Wayne State is excited to welcome students, faculty and staff to campus, our Midtown neighborhood and Detroit this fall. A city rich in arts, culture and entertainment, Detroit offers something for everyone. We asked ten Warriors, “What is your favorite Detroit spot?”. Here is what they had to say:

“My favorite Detroit spot is Campus Martius,” shared Katie Braun, a senior majoring in marketing. “It is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a nice summer day but also the perfect spot to drink a hot cup of cocoa in the winter after ice skating. You are minutes away from the river walk and there are always events going on.”

Nicole Jackson, director of real estate and asset management, recommends Eastern Market. “I love all of the fresh produce and vendor offerings. Warriors should check it out as an alternative to the grocery store,” suggested Jackson.

“One of my favorite spots in Detroit is Little Caesars Arena,” shared Breanna Walker, a senior majoring in psychology and gender, sexuality and women’s studies. “I've gone there to see the Red Wings and Pistons play, as well as musical artists such as Bruno Mars and New Edition.”

Michelle Gardner, an advisor in the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS), suggests Warriors visit Detroit Flyhouse. “It is run by the Detroit Circus and they offer classes such as trapeze, contortionism and choreography. Both children and adults can sign up for classes. It allows for an unconventional way to stay fit while having a lot of fun,” Gardner said.

“One of my favorite spots has to be the Detroit Institute of Bagels,” shared Brianna Bacon, a senior majoring in urban studies. “After temporarily closing its doors during the COVID-19 pandemic, the bagel shop recently re-opened a brick and mortar on Grand River — just a short distance from campus. I’m a huge fan of their rosemary olive oil bagel and cream cheese shmear, as well as their wide assortment of breakfast sandwiches. Overall, it’s just a really nice, welcoming place to visit for a bagel in the morning.”

“As a bike rider, I love the Dequindre Cut,” said Sharon Tse, organization and employee development consultant. “This former Grand Trunk Railroad line is now a two-mile paved path for bikers and walkers, running between the East Riverfront and Eastern Market with some great urban art and residential neighborhoods in between. Hop on at Mack and ride south to the river. On the way back, stop at the market and bring home some goodies.”

“As someone who regularly uses public transit, my favorite weekend breakfast place in the city is Brooklyn Street Local, right off of Michigan Avenue,” shared Brandon Shamoun, assistant dean of students for student involvement, activities and organizations. “I love all the vegetarian and vegan options they offer in the cozy space. It’s a quick bus or bike ride from downtown.”

“My favorite Detroit spot is the Avenue of Fashion on Livernois Avenue. It features shops and restaurants and Art in Motion where I get my creative juices flowing by spinning pottery on the wheel,” shared Angeline Lawrence, director of entrepreneurial education at TechTown.

Eddie Renta, a junior majoring in information systems management, loves Shangri-La. “They offer a wide variety of Cantonese and Thai dishes, with my absolute favorite being their Mongolian beef combination platter,” said Renta. “Take-out and dine-in are both offered, though their dine-in experience is top-notch! They’re located right on the corner of Cass and Forest, just down the street from Old Main.”

“I live in southwest Detroit,” shared Andrea Daldin, program coordinator in the Office of Economic Development, “and my favorite place to eat that is walking distance from my house is Taqueria El Nacimiento. Their avocado salsa and tacos are a must-have!”

For more local recommendations, stop by the Discover Detroit Tent or tag along on one of the City Institute-led Midtown walking tours offered during Fall Opening.