Attractions

Detroit's rich cultural history comes alive in the Cultural Center, an area flanking Woodward Avenue 3 blocks south of I-94. Here you'll find a celebration of history, culture, and music at the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, and the Detroit Science Center. The Detroit Public Library and Wayne State University also call the area home.

Further explore Detroit culture at one of the city's fine galleries or on a downtown walking tour of public art. Plum Tree Pottery, 30435 W. 10-Mile Rd. (tel. 248/476-4875; www.plumtreepottery.com), in Farmington Hills, sells the creations of master ceramist John Glick. The Sherry Washington Gallery, 1274 Library St. (tel. 313/961-4500; www.sherrywashingtongallery.com), and G. R. N'Namdi Gallery, 1435 Randolph St. (tel. 313/831-8700; www.grnnamdigallery.com), feature works by some of the nation's preeminent African-American artists. Public art is easy to find on the People Mover. Each station along this landmark Detroit monorail features original paintings, mosaics, tilework, and sculptures. Other famous public artworks include "Spirit of Detroit," "Monument to Joe Louis" (often called "The Fist"), and the "Pylon" tower -- all near the intersection of Woodward and Jefferson avenues.