Guardian Building Detroit
A breathtaking Art Deco skyscraper, the 'Cathedral of Finance,' boasting vibrant Pewabic tile and soaring ceilings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Guardian Building Detroit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Art Deco skyscraper, the 'Cathedral of Finance,' boasting vibrant Pewabic tile and soaring ceilings.
"Absolutely stunning Art Deco architecture — they call it the 'Cathedral of Finance' and it’s easy to see why."
🎯 Free Lobby Access
Wander through the stunning lobby for free! It's a visual feast of Art Deco design.
📸 Ceiling Shot Secret
Stand in the lobby's center and look up for the ultimate ceiling photograph.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Lobby
Ground Floor
A breathtaking Art Deco masterpiece with colorful Pewabic tile, vaulted ceilings, and stained glass.
Cathedral of Finance
Main Hall
Experience the 'Cathedral of Finance' nickname with its awe-inspiring scale and intricate design.
Aztec-Inspired Details
Throughout the lobby
Discover unique Aztec-inspired tilework and motifs that add to the building's distinctive character.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Lobby Access & Tours
Best Photo Spots
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Lobby Access
Wander through the stunning lobby for free! It's a visual feast of Art Deco design.
📸 Ceiling Shot Secret
Stand in the lobby's center and look up for the ultimate ceiling photograph.
☕ Coffee Break Views
Grab a coffee at the Guardian Building's cafe for a stylish break.
🚶♀️ Explore with a Tour
Consider the 'Insider's Tour' for deeper history and access to more areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Lobby Access
Wander through the stunning lobby for free! It's a visual feast of Art Deco design.
📸 Ceiling Shot Secret
Stand in the lobby's center and look up for the ultimate ceiling photograph.
☕ Coffee Break Views
Grab a coffee at the Guardian Building's cafe for a stylish break.
🚶♀️ Explore with a Tour
Consider the 'Insider's Tour' for deeper history and access to more areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Guardian Building's stunning Art Deco architecture, often calling it a 'Cathedral of Finance.' The free-to-access lobby is a major highlight, praised for its colorful Pewabic tile, grand ceilings, and stained glass. Many recommend the guided tours for a deeper historical understanding and access to more areas, though some find the tours a bit pricey.
"What a pleasant surprise! I stumbled upon a paid tour while walking through the lobby I made some inquiries and found that they do tours all day but if you take any of the tours after 4pm you get a special treat. You get to go up to the top floor which has gorgeous views all round the city. But what was really spectacular was the tour guide. He shared history of the building, of the city and of the architecture in the area. Be ready to walk and get ready to also go into the basement where you'll get to see and step inside a bank vault. Totally worth the 60 mins. I recommend the tour for anyone that's walked by this building and has always been curious about the unusual architecture. Also don't forget tip your tour guide."
Claudia C
"Absolutely stunning Art Deco architecture — they call it the “Cathedral of Finance” and it’s easy to see why. The lobby is free to visit and worth every minute: colorful Pewabic tile work, massive vaulted ceilings covered in bold patterns, stained glass windows that glow when the sun hits, and the ornate metal gate with the clock at the banking hall.
Great photo spot and easy to walk to from other downtown landmarks (Spirit of Detroit, The Fist, Campus Martius). If you want more history, there’s a guided “Insider’s Tour” available (~$12).
📸 Tip: Stand in the center of the lobby and shoot straight up for the best ceiling shot."
Blayz Brooks
"Amazing architectural design. There was a tour going on when I went in and I'm like don't mind me joining.Has a rich history with how the building was constructed and the stones came all the way from Tunisia."
Keandell Clyde Arcenal Pineda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Guardian Building is located at 500 Griswold St, Detroit, MI. It's easily accessible by car, with parking garages nearby. Public transportation options, including bus routes, also serve the downtown area.
Yes, several parking garages are available in the vicinity of the Guardian Building, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The Guardian Building is centrally located downtown and is a pleasant walk from other key landmarks like Campus Martius Park and the Spirit of Detroit.
Even with limited time, you can still appreciate the Guardian Building by visiting its free-to-access lobby. Focus on the main hall for a quick but impactful experience.
Yes, the Guardian Building is well-served by Detroit's public bus system, with numerous routes stopping in the downtown area. Check the DDOT (Detroit Department of Transportation) website for specific routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the main lobby of the Guardian Building is free to enter and explore.
While the lobby is free, guided tours like the 'Insider's Tour' are available for a fee, typically around $12. These tours offer access to areas not usually open to the public.
The lobby is generally accessible during business hours. For specific hours or to inquire about tours, it's best to check with Pure Detroit or the building management.
Yes, private group tours are available, often on Saturdays and Sundays, offering a more exclusive experience.
While the lobby is open to the public, access to upper floors is typically restricted unless on a guided tour.
📸 📸 Photography
The center of the lobby, looking straight up at the ceiling, is a prime spot for capturing the building's grandeur. Don't miss the colorful Pewabic tile work and stained glass windows.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in the public areas of the Guardian Building's lobby.
Try to capture the scale by including architectural elements in your shots. The ornate metal gate with the clock is also a great detail to photograph.
The Guardian Building is an impressive skyscraper, and you can capture its exterior from various vantage points in downtown Detroit.
Natural light filtering through the stained glass windows can create beautiful effects. Midday often provides good ambient light.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
The Guardian Building was constructed between 1928 and 1929, making it a significant piece of Detroit's architectural history.
It's a prime example of Art Deco architecture, with influences from Neo-Mayan and Aztec styles.
Its immense scale, ornate details, and soaring ceilings evoke the grandeur of a cathedral, applied to a financial institution.
The lobby features stunning, colorful Pewabic tile work, a renowned Detroit-based ceramic art studio.
During World War II, the building served as the U.S. Army Command Center for wartime production.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Drink
Yes, there is a coffee shop located within the Guardian Building, offering a place to relax and enjoy a beverage amidst the stunning architecture.
The cafe offers expertly roasted coffee from a Detroit roastery, including a full espresso bar.
While the cafe primarily serves coffee and lighter fare, its presence offers a convenient spot for a quick bite within the building.
Being in downtown Detroit, there are numerous restaurants and dining options within walking distance of the Guardian Building.
While not explicitly detailed for public access, the building's grandeur suggests potential for event spaces, especially through private tour arrangements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 While the 'Insider's Tour' might be less engaging for very young children due to its historical focus, older kids might appreciate the stories and the chance to see parts of the building not usually accessible. 🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
+1 The extensive use of Pewabic tile and the sheer ambition of the design are points of fascination. 📸 Photographers
The vibrant Pewabic tiles offer fantastic opportunities for close-up shots highlighting texture and color. Remember to check if any specific photography restrictions are in place, though general visitor photography is usually permitted. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art Deco Marvel
+1 The building's exterior, while impressive, is only a prelude to the visual spectacle within. Its nickname, the 'Cathedral of Finance,' hints at the soaring scale and intricate detailing that were intended to inspire awe and convey prosperity. +1The interior is a riot of color and pattern, featuring extensive use of Pewabic tile, a renowned Detroit ceramic art studio.
The architectural influences are diverse, incorporating elements from Neo-Mayan and Aztec motifs, reflecting a broader interest in ancient cultures during the Art Deco period. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Guardian Building holds historical significance. It was once the tallest brick building in the world and played a role during World War II as a U.S. Army Command Center.
Today, it stands as a testament to Detroit's rich architectural heritage and a must-visit for anyone interested in design and history. Experiencing the Guardian Building: Tours & Access
+1 This is a great option for those on a quick visit or who prefer to explore independently. For a more in-depth understanding of the building's history and design, guided tours are highly recommended. The 'Insider's Tour' offers access to areas not typically open to the public, such as the basement vault and potentially upper floors with city views.
Private group tours are also available, particularly on weekends, providing a more personalized experience for groups.
It's advisable to check the availability and booking details for these tours in advance, as they can offer unique insights and access that enhance the visit significantly. Photography Opportunities
Don't overlook the details: the colorful Pewabic tile work that adorns the walls and floors provides vibrant textures and patterns.
The ornate metal gate with its integrated clock at the banking hall is another photogenic element. For those interested in portrait photography, the dramatic backdrop of the Guardian Building's interior offers a unique setting.
Remember to be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted photography guidelines. 
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit