Detroit's Hidden History Guided Walking Tour
Description
Ready to venture beyond the history books and uncover the hidden past of Detroit? Join our historian-led, 90-minute tour and dive into the Motor City’s most gripping tales—stories that shaped a legend, told as you stroll through North America’s most stunning architectural gems. - Intimate small-group atmosphere and plenty of time for questions - Tour is perfect for history buffs and first-time visitors - Walking tour lets you get to know the city intimately - Hear 8 unique historical stories from Detroit’s past For those hungry for more, an optional 30-minute extension reveals Detroit’s strangest and most enigmatic legends—mysteries that linger in the shadows, waiting to be explored.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Our tour begins at Grand Circus Park, in the center of Downtown Detroit. We will introduce our tour and familiarize you to one of the most impressive bearded statues in Detroit. We will also discuss potatoes.
When a relentless tinkerer rolled his first horseless carriage out of a Detroit garage, he couldn’t have foreseen the revolution he’d ignite. Henry Ford crowned Detroit the Motor City—but did his legacy also sow the seeds of its unraveling?
When Thornton Blackburn and his wife arrived in Detroit they probably assumed the worst was behind them. Little did they know a slave hunter was hot on their trail and the ensuing struggle for freedom would push a city already on the edge into destruction.
Augustus Brevoort Woodward was nobody’s idea of normal – naming himself after a Roman Emperor was just one example – but he had a vision to turn Detroit into the greatest city in the world. Unfortunately the most powerful men in Michigan had other ideas.
When Detroit’s own Joe Louis faced off against the undefeated German Max Schmeling in their second iconic bout, Americans—Black and White alike—saw more than a boxing match: it was a clash of freedom against fascism. Fewer know what unfolded after the final bell, when a rivalry became one of sports history’s most unexpected and enduring friendships.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Reviews(68)
Wonderful tour and perfect amount of time to experience and enjoy the new Detroit and see the beautiful architecture and learn some history. Michael and Emily were very knowledgeable and engaging!
The tour was fun and I learned a lot about Detroit. The tour guide seemingly loves what he does and it shows!
Excellent experience! I was very fortunate to be guided by Mike, who really knows a lot about the City of Detroit and the region. Mike truly cares and loves the city and has passion for the area he lives and works in. I learned a lot about the history of the Motor City and about the people who shaped the architecture of this premier metropolis. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Detroit! A+++++
Great experience! We liked the tour and our guide!
It’s an amazing tour. Michael was so knowledgeable and we were pleasantly surprised at how beautiful Detroit is. Highly recommend this tour.
Excellent, interesting tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable in the history of the city . Told us some cool stories about the early days of Detroit. Especially enjoyed seeing the inside of Book building. Also heard some interesting tidbits about Augustus Woodward and Joe Lewis. Anyways, an enjoyable 90 minute tour.
Michael was amazing! We enjoyed the tour and learned very interesting facts about Detriot history!
Both insightful and entertaining. One of the best city tours I have ever booked. If you have a limited time to explore Detroit on your own, this is easily your best option.
Michael was great! Fun and informative. A must do tour! Bring water and wear good walking shoes. The summer weather was perfect for the tour.
My spouse and I had a walking tour of Detroit with Michael, and the 90 minutes flew by. We learned so much about Detroit's history, landmarks, architects, early settlers, and its relationship with Canada. Michael was knowledgeable, engaging, and a pleasure to tour with. We highly recommend Hidden History (Detroit History Tours) to Canadians and visitors from around the world. Thank you, Michael, for a great tour! Shelly & Elie
