What is the first thing city visitors do when they catch a view of the skyline? Capture too many photos, which may end up archived or deleted later.
All right, maybe not everyone. But there is something to be said about tall buildings and lights that can elevate your experiences, whether you are dining out, catching a sporting match or simply have an urge to explore. In Detroit, there are plenty of spots to embrace the city’s magical views of the old and new — and perhaps there are a few many may not know about.
Some may be lucky to have breathtaking views from their homes, offices or private spaces. Here are a few accessible spots in the city to catch a view of Detroit’s skyline.
Monarch Club
The ritzy downtown rooftop bar provides panoramic views of Detroit’s skyline. Visitors have the option to sip on a cocktail and munch on appetizers inside or outside, and if lucky, catch a sky view of the Detroit Tigers. Monarch Club sits atop the Element Detroit hotel at the Metropolitan building.
Comerica Park
Get a two-for-one special by catching a Detroit Tigers game with a spectacular view of some of Detroit’s iconic skyscrapers.
Z Garage
The top floor of this downtown parking garage has been a hot spot for marriage proposals, photoshoots and casual viewing for years. Viewers could catch several blocks of mid- to high-rise buildings along Woodward Avenue, along with the new Hudson’s site skyscraper. Walk on over to the other side and catch some of the sports stadiums and east side views of the city.
Belle Isle — Sunset Point
Head over to the far west side of Belle Isle toward Sunset Point, a spot to stare at Detroit’s skyline by the water. As the name suggests, the area is the perfect spot to watch the sunset.
Kamper’s Rooftop Lounge
Sit high up and sip on cocktails at this rooftop bar on the 14th floor of the Book Tower building to savor downtown’s skyline.
Highlands Detroit
Inside one of Detroit’s most iconic landmarks of all is the upscale Highlands restaurant on the 71st and 72nd floor of the Renaissance Center. Dine and drink in the view from inside Michigan’s tallest skyscraper.
Coleman A. Young Municipal Center
City hall might not be a visitor’s first casual destination, but it can offer up a partial overview of Detroit. Head up to the 13th floor and soak up the views outside of the auditorium. Although not required, pop into a city meeting a few steps away to learn about what Detroit government is up to. Food and drinks are not permitted in the meeting areas.
Detroit People Mover
The elevated transit rail system will circle you around downtown Detroit. It passes Windsor and the Detroit River for a quick peek across the border. Take advantage while you can — the People Mover is currently free for the year.
Hart Plaza
Head over to Hart Plaza, walk toward the iconic Dodge Fountain, turn around and soak up Detroit’s architectural landscape from the southern most part of the downtown area.
Riverfront mound
Walk toward the eastside of the riverfront toward the William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor and head up the stairs of the mound, known as “Ze Mound,” to savor not one, but two skylines — Detroit and Windsor. Elevate your experience further by visiting during sunset hours. You’re welcome.
Bonus areas
While these areas may not be accessible to everyone, the brilliant views of the city are nearly unmatched. The top of the Fisher and Ally Detroit Center buildings will take you high up and away from the city’s noise, to a peaceful overview of downtown and some of Detroit’s most iconic landmarks.
If you have the time and resources, cross the border to Windsor and head over to the riverfront. If you cannot cross the border, Hart Plaza is a close secondary option.
For drivers, it is recommended to be incredibly cautious and perhaps being in the passenger seat is more fitting for this one, but rolling down main thoroughfares will show different angles of the city. Drive down the main roads: Gratiot, Jefferson and Woodward Avenues for a quick peek of the city’s skyline. Head west along the Fisher Service Drive, or take I-375 to I-75 South toward Brush Street for a view of the stadiums and bits and pieces of Detroit’s architecture.
Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact: dafana@freepress.com. Follow her: @DanaAfana.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Visiting Detroit? Here are 10 spots to see the city’s iconic skyline
Reporting by Dana Afana, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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