the Cathedral of Finance.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
The Spirit of Detroit
The sun-like thing on the right is meant to symbolize the rays emanating from God, and the people in his other hand are supposed to represent all human relationships. The Spirit is widely recognized and well-loved and you can find the image all over the city.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Joe Louis Monument
oe Louis didn’t just throw his weight around in the boxing ring. He fought against segregation and Jim Crow laws and encouraged young African American men to join the US Army during World War II despite the fact that it was still racially segregated. When he was asked why he did it, he famously replied “Lots of things wrong with America, but Hitler ain’t going to fix them.”
3 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Highlight
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Most travelers can participate
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Include
Smartphone Guided Walking tour on the WalknTours app
Virtual walk you can take after taking the in person tour
Exclude
No in person guide, this is a smart phone navigated tour on the WalknTours app