America has many famous cities, one of which is Detroit in Michigan that’s renowned for many things. After all, this is the home of large-scale production automakers such as Ford Motor Company and General Motors. Also, this is where Motown Records was founded and subsequently shaped American music culture. But Detroit has much to offer visitors who want to explore the area or enjoy a date night. These include Sunset Point that’s an ideal picnic spot, Redforth Theatre that’s a stunning playhouse, and the Fisher Building that offers panoramic views of the city. Take a look at the top riverfront hotels or hotels with outdoor pool, and get comfortable. Check out these great date night ideas in Detroit, Michigan, and plan your trip accordingly!
1. Grab some coffee at Cairo Coffee
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
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Indulge in a delightful coffee experience at Cairo Coffee in Detroit. This charming café offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere to savor your favorite brew. As you enter Cairo Coffee, you’ll be greeted by the rich aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans. From classic espresso-based beverages to specialty creations, the menu boasts a variety of options to suit every taste.
Visiting the café is a great date night activity in Detroit because of its interior, which is often adorned with unique artwork, creating a trendy and artistic ambiance. Whether you sit in a cozy corner or enjoy the outdoor seating, Cairo Coffee provides a welcoming space to relax, chat with friends, or enjoy downtime.
Cairo Coffee
Address: 2905 Beaufait St, Detroit, MI 48207, United States
Website: Cairo Coffee
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 10am - 6pm
2. Baker's Keyboard Lounge
Are you and your loved one a big fan of music? Of jazz, maybe? Baker’s Keyboard Lounge on Livernois could be your jam for the night. This intimate bar features an Art Deco style and can seat up to 99 guests. Live jazz performances have been showcased at the bar since the mid-1930s. Some say that it is the world’s oldest jazz clubs that still operates to this day. The biggest names in jazz, like John Coltrane, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald have performed at the club throughout the years. Now that has got to be a good reason to spend your date night at Baker’s!
Baker's Keyboard Lounge
Address: 20510 Livernois, Detroit, MI 48221, United States
Website: Baker’s Keyboard Lounge
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 11am - 1am; Sat: 4pm - 1am; Sun: 1pm - 12:30am
3. Take amazing photographs at Sunset Point
Whiling away the time at Sunset Point may be one of the simple yet most romantic things to do in Detroit. There’s no better place to view and photograph the city’s towering skyscrapers and river than from Sunset Point. Furthermore, it’s a perfectly good spot to relax or enjoy a picnic with that special someone.
There’s also ample parking space nearby, which makes it incredibly accessible if you’re getting around Detroit by car. The only negative is that the nearby restrooms tend to be dirty and often closed.
Sunset Point
Address: Belle Isle Park, Detroit, MI 48207, United States
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
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4. Enjoy an evening stroll at Detroit International RiverWalk
One of the better maintained green spaces in the area is none other than Detroit International RiverWalk that’s operated by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. If you visit during the day, you’ll come across groups of people doing Tai Chi or Yoga by the riverfront. But if you visit in the evening, you’ll probably prefer to take an evening stroll while taking in those amazing views of the river and neon-lit cityscape. An intimate stroll around the riverwalk is one of the most romantic things to do in Detroit, Michigan.
Detroit International RiverWalk
Address: 1340 Atwater St., Detroit, MI 48207, United States
Website: Detroit International RiverWalk
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
5. View the impressive historic exhibits at Detroit Institute of Art
It may come as a surprise to some, but Detroit is home to one of the most important art institutions in the United States. And the reason for this is its massive floor space that houses a wide variety of exhibits. You don’t have to be an art lover to appreciate all the amazing American, European, and even Egyptian works on display. Also, expect to find works from famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Rembrandt van Rijn, and William-Adolphe Bouguereau.
Detroit Institute of Art
Address: Wayne State University, 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, United States
Website: DIA
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 9am - 4pm; Fri: 9am - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 6 - 14 USD
6. Stop by Redford Theatre to watch amazing plays
Take some time out of your day to visit this stunning historic theatre. Redford Theatre opened almost a century ago and has become one of America’s most significant playhouses. Moreover, it originally featured breathtaking interiors, which took much of their inspiration from Japan. But today, you can catch enthralling productions such as Labyrinth Masquerade, Truth Be Told, West Side Story in the theatre’s spacious hall that seat up to 1,600 guests.
Redford Theatre
Address: 17360 Lahser Rd, Detroit, MI 48219, United States
Website: Redford Theatre
Price: 10 - 25 USD
7. Gorge on delicious food at Andiamo Detroit Riverfront
The iconic GM Renaissance Center houses one of the finest Italian restaurants and best date night restaurants in Detroit. Andiamo Detroit Riverfront offers patrons an upmarket dining experience, a comprehensive range of wines, and breathtaking views of the river. They serve tasty delicacies such as Gnocchi all’ Aldo, Ravioli Formaggio, and Salmone Griglia and wines such as Chianti Classico, Martini & Rossi Spumanti, and Sauvignon Blanc. Expect friendly and attentive staff and valet service if you arrive at the premises in your car.
Andiamo Detroit Riverfront
Address: GM Renaissance Center, 400 Renaissance Center Suite A - 403, Detroit, MI 48243, United States
Website: Andiamo Detroit Riverfront
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 3pm - 10pm; Fri: 3pm - 11pm; Sat: 12pm - 11pm; Sun: 2pm - 9pm
8. Head over to Offworld Arcade at Checker Bar
Can’t come up with any other Detroit date ideas? If you’re traveling to the city with your kids, then treat them to pizza and classic arcade games. Checker Bar features a renovated space on its second floor that’s a throwback to the 80s and features a ton of amazing games that the little ones will enjoy. But they’ll also love the mouthwatering pizzas on offer such as Cheezus, Spicy Pep Pep, and Napalm Breath. While you wait for your pizza order, do head over to the bar to try out their beers such as Bell’s Amber Ale, Farmhaus Ciders Classic, and Short’s Soft Parade.
Offworld Arcade at Checker Bar
Address: Checker Bar Detroit, 124 Cadillac Square, Detroit, MI 48226, United States
Website: Checker Bar
Opening hours: 11am - 2am (daily)
9. Visit Motown Museum to learn what shaped American music
Contemporary American music has been largely influenced by the Motown sound. Be sure to visit Motown Museum to find out more about this style of music and the record label founded by the visionary, Berry Gordy. You’ll learn about this man’s fascinating life and the artists he signed up to his label and subsequently promoted. Also, you’ll have the opportunity to delve deeper into the creative processes of artists and bands such as Funk Brothers, Jackson 5, and Stevie Wonder.
Motown Museum
Address: 2648 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208, United States
Website: Motown Museum
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 10 - 15 USD
10. Enjoy 360-degree views of Detroit at Fisher Building
Another iconic building in Detroit that’s worth visiting is the stunning Fisher Building. Its exteriors and interiors are aesthetically pleasing due to the Art Deco touches and distinctive designs employed by the renowned architect, Albert Kahn. The building features a wide variety of shops and offices but also offers a guided tour whereby you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy 360-degree views of the city.
Fisher Building
Address: New Center One, 3011 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202, United States
Website: Fisher Building
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
11. Admire the architecture of Belle Isle Aquarium
Another one of Albert Kahn’s architectural masterpieces is none other than Belle Isle Aquarium, which was constructed over a century ago. It’s popular among local and out-of-town visitors due to its beautifully decorated interiors, particularly the green glass tiles that adorn the ceiling. But you’ll likely spend most of your time viewing the tanks filled with fascinating sea creatures such as African Lungfish, Electric Eels, and Mbu Pufferfish.
Belle Isle Aquarium
Address: 900 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207, United States
Website: Belle Isle Aquarium
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed from Mon - Thu)
12. Attend a wine night at The Royce Detroit
The Royce Detroit is an upscale and stylish wine shop and bar that’s worth your time. Attending one of its private events and wine nights is a superb thing to do in Detroit for couples. Apart from having opportunities to taste their delicious wine, you can also join a wine club to receive specially selected bottles of wine and exclusive deals. Don’t forget to visit the bar and order a La Patience, Limoncello Spritz, or Ostatu Rosado.
The Royce Detroit
Address: 76 W Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, United States
Website: The Royce Detroit
Opening hours: Sun - Tue: 1pm - 9pm; Wed - Thu: 1pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 1pm - 11pm (closed on Mon)
13. Enjoy the city lights on the top floor of Z Deck Garage
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Experience the mesmerizing city lights of Detroit from the top floor of Z Deck Garage. This unique activity offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city’s skyline and a unique vantage point to soak in the vibrant energy. The twinkling lights of downtown Detroit stretch out before you, creating a captivating panorama that showcases the city’s architectural beauty and urban charm.
The spacious and open rooftop is ideal for admiring the city lights. Whether you visit during sunset, when the sky transforms into a canvas of warm colors, or at night when the city comes alive with illuminated buildings, the view from Z Deck Garage is truly enchanting. You can stroll along the rooftop, capturing Instagram-worthy photos, or simply sit back and enjoy the mesmerizing scenery with your loved ones or friends.
14. Beer history walking tour (from USD 39.0)
Loosen yourself up a bit and begin your date night in Detroit with some beer and some good ol’ history. This walking tour will take you to the Eastern Market, one of the things Detroit is famous for. It will also have a stop at six breweries. You’ll get to know the origins of the breweries that have been in business even before the Prohibition Era. At the end of the tour, you’ll be served a delicious beer at Eastern Market Brewing. This unique event in Detroit is hosted by Stephen Johnson, proprietor of Motor City Brew Tours and author of Detroit Beer: A History of Brewing in the Motor City.
Detroit Beer History Walking Tour
Duration: 2 hours
A city to enjoy memorable and romantic evenings
Detroit is a city with a rich industrial heritage, which may earn it the tag of being a strange place to enjoy romantic activities. Luckily, there are many amazing public spaces, rooftop bars, landmarks, and great places to eat that facilitate a romantic ambience, especially during times when you intend to visit these at night.
Frequently asked questions about the date night ideas in Detroit, Michigan
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