Things to do in Detroit on a rainy day
Rainy weather can ruin your outdoor plans in Detroit. Yet, Detroit offers many indoor activities and attractions for all ages. This blog will guide you to entertainment, museums, shopping, and arts that are perfect for a rainy day.
Keep reading to find fun things to do even when it rains!
Key Takeaways
- Detroit has many indoor attractions for rainy days, such as the Detroit Institute of Arts with over 65,000 art pieces from artists like Diego Rivera and Vincent van Gogh.
- The Motown Museum lets visitors explore rare artifacts and memorabilia from music legends like Diana Ross and Stevie Wonder in the original Hitsville U.S.A. building (opened in 1959 by Berry Gordy Jr.).
- Families can enjoy hands-on learning at the Michigan Science Center, which offers more than 250 interactive science exhibits, live shows, IMAX movies, and a planetarium.
- The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant gives guided tours through Detroit’s automotive history as the birthplace of Henry Ford’s Model T (built in 1904) with vintage cars on display.
- Other fun options include exploring Belle Isle Conservatory’s gardens, visiting Great Lakes Crossing mall with over 185 stores, bowling venues for families, Punch Bowl Social games, and casinos for adult entertainment.
Indoor Attractions in Detroit
Detroit offers many indoor attractions that keep visitors entertained. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or a science enthusiast, you’ll find something to enjoy in this vibrant city.
Detroit Institute of Arts
The Detroit Institute of Arts showcases an impressive collection of art from around the world. Visitors can explore over 65,000 pieces, including works by famous artists like Diego Rivera and Vincent van Gogh.
This museum offers something for everyone, making it a great indoor activity on a rainy day.
In addition to its vast collection, the museum frequently hosts events and exhibitions that highlight various cultural experiences. Families will enjoy interactive stations where they can learn about art in a fun way.
Art lovers should not miss this chance to appreciate creativity and history in one place.
Art is not what you see, but what you make others see. – Edgar Degas
Motown Museum
After visiting the Detroit Institute of Arts, many tourists find excitement at the Motown Museum. This iconic spot celebrates the rich history of Motown music. The museum sits in a house where Berry Gordy Jr.
launched Motown Records in 1959. You can explore rare artifacts and memorabilia from famous artists like Diana Ross and Stevie Wonder.
Interactive exhibits bring songs to life, offering insights into how this genre shaped modern music. Visitors enjoy guided tours that highlight key moments in music history. Families appreciate its educational value while having fun together.
The Motown Museum provides a unique glimpse into arts and culture that you shouldn’t miss on a rainy day in Detroit.
Michigan Science Center
The Michigan Science Center offers a fun experience for all ages. Explore more than 250 interactive exhibits that cover topics in science and technology. Families can enjoy hands-on activities, including demonstrations and the chance to experiment themselves.
Watch fascinating live shows and educational films in their IMAX theater.
This center ignites curiosity through engaging displays about space, physics, and engineering. Visitors can also check out the planetarium for stunning star shows or participate in workshops that inspire creativity.
Indoor activities at this venue make it a great choice when looking for things to do in Detroit on a rainy day.
Detroit Historical Museum
Transitioning from exciting experiments at the Michigan Science Center, the Detroit Historical Museum awaits your visit. This museum showcases the rich history of Detroit and its vibrant neighborhoods.
Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits that highlight significant events and notable figures in the city’s past.
Art lovers will enjoy various displays, including artifacts from local history. Family-friendly activities engage everyone while they learn about Detroit’s development through time.
The museum also features interactive sections, making it an excellent indoor stop for those seeking adventure on a rainy day in Detroit.
Ford Piquette Avenue Plant
The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant stands as a significant site in Detroit’s automotive history. Opened in 1904, this plant served as the birthplace of the Model T. Visitors can explore original assembly lines and see how cars were crafted over a century ago.
Guided tours offer insights into Henry Ford’s innovative work. You will learn about the early days of mass production that changed the automobile industry forever. The museum showcases vintage vehicles and documents key moments in Detroit’s rich history.
After visiting the plant, art lovers may want to head over to the nearby Detroit Institute of Arts for more indoor activities.
Activities for Art, Music, Science, and History Lovers
Art lovers can see stunning pieces at the Detroit Institute of Arts. Music fans will connect with the rich legacy of Motown at a nearby museum. Science enthusiasts can engage their curiosity at the Michigan Science Center, while history buffs explore fascinating exhibits that highlight Detroit’s past.
Each venue offers unique insights and experiences for visitors eager to learn more.
Explore art from around the world
The Detroit Institute of Arts showcases incredible art from various cultures. Visitors can view works from famous artists like Diego Rivera and Vincent van Gogh. The museum’s collection includes pieces that span centuries and continents, allowing guests to experience diverse artistic styles.
This indoor attraction offers something for everyone. Families will find engaging exhibits that spark curiosity. Art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the rich history of art making.
The museum also hosts special events and activities to enhance your visit, ensuring fun for all ages while staying dry on a rainy day in Detroit.
Learn about the history of Motown music
Exploring art from around the world naturally leads to a fascinating dive into Motown music. This genre emerged in Detroit during the late 1950s and became a cultural phenomenon. Artists like Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder put Motown on the map.
Their music influenced generations worldwide.
Visitors can learn about this rich history at the Motown Museum. The museum is located in the original Hitsville U.S.A building. It showcases memorabilia, recordings, and personal stories of legendary artists who shaped this iconic sound.
Engage with exhibits that highlight how Motown turned Detroit into a musical capital while enjoying Michigan’s entertainment scene even on rainy days.
Discover the wonders of science
The Michigan Science Center offers exciting experiences for all ages. You can explore interactive exhibits that showcase the wonders of science and technology. Visitors can enjoy hands-on activities, educational demonstrations, and engaging displays.
The center features a planetarium with stunning shows about astronomy.
Children will love the many attractions designed specifically for them. Families can engage in fun experiments together and discover how science impacts daily life. Don’t miss the chance to learn while having fun in this great indoor venue on a rainy day in Detroit.
Step back in time at a historic plant
Visit the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant to experience Detroit’s rich automotive history. This historic site served as the birthplace of the famous Model T. Walk through the building and see where Henry Ford developed his revolutionary assembly line techniques.
The plant features original machinery and vintage vehicles that showcase early 20th-century manufacturing.
Guided tours offer insight into how these innovations changed transportation forever. You can explore exhibits that highlight Ford’s impact on American culture and industry. Engaging displays provide a glimpse into life during that era, making it a great choice for family-friendly activities or an educational outing for those interested in history and automobiles.
Additional Indoor Options
For more fun on a rainy day, visit unique spots like the Belle Isle Conservatory and Aquarium or enjoy some friendly competition at Punch Bowl Social. Families can find shopping excitement at Great Lakes Crossing.
You can also have a blast bowling or trying your luck at nearby casinos. Explore these options to make your rainy day in Detroit enjoyable!
Belle Isle Conservatory and Aquarium
The Belle Isle Conservatory and Aquarium offers a stunning escape from the rain. This beautiful spot showcases lush gardens filled with exotic plants. Visitors can stroll through various themed rooms, each displaying different plant life.
The aquarium features colorful fish and fascinating aquatic creatures that captivate all ages.
Families enjoy interactive exhibits at both venues. They also offer educational programs for children who are eager to learn about nature. This attraction combines family fun with education seamlessly.
After exploring the conservatory and aquarium, tourists can discover even more indoor options in Detroit.
Punch Bowl Social
Punch Bowl Social offers a lively atmosphere perfect for indoor fun. This entertainment hub features bowling, arcade games, and karaoke. Families can enjoy various activities while tasting delicious food and drinks from the on-site restaurant.
It caters to all ages with its family-friendly options.
Visitors will find a unique blend of dining and gaming experiences here. The venue encourages social interaction through its vibrant spaces. Grab some friends or family, and spend an enjoyable day indoors at Punch Bowl Social in Detroit.
Shopping at Great Lakes Crossing
Great Lakes Crossing offers an exciting shopping experience for families and tourists. This expansive indoor outlet mall boasts over 185 stores, including popular brands like Nike, Coach, and Gap.
Visitors can find everything from clothing to accessories all under one roof.
Inside the mall, you will also discover entertainment options. Families can enjoy a movie at the theatre or play games at an adventure center. Great Lakes Crossing is not just about shopping; it brings dining options as well.
Cafés and restaurants cater to diverse tastes, making it easy to spend a whole day enjoying indoor activities in Detroit on a rainy day.
Bowling and casino games
Bowling offers a fun way to spend a rainy day in Detroit. Many venues cater to families, giving everyone a chance to join in on the excitement. You can enjoy friendly competition while sharing laughs with friends or family.
Detroit is also home to several casinos. Try your luck at the slots or card tables for added thrills. Casinos often feature restaurants and shows, providing more entertainment options under one roof.
Enjoy indoor activities that keep you engaged and entertained throughout your visit.
Conclusion
Detroit offers plenty of indoor fun on a rainy day. Visit museums like the Detroit Institute of Arts and Motown Museum to explore culture. Enjoy hands-on science at the Michigan Science Center.
For family-friendly activities, check out bowling or arcade games at Punch Bowl Social. Shopping at Great Lakes Crossing provides another great escape from the rain.
FAQs
1. What indoor activities can families enjoy in Detroit on a rainy day?
Families can visit adventure centers or explore family-friendly entertainment options like bowling and movie theaters.
2. Are there museums to visit when it rains in Detroit?
Yes, Detroit has many museums that offer arts and culture exhibits, perfect for staying dry while learning something new.
3. Where can adults find entertainment indoors during bad weather in Detroit?
Adults may try their luck at casinos or relax with shopping at local malls for indoor fun.
4. Which places provide art experiences on a rainy day in Detroit?
Art galleries and cultural museums display unique works and are great choices for arts lovers seeking shelter from rain.
5. Can kids have fun indoors if the weather is bad in Detroit?
Children will enjoy adventure centers, family-friendly bowling alleys, and interactive museum exhibits designed just for them.
