Detroit City Guide

Overview
From its diverse neighborhoods to its multitude of cultural attractions, the iconic city of Detroit, Michigan boasts
many hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered!
Established as a fort by French explorers in 1701, Detroit was incorporated as a city in 1815. In the 20th century it
became home to automakers and Motown. Today, it is an ethnically diverse place that boasts a world-class cultural
district and a thriving riverfront.
Located in the Great Lakes region, Detroit enjoys a temperate climate with temperatures that range from the mid70s in summer to the mid-20s in winter, and snowfall at an average of 45 inches per year. The terrain is glacial and
generally flat, gently sloping downward south and east toward the Detroit River, Lake St. Clair and Lake Erie.
Public transportation consists of a comprehensive network of mass transit services, freeways and airports, and
getting around the city is easy and convenient. An eclectic mix of historic and modern downtown neighborhoods
enlivens everyday life here in the Motor City. This is your guide to 6 must-see Detroit districts.

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Districts of Detroit
Downtown
Downtown Detroit encompasses 7.2 square miles, bordered on the north, west and east by the Fisher Freeway,
Lodge Freeway and Interstate 375, and by the Detroit River on the south. Located within this relatively small area
are some of the countrys most well-preserved historic buildings, the nations second-largest theater district, several
vibrant and diverse neighborhoods and hundreds of cultural and entertainment options. Do you like to shop? Want
to experience authentic ethnic cuisine? This is the place!
Check out the stores and restaurants centered on Monroe Street in Greektown. Stroll through the historic
neighborhoods of Bricktown and Capitol Park. Downtown Detroit is home to one of the largest collections of
buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. With easy access to the waterfront and cultural district,
residents and visitors enjoy close proximity to all the exciting amenities that city life has to offer!
Downtown History: Old World Meets Modern City Living
The downtown district of Detroit began as the original city center. Founded in 1701 by French explorer Antoine de
la Mothe Cadillac, Detroit was an important center of trade for the French, until they lost control of the city to the
British in 1760. The British, in turn, ceded the city to the Americans in 1796. For the first half of the 19th century,
Detroit was the capital of Michigan. By the 20th century, the emergence of the city as a major hub of transportation,
and the rise of the automobile, shipping and manufacturing industries created a wealthy upper class that built
magnificent mansions and other architecturally significant buildings throughout the city.
Today, downtown Detroit is a commercial center with a historic flavor. Within its borders are dozens of classic old
structures housing institutions such as St. Johns Episcopal Church and Cadillac Tower. Architectural buffs from
around the country flock to downtown Detroit to take in the beautiful Beaux-Arts and Gilded Age skyscrapers, homes
and public buildings. Its vibrant, eclectic ethnic neighborhoods draw thousands of visitors and residents to live and
work.
Downtown Demographics: Diversity and Growth
Within the confines of the downtown area are several of Detroits most interesting and diverse
neighborhoods. Greektown, Bricktown and the historic districts of Capitol Park, Grand Circus Park and West
Jefferson are all located here. Housing prices are average for the city, with inventory being mostly high-rises,
condos, rowhomes and historic single-family.
Current and future development plans are positioning downtown Detroit to become an exciting destination for both
visitors and residents. A revitalized riverfront, streetcar service and a proposed new bridge to Canada all mean
investment dollars for the area, and a renewed commitment to the future of the city. Historic landmarks have been
converted into loft-style apartments and condos, and neighborhoods like Lafayette Park placed on the National
Register of Historic Places in order to preserve and restore them.
Downtown neighborhoods are served by the Detroit Public School District and include 5-star rated St. Juliana
School and Friends School.

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Downtown Culture/Entertainment: Plenty To Do at the Heart of it All

Life downtown is mainly centered on the bustling shops, coffee houses, office buildings and restaurants that make
up a large percentage of its commercial space. I find that this is an ideal location from which to enjoy the nations
second largest theatre district and the Detroit cultural district, and a visit here never disappoints if youre looking for
exciting entertainment.
St. Marys Church on E. Lafayette, the Detroit Opera House, Comerica Park and Grand Circus Park are just a
couple of blocks away. The award-winning Campus Martius Park comprises two square blocks of green space,
restaurants, shops and entertainment venues. And of course, the Riverfront is right there! This scenic promenade
follows the Detroit River for over 5 miles, offering residents and visitors space to walk, bike, fish and picnic 356 days
a year. Fans and followers of classic old buildings can marvel at one of the countrys largest collections of
architecturally significant structures, all Federally-protected and located within the downtown Detroit area.

Midtown-New Center
Just north of downtown, the Midtown district of Detroit is two square miles located within the four freeways that circle
the downtown areaEdsel Ford, John C. Lodge, Fisher and Rt. 75. Its a diverse mixed-use area comprised of a
commercial district largely centered on Woodward Ave., cultural and educational institutions and churches. Living
here means choices, both in housing and in activities.
This is what makes Midtown so special! Residents in this neighborhood enjoy the advantages of a prime location, in
and near the hub of city life. Tree-lined streets with historic homes on cobblestone streets mingle comfortably with
modern high rises and condos. Ten theaters, 12 art galleries and over 40 dining establishments are within walking
distance. Take it from meeverything is right here!
Midtown History: City Expansion and Neighborhood Growth
First platted in 1805, Midtown remained relatively undeveloped until the Civil War, when businesses started to
establish themselves around Woodward Avenue. This, in turn, created neighborhoods built by middle- and upperclass Detroit residents looking for distance from the city center. Postwar development included streetcar lines and
roads designed to accommodate a new phenomenon--automobile travel to and from the city.
The eclectic mix of housing, located side-by-side with commercial and cultural districts within Midtown, is the result
of early 20th century growth. Opulent homes sprung up on Woodward, schools and churches soon followed, and
apartments were built to meet the demand for housing here, particularly among auto workers who found this area a
convenient place to live. Today, Midtown reflects its historya modern neighborhood with many faces, with a little
bit of something for everyone!
Midtown Demographics: Education, Medicine and the Arts
As the cultural hub of the city, Midtown hosts over 2 million visitors annually. It is home to over 50,000 residents,
and the numbers are growing. Anchor institutions like the Detroit Medical Center and Wayne State University, both

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located within the neighborhood, draw thousands of people to Midtown to live and work. This attracts professionals
in the medical, education and clerical fields, as well as a number of support industries for these professionals.
Affordable rents and housing prices here make living in Midtown a good choice for those looking to relocate to
Detroit. Rents are average for the city, and occupancy holds steady at about 96%. Over $1.8 billion in investment
in recent years has improved the quality of life here. The North Cass Neighborhood Garden is an urban garden
reclaimed from an abandoned playground, and plans for a light rail service are in progress. Midtown is in the Detroit
Public School District, and is also served by University Prep Science & Math Middle School.
Midtown Culture: A Vibrant Cultural Scene in Downtown Detroit
With dozens of cultural attractions within its borders, Midtown can truly be called the center for the arts in
Detroit. Millions of people flock to this area each year to take in concerts, visit the museums and listen to local and
classical music. The Detroit Historical Museum, Max M. Fisher Music Center and the Michigan Science Center all
call this place home. I love going to the events and activities hosted year round in Midtown, like Noel Night and ArtX
Detroit, featuring the hottest local dance and music artists.
Midtown Entertainment: Live Music, Eats and Parks Galore
Midtown was made for exploring! Day and night, entertainment options are seemingly endless. I cant get enough
live music, and whenever Im in town I make sure to visit the Magic Stick, the place to be for live shows. Like your
bowling with a side of rock n roll? Midtown is home to the famous Garden Bowl, where DJs spin your favorites and
the lanes glow nightly.
Of course, shopping is everywhere! From malls to unique boutiques you will find it in Midtown. Adventurous foodies
will be right at home herewith the selection of global cuisine available at your fingertips you might find it hard to
choose. Check out the Motor City Brewing Works or Avalon International Breads for Detroit-style eats and
drinks. Local parks offer plenty of outdoor recreation, too. Capitol Park is a local hangout that displays the work of
local artists, and Beatrice Buck Park is a shady, tree-lined oasis and favorite local gathering place.

East Side
The East Side district of Detroit is made up of several neighborhoods, each with its own character. In addition to the
communities of Poletown, Eastern Market and Indian Village, the East Side is home to the Eastside Historic
Cemetery District. This area contains three 19th century cemeteries that encompass over 150 acres of green
space. A large portion of the Riverfront is also located here.
I feel that the East Side is a prime location. Its near downtown, with easy access to the cultural attractions in and
around the city. Belle Isle, a 982-acre island state park located in the Detroit River, is within view. Residents and
visitors to this district experience an eclectic mix of local attractions and old-style neighborhoods, all of which reflect
the storied history of Detroit and the civic pride of residents who call this place home.
East Side History: An Immigrant Past, A Modern Vision

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The neighborhoods of the East Side were first settled around 1830 by German and Irish immigrants. For the next
one hundred years, these areas grew into thriving communities with their own local commercial centers. In 1841,
Eastern Market (also known as Detroits Kitchen) started as a farmers market. In 1871, the community now
known as Poletown was settled by Polish immigrants. In 1929, in recognition of its growth and its unique identity,
the district was reincorporated as the City of East Detroit.
Today, the center of the East Side is also known as Eastpointea nod to its proximity to the Grosse Pointes. Its
historic neighborhoods contain a wealth of architectural gems and attractions, such as the Anna Scripps Whitecomb
Conservatory on Belle Isle, and the official residence for the mayor of Detroit, Manoogian Mansion. Craftsmen and
artists ply their trades in a 1920s industrial complex originally built as an auto warehouse. The past meets the
present and future on Detroits East Side!
East Side Demographics: Development and Revitalization
Jobs on the East Side are mostly in the service, construction and maintenance industries. Retail, sales and office
jobs are also common. Development of the casino complex, nearby in the downtown district, has brought hundreds
of jobs to the area. The district has also benefited from the revitalization of the waterfront, as well as its prime
location near Windsor, Ontario. The city has cleared 1,200 acres of land for new construction and the revitalization
of existing homes. Young professionals looking for easy city access are looking at the East Side as an affordable
option.
The East Side has also benefited from the more than 6 billion dollars invested in the area in the past few
years. Much of this has been focused on neighborhood revitalization, development of the arts and theater district
and new construction. Housing prices are affordable for the square footage, and families are taking advantage of
the reasonable prices and rental rates.
Options for schools in East Side Detroit include Starr Detroit Academy (an open enrollment school) and East Detroit
High School. Detroit Lions Academy is a collaborative venture that serves at-risk students in the area.
East Side Culture/Entertainment: An Artistic Enclave in an Urban Setting
East Side Detroit has a personality all its own. Interesting neighborhood initiatives have resulted in an eclectic mix
of activities and events that give the area a unique flavor. The Heidelberg Project is an artistic endeavor that has
beautified areas of the district for almost three decades. I love touring these amazing examples of urban art, and
Im not the only one. Visitors from around the world come to see the brightly-colored buildings and objects of art
created from everyday discarded items. The organization also plans art and musical events throughout the year.
Belle Isle, the iconic Eastern Market and the Riverfront are all located on the East Side. The Riverwalk is home to
the Renaissance Center, Chene Park and GM Plaza. Walking paths, shops and restaurants make the river portion
of the East Side a popular destination for both tourists and residents. Love art? Be sure to check out the
historic Russell Industrial Center, which now houses artists studios. And, for craftsmen, Pewabic Pottery is a mustsee. This free ceramics museum and gallery displays all kinds of local and regional works.

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Southwest Side
Located just a couple of miles outside of downtown Detroit, the Southwest Side includes some of the citys oldest
and most ethnically diverse neighborhoodsmostly notably the old Irish enclave
of Corktown, and Mexicantown. Close proximity to downtown and the Riverfront make the Southwest Side a
convenient place to live and work. I love the vibrant spirit of community hereits a real melting pot of people and
experiences with a lot to see and do!
The Southwest Side is the launching spot for the Ambassador Bridge to Canada, over which a quarter of all trade
between the two countries passes. Historic Fort Wayne is also located here, on the shores of the Detroit
River. Historic buildings representing every architectural period remain cornerstones of the landscape, and local
museums and theaters offer residents and visitors an eclectic mix of musical and artistic talent. Over 130
restaurants, 30 bakeries and 25 markets and specialty food stores representing cuisine from around the world make
this area a foodies paradise. The Southwest Side of Detroit is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to
experience the best of life in the Motor City!
Southwest Side History: A Melting Pot of Cultures
The Southwest Side has a long immigrant history. Originally settled by the Irish and Germans in the early 18th
century, Southwest Detroit became home to a significant Latino community during the Industrial Revolution when
railroad jobs were plentiful. The neighborhoods of Corktown and Mexicantown developed into thriving communities
that anchored the area. These residents built the classic Federal-style row homes that were the signature style at
the time. Many of these structures still stand, giving the city streets an eclectic, historical feel that I love.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries the area became the destination of choice for workers in the manufacturing and
auto industries. These residents added elements of Queen Anne and Gothic architecture, creating a unique blend
of styles that makes a drive through the Southwest Side a charming glimpse into the past. In the 1950s and 60s,
the area was the site of several urban renewal projects that destroyed blocks of residential streets. The
encroachment of the business district and highway construction left an indelible mark on the area. But revitalization
efforts have brought back much of the charm and appeal of this district.
Southwest Side Demographics: Investment in the Present and Future
An active business association in the area oversees many projects designed to renew neighborhoods and bring
investment dollars into the area. Several historic buildings and sites and maintained and open to the public,
including Fort Wayne, the Michigan Central Station and the 150-year old Woodmere Cemetery are all located within
the Southwest Side and draw thousands of visitors each year.
Revitalization of the West Vernor Business District is underway, and community leaders are spearheading a number
of projects within Southwest Detroit, including the Gateway Project, the Detroit River International Crossing, and the
Detroit Intermodal Freight Terminal. These projects represent an investment of over $3.1 billion in transportationrelated infrastructure.
Jobs here are mostly in the service, construction and maintenance industries. Housing is a mix of single-family and
rental units, with rents lower than the Detroit average. Students on the Southwest Side are served by the Detroit

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Public School District, and neighborhoods schools include West Side Academy, Covenant House Academy and
Cesar Chavez Academy.
Southwest Side Culture/Entertainment: A Myriad of Choices
There is no shortage of things to do in Southwest Detroit! Whether you want to shop, dine, dance or participate in
community events, the neighborhoods of the Southwest Side do not disappoint. The Latino community hosts
several events annually, including Dia De Los Muertes, a Mexican holiday that honors the dead. Fort Wayne,
Detroits only remaining fort, is open to the public and hosts Civil War reenactments. For those like me who love
old-fashioned organ music, the restored Senate Theater offers concerts throughout the year.
Urban art aficionados hang out at Izzys Raw Art on Michigan Avenue, and history buffs can tour local buildings of
historical and architectural significance. St. John Cantius Church is a Romanesque survivor from the turn of the
20th century and worth a visit. Is gambling your thing? The Motor City Casino is one of three casino complexes
located within the city of Detroit, and the place to go for fine dining, a trip to the spa and live entertainment year
round. Restaurants abound, specializing in ethnic foods that reflect the blend of cultures here.

West Side
The West Side district of Detroit is home to some of the most iconic neighborhoods in Detroit. Palmer Park, Palmer
Woods, Woodbridge, Sherwood Forest and University District are a few of the places residents here call
home. Visitors will find dozens of historic homes and buildings in this area, as well as a large portion of the
infamous 8-Mile Road. From this convenient location, residents enjoy easy access to regional malls, and the
advantage of living amongst some of the most beautiful homes in the city.
Those living on the West Side benefit from the myriad of activities and attractions available year round. From its
riverfront to its funky theaters, museums and nightlife, the West Side offers a little bit of something for everyone!
West Side History: Detroits Residential Escape
Originally settled by the French and English in the 18th century, the West Side neighborhoods became more
accessible in the late 19th century with the advent of the automobile. As a hub of automobile manufacturing,
Detroits west side communities became residential centers serving workers in that industry. At that time, the newlyminted upper class started creating upscale new neighborhoods outside of the downtown area, most notably Palmer
Woods and Boston-Edison. Churches and apartment buildings soon followed as the need for housing among the
citys wealthy increased.
Detroits West Side has long been home to some of the citys most historic landmarks, including the S.S. Kresge
House and Lee Plaza, an Art Deco high-rise apartment built in 1928. These buildings anchor the communities
within the West Side, and many are open to the public for self-guided tours. In my opinion, these are not to be
missed on any tour of the city. Today, the West Side district offers a vibrant mix of old and new, and both residents
and visitors have many options in housing, food and entertainment.
West Side Demographics: Renovation and Preservation

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The West Side neighborhoods represent a cross-section of society. Housing ranges from historic old homes to
apartment buildings and condos. Values are higher than average for the city of Detroit. Jobs are primarily in
management, sales and office work. West Side communities are served by the Detroit Public Schools district, and
attend a variety of neighborhood schools such as Palmer Park Preparatory Academy, Mumford High School, and
Western International High School.
Economic development in the area includes initiatives for neighborhood revitalization and the introduction of new
retail stores. Incentives for business include tax abatements intended to encourage the development of vacant lots
and empty existing structures. The rehabilitation of historic old buildings is a priority here, as well. Recent West
Side projects (both proposed and in progress) include renovations of the former Book Cadillac Hotel and the
development of residential/arts communities in and near Capitol Park. The West Side of Detroit is looking forward,
while preserving its historic legacy to the city.
West Side Culture/Entertainment: Endless Options for All Tastes
With such a wide variety of neighborhoods within its borders, its no wonder that the West Side has so much to
offer! The 1928 Redford Theater plays classic movies and features a beautifully restored pipe organ. Those who
appreciate fine architecture should not miss a drive through the Palmer Park Apartment Building Historic
District. The Gateway Marketplace has a variety of stores and dining establishments, conveniently located near
most of the communities of the West Side. And, dont pass by the opportunity to check out the oldest jazz club in
the country, Bakers Keyboard Lounge.
The Sherwood Forest branch of the Detroit Public Library, established in 1942, is a neighborhood landmark. And, a
short drive away on the far west side is River Rouge Park, one of the largest public parks in the
country. Restaurants reflect the cultural melting pot here, serving a variety of ethnic and American cuisine from
Asian to Mexican to (my favorite!) homemade Italian specialties and soul food.

Hamtramck-Highland Park
The Hamtramck-Highland Park district is located north of downtown Detroit. With a prime location and rich
immigrant heritage, these historic communities are poised for renewal and growth. Numerous landmark buildings
reside within its borders, small businesses abound and residential streets teem with activity, all set against a
backdrop of charming craftsman and Tudor Revival homes. The first Ford assembly plant was built in Highland
Park in 1910, and other architecturally significant buildings still anchor the city blocks.
Once home to one of the countrys largest Polish enclaves, Hamtramck is now a melting pot of cultures, including
residents from the Middle East, the Balkans and Asia. However, those who enjoy celebrating ethnic heritage can
still join in neighborhood festivities in honor of the Poles who founded the neighborhoods. The streets of
Hamtramck-Highland Park are bustling with activity, and anyone visiting here will be pleasantly surprised to find a
walkable community of historic neighborhoods and thriving local enterprise.
Hamtramck-Highland Park History: Industry and Community Near Downtown

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Hamtramck-Highland Park began to take shape in the late 18th century, when the area was first organized into a
township. In the 1820s, the village of Woodwardville was platted, and its name changed to Highland Park in the late
1880s. And, while the ridge for which the town was named was levelled to build Woodward Avenue, the name
stuck. In 1909, Henry Ford moved production of the Model T to a factory built in Highland Park.
Lured by the promise of good wages and steady work in the auto industry, new residents started pouring into the
area, including Poles who established the neighboring community of Hamtramck. A housing boom soon followed,
and this district became one of Detroits most active and populous districts. By 1930 more than 50,000 people
called these communities home, and beautiful, tree-lined streets offered a quality of life not found elsewhere in the
Motor City. Today, the energy and community spirit that built these historic neighborhoods is alive and well, and
inspiring a drive to renew and revitalize these culturally important Detroit districts.
Hamtramck-Highland Park Demographics: Investment in a Stronger Community
Jobs in Hamtramck-Highland Park are mostly in distribution, maintenance and construction. Home prices are lower
than average for Detroit, and affordable for families. Options include older bungalow-type single-family homes,
apartments and condos. There are several schools in the neighborhoods, all within the Detroit Public School
District. These include Highland Park Renaissance High School, George Washington Carver Academy and Ford
Academy for Community Performing Arts.
Utilizing $5 million in seed money donated by the Chrysler Corporation in 1987, a local non-profit development
group has overseen dozens of restoration and cleanup projects, and provided technical assistance to area
communities. The improvement of infrastructure and housing and aggressive recruitment of business are bringing
retailers and industry into the district. Coca-Cola has a major distribution center here, and Highland Park Town
Center anchors retail development on the site of the old Model T plant. This mixed-use residential and commercial
space has brought millions of investment dollars into Highland Park-Hamtramck.
Hamtramck-Highland Park Culture/Entertainment: Rich Traditions and Vibrant Culture
Museums, galleries and historic landmarks join tons of retail and dining options in Highland Park-Hamtramck to
create a vibrant and diverse place to live and work. St. Florian Church, an old Polish church built in 1928, is an
example of Gothic Revival architecture located in the heart of Hamtramck. The Primary Space gallery features postpop urban art, with a focus on graffiti art. The historic neighborhoods of Medbury-Grove Lawn and Highland
Heights-Stevens contain blocks of homes designed by Detroit architect Albert Kahna dont-miss destination for
fans of Detroit history and historic homes.
Annual local events include the live music fest Blowout, held every spring in Hamtramck/Ferndale. The Labor Day
Weekend Festival celebrates the areas Polish heritage. Paczki Day features the Polish dessert that locals
traditionally consume in anticipation of Lent. Local eateries include the historic Polish Village Caf, serving up
authentic Polish foods in the basement of a neighborhood home. This is definitely my favorite restaurant in the
area! Hamtramck-Highland Park offers both residents and visitors a taste of the rich traditions and heritage that built
these historic Detroit neighborhoods, and continue to make them a unique part of life in the Motor City.

Palmer Moving and Storage

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About Palmer Moving and Storage

Since 1910, Palmer Moving & Storage has recognized that quality is essential, value is the measure and the
customer comes first. Integrity, family and an unrelenting commitment for delivering quality service are the
fundamental values that have guided our business and are the foundation for our success. Today, almost 100 years
later, the Palmer Family and the employees of Palmer continue to build on that foundation. Each day, the
commitment to meet the transportation and relocation needs of our clients continues.

Palmer Moving and Storage

24660 Dequindre Rd.
Warren, MI 48091
(586) 436-3804
www.palmermoving.com

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