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Although most art galleries host works from eras that are long gone, there are many places where you can admire the talent and inspiration of today's artists. If you live in Detroit, Michigan, or are just passing by, these are the contemporary art galleries that you should not miss. 1. Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit This fascinating museum is located in a spacious 22,000 square-foot building designed by architect Andrew Zago and located near the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Its grand opening took place in 2006 and it has constantly grown in popularity since then, with more and more locals and tourists coming to see the work of both established and new artists. There's only one permanent exhibition, Michigan-born artist Mike Kelley's Mobile Homestead, which is a life-size replica of his childhood home. The lack of any other permanent exhibit makes way for many emerging artists, helping them show their work to the public and gain a wider audience. The museum's caretakers also understand that art and culture are strongly connected, prioritizing artists that depict various facets of contemporary culture, inviting viewers to reflect and inspiring useful conversations. 2. Detroit Artists Market This local landmark has been around for 80 years and has always had the same goal, which is to connect emerging artists to the people who enjoy their art, but also to collectors who may invest in their work. They host many exhibitions each year, featuring both new and experienced artists from the Detroit area and allowing them to showcase their talent to large audiences. Aside from providing a platform for local artists, this non-profit's business model gives artists a 2/3 commission on art sales, providing a serious incentive for them to keep working and creating. 3. 555 Founded almost two decades ago, this gallery aims to provide an affordable space for local artists to create, helping the local community in the process. They even welcome those who are not yet artists but aspire to be, with workshops and classes that allow anyone who dreams of becoming an artist to learn about what it takes to get there, all at affordable rates. They provide platforms for all kinds of art, from exhibits to performances, and even provide artists with a place to live, creating an artist community where everyone is free to collaborate and unleash their creativity. 4. The Butcher's Daughter Gallery Having been featured in publications such as The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, and the L.A. Times, this charming gallery is one of the most famous contemporary art spots in Detroit. It opened in 2009 and enabled many contemporary artists to show their work in exhibitions hosted by various museums, galleries, and many other venues. No matter how technology-dependent our lives become, it's good to know that art will always be there to stir up our feelings and remind us that we are, after all, still human. By spending an afternoon visiting any of these places you will be exposed to a wide variety of modern pieces of art that will make you feel, but also make you think. Image by klimkin from Pixabay | CC 0

Are you headed to Detroit this summer and looking for a few exciting activities to enjoy? No matter what you're in the mood for, Motor City is full of activities that are fun for the whole family. Here are a few of the attractions you should check out while you're visiting the area this summer. Detroit Downtown on The People Mover Audio Tour If you want to explore everything Detroit as to offer, you'll need an expert guide and a people mover. The Detroit Downtown on The People Mover Audio Tour takes you along a 2.9-mile one-way loop through the downtown area. The people mover stops at 13 different stations, all of which are different attractions you can find around Detroit. You'll begin the tour on Monroe Street and stop at various locations along the way, including Detroit Downtown, Greektown, the Renaissance Center, TCF Center, Joe Louis Arena, Grand Circus Park, Bricktown, and more. You can hop off at all or a few of these spots and hop back on once you're done exploring. Detroit Zoo The Detroit Zoo is a perfect outdoor, summer activity that's great for kids and adults alike. Located at 8450 W 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, Michigan, the Detroit Zoo offers plenty of attractions, learning opportunities, and events that you can take part in. Some of the animals you can look forward to seeing at the zoo include aardvarks, anteaters, arctic foxes, camels, Chilean flamingos, gray-crowned cranes, grizzly bears, matamata turtles, ostriches, polar bears, and red pandas. Habitats within the zoo include the African forest, the African grasslands, the American grasslands, the Asian forest, and the Australian outback adventure. There are plenty of family events you can partake in as well as events that are more suitable for young adults and older. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the week during the summer. Eastern Market The Eastern Market is one of the largest markets open year-round in the United States. This market is open every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. and offers an exciting combination of music, art, and local food in an open and friendly environment. The market is also open on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Saturdays, the Eastern Market has more than 225 vendors who offer a variety of products and services. Popular vendors you can visit include Adam's Meats, 3 Dogs 1 Cat, BDQ Sauce, Beyond Juicery + Eatery, Cairo Coffee, and Brooklyn Outdoor. The Eastern Market is a non-profit organization that strives to give back to its community through its Eastern Market Development Corporation. This corporation supports many local food businesses and operates several programs that give locals better access to healthy food. They also help new food entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground and running. Whether you're visiting Detroit with your family or a group of friends, there are plenty of fun attractions to enjoy. Check them all out this summer and see which you like the best. Photo by Nubia Navarro (nubikini) from Pexels

Sandwiched between Lake St. Clair and northern Lake Erie and straddling the Detroit River, Detroit, Michigan, boasts a variety of prime places to fish. Enjoy the thrill of fishing with family and friends when you cast your line at one of the following four fun fishing spots. Note: In light of the coronavirus pandemic, please follow safe social distancing practices when visiting the following locations. The Detroit River If you don't want to leave the city, you can find several parks and piers to fish from along the Detroit River. The river is known for its run of walleye in the spring, as well as bass, sturgeon, muskie, and more. Popular spots include the piers on Belle Isle, several miles of Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park shoreline, and the 31-acre William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor in the heart of downtown Detroit, among others. You can find equally good fishing opportunities and many of the same species on the east side of town, where the Detroit River meets Lake St. Clair. If you plan to head out on the river or nearby Lake St. Clair by boat, however, you might need to get a Canadian as well as a Michigan fishing license first. John D. Dingell Park John D. Dingell Park is located south of Detroit in Ecorse, along a short stretch of the Detroit River shoreline. The lovely green space parallels Mud Island and provides several spots to fish from the shore or launch a boat. Local anglers have caught everything from pike and walleye to steelhead and, yes, even piranhas. Grab your fishing supplies at Dip Net Live Bait and Tackle, at 4664 W. Jefferson Ave. Then follow the manicured and paved walkways to find the perfect waterfront spot to set up shop. Enjoy lunch at one of the public gazebos or picnic areas. Elizabeth Park Elizabeth Park is a beloved recreational area in the heart of Trenton, about 25 miles south of Detroit. Here you can fish for walleye, bass, pike, and perch from 1,300 feet of Detroit River shoreline. This park is particularly popular during silver bass season, which ramps up in May. Regardless of the type of fish you're after, you can cast your line from the park's nicely renovated riverwalk area or launch a boat from the Elizabeth Park marina. Stop by the Bait and Tackle Box, at 4088 W. Jefferson Ave., on your way in for supplies. Huroc Park You'll have to drive about 25 miles south to find Huroc Park, a picturesque oasis on the Huron River in Flat Rock. The park is located on an island accessible via a footbridge. From there, you can follow the paths and shoreline to find a fishing spot. The area is known for its abundance of salmon, steelhead, bass, and walleye. Depending on when you visit, you might find a local fishing tournament in progress. All the supplies you'll need are only a few blocks away at the Flat Rock Party Store, at 28418 Telegraph Road. Grab your line, bait, tackle, and a fishing buddy. Head to one of the above fun fishing spots for a relaxing day on the water. You don't have to travel far from Detroit to enjoy nature at its finest. Photo by Snapwire from Pexels

A road trip is an ideal way to spend your time off this year. If your vacation plans are in full swing, there's always a little wiggle room for improvement when mapping out these legendary journeys. Here are five tried-and-tested ways to have more fun on your next summer road trip. 1. Get Your Car Serviced From a few quarts of fresh oil to a tire rotation, ensuring your car is in good working order before you hit the highway is always a good idea. Summer's warmer temperatures put added strain on your engine, and you want an oil designed for your destination's maximum hot weather and long-range engine protection. Consider taking your car into your local dealership's service department. They have certifications in your particular car's needs and loads of parts on hand in the event you need a repair. 2. Update Your Emergency Kit A breakdown is one of the worst things you can encounter on your road trip. You could find yourself stranded for hours along the highway somewhere. It's always a good idea to update your emergency kit. In addition to extra water, make sure you're first aid kit is well-stocked, and the flashlight has a fresh set of batteries. The National Safety Council recommends you include a spare tire, jumper cables, and a tool kit. 3. Have the Car Detailed If your car is still full of winter trash and covered in road salt and other grit, it might be time for a cleanup, inside and out. Don't put this off until after the trip. Now's the perfect time to get a full-service car wash or detailing service. You'll feel good heading out with a car that looks and smells showroom fresh. 4. Pick a Classic Route Are you dreaming of the Pacific's cliffs, or have you always wanted to travel the historic Oregon Trail? Plan your summer vacation on one of eleven classic cross-country road trips. These incredible routes take you on a journey across the U.S., where plenty of roadside attractions await. The Appalachian Trail runs from New England through enchanting natural beauty into the heart of Dixie. Start at the Statue of Liberty and end in Key West. It offers freewheeling vacationers a breathtaking drive of almost 2,000 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. Who could pass up Historic Route 66? This infamous route captivates people from around the world with its kitschy Americana, complete with neon signs and rusty, old truck stops. 5. Consider Buying a New Vehicle If the family mobile has seen better days, consider buying a newer model. Head on down to your local dealership and check out all the new rides sitting on the lot. Summer is a terrific time to make a deal, and it's a happy-hunting time for shoppers who want to buy or lease. When you're ready to pile in the car and see all the great sites our country has to offer, remember these tips. Have more fun on your summer road trip when you're well prepared. Photo by Ylanite Koppens from Pexels

Highland Park is a popular walking destination for exploring Michigan's natural beauty. It sprawls across 5,900 acres of forest, marshes, rolling hills, and along the state's southern shores. It touts a vast number of picturesque spots that are ideal for immortalizing on social media. Here are three of our favorite Instagram-worthy trails around Highland Park. 1. Cedar Creek Trail Cedar Creek Trail is a genuine hidden gem in the suburbs of metropolitan Detroit. It runs 2.75 miles along Cedar Creek and the Haven Hill lake, through forests, marshes, and wetland areas and over a few welcome hills. Ideal for the average hiker, the terrain is relatively moderate to traverse. Pick up the trailhead at the Haven Hill Gatehouse or the opposite end of the trail at Teeple Lake. 2. Historic Haven Hill Trail If you're looking for a moderately challenging walk that's both dog-friendly and educational, discover the Historic Haven Hill Trai l. A short, 1.4-mile round trip path, it meanders it's way to the Instagram worthy Henry Ford estate. Drive-up Haven Hill to the former entrance of the property and leave your car in the Circle parking lot. Take the path up the hill to photograph the ruins. It's rumored to be a bit of a climb from post number 7 to the Carriage House. This impressive log lodge was home to Ford's caretakers and still stands at the edge of the hill today. Further up the slope, discover the foundation of the sprawling Haven Hill Lodge with it's resilient, massive Vermont fireplace. Follow the foot trail down the ridge to what remains of the pool, toboggan run, and tennis courts that feature clay imported from France. The best time of year to capture these ruins on camera is late October or early November when the leaves drop off the many trees, and visibility vastly improves. 3. Highland Park Foot Trails The Highland State Recreation Area offers photography enthusiasts approximately 16 miles of trails to explore and shoot. This well-maintained network of trails consists of four loops labeled A, B, C, and D. Each path is well-marked and offers walkers a choice of different difficulty levels to accommodate different stages of fitness. Hop on the trailhead from Livingston Road and pick your adventure. The A loop runs 3.8 challenging miles over hilly terrain with many steep climbs and drops, while B loop, the longest circuit, travels 5.9 miles and offers experienced hikers several long climbs. Keep your camera handy. You might catch a glimpse of a variety of wildlife, including deer, near the trail. The C loop is another relatively short jaunt at 2.4 miles. However, it's considered a very technical hike with a variety of tight dips and a rocky landscape. The 3.9-mile D loop is also best for experienced hikers due to large rock formations and steep hills you're required to traverse. Highland Recreational Area at 5200 Highland Road in White Lake is the ideal destination for Insta-worthy trails. Grab your camera, lace of your shoes, and head outdoors today. Which path will you explore first?

Highland Park, Michigan, has lots to choose from when it comes to spas and beauty salons. No matter if you require a trim or you want to have a day of rejuvenation, you are sure to find the place that is perfect for you. Here are a few spas and beauty salons worth checking out in the Highland Park area. 1. Salon de Weave If you are looking for a beauty salon that can satisfy all your weave, nail, and natural hair needs, look no further. Salon de Weave is affordable, professional, and offers a quality guarantee. Customer care is at the core of this beauty salon, and they work hard to keep you looking your best, so give Salon de Weave a try and embrace your high maintenance needs today. 2. Salon Bliss When you are in search of escape and relaxation, a day spa may be the exact type of getaway you are needing. Salon Bliss has talented designers that work in a culture of excellence that is achieved through salon training and mentoring. You will find designers that are well versed in the classic, contemporary, new, and emerging trends. This is more than a beauty salon/day spa, its an experience. When you want a day of pampering, Salon Bliss and Spa offers services that include body waxing, massages, pedicures, eminence treatments, haircutting and styling, color and texture, and much more. Book your experience at Salon Bliss and enjoy an escape into relaxation. 3. Alchemy Color Lab This is where you can find the best of the best with a team of artists that strive to perfect their technical skills and continue their education. You will also find a comfortable environment focused on your needs. Alchemy Color Lab offers a wide range of services that include haircuts, clipper-cuts, blowout, party style, formal style, makeup, base color, glaze, elumen, halo highlights, highlight, bleach and tone, bond builder, treatment, extra product, extensions, and color correction. If you want a beauty salon with skilled professional artists, you have found one at Alchemy Color Lab. 4. Tantra Aveda Spa When you need to experience total relaxation and pure bliss, you won't find a better place than Tantra Aveda Spa. Highly skilled only begins to describe those who provide you with the services you will find here. You can choose from facials, body treatments, hands and feet, esthetics, and spa packages. When you book at Tantra Aveda Spa, be prepared to lose yourself in the welcoming and carefree environment. When you are feeling exhausted, run-down, or stressed out, treating yourself with a visit to a beauty salon or spa can make all the difference. When you walk through the doors of your favorite establishment, you can feel the weight of the world lift right off your shoulders. Try these few places listed above the next time you are looking to escape the everyday grind and see what you have been missing. You can also explore many more spas and beauty salons that Highland Park, Michigan, has to offer. Photo by Pixabay from Pexels

If you are looking to work on your mind, body, and soul, martial arts is an excellent way of achieving your goals. Though martial arts is popular for teaching fighting skills and self-defense, it is often overlooked for its ability to teach you mental and physical discipline and improve your overall health. Here are three martial arts dojos and more in Highland, Michigan. 1. Tiger Chung's Martial Arts Founded by Ho Yung “Tiger” Chung in the early 1970s, Tiger Chung's Martial Arts has seen thousands of students pass through its doors. The form of martial arts you can learn here is taekwondo. Not only is this an excellent form of martial arts, but it also teaches valuable life skills and helps students perform better physically, mentally, and spiritually. No matter your age or skill level, Tiger Chung's Martial Arts invites you to join and strive to reach your full potential. 2. Wu's Tai Chi Chuan Academy Detroit Tai chi chuan is more than what meets the eye, as it moderates the circulatory system and strengthens muscles and bones. Modern medical studies have shown this to be accurate, and practicing tai chi chuan helps prevent disease and treat existing conditions. If you are interested in pursuing better health, mental focus, and discipline, you can start from the beginning with the introductory class to learn the core of tai chi chuan, which is the 108 posture empty hand form. Once you have learned the hand form, you can advance to the intermediate classes and learn three variations of pushing hands, chi kung, and work to refine your hand form. Full academy membership is only allowed when you have demonstrated the knowledge you have learned from the beginner and intermediate classes. Tai chi chuan is a way of life that can bring profound benefits and nourish your vitality. 3. 313 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a combat sport, self-defense system, and martial art that focuses on ground fighting and grappling. The fundamental concept of BJJ is that a smaller opponent can defend themselves and defeat a much larger and stronger opponent. This is accomplished by taking the fight to the ground and using choke holds and joint-locking techniques. BJJ has a ranking system and is used in mixed martial arts competition, self-defense, and sport grappling competitions. It is essential to spar and participate in live drilling to improve and ascend through the ranks. Classes at 313 BJJ include advanced BJJ, No-Gi, fundamental BJJ, drilling, and open mat. You are sure to learn the fundamentals and improve your overall health and fitness while training. You will also gain invaluable self-defense skills that could save your life. Aside from these three martial arts facilities, there are many more you can explore the next time you are in the Highland Park area. The skills you learn through martial arts are far more than just learning to fight. You will gain mental focus, physical health and fitness, and the peace of mind in knowing you can successfully defend yourself, if necessary. Check out all the martial arts options in Highland Park, Michigan. Photo by Haste LeArt V. from Pexels

Discover the festive feeling of the harvest season and spend some time outdoors with friends and family at the farmer's market. From organic eggs and fresh produce to fresh-baked pies and pickled cucumbers, there's something delicious waiting for you at each of the grower's stalls. Why not visit one of these four fun Highland Park farmers markets today? Lincoln Park Farmers Market Head out to Lincoln Park and visit this urban market that features tons of local growers, craftspeople, and delicious food vendors. Held weekly on Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., this market runs through October with an extraordinary November holiday market. Join Lincoln Park Farmers Market's Power of Produce (POP) Club. It's a program for families with kids age 5 through 12 that features activities, a free shopping bag, and a voucher for $2.00 worth of recently harvested fruits and vegetables. Dearborn Farmers and Artisans Market Visit curated vendors who offer only the best of Michigan's seasonal, local produce and goods. Browse a wide variety of vendors selling items from fresh flowers to produce, baked goods, cheeses, and meats. Craftspeople are onsite, offering their handmade wares like soaps, woodworking, and pottery. Enjoy cooking and ice carving demonstrations, live entertainment, gardening workshops, and take a free class thanks to Yoga Shala. The kids will love their dedicated area with art lessons, games, and face painting. Seniors can get their blood pressure checked for free. Dearborn's market is a terrific place for people of all ages to gather every Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. It's located at 1034 Monroe St., behind Wagner Place on West Village Drive. Livonia's Wilson Barn Market The Livonia's Wilson Barn Market is open for business every Saturday from now through Oct. 13, 2019, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Come experience the Wilson Barn. It's a historic gem. This market features a variety of artisan vendors peddling home-baked items, locally grown produce, honey, American-made jewelry, wood and textile crafts, and garage sale items. This venue promises an exciting adventure for families, with something for everyone. It's the ideal spot to shop for unique Christmas gifts. It's never too early to start preparing for the holidays. Wayne State Wednesday Farmers Market Sometimes you don't want to wait until the weekends for your farm-fresh produce. Wayne State's market in Detroit is a week-day, day-time venue. A popular shopping area for mid-town residents and students of nearby Wayne State University, it's located in a terrific spot close to major transportation corridors and is easily accessible by bus on Warren, Cass, and Woodward Avenues. This downtown market offers regionally-sourced produce, herbs, flowers, and some prepared foods, such as baked goods. Find the Wayne State farmers market across from Detroit Public Library at 5201 Cass Ave., every Wednesday, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Head to the market for a fun-filled day and support your local farmers and small businesses. You'll walk away with more than just delicious food. Your spirit will soar. Photo by PhotoMIX Ltd. from Pexels

Light, fluffy, and always comforting, pancakes are a top choice when it comes to indulging yourself at breakfast — or any time of day. The mere mention of this delectable dish makes your mouth water. Get over to one of these four highly rated Detroit spots for pancakes, waffles, and crepes today. Satisfy that craving the only way possible: with a short stack drowning in syrup. 1. The Hudson Cafe Some Detroit residents claim that the Hudson Cafe on 1241 Woodward Ave. serves up the best breakfast in the city. It boasts an incredibly diverse menu filled with crepes, waffles served with fried chicken and catfish, frittatas, fresh fruit, and eggs any way you can imagine. Start your day off right with friendly service and a plate of potentially life-changing chunky monkey or red velvet pancakes. The Hudson Cafe offers plenty of gluten-free options too, and their servings are enormous, so consider sharing your meal with a loved one. 2. Sweet Potato Sensations Do you have a craving for sweet potatoes? From pancakes and grits to chicken and waffles, Sweet Potato Sensations at 17337 Lahser Road has it all. Try the sweet potato waffles with the salmon croquettes. Rumor has it they're superb. The food at this feel-good joint takes a little bit of time to come out, but it's well worth the wait. With free samples and free dessert Sundays, prepare to fall in love with Sweet Potato Sensations. Why not take home a pie after breakfast? For later, of course. 3. Clique Restaurant This classic American diner at 1326 E. Jefferson Ave. touts all the sleek lines and organic curves you'd expect from a mid-century designed restaurant. Have a seat on the airy atrium and order a plate of their famous pancakes. The locals rave about them. Clique offers a complete hearty, home-style breakfast menu that features all your classic favorites, plus some unique choices. Pick from a vegetarian omelet, chicken sausage, corned beef hash, and grilled cinnamon buns. Why not order a side of silver dollar pancakes instead of toast? You won't regret it. 4. Froyo and Company Pick from a range of crepes like Chocolate Galore with seven different toppings including fudge sauce and Oreo cookie pieces, and the New Yorker that features fresh strawberries, strawberry and vanilla drizzle, and cheesecake bites. Have a cup of organic coffee or tea with your crepe and remember to stop by on Wednesdays when they have buy-one, get-one specials on all their scrumptious concoctions. Pancakes, waffles, and crepes are three breakfast choices that are sure to satisfy you, no matter what time you stumble out of bed. They appeal to everyone in the family, so go to one of these top stops and fill up on these sweet and savory treats right now. Image via Flickr by OiMax used under CC BY 2.0

Interstate-75 is a great road that goes from the north of the U.S. to the south, starting from the Canadian border and ending at Florida. It's one of the best roads in the U.S. on which you can take a road trip to discover many interesting cities and places along the way. However, if you live in Michigan or going there anytime soon, here are four of the best places that you should visit along Interstate-75. 1. Castle Rock Castle Rock is one of the oldest lookout points in Michigan. It was known as "Pontiac's Lookout" by the Ojibwa Tribe, and it was opened for tourists and visitors in 1929. Ever since it has been a major tourist destination in the area. Castle Rock is about 183 feet above Interstate-75 and 195 feet above water level, and its summit has binoculars that you can use to enjoy the spectacular views of Lake Huron, Mackinac Island, downtown St. Ignace, and the wildlife habitat. This is one of the places that you shouldn't miss whenever driving nearby on Interstate-75. 2. Hartwick Pines State Park Hartwick Pines State Park is located in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, and it has the largest stand of old white pine trees in the region (49 acres). The park is the perfect destination for those who love outdoor sports, and its frequent visitors can enjoy many activities during all seasons of the year. Popular activities here include mountain biking, snowshoeing, camping, cross-country skiing, hiking, fishing, birding, and hunting. One of the best ways to discover the park is to hike its popular Old Growth Trail that passes by the Hartwick Pines Logging Museum. 3) Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum The Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum is home to the USS Edson Dd846 military ship, which is the main artifact in the museum. The ship was built in 1958, and it's one of two surviving Forest Sherman-class destroyers in the U.S. Most of the ship's service was during the Vietnam War and it played a vital role during the evacuation of Saigon and Phnom Penh in Vietnam. The museum mainly focuses on documenting the history of the United States Navy. 4) Stepping Stone Falls If you like the outdoors, you should definitely visit the Stepping Stone Falls whenever nearby. The manmade falls hold back the Flint River, creating the 600-acre Mott Lake. The falls have underwater lights that illuminate them at night, making it the perfect place to enjoy a nice walk in the evening. Also, you can take a 45-minute cruise on the Genesee Belle Riverboat that departs on Sundays in the evening. Admission to the falls is free, and there is also an available picnic area. Interstate-75 passes by many beautiful and interesting places that you should discover whenever you get a chance. In addition to the above-mentioned places in Michigan, there are more interesting places all along the highway. Also, if you are coming to Michigan anytime soon, make sure to spend at least one day in Detroit to discover its amazing museums, restaurants, and architecture. Photo by Pille Kirsi from Pexels

1. Detroit Institute of Arts The Detroit Institute of Arts was founded in 1885 and moved to its current site in 1927. The museum has rapidly expanded since then with additional wings being added and a major renovation happening in the early 2000s. The building takes up 658,000 square feet and has over 100 different galleries, a 380-seat recital and lecture hall, an auditorium that seats 1,150, a state-of-the-art conservation services lab, and an art reference library. There are over 65,000 different works of art, so you could easily spend multiple days here if you truly wanted to see everything. Some of these include "Vincent van Gogh's Self-Portrait," the first U.S. museum collection of Van Gogh, and Diego Rivera's piece "Detroit Industry Fresco Cycle." There are also many European, Modern, American, Contemporary, and Graphic pieces of art in addition to notable works of Asian, Oceanic, Ancient, African, Islamic, and Native American art. 2. Ford Piquette Avenue Plant The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is a fun experience for car lovers. This is the oldest auto plant that's open to the public in the world and is virtually the same as it was when Henry Ford was around. There are three floors to this mill building, which are divided into sections by the same metal fire doors from when it was built. You can also see the famous "Positively NO Smoking" stencils around. There were over 12,000 Model T cars built in this factory and you can see how worn out the plank floors are from this. The plant is a designated National Historical Landmark, on the National Register of Historic Places, and a Michigan State Historic Site. You can walk on the same floors that Henry Ford's team developed the now infamous car that started a social and automotive revolution. His office has been left the same as it was in 1908 when he was about to become famous. There is also a small number of rare cars just built in Detroit available for viewing. 3. Motown Museum Motown began in a small house in Detroit, which is now known as the Motown Museum. Also known as Hitsville, USA, this was the house where Motown hits were recorded by Berry Gordy. While Motown Records was established in 1959, the museum wasn't founded until 1985. You can see artwork, costumes, music, photos, and more memorabilia to get a glimpse of what life was like back then. People come from all over the world just to step inside Studio A, where some of the most popular and best-loved Motown artists and groups recorded their songs. You can also see the upper flat where Berry Gordy lived with his family when the company was just beginning. There are plenty of museums to visit in Detroit. You can see famous art, check out an old car factory, and even see where Motown started when you're in the city. Image via Flickr by stevendepolo used under CC BY 2.0