Mackenzie Hall was built in the mid 19th century and has a rich history behind it. This building was originally used as a courthouse, jail, and gallows and is one of the oldest buildings in the city. Today Mackenzie Hall is the hub of the cities cultural activities and frequently hosts live music performances, concerts, art exhibitions, theater, social events, and also conducts classes and workshops that focus on igniting the cultural and artistic spark within. The building itself is a beautiful example of architecture in the early Windsor years and is a must visit when in the city.
One of Detroit's unique cultural attractions is this popular historic theater at the Detroit Institute of Arts. A citywide chain of art house cinemas had all but closed in 1973 when film buff Elliot Wilhelm persuaded the DIA to let him screen foreign, offbeat and classic films. It's now one of the oldest and most respected film repertory series in the United States. Wilhelm, curator of film at the Institute of Arts since 1984, is still pleasing audiences with unusual, important and distinguished films. And there are still no competitors anywhere near downtown Detroit showing this type of fare.
One of the world's largest museums of African American history and culture, this impressive building opened in 1997 and is named after the local doctor and activist who first established it. With 120,000 square feet (11148 meters) of exhibit space, the Charles H. Wright Museum includes several exhibit galleries, a research library, classrooms and a museum store. The anchor exhibit, “Of the People: The African American Experience,” uses Detroit's own history to tell the story of the African-American experience in the United States. Previously, much smaller incarnations of the museum existed, dating back to 1965.
One of Detroit's most famous art institutions, this is one of the few potteries that has been in operation since the era of the Arts and Crafts Movement in America. The 1903 Tudor Revival Building is a National Historic Landmark and a living museum preserving and displaying the work of founder Mary Chase Perry Stratton and subsequent Pewabic artists. Distinctive handcrafted ceramic wares produced here are part of many public buildings, homes and museum collections. Make sure to stop by the gallery to catch changing exhibits of the ceramic arts.
Centrally located on the bustling Woodward Avenue, Campus Martius Park is part of Detroit's efforts to reconstruct the downtown cityscape. Filled with botanical gardens and expansive lawns, this park is a welcome change from the high-rise buildings in the area, and draws hundreds of visitors in search of some sun and relaxation. The surrounding area has also grown to reflect the new spirit of downtown, with restaurants and cafes catering to families and business people alike. The park also houses monuments and artwork celebrating the history of the city, and features multiple stages for music concerts and performances. If you find yourself in Detroit during the winter months, be sure to bring your skates and head to Campus Martius' outdoor rink.
Established in 1928, the lavish, 1571-seat Redford Theatre has been delighting audiences ever since. Every evening at 8p, there are screenings of classic movies too. The film is preceded by an organ concert from the original organ that was put in to accompany the silent films shown when the theater was first opened. A classic Warner Brothers cartoon is also often shown before the main feature.