Top Rated Attractions in Detroit

As one of the oldest cemeteries in all of Michigan, the Elmwood Cemetery has been around since 1846. The cemetery began on a modest stretch of 42 acres (16.99 hectares), doubling in size over the years to a sprawling 86 acres (34.8 hectares). Lush vegetation and majestic groves of towering trees make this a serene and peaceful place to visit. You can see a special memorial for Civil War soldiers where a flag is flown continuously in their honor. Other notable memorials include famous governors, mayors, abolitionists, prominent businessmen and many others. The beautiful garden which surrounds these graves has been awarded a Level I accreditation by the Morton Arboretum and the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program. To truly recognize the historic significance of the cemetery, go on one of the two free Tombstone Tales Guided Walking Tours.

Founded in 1995, The Canadian Historical Aircraft Association is located in the west end of the city and is dedicated to preserving aircraft that have been significant contributors to aviation history. Not only is the museum home to a Lancaster Bomber, but one can also find a restored Havilland DH.98 Mosquito which was one of the first Canadian-built Mosquito bombers to be introduced in World War II. Other aircraft at the museum include Boeing Stearman and De Havilland Chipmunk. If you are an aircraft or war history enthusiast, visiting the Canadian Historical Aircraft Association will certainly not disappoint.

Founded in 1958 with a sole purpose of enriching the knowledge of the public about the history of Ukrainians, their entry into America and their contribution towards the country. Purchased by Roman Dacko and his beloved wife, they undertook efforts to provide more to the museum as they went on to collect paintings, folklore, photographs, historic documents and books. They also have a hoard of more than 20000 books in their library, and they also conduct English speaking classes here. Over the years, there have been impressive and exclusive events showcasing rarest of items across the world.

On the grounds of Historic Fort Wayne, this museum documents the first African-American flying unit, the segregated 99th Fighter Squadron, which served in the US Air Force during World War II. There are wonderful collections of aircraft models and fliers' uniforms, the leather bomber jackets with white scarves. Detroit came to host the museum because former Mayor Coleman Young was a Tuskegee Airman. Visiting hours are by appointment only, so be sure to call ahead.

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.

View nearly 60,000 amazing works of art at the Detroit Institute of the Arts. 100 galleries are filled with sculptures, paintings, and other artworks that will fascinate. The Thinker, the famous sculpture by Auguste Rodin is placed near the entrance. Permanent collections in the museum include Islamic, Flemish, pre-Columbian, European, African, Asian, and American art. Cultural events are held throughout the year at the auditorium and recital hall.