My husband and I were both born and raised in Michigan, primarily on the west side of the state eventually landing in Grand Rapids. Growing up I would hear stories about Detroit, and they rarely painted the city in a positive light. They had sports, and cars, and neither really lights my fire.

Fast forward to 2020, as newly weds looking for a safe getaway and city to explore together and we chose Detroit for our one year dating anniversary. (I know we’re SUCH newlyweds. . . but in 2020 any reason to celebrate is a good thing!) We found the most adorable Airbnb to spend three nights and made reservations at the Detroit Institute of Arts to ensure that we would be able to enjoy the museum while socially distancing. Additionally on our “must see” list was an unbelievably inspiring trip to The Heidelberg Project, a peek into the Guardian Building downtown, a little hike out to see the Livingstone Memorial Lighthouse on Belle Isle, and an obligatory Egg Nog Latte to enjoy while strolling around downtown.

It was a perfectly simple yet indulgent weekend away filled with heartfelt installations, heartbreaking abandoned neighborhoods with whole stories left untold, and endless possibilities to come. I am absolutely inspired and look forward to our next Detroit exploration!

Where are your favorite spots in Detroit? Where do you get your inspiration from?

I’d love to hear about them in the comments!