
Detroit Riverfront
A vibrant urban oasis featuring the award-winning RiverWalk, parks, and lively event spaces with stunning views of Canada.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

Detroit Riverfront
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant urban oasis featuring the award-winning RiverWalk, parks, and lively event spaces with stunning views of Canada.
"Easy to get to and a wonderful spot to just relax and take in the scenery."

👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The RiverWalk is extensive! You'll want comfy shoes for walking or biking. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Event Schedules
Concerts, festivals, and openings like the Centennial Park can enhance your visit. :calendar:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Detroit RiverWalk
Along the Detroit River
Stroll, bike, or relax along this award-winning urban waterfront with stunning city and Canadian views.

Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park
East Riverfront
A new 22-acre park featuring diverse recreational spaces, playgrounds, and event areas.

Water Square Residences Views
Downtown Riverfront
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Detroit River and Canada from this modern residential high-rise.

Yacht Rock Detroit
Roostertail
A riverside venue offering a unique summer experience with music and waterfront ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting Around & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The RiverWalk is extensive! You'll want comfy shoes for walking or biking. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Event Schedules
Concerts, festivals, and openings like the Centennial Park can enhance your visit. :calendar:
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available, but can fill up. Arrive early or consider public transport. :car:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning cityscapes and views of Canada. Perfect for photos! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
The RiverWalk is extensive! You'll want comfy shoes for walking or biking. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Event Schedules
Concerts, festivals, and openings like the Centennial Park can enhance your visit. :calendar:
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking is available, but can fill up. Arrive early or consider public transport. :car:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning cityscapes and views of Canada. Perfect for photos! :camerawithflash:
🛶 Boat Tour Fun
Consider a relaxing boat tour for a different perspective of the riverfront. :boat:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Detroit Riverfront's beauty, spaciousness, and relaxing atmosphere, highlighting it as a must-visit spot with stunning views of Canada. While generally positive, some caution about navigation, especially when near the border crossings.
"Easy to get to and a wonderful spot to just relax and take in the scenery. Super close view of Canada if you're wanting that. The walking area is very spacious and gives lots of room for groups if you have one. Overall it was a wonderful stop on our little trip. Would highly recommend."
J O
"Amazing, Beautiful place to come and relax and enjoy family and friends. This was my first trip to the river front while visiting Detroit and it will not be my last. They have a bar on the riverfront that plays music and they have a fairy that will take you along the lake. There is also a concert venue where they have concerts scheduled throughout the summer. This is a place you should go and check out. I Highly recommend this attraction."
Kimberly McDonald
"This place is great, clean, spacious with beautiful views. But not sure if it’s just me , I felt it’s easy to miss an exit and reach Canada through Detroit Windsor tunnel. So stay alert if you are visiting for the first time especially with GPS.
Detroit riverfront has been voted as the best river walk in US. Well, it can be argued but this one defiantly is a great contender. Just make sure it’s warm and clear to make the most of your visit."
Rishikesh Nalapur
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Detroit Riverfront is easily accessible by car, with several parking lots available along the RiverWalk. Public transportation options, including bus routes, also serve the area. For those arriving by car, be mindful of potential traffic, especially during peak hours or events. Some visitors recommend using GPS to navigate, as it's easy to miss exits, particularly if heading towards Canada.
Yes, there are multiple parking areas along the Detroit Riverfront, including lots near parks and attractions. However, during popular events or on busy weekends, these can fill up quickly. It's advisable to arrive early or explore alternative transportation methods if possible.
Absolutely! The Detroit Riverfront is designed for pedestrians and cyclists. If you're staying nearby, walking or biking is a great way to access the RiverWalk. Many visitors enjoy renting bikes to explore the extensive path.
The Detroit Riverfront is best explored on foot or by bike along the RiverWalk. For longer distances or a more relaxed experience, consider a boat tour.
Yes, the Detroit Riverfront is centrally located and runs through the heart of downtown Detroit, offering stunning city views and easy access to other downtown attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Detroit Riverfront itself and the RiverWalk are free to access. However, specific attractions or events held within the riverfront parks, such as concerts or festivals, may have associated ticket prices.
The Detroit Riverfront and RiverWalk are generally open to the public year-round, from dawn until dusk. Specific park areas or facilities within the riverfront may have their own operating hours, so it's best to check the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy website for details.
Many events at the Detroit Riverfront, like the grand opening of Centennial Park and Detroit Harvest Fest, are free to attend. However, for ticketed concerts or special performances, you will need to purchase tickets in advance.
No, the Detroit Riverfront is a public space and is welcoming to visitors of all ages. Family-friendly activities and amenities are available.
Generally, dogs are allowed on the Detroit Riverfront and RiverWalk, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check specific park rules, as some areas might have restrictions.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk or bike the RiverWalk, enjoy picnics, visit parks like Centennial Park, catch live music, and take boat tours. The views of Canada are also a major draw.
Yes, there are various spots to grab food, including food trucks during events and venues like Yacht Rock Detroit. You can also find places to sit and enjoy a picnic.
Absolutely! The Riverfront offers playgrounds, open spaces for kids to run, and family-friendly events. Centennial Park is a new addition with extensive play areas.
Expect stunning views of the Detroit River, the city skyline, and across the water to Canada. The modern architecture, like the Water Square Residences, adds to the scenic beauty.
Yes, bike rentals are often available along the Detroit Riverfront, allowing you to easily explore the extensive pathways.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire RiverWalk offers great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Look for shots with the city skyline, the river, and views of Canada. The modern architecture of places like Water Square Residences also makes for striking images.
Yes, the Detroit Riverfront provides clear and close-up views of the Canadian shoreline, making it easy to capture photos of Windsor and the international border.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography. Weekday mornings can also provide a less crowded backdrop for your shots.
The Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel area offer unique perspectives. The new Centennial Park and the modern buildings along the riverfront are also excellent subjects.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy or local authorities regarding any restrictions on drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a boat tour for a unique family adventure on the water. Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenic views, or check for family-friendly events and festivals happening along the riverfront. The overall atmosphere is welcoming and provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Bring your own snacks or a picnic to save on food costs. While there are paid attractions and dining options, the core experience of enjoying the views, parks, and public spaces is entirely free. It’s a great way to experience Detroit without breaking the bank.
couples
Many visitors enjoy the ambiance of places like Yacht Rock Detroit for a casual evening out. The modern, scenic backdrop also makes for lovely photos together. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed date with beautiful urban and natural elements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Detroit RiverWalk
Along the RiverWalk, you'll encounter various parks, plazas, and attractions. Keep an eye out for public art installations, places to sit and relax, and even a carousel. The path offers direct views of Canada, making it a unique urban experience. Many travelers recommend renting a bike to cover more ground and fully appreciate the length and beauty of the Detroit Riverfront walk.
Recent developments, like the opening of the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park, have further enhanced the RiverWalk experience, adding 22 acres of new recreational space. This ongoing development signifies a commitment to making the Detroit Riverfront a premier destination for both locals and tourists.
Living the Detroit Riverfront Life
Living here means waking up to serene water views and having direct access to the RiverWalk for recreation and relaxation. The proximity to downtown amenities, combined with the natural beauty of the waterfront, creates a unique lifestyle. It’s a testament to the revitalization efforts in Detroit, showcasing a blend of urban energy and waterside tranquility.
For those seeking a dynamic urban environment with a connection to nature, the Detroit waterfront living experience is becoming increasingly attractive. It offers a chance to be at the heart of the city while enjoying the calming presence of the river.
Events and Activities on the Riverfront
Venues like Yacht Rock Detroit offer a unique riverside entertainment experience during the warmer months, providing a perfect spot for enjoying music with a view. The opening of new parks, such as the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park, also brings new opportunities for community gatherings and recreational activities.
Beyond organized events, the Detroit Riverfront activities include leisurely boat tours, which offer a relaxing way to see the city from the water. Whether you're looking for family fun, live entertainment, or simply a scenic spot to enjoy the outdoors, the Detroit Riverwalk activities are plentiful and engaging.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit