Whether you’re visiting Detroit for the first time or you proudly rep the 313, there will always be something exciting about experiencing the sights and sounds of the city’s downtown.
Discover downtown Detroit with kids — even if you already live like a local — with our family guide. First time tourists will love eating at Motor City staples and browsing classic shops, and even city dwellers will enjoy seeing Detroit through fresh eyes with these ideas on where to explore and play as a family.
Ready to head downtown? Below are some of our favorite kid-friendly sights and spots around downtown Detroit.
What are the must-see attractions in Downtown Detroit for families?
Beacon Park
- Address: 1901 Grand River Ave, Detroit
With events for the entire family, Beach Park is so much fun to explore! Listen to live music, watch a movie in the park, play field games and more. Check the park’s calendar to see what’s going on during your visit.
Campus Martius Park
- Address: 800 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
During the summer, this public square turns into an urban beach complete with sand, lounging chairs and picnic tables with bright umbrellas. In the winter, Campus Martius Park is your go-to destination for ice skating with a city view.
Detroit Riverwalk
- Address: 1340 Atwater Street, Detroit
Detroit’s Riverwalk has it all: scenic, historic plazas; bike and walking paths with views of both nature and urban scenery; the Outdoor Adventure Center; plenty of parks with space to play and even a state park with a lighthouse!
Spirit of Detroit Plaza
- Address: 2 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
Also known as “The People’s Plaza,” this public space has art, sculptures and event programming that uplift the voices of Detroit residents. The plaza’s family-friendly events include live music, face painting, food and ice cream truck appearances and so much more.
The Belt
- Address: Between Broadway and Library streets linking Gratiot and Grand River
Located in the heart of downtown, the Belt redefines what an alley can — or should — look like. Captivating artwork, plants and brightly colored benches, twinkling lights and public art fill the small space, packing so much Detroit art and culture into what could have been just another alley.
Where can you eat with kids in Downtown Detroit?
The Hudson Cafe
- Address: 1241 Woodward Ave, Detroit
Start off a full day of exploring with a hearty breakfast. At The Hudson Cafe, you can indulge in a sweet breakfast with specialty pancakes, stuffed french toast and sweet crepes, or go savory with eggs Benedict, omelets, and hearty salads and sandwiches. Did we mention there’s a children’s menu with Mickey Mouse pancakes?
American Coney Island
- Address: 114 W Lafayette Blvd, Detroit
Nothing tastes more like Detroit than a coney dog. Family-owned and operated since 1917, American Coney Island is serving up classic coney dogs — hot dogs topped with chili, mustard and onions — as well as gyros, Greek salads, cheese fries and other yummy options.
Lafayette Coney Island
- Address: 118 W. Lafayette Blvd, Detroit
We couldn’t include American Coney Island without also including its delicious competitor, Lafayette Coney Island. Our suggestion? Get a coney dog at both locations and put them to a taste test!
JoJo’s Shake Bar
- Address: 88 W. Columbia St., Detroit
Over-the-top milkshakes, classic diner food, trendy decor and a kids menu? What more could you want? A meal at JoJo’s Shake Bar is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and make your stomach (and your kids) happy.
Mom’s Spaghetti
- Address: 2131 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
Detroit-raised rapper Eminem’s spaghetti restaurant may seem like a bit of a tourist trap, but there’s a reason it’s so popular! A clever riff on one of the rapper’s best-known song lyrics, Mom’s Spaghetti has a simple menu of pasta dishes and even spaghetti sandwiches. Who knows, you might get lucky and spot a celebrity — the rapper has been known to make appearances while helping out the restaurant staff.
Mister Dips
- Address: 19 E Grand River Ave, Parkers Aly, Detroit
Hailing all the way from the east coast, Mister Dips’ second location brings all-natural angus beef dipped sandwiches to Detroit. Try a classic dip, or branch out with the bacon hatch chili dip or the vegan dip made with plant-based beef. There’s also shakes, soft serve and even alcoholic milkshakes on the menu.
Bon Bon Bon
- Address: 1435 Farmer Street, Suite 120, Detroit
Just staring through the window of this chocolate shop will have you drooling. Made locally in Hamtramck, these gourmet Bon Bon Bons are handmade truffles that range from classic, familiar flavors like nonpareils and coffee to Hot Cheetos, birthday cake and black truffle.
This article was recently updated on June 12, 2025 by Metro Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. The update included her research to feature the latest information. Questions? Please reach out to katina@metroparent.com.
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