CITY OF DETROIT
City Hall
2 Woodward Avenue
Detroit 313-224-3400
https://detroitmi.gov/
Chamber of Commerce
One Woodward Avenue
Detroit 866-MBR-LINE
https://www.detroitchamber.com/
Detroit is widely known across the nation as “Motor City.” It was in this cradle that the “Big Three” automobile manufacturers nurtured their global empires, ensuring Detroit’s place as the world’s most prolific vehicle manufacturing center. The Wayne County city’s prime location along a major waterway, its proximity to Canada, and a high-developed transportation infrastructure make it easy for businesses to transport products locally and globally. In addition to its automotive industry prowess, Detroit holds a high ranking in the production of machine tool accessories, metal fabrication, and plating. Detroit is also recognized as a regional banking center and the home of many of the nation’s largest corporations. The area claims the largest foreign trade zone in the nation in geographic terms as well as value of goods.
Services
Higher education and healthcare are inextricable elements of the city’s international acclaim as a research and treatment center. Wayne State University dominates the scene with a 203-acre campus set in the heart of the University Cultural Center of Detroit. Hundreds of major subject areas are available for study in a variety of colleges and schools. The Graduate School is the largest in Michigan, educating highly successful doctors, lawyers, engineers, healthcare professionals, civic leaders, and business executives. The University’s Detroit Medical Center is the largest healthcare provider in southeastern Michigan, operating outstanding teaching hospitals, nursing centers, and more than 100 outpatient facilities. DMC is also an affiliate of the renowned Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute.
The abundance of quality colleges and universities scattered throughout Metropolitan Detroit serves as the backbone for its strong research and development industry, and many industrial researchers are hired directly from local institutes. Community colleges provide affordable options for college-transfer, continuing education, and vocational skills training. Within the City of Detroit are two private institutions affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church that offer a comprehensive selection of undergraduate, graduate, and even first professional degrees: The University of Detroit-Mercy and Marygrove College.
Lifestyle
Leading universities and medical centers, culture, sports, recreation, and some of the most affordable grand homes in the entire metropolitan area, the City of Detroit is the undisputed hub of southeastern Michigan. Moving forward after decades of automotive plant closings, Detroit is reinventing its skyline and image for a new millennium of achievement. The downtown district is undergoing an extensive and successful renaissance, poetically anchored by the grandeur of the Renaissance Center. The riverfront area now showcases spectacular gardens that grace scores of handsome buildings like the Veterans Memorial, the 17-story building for city and county government offices, the Cobo Conference and Exhibition Center, the Hart Plaza, and the Joe Louis Sports Arena.
Those who expect nothing less than world-class cultural, recreational, and educational amenities from one of the nation’s leading cities will not be disappointed. The Detroit Public Library contains over two million volumes, a fine arts department with a half-million prints, a complete set of U.S. patents, and a wealth of scientific literature. The Detroit Institute of Art contains the fifth most comprehensive fine art collection in the nation. The Cultural Center is a mecca of fine venues such as the Children’s Museum, the Museum of African-American History, and the Detroit Historical Museum. Nearby, the Detroit Science Center features hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that range from experiments with optics and sound to models of some of America’s space achievements.
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s reputation for musical excellence is internationally recognized, now celebrated in a beautiful new venue. Acclaimed as a major center for jazz, the city flows as freely as the Detroit River with a steady stream of first-rate artists. The annual Montreax Jazz Festival is one of the largest and finest in the nation. Appealing to an even wider audience, the Chene Park Music Theatre offers breathtaking riverfront vistas and the strains of music that ranges from jazz to pop and classical. As the moon rises over the cityscape, neon lights lead the way to live musical entertainment, dancing, and comedy clubs throughout the city.
Some of the most widely acclaimed five-star restaurants in the nation headline a seemingly endless list of superb dining establishments. The traditional tender steak and delicious seafood entrees mix with exotic, ethnic cuisine in fascinating restaurants where the menus are often printed in two languages. Outstanding service, reasonable prices, and mouth-watering recipes are the calling cards of the myriad of restaurants that dot the Mexican, Arabic, Greek, and Italian enclaves in Detroit and nearby Windsor, Canada. For a special dinner at home, the Eastern Market offers a maze of shops and open-air stalls with fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and gourmet specialties.
Along with the Wayne State University neighborhood, the downtown district is also leading a burst of new vitality and growth in residential sectors. Over the centuries and decades, more than 200 hundred neighborhoods have emerged in Detroit, offering housing of every architectural style, price range, size, and setting. In fact, the character and unparalleled workmanship of fine older homes in the city is drawing a new generation back from the suburbs — returning to the neighborhoods where their parents were born or raised. Neighborhood associations in the city are common, fostering a closeness of spirit and sense of unity within each residential community.
Detroit is a city of homeowners, boasting one of the nation’s highest per capita rate of private ownership and some of southeast Michigan’s most affordable real estate prices. Vibrant residential neighborhoods showcase magnificent mansions, impressive Tudors, historic townhouses, and handsome apartments along tree-shaded avenues. The reemergence of downtown as a residential and entertainment mecca actually began in the early 1980s, when renovated theaters like the Fox, the Gem, 1515 Broadway, the State, and the Second City infused new life into the area. Today, the city is experiencing the largest growth in new developments and real estate appreciation since the early 1970s. New sports stadiums and casinos are sure indicators of the renewed interest and continued growth that will carry this culturally diverse city well into a bright future.
The city’s international flavor symbolized by the endless parade of magnificent ships parting the waters of the Detroit River, one of the busiest inland waterways in the world. The unique International Freedom Festival, a joint celebration of Dominion Day and Independence Day, features many cultural and recreational events. The vast network of Metroparks provide an oasis of green space within the city as well as facilities like swimming pools, sports centers, walking trails, bridle paths, golf courses, athletic fields, waterfront picnic areas — even fine museums of history, art, and science. For a change of pace, residents are only a quick interstate trip from one of many state parks and recreation areas located near Detroit. With revitalized economy, New York quality shopping districts, and exceptional cultural and educational institutions, Detroit continues to uphold and refine its long-standing reputation as one of Michigan’s — and the nation’s — most valuable assets.
NOTABLE NEIGHBORHOODS
Boston-Edison/Arden Park
Boundaries
West Boston Boulevard, Edison Avenue, Woodward Avenue, Linwood Avenue
Broad, tree-shaded streets and boulevards blend with spacious, historic homes in these neighborhoods, reminiscent of a Detroit that was ruled by auto barons and retails giants. In the Boston-Edison neighborhood, over 920 homes in this area were constructed from 1904 to 1922 by Detroit legends like Henry Ford, the Fisher Brothers, Sebastian Kresge, and Ira Grinnell. In fact, Boston-Edison stands the largest single-family residential historical district in the entire state. So honored and well kept is this vibrant district that residents report stronger returns than ever on their property investments. Just across Woodward Avenue is the Arden Park neighborhood, mirroring in many respects the legacy, attraction, and grandeur of Boston-Edison.
Corktown
Boundaries
Michigan Avenue, Porter, John Lodge Expressway, and 16th Street
Detroit’s oldest neighborhood was originally home to Irish immigrants from County Cork, Ireland. Today, the neighborhood mingles an assortment of modest cottages with intricate Victorian homes, many of which were built before the turn of the century. Significant rebirth has occurred throughout this historic area in the last 15 years of the 20th century, when many homeowners began to restore their properties to original condition. Some renovations have been so elaborate that homes were showcased in national architectural and decorating publications. The new construction of townhomes has accelerated the widespread revitalization.
Downtown
Boundaries
Fisher Freeway, Lodge Freeway, I-375, Detroit River
World-class casinos underline the surge of prosperity and renewal that marks the downtown district. Other highlights include the continual redevelopment of Harmony Park, the Theater District, and General Motors’ move into the Renaissance Center. The vitality and vision of civic leadership has poised Detroit to become the entertainment capital of the entire Midwest. Along with commercial and cultural revitalization, this area now offers a number of new residential options that include wonderful loft apartments. Many older multi-family buildings like the Palms and Pasadena still grace the area with distinctive charm. New York-style lofts are becoming increasingly common as older structures are converted for residential use. From modest to luxurious, these apartment homes can offer as much as 5,000 square feet of living space. Among the best known are the Lafayette Lofts and those above the historic Niki’s Pizzera in Greektown.
East English Village
Boundaries
Mack Avenue, Cadieux, Outer Drive/Whittier, I-94
Brick homes built in the 1930s and ’40s dominate in this quaint neighborhood located east of the MorningSide neighborhood. Known for tidy streets and meticulously landscaped property, the village offers homes that range from modest to handsome colonials. Residents enjoy the close proximity of diverse shopping opportunities along Mack, Warren, and Harper. Even more popular are the nearby recreational amenities of Cannon Recreation Center and Balduck Park. Also minutes from home are the attractive communities of Grosse Pointe, Harper Woods, and St. Clair Shores. Eastland Mall and the Detroit City Airport complete the list of conveniences.
Gold Coast
Boundaries
East Jefferson Avenue between Belle Isle and Berry Subdivision
The strip of luxury apartment buildings on the East Jefferson waterfront constitutes the Gold Coast, once home to some of Detroit’s wealthiest and most powerful. Today, the area mixes stately mansions, elegant high rises, commercial buildings, and some low-rise apartment buildings. The neighborhood offers an ideal location in close proximity to the downtown district and a number of fine marinas as well as Erma Henderson Park. Adjacent to the lovely Belle Isle recreation and entertainment center, the area offers outstanding vistas of the Detroit River. To the north is the historic Indian Village neighborhood where elegant estates line the tree-shaded avenues.
Indian Village
Boundaries
East Jefferson, Mack, Burns, Seminole
Originally a French farm, Indian Village is one of the finest residential neighborhoods on Detroit’s east side. Many of the lovely old oak, elm, and maple trees that were planted at the turn of the century still grace the magnificent mansions that were built from 1905 to 1925. Home to many wealthy and influential families, Indian Village once claimed among its residents the Fords, Dodges, Buhls, Scripps, and Walkers. For this reason, many of the estates and even landscaping reflect the work of the city’s most celebrated architects. Preserving much of yesterday’s charm and beauty, the neighborhood is a 15-minute drive from downtown attractions and is located within close proximity to parks, marinas, and riverfront amenities. West Indian Village creates a distinct atmosphere of its own, mixing mansions with modest single-family homes, duplexes, and apartment buildings.
Jefferson-Chalmers/Creekside
Boundaries
Jefferson Avenue, Detroit River, Alter Road, Conner/Clairpointe Road
Combining an enviable location with an intriguing history and recent wave of redevelopment, Creekside harmonizes the best of yesterday with modern convenience. Known for the canals that cross-cross its residential areas, the neighborhood features a new residential subdivision, new riverfront apartment development, and historic homes. Even the shopping areas blend vintage districts with sparkling new commercial construction. Historic residential areas showcase a variety of architectural styles that range from “Four Squares” to California bungalows. Luxurious, executive homes are also available that were originally built for auto industry professionals.
Joseph H. Berry Subdivision
Boundaries
Jefferson Avenue, the Detroit River, Parkview, and Fiske
Often said to offer the graces of country living within the city, this elegant and quiet neighborhood on the banks of the Detroit River is just 10 minutes from downtown. Homes were built primarily in the 1920s, and the area is best known for the Manoogian Mansion, the official home of Detroit’s mayor. This neighborhood is also home to one of the city’s few bed-and-breakfast homes, the Stately Blanche House and Castle. Beyond the relaxing atmosphere and lovely estates that make up this historic district, residents enjoy living in close proximity to some of Detroit’s premier parks. Belle Isle and Erma Henderson Park and Marina are both minutes from home.
Lafayette & Elmwood Parks
Boundaries
Larned, I-75, Mount Elliott, Gratiot/Vernor
Noted as one of the city’s most ambitious and successful redevelopment efforts, the parks district is still experiencing a boom of activity. Nearly 8,000 townhouses, co-ops, and apartments have been built in these two neighborhoods since the 1950s. Many people employed downtown have found a convenient and attractive home, although efficient freeway connections have also lured those employed outside the city. World-class attractions underline the area’s desirability, including some of the region’s finest shopping, entertainment, and dining areas. Greektown, Mexicantown, Eastern Market, Hart Plaza, the Theater District, the Cultural Center, and the Detroit Public Library are all close to home. Adding visual and recreational appeal, a greenbelt of parks and bike paths meanders through residential developments of both neighborhoods.
New Center
Boundaries
Virginia Park, Baltimore Street, Brush Street, Byron Street
Offering a midtown location, this area offers an inviting mix of commercial, office, and residential development. The well-known Fisher Building serves as the focal point of the neighborhood, providing excellent dining options and a variety of entertainment in the renowned Fisher Theater. Public and private schools share the district with historic churches, the General Motors Building, and the Henry Ford Hospital complex. Residential options range from renovated historic apartments to stately homes like those found in the New Center commons. Handsome new construction is springing up to the west in the new Virginia Park Estate subdivision.
Rivertown
Boundaries
East Jefferson, East Grand Boulevard, the Detroit River, Rivard
Once an industrial center, the area east of downtown is now a vibrant restaurant and entertainment district that offers some of the city’s most intriguing lofts, apartments, and townhouses. The Lofts at Rivertown is a massive concentration in an historic converted factory complex on East Jefferson. Nearby, the Riverplace mixes apartments, townhouses, a hotel, restaurant, and office suites against the backdrop of the Detroit River. Harbortown includes two stunning high-rise apartment buildings, condominiums, a marina, a private park, and a popular shopping center. The lush string of city parks and recreational opportunities along the riverfront add to the allure of the area, crowned by the beautiful amphitheater at Chene Park.
Rosedale Park
Boundaries
Lyndon, Grand River, Southfield Freeway, Outer Drive
Along with the adjacent neighborhoods of North Rosedale Park and Grandmont, this area of handsome subdivisions creates a residential atmosphere of beauty and grandeur. Many of the homes were custom built with such time-consuming craftsmanship that duplication in modern construction would be virtually impossible. Spacious homes often include libraries, breakfast rooms, and uncommonly attractive finished basements. The sheer variety of architectural styling enhances the image of the entire neighborhood. This district nurtures a wonderful community atmosphere conducive to raising children. Public and private schools and churches abound. A major shopping center is nearby, and North Rosedale Park claims the only neighborhood-owned recreational park in the entire city.
University District
Boundaries
Seven Mile Road, Six Mile Road, Parkside, Livernois
Also encompassing the Detroit Golf Club Properties, this placid neighborhood is named for its proximity to the University of Detroit-Mercy. An area of manicured lawns and peaceful streets shaded by a canopy of beautiful old trees, the district features homes built primarily in the 1920s and ’30s. A wonderful collection of architectural styles adds distinction and flavor, from Tudors and colonials to Mediterranean and French Provincial. Many of these large, beautiful homes feature such luxurious detailing as leaded and stained-glass windows, beamed cathedral ceilings, slate and cedar shake roofs, and pegged floors. The Detroit Golf Club Properties represent some of the city’s most opulent homes, made even more exclusive by private-access roads.
Warrendale
Boundaries
Joy Road, Ford Road/Ann Arbor Trail, Southfield Road, Heyden/Outer Drive
One of the jewels in the crown of Detroit’s far west side, this neighborhood consists of neat, well-maintained bungalows. West Warren serves as the commercial center for the area, filled with thriving large and small businesses from department stores to bakeries to restaurants. Other business districts are located along Ford Road, Joy Road, Tireman, and Southfield Road. Highly regarded private schools like St. Thomas Aquinas, Saints Peter and Paul, and the Malcolm X Academy punctuate the neighborhood. Nearby is Rouge Park, known for its scenic atmosphere and wide variety of facilities and activities.
Wayne State University
Boundaries
Lodge Freeway, I-94, Brush, Alexandrine
Quickly becoming one of the most popular zip codes in the entire metropolitan area, the university neighborhood claims such an influx of new housing that this historic area ranks among the hottest retail and residential markets away from the Detroit River. New restaurants, clubs, and entertainment facilities have infused new life into the strips along Woodward and Cass Avenues. Turn-of-the-century luxury apartments, modest townhouses and condominiums, and upscale modern apartment complexes intermingle in this wonderful neighborhood. Overlooking the expanse is the multi-million dollar high-rise building, the University Towers, built on the property where the old Vernors factory once stood. One of the most charming corners is Canfield, a historic cobblestone street lined with Victorian mansions and apartments. Minutes from home are fine galleries, music venues, and the Detroit Cultural Center.
Woodbridge
Boundaries
I-94, Grand River, Trumbull
This triangular-shaped neighborhood just two miles from downtown is also close to Wayne State University and the Cultural Center. Its many subdivisions offer an amazing variety of vintage home styles and options, since construction spanned from the 1860s through the 1920s. The neighborhood is also diverse in the level of luxury of its residences. Small cottages and modest bungalows harmonize with elegant estates designed by some of the most prominent architects in Detroit in the late 19th and 20th centuries. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the neighborhood is enjoying a renaissance and attracting many young families who are interested in renovating and restoring older homes.
