The Guardian Building, constructed in 1929, is one of the most recognizable landmark buildings in the Detroit skyline. Bestowed as a United States Historic Landmark, this stunning piece of architecture towers more than 490 feet (149 meter) over Detroit's heart. The opulent Art Deco structure has 36 floors with interiors that are actually just as impressive as the façade. It's home to many financial firms and hence it has rightly earned the epithet 'Cathedral of Finance'. Irrespective of how busy one's schedule is, locals as well as tourists find time to step-in and admire the colorful beauty of this architectural marvel.
Michigan Central Station, also called Penn Central Station, was a rail depot built in 1913 to serve the Michigan Central Railroad. The station's imposing Beaux Arts building was the point of pride for the railroad and at one point it held the distinction of being the tallest railway station in the world. While the station is no longer in use today, it stands as a reminder of the glory days of the railroad. This abandoned building has historical significance and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2000, the Fort Street–Pleasant Street and Norfolk & Western Railroad Viaduct is a local landmark. It features six lanes as well as four railway tracks. Although not in use, it stands as a testament of the progress of Detroit's transportation system.
The Hurlbut Memorial Gate is a grand structure at the main entrance of the Water Works Park in the historic district of Detroit. This limestone structure was built in Beaux Arts style by Gustave Mueller and Herman A. Brede. There is a rather rich history behind the construction of this monument, which coincides with the development of the city of Detroit. Built in 1984 and repaired in 2007, the monument is a Michigan State Historic Site and is also on the National Register of Historic Places.
This giant graffiti urban mural can be found standing proud on the Russell's Industrial Center's building number two. Measuring over 8,750 square feet, the mural is so big that it can be seen from Interstate 75. Depicting a towering Chimera, a mythological creature, the lion hybrid with wings and mechanical features is a testament to Detroit's spirit and history. The piece was commissioned by the Russell Industrial Center and was created by the talented artist, Kobie Solomon.
One of the most popular roadside attractions in the United States, Uniroyal Giant Tire has been a landmark for decades. Located on Interstate 94, near the airport, the mammoth tire was built as a Ferris wheel for New York World Fair in 1964. With a seating capacity of 96 people, the giant wheel catered to more than two million people that year, including Jacqueline Kennedy. It was later moved to Allen Park, where it still stands about eight stories high, drawing many tourists each year.
One of the major historical buildings that dotted the city's skyline since 1917, Book Tower with its neo classical and renaissance architectural styles is a tall beauty to behold. Soaring at 38 floors, it was at one point the tallest in town. Featuring two wings which were built in different years, this commercial structure is noted for its caryatid sculpture on its facade. Its ornate tower with intrinsic artworks and columns are what makes it stand out. It remained unoccupied since 2009. Currently undergoing restorative work, this beautiful skyscraper is a must for those interested in architecture.
The Spirit of Detroit has provided a location for reflection for Detroit residents and visitors since 1958. Located at the foot of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, this twenty six-foot (seven meter) Norwegian-made bronze sculpture was the largest statue of its kind created since the Renaissance. Despite the gravitas this sculpture commands, the city often dresses the statue up in local sports jerseys or other theme-appropriate costumes during large civic events.
The Guardian Building, constructed in 1929, is one of the most recognizable landmark buildings in the Detroit skyline. Bestowed as a United States Historic Landmark, this stunning piece of architecture towers more than 490 feet (149 meter) over Detroit's heart. The opulent Art Deco structure has 36 floors with interiors that are actually just as impressive as the façade. It's home to many financial firms and hence it has rightly earned the epithet 'Cathedral of Finance'. Irrespective of how busy one's schedule is, locals as well as tourists find time to step-in and admire the colorful beauty of this architectural marvel.
One of the oldest structures of its kind in the city, Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument graces the famous Woodward Avenue of Detroit. Completed in 1867 by architect Randolph Rogers, this structure pays homage to the fallen heroes of the Civil War. Towering 60 feet (18.2 meter) from the ground, this majestic structure epitomizes freedom and celebrates America. The octagonal pillars depict eagles with their wings stretched out, along with infantry and artillery on two pillars and cavalry and the Marines on others. At the top of the structure is a queen basking in victory, she represents the pride of Michigan.
Detroit Zoo Carousel is located inside the Detroit Zoo and was inaugurated in 2011. The carousel gives the pleasure of riding exotic and brilliantly hand-painted and hand-carved animals, birds, reptiles and amphibians and they also have a peacock chariot. Your two minute ride is well complemented with gentle music as 300 LED lights twinkle over your head. The zoo also rents the carousel for special occasions and birthday parties.
In the midst of the hustle and bustle of daily life, you may find yourself craving the gift of a few moments to simply relax and catch your breath. Licht Park is a charming neighborhood park that is a great place for just that. While the park is not very large, it encompasses a playground for children, a sheltered pavilion and plenty of open space. Laid out beneath the cool shade of lush trees, the park is a little piece of nature amid the urban landscape that surrounds it. The pavilion at the park is available on rent for birthday parties and other private events as well.