Detroit is one of the coolest cities in the country– seriously. Michigan's largest metropolis is home to such iconic musicians as Eminem and Aretha Franklin (which is why it deserves your R-E-S-P-E-C-T), and it also boasts an amazing food scene, some of the most proud and loyal locals you'll ever meet, and a variety of truly awesome neighborhoods.
Detroit neighborhoods are all completely unique– arguably more so than many other cities. Why? Each was founded by a different group of people (which is why there are neighborhoods with names like Corktown and Mexicantown), and each carries the distinctive culture of its founders. If you're considering moving to Motor City or even just visiting, here are some of the Detroit neighborhoods you'll want to know about:
Like most other cities, Detroit's downtown area is full of towering skyscrapers and other commercial buildings, but it's also got a great deal to offer those looking for entertainment. Downtown Detroit is a sports hub, with the Red Wings, Lions, and Tigers all nearby, along with, of course, tons of sports bars where fans can catch a game with some great food and a local brew.
In fact, Downtown is full of amazing restaurants and bars, serving everything from Detroit-style deep dish pizza to authentic Greek cuisine. Plus, the neighborhood's riverfront location makes it a very popular location for locals and visitors to hang out, walk around, and enjoy a few hours in the city.
One of the best parts about Downtown, though, is its proximity to Belle Isle – an almost 1,000-acre island in the Detroit River. Belle Isle is home to stunning parks, wooded trails, the Belle Isle Aquarium, the Belle Isle Conservatory, and the Belle Isle Zoo, among other natural attractions, all of which make it a beautiful retreat.
Corktown is one of the oldest Detroit neighborhoods, originally founded by Irish immigrants (from the County Cork). After years of revitalization, the area is now one of Detroit's hippest places to be, with tons of shops, eateries, music venues, and more along the shopping district that lines the neighborhood's stretch of Michigan Avenue.
Because the neighborhood is so old, it also has tons of beautiful historic homes (most in amazing shape), that make just walking up and down the residential streets in the area a lot of fun.
University is perhaps one of the most literally "hip" neighborhoods in Motown– meaning it's densely populated with hipsters. A popular area among millennials, the University District is named for the University of Detroit Mercy, which means it's full of college students and post-grads. The district is also home to a wide assortment of art galleries and venues, especially along Livernois Avenue.
However, University is also home to some of the most beautiful single-family homes in Detroit– 30-somethings and young families love settling down in this area.
Like University District, Midtown is another hub of college students, since it's the location of Wayne State University. As you would expect, this makes it another trendy area for young post-grads and professionals looking to be in on the action– the neighborhood is right next to Downtown, after all.
Head to Midtown to explore the local arts and culture scenes, grab a bite to eat at an amazing restaurant, or explore the neighborhood's nightlife opportunities, of which there are many. If you're a creative soul, make sure you check out Cass Corridor, which is an increasingly trendy area known for being one of the city's top art districts (it's actually where The White Stripes originated).
As you can probably tell from the name, Mexicantown was settled by Mexican immigrants beginning in the 1940s, and has since become one of the most diverse and vibrant Detroit neighborhoods you'll come across.
The area borders Corktown, and it's where you should go if you're looking for Mexican food that will make your mouth water. (Just a tip: A couple of eateries loved by local residents include Taqueria Lupitas and Xochimilco Restaurant). Mexicantown is quickly growing in popularity– the growth is largely credited to its amazing culture and low rent prices.
Indian Village is a historic neighborhood that's widely considered to be one of Detroit's nicest. A walk around the area will introduce you to some of Detroit's most beautiful homes, along with cute cafes, shops, and more. The area is typically inhabited by older singles and couples who can afford the historic homes in the neighborhood, but it's a truly lovely place to spend some time for anyone.
Like Downtown, Indian Village is also relatively close to Belle Isle, making it a popular spot for the outdoorsy to live and spend time.
There are tons of Detroit neighborhoods, all of which have their own unique charms and attractions, so it's impossible to list them all– don't be afraid to explore this amazing city from top to bottom!