Megan Lasley

Detroit’s rich history offers a variety of fascinating places for automotive or history enthusiasts to explore. To help guide you on your journey, we’ve compiled a list of our top recommendations.

Make sure to click on the location and visit the website to learn more.

  • 1

    Detroit Historical Museum

    501 Woodward Avenue - Detroit, MI USA

    Head to the heart of Detroit to visit the Detroit Historical Museum, which features an entire section dedicated to the automotive industry. From the birth of the automobile to the impact of the Big Three (Ford, General Motors, and Fiat Chrysler) on the city's landscape, this museum provides a comprehensive overview of Detroit's automotive journey.

  • 2

    Ford House - Main Residence Guided Tour

    1100 Lake Shore Road - Grosse Pointe Shores, MI USA

    In 1928, Edsel and Eleanor Ford established their opulent haven, a sprawling 30,000-square-foot English Cotswold-style mansion, where they cultivated and cherished memories with their family of six. The main residence guided tour offers a 50-minute glimpse into the past, ensuring an unparalleled journey into their legacy.

  • 3

    Ford Piquette Avenue Plant

    461 Piquette Avenue - Detroit, MI USA

    Known as the birthplace of the Model T, The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is a nonprofit on a mission to preserve the historic plant. Functioning year-round as both a museum and an educational hub, the plant offers a diverse array of programs and events tailored to bus tours, families, and attendees of public and private occasions, ranging from car shows to weddings. Recognized for its historical significance, the plant was designated as a MotorCities’ National Heritage Area site in 1996, subsequently earning a place on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 2002 and obtaining status as a Michigan State Historic Site in 2003. In 2004, the site was classified as a U.S. Historic District Contributing Property and granted the distinction of being a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 2006.

  • 4

    Ford Rouge Factory Tour

    20900 Oakwood Boulevard - Dearborn, MI USA

    Located beside the Henry Ford Museum, the Ford Rouge Factory provides an immersive journey into the production of Ford vehicles. Guests can observe the assembly line in action, delve into the rich history of the Rouge complex, and embark on a self-guided exploration of the plant.

  • 5

    GM Renaissance Center

    400 Renaissance Center - Detroit, MI USA

    Towering over the Detroit skyline, the GM Renaissance Center is not only an architectural marvel but also home to the global headquarters of General Motors. While exploring the complex, visitors can learn about GM's history, view concept cars, and even view the Detroit River and the cityscape from the top-floor observation deck.

  • 6

    M1 Concourse - Various Events

    1 Concourse Drive - Pontiac, MI USA

    The M1 Concourse is the ultimate fusion of elegance and velocity, serving as the premier destination for automotive events and entertainment at its expansive 87-acre estate. The property boasts a vibrant motorsports community complete with meticulously designed garages and an exclusive Motorsports Club. Within its facility, guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor spaces, offering breathtaking views of its 1.5-mile circuit. The M1 Concourse stands as a beacon for automotive enthusiasts throughout Metro Detroit. At the concourse, individuals can store, exhibit, and unleash their vehicles in the company of fellow aficionados, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie unparalleled in the region.

  • 7

    The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

    20900 Oakwood Boulevard - Dearborn, MI USA

    Driving America, the permanent exhibit at The Henry Ford Museum, emphasizes the people behind the wheel rather than solely focusing on the cars themselves. This museum is a treasure trove of automotive history, showcasing iconic vehicles, technological innovations, and artifacts that shaped the industry. It stands as one of the most comprehensive automotive experiences globally, boasting a collection of over 100 vehicles. Notable vehicles include the Kennedy Presidential limousine and Rosa Parks' bus. Additionally, consider taking a ride in an authentic Model T at Greenfield Village right next door.

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