Local Guides World
Top Historical landmarks in Detroit, United States
Top Rated Historical landmarks in Detroit
Top Reviewed Historical landmarks in Detroit
Guardian Building
The Spirit of Detroit
Motown Museum
Ford Building
Fisher Building
International Memorial to the Underground Railroad
First Presbyterian Church
Ford Motor Company Historical Marker
Merchants Building
Guardian Building
Wayne County Building
Grand Army of the Republic Monument
Reviews
Bonita plaza en el centro de Detroit
A beautiful trip,lots of history & lots of corn up that way on farms, moonshiners ?🥴 Anyhoo,I give th trip 10++
Sheer beauty in the form of classic architectural robustness and strength. Representation of the municipality, the voice of the people. A nation ruled by its populace. Detroit thou art so beautiful. The tarnish of time has not worn complete the spirit of Motown, the Motor City, the American dream. Nostalgia for remembrance of what was is encapsulated within the beauty of this marvel.
Beautiful building. It is a masterpiece of marble, mahogany, and mosaics, adorned with bas-reliefs, sculptures, and columns. This stately building, seemingly as old as the city itself, is one of the few survivors from the era before Detroit became the auto capital of the world. It would be nice for Detroit to have more buildings like this one.
Didn’t take a tour, just stepped inside for a quick peek. If you’re walking around this area, definitely stop in, because the architecture was amazing !!
Saw it in person on a visit to Detroit. Absolutely marvelous architecture and ornamentation. From our distant past, some beauty remains.
Wow hidden gem of Detroit. The beautiful facade suggests that it will be very special inside, and it really is. The building has beautiful interiors and is definitely worth a visit. The unique art deco decoration in the form of colored tiles is truly exceptional. The entrance is freely accessible, there is no need to pay an entrance fee, and there is a fanshop, a cafe and a bank inside. However, it would be good to use this space more.
You can take pictures for free in the lobby if you are polite and quiet. Beautiful mural, tile work, and art deco design!
Stunning building that I didn't expect to see in this corner of town
The Guardian building is one of the art deco buildings in Downtown Detroit built in 1920s. It’s nicknamed as Cathedral of Finance. Entrance and visiting first floor is free and open to public. There is a guided tour to other floors of the building at every hour which takes 30 minutes and costs $6 per person. We arrived a bit late for the tour and did not have enough time to wait for the next one but we will try later.
Only visited the lobby and lovedd it! Just walked right in and explored, took pictures, checked my weight in the ancient weighing machine. Nostalgic. I dint inquire about the tour, but have read its from the first floor. Oh also the lobby smelled so good!
The lobby of the Guardian Building is open to the public. It's absolutely worth your time to take a quick walk through to see the amazing architecture. For a more in depth experience, City Tour Detroit, located on the first floor of the building, offers an insider's tour (for a small fee). It lasts about one hour. You get the full history of the building along with stops on lower and higher floors that you can't see on your own. If you have the time, I would definitely recommend the tour. It was a lot of fun.
Beautiful day at Hart Plaza
Beautiful building in Detroit.
The Guardian Building in Detroit is a mesmerizing architectural gem, epitomizing the city’s rich history and grandeur. Its Art Deco design is a symphony of color, with intricate detailing adorning every inch of its façade. The towering structure commands attention, with its striking blend of Aztec and Mayan motifs, and sleek geometric patterns. Inside, the lobby is a visual feast, boasting a breathtaking vaulted ceiling, adorned with stunning murals and ornate fixtures. The craftsmanship is impeccable, showcasing the talent of the artisans who brought this masterpiece to life. Walking through its corridors feels like stepping back in time to an era of opulence and elegance. The Guardian Building stands as a testament to Detroit’s resilience and cultural significance, embodying the spirit of a city that has endured and flourished. Whether admiring its exterior from the street or exploring its interior treasures, every moment spent at the Guardian Building is a journey through architectural brilliance. It serves as a beacon of pride for the community, drawing visitors from far and wide to marvel at its beauty. From its soaring heights to its intricate details, the Guardian Building is a true icon of Detroit’s architectural landscape.
The Fisher Theater is absolutely beautiful. A great place to see a Broadway show. The Cher Show was amazing. Hope to see it again. The bartenders were great in the bar areas.
Had an excellent time here. Tickets were surprisingly affordable as well. It's very small, which is surprising and amazing when you consider how many musicians were there and record they created. I was happy to hear of their plans to add additional buildings behind the original house to showcase more of their memorabilia. I was raised on this music and it brought back so many happy memories and taught me so many things I didn't know. 10/10.
Saw To Kill a Mockingbird at the Fisher Theater last night with friends. There were two stars last night: Richard Thomas and the Fisher Building. I hadn't been in the Fisher building in over 40 years and it's still as magnificent as it ever was. It is an Art Deco masterpiece designed by Albert Khan and voted the most beautiful commercial building in the United States in 1928.
Such a wonderful building with an incredible history. Excellent tour, too! Kept the attention of my 9, 13 and 16 year olds.. and my husband and mother!
We didn’t know we should have gotten our tickets in advance because there was a wait of about an hour to take the tour so we will be going back for the tour. The gift shop is very nice and we were able to grab some really nice Motown items before we left! Lots of history here and definitely will be coming back to get the full experience. All the employees there were very nice and helpful!
First time in Detroit and visited the Motown Museum. This was one of the highlights of the trip. Learning about the history of music legends and was fascinating! How the world was changed from this location and it’s humble beginnings. This is true black history excellence!! We are standing on the shoulders of giants. Glad we had an opportunity to visit now and looking forward to returning when the multimillion dollar renovation is completed. We purchased our tickets at the door (student, senior and military discounts offered). There is a gift shop on site and the guided tour is efficient and completed in about one hour (60 minutes). Our tour guide was very lively and engaging. I will give him 10 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
You can’t go to Detroit and not to the Motown Museum! There’s really nothing like it, from the exuding creative energy, the history, and all the really informative tour guides. The tour is entertaining and you’ll leave listening to Motown in a new way. I’ll definitely be back for the expansion.
Falling into disrepair a bit without the George Harrison funding it used to enjoy. The building was long ago repurposed as a Hare Krishna temple. Many incredibly beautiful spiritual paintings, tapestries, and sculptures grace the building. A REALLY cool mini theater which shares a bit about the Hare Krishna religion and absolutely incredible life-size walk-through diorama of scenes of Krishna. The people are incredibly happy and welcoming. They give tours of the building for $40. Well worth it and a cool way to spend an afternoon while enriching your cultural and historic Detroit knowledge.
The Fisher Building in Detroit stands as a timeless symbol of architectural grandeur, boasting an intricate design that seamlessly blends Art Deco and Neo-Gothic styles. Its majestic exterior, adorned with ornate sculptures and intricate detailing, captivates passersby with its sheer elegance and historical significance.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking lobby adorned with marble, mosaic tiles, and exquisite frescoes, showcasing the opulence of its era. The soaring ceilings and intricate lighting fixtures further enhance the sense of grandeur and prestige.
The building houses a vibrant mix of office spaces, retail outlets, and cultural attractions, including the stunning Fisher Theatre, renowned for its theatrical productions and historic charm.
Its strategic location in the heart of Detroit adds to its allure, offering convenient access to nearby landmarks, cultural institutions, and entertainment venues.
Despite the passage of time, the Fisher Building continues to exude an aura of timeless sophistication and remains a beloved icon of Detroit’s architectural landscape.
Visitors are treated to a memorable experience steeped in history, artistry, and cultural significance, making it a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking lobby adorned with marble, mosaic tiles, and exquisite frescoes, showcasing the opulence of its era. The soaring ceilings and intricate lighting fixtures further enhance the sense of grandeur and prestige.
The building houses a vibrant mix of office spaces, retail outlets, and cultural attractions, including the stunning Fisher Theatre, renowned for its theatrical productions and historic charm.
Its strategic location in the heart of Detroit adds to its allure, offering convenient access to nearby landmarks, cultural institutions, and entertainment venues.
Despite the passage of time, the Fisher Building continues to exude an aura of timeless sophistication and remains a beloved icon of Detroit’s architectural landscape.
Visitors are treated to a memorable experience steeped in history, artistry, and cultural significance, making it a must-see destination for architecture enthusiasts and tourists alike.
What a wonderful tour experience. If there is anyone who is fascinated by architecture or Detroit history. Or looking for a way to spend a Saturday afternoon for free go on the Pure Detroit tour of the Fisher Building we went at 12pm Jacob was very knowledgeable and you could hear the passion in his delivery.
It’s a very good spot to visit at Detroit Downtown and you are able to see the view of Ontario, Canada which is located over Detroit.
We did the Motown Museum tour today ( 4 Jan 24) and it was incredible. The tour guide was knowledgeable and courteous and the artifacts from such an important and iconic location are presented in a perfect manner. From the introductory video to the time you get to spend in the iconic recording studio, you can't help but feel like you're part of history. If you're a fan of Motown music, this is a must visit, top of the bucket list thing to do. I can't wait until the expansion is completed.
This wasn't a planned stop on our trip, but so glad we did it! This small museum is filled with so much history from some of the greatest artists. There are plans to expand the museum in a couple of years, however, I'm so glad we got to experience this one. Our tour guide was fantastic, knowledgeable and fun! We learned about the birth of "Motown," and stood where so many well-renowned artists created some of their biggest hits. We lucked out with getting tickets upon our arrival, but I would recommend buying in advance, since the place was full.
Incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience. We were lucky enough to score the last four tickets on a Saturday. If you can, purchase your tickets ahead of time to ensure you secure a spot. The only way to experience the museum is through a guided tour so if you don’t have tickets, you’ll only be able to check out the gift shop. Our tour guide, Monet, was perfect. Friendly, knowledgeable, kind, and even able to crack a smile after a long day of saying the same thing over and over again. The sites and sounds alone are worth any wait you endure or any distance you travel!
we had our wedding ceremony and reception at the guardian building in the promenade. it was the most magical space and night, that left us and our guests in aww of it all. Paige was very attentive and responsive in making sure everything was set for our day. If you are considering a unique downtown Detroit wedding, consider the guardian building! you will not be disappointed.
The lobby of the Guardian Building is open to the public. It's absolutely worth your time to take a quick walk through to see the amazing architecture. For a more in depth experience, City Tour Detroit, located on the first floor of the building, offers a free tour on Sunday at 12pm and 1:30pm (as of Nov '23). It lasts about one hour. You get the full history of the building along with stops on lower and higher floors that you can't see on your own. If you have the time, I would definitely recommend the tour. It was a lot of fun.
The lobby of the Fisher Building is open to the public. It's absolutely worth your time to take a quick walk through to see the amazing architecture. For a more in depth experience, Pure Detroit, located on the first floor of the building, offers a free tour. It lasts about one hour. You get the full history of the building along with stops on higher floors that you can't see on your own. If you have the time, I would definitely recommend the tour. It was a lot of fun.
Lifelong goal fulfilled and surpassed! The museum took me back to when I was growing up, the state of the world, goals, dreams, and the music that formed me.
❤, loved, 😍 it.
People were visiting from other countries and here I was a local who had never been. It's worth the time and money; the tour guides are worth a million.
The only improvement that could be made would be secure parking, but maybe that will be added with the improvements that are planned.
Well done! 🎶💞🎶❤
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
❤, loved, 😍 it.
People were visiting from other countries and here I was a local who had never been. It's worth the time and money; the tour guides are worth a million.
The only improvement that could be made would be secure parking, but maybe that will be added with the improvements that are planned.
Well done! 🎶💞🎶❤
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Just an absolutely beautiful building!!
Impressive sculpture! Worth checking out.
Such a cool building! We did the free tour through “Pure Detroit” and it was so fun and informative. Our guide was a local historian and had so many cool stories about the place. For sure a highlight of our trip.
Really beautiful thing with history in 🇺🇸
Beautiful exterior but the interior is closed off to visitors and photography is prohibited.
Whats more Detroit than getting a picture with the spirt of Detroit. A historic landmark in the city. You never have to wait too long for a picture.
This is an absolutely beautiful building. From the outside to the inside. We happened to have fate on our side to arrive in the breathtaking lobby exactly at noon on Sunday - just in time for a free tour given by Melissa at CityTour Detroit which got my friends and I exclusive access to: the original boardroom which was really beautiful and so well designed. We saw the views from one of the top floors, which was an amazing way to see the city. Which I think they said is available to rent, which us genius because itd make an incredible venue. We were also given a tour of the original vault in the basement, which was super cool and creepy. Without the tour you only have access to the lobby and first floor which is totally worth the stop but if you're around on the dates the tour is available check the times and 100% do it that way. You can ask questions, and if you're like me and love architectural design, you can just take in all the intricate details and beautiful artistic interjections. It's like The Great Gatsby, but make it indigenous. 10/10
My friends and I just walked inside to see the beautiful architecture of this amazing historical building. They do offer tours, check online to see what's is available. There are some businesses on the ground floor that are open to the public. Some food options, but mostly open during the working hours. There is one public bathroom.
We visited the downtown area of Detroit. The area was very clean and safe. We visited many monuments in the area. The lack of crowds, was very nice :)
This building is an amazing work of art. It's a must-see if you are going to walk around Downtown Detroit. They have done an amazing job of keeping it repaired. It looks brand new! It is a perfect example of the Art Deco style. They are very accommodating in allowing you into the ground floor lobby. It's is amazing
I've always loved this as a child of Detroit City.
Fantastic sight to see. Very large statue.
During hockey season, they dress this status with RedWings clothes. Cool.
Every year they update/paint this statue. I've never seen it vandalized. Impressive. There are lights at night too.
Highly Recommended!
During hockey season, they dress this status with RedWings clothes. Cool.
Every year they update/paint this statue. I've never seen it vandalized. Impressive. There are lights at night too.
Highly Recommended!
The Guardian Building is an architectural masterpiece that truly stands out in the Detroit skyline. The Art Deco design and intricate details are awe-inspiring. Don't miss the opportunity to step into the past while appreciating the Guardian Building's timeless beauty.
After all the years of both being in Detroit and coming to Detroit, I realize that there are plenty of things that I still haven’t seen. I can now cross the Guardian building off that list. I actually came down yesterday to see the MLK statue. I ended up finding parking on Fort St, so when I walked down Griswold towards the water, I found myself immediately outside this beautiful work of art. I also was not aware that they host tours on Sundays. When I walked into the gift shop, the lady working told me they started a little bit ago if I wanted to join in, so I did. It was a nice little tour. I enjoy both history and old artistic construction. I highly recommend checking it out.
What a beautiful monument done by the sculptor Marshall Fredericks that I’ve seen his work in the SVSU museum in Saginaw.
This is an amazing building circa 1928 that’s still gracefully intact. Amazing architecture style outside. Inside the main hall is a beautiful full length wall painted mural including the demographic map areas of Michigan. On each lower side of the mural you’ll see painted depictions of the agricultural and industrial aspects of what Michigan was built from.
The entry atrium has amazing perfectly matched geometric colorful patterns. A must see building done in art deco; beautiful inside and out!
The entry atrium has amazing perfectly matched geometric colorful patterns. A must see building done in art deco; beautiful inside and out!
A beautiful bronze statue dedicated to the city of Detroit. Interesting to see closeup. The Spirit of Detroit" is a Detroit icon, synonymous with the city itself and the dedication of those who love the Motor City. You’ll see this statue pictured and printed on many city pamphlets, tour guides etc…
The bronze monument sits on a 60-ton marble base and is in front of the Coleman Young building. Near Hart Plaza.
Metro Detroit sculptor Marshall Fredericks was commissioned in 1955 to create the piece. The 26-foot bronze monument was the largest cast statue made at that time.
The “Spirit" cost $58,000 (about $467,750 today, when adjusted for inflation) to erect.
The statue's left hand grips a gilded sphere emanating rays that symbolizes divinity, while its right hand holds a family, which symbolizes all human relationships.
The bronze monument sits on a 60-ton marble base and is in front of the Coleman Young building. Near Hart Plaza.
Metro Detroit sculptor Marshall Fredericks was commissioned in 1955 to create the piece. The 26-foot bronze monument was the largest cast statue made at that time.
The “Spirit" cost $58,000 (about $467,750 today, when adjusted for inflation) to erect.
The statue's left hand grips a gilded sphere emanating rays that symbolizes divinity, while its right hand holds a family, which symbolizes all human relationships.
Another historical marker
Coleman A Young plaza has this Bronze statue called Spirit of Detroit. Small, beautiful park encloses this statue. Right in the heart of Downtown Detroit. Other iconic buildings such as GM building looms over this small park.
Worth a stop if you are in the area. The Bronze statue is beautifully done.
Worth a stop if you are in the area. The Bronze statue is beautifully done.
A sculpture on the Detroit side bank of the Detroit River.
The Gateway to Freedom
International Memorial to the Underground Railroad
Ed Dwight – Sculptor
Dedicated October 20, 2001
With companion work “Tower of Freedom” in the Civic Esplanade Windsor, Ontario, Canada
A project of Detroit 300 and the International Underground Railroad Monument Collaborative.
Until Emancipation, Detroit and the Detroit River community served as the gateway to freedom for thousands of African American people escaping enslavement. Detroit was one of the largest terminals of the Underground Railroad, a network of abolitionists aiding enslaved people seeking freedom. Detroit’s Underground Railroad code name was Midnight.
At first, Michigan was a destination for freedom seekers, but Canada became a safer sanctuary after slavery was abolished there in 1834. With the passage of the Fugitive Slave Act in 1850, many runaways left their homes in Detroit and crossed the river to Canada to remain free. Some returned after Emancipation in 1863.
The successful operation of Detroit’s Underground Railroad was due to the effort and cooperation of diverse groups of people, including people of African descent, Whites, and North American Indians. This legacy of Freedom is a vital part of Detroit and its history.
The Gateway to Freedom
International Memorial to the Underground Railroad
Ed Dwight – Sculptor
Dedicated October 20, 2001
With companion work “Tower of Freedom” in the Civic Esplanade Windsor, Ontario, Canada
A project of Detroit 300 and the International Underground Railroad Monument Collaborative.
Until Emancipation, Detroit and the Detroit River community served as the gateway to freedom for thousands of African American people escaping enslavement. Detroit was one of the largest terminals of the Underground Railroad, a network of abolitionists aiding enslaved people seeking freedom. Detroit’s Underground Railroad code name was Midnight.
At first, Michigan was a destination for freedom seekers, but Canada became a safer sanctuary after slavery was abolished there in 1834. With the passage of the Fugitive Slave Act in 1850, many runaways left their homes in Detroit and crossed the river to Canada to remain free. Some returned after Emancipation in 1863.
The successful operation of Detroit’s Underground Railroad was due to the effort and cooperation of diverse groups of people, including people of African descent, Whites, and North American Indians. This legacy of Freedom is a vital part of Detroit and its history.
Parents had cigarette store. 204 E grand river. 1981 & 1982
When I saw these statues I thought it was showing the American Dream but when I read in depth it was not that.
Until Emancipation, Detroit and the Detroit River community served as the gateway to freedom for thousands of African American people escaping enslavement. Detroit was one of the largest terminals of the Underground Railroad, a network of abolitionists aiding enslaved people seeking freedom.
Why was Detroit so important to the Underground Railroad?
Detroit was a pivotal part of the Underground Railroad, an informal network of safe houses and people willing to help runaway enslaved people. They adapted the language of the railroads to keep it secret.
Detroit. The last stop along the Underground Railroad in Michigan before freedom seekers made it to Canada was Detroit. Over 50,000 people traveled through Detroit, or “midnight” as it was referred to in the mid 1800s. As such, there are many “stations” and historic sites to check out in Detroit.
The Underground Railroad was an early 1800s to 1865 secret network of financial, spiritual, and material aid for formerly enslaved people on their path from plantations in the American South to freedom in Canada. Freedom seekers generally made their way on foot, often at night, from one town to the next.
The next time you visit this place just think through the whole scenario of dark ages and you will understand the importance of these statues.
Until Emancipation, Detroit and the Detroit River community served as the gateway to freedom for thousands of African American people escaping enslavement. Detroit was one of the largest terminals of the Underground Railroad, a network of abolitionists aiding enslaved people seeking freedom.
Why was Detroit so important to the Underground Railroad?
Detroit was a pivotal part of the Underground Railroad, an informal network of safe houses and people willing to help runaway enslaved people. They adapted the language of the railroads to keep it secret.
Detroit. The last stop along the Underground Railroad in Michigan before freedom seekers made it to Canada was Detroit. Over 50,000 people traveled through Detroit, or “midnight” as it was referred to in the mid 1800s. As such, there are many “stations” and historic sites to check out in Detroit.
The Underground Railroad was an early 1800s to 1865 secret network of financial, spiritual, and material aid for formerly enslaved people on their path from plantations in the American South to freedom in Canada. Freedom seekers generally made their way on foot, often at night, from one town to the next.
The next time you visit this place just think through the whole scenario of dark ages and you will understand the importance of these statues.
Really nice statues and memorials.
My daughter was very impressed that she could look at Canada.
My daughter was very impressed that she could look at Canada.
Looking to Canada across the Detroit River. Great park to wander and start the day. Along with the archway to freedom and Joe Louis Fist there are many great lessons of history to learn here.
Great building for nostalgia and downtown location. The building oozes with history!
From the front door Experience to the top floor just a wonderful 😀experience!!!!!!!
One of the beautiful building in Detroit. Nice architecture. Seen from outside only.
Was here for work crazy old place 1920 thats got a few years of dust and dirt but the history thats behind this old gem tucked away for years and years most floors are vacant but still a barbers shop and lots of lawyers occupying the buidling also a mr PETA Ann's Jimmy John's attached to the building
Cool park very close to the river
Came across this interesting installation while walking along the Detroit Riverwalk. The monument has a bunch of hopeful people looking towards Canada. It was not until reading the website compiled by a couple of retired professors at University of Michigan did I learn about the existence of the route for Underground Railroad through Detroit. A really good reminder that America once went through dark and oppressive times, and as long as we all do our little part to help others, things will change for the better.
A nice place for a walk along the river
Good building. Has a pizza shop in it as well (cheap prices).
Great place! Lots of fun working at our office here
I've been in alot of buildings downtown. The folks that work at Ford building are some of the nicest in Detroit.
The building is immaculately maintained and managed. The owners are a joy to work with. Definitely a jewel in Downtown!