Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) 2025 Annual Convention at the Westin Book Cadillac Hotel in Detroit
Like many people, when I think of Detroit I think of a once grand city that has gone through some extremely difficult times. Yes, but like the Phoenix, Detroit is emerging from the ashes and is on the journey to reinventing itself. Detroit has been the heart of the automobile industry, the home of Motown music, a hub of Art Deco architecture, and a culinary delight. There is well-earned optimism for Detroit regaining its earlier opulence. I was delighted by much of what I experienced during my week while attending the Society of American Travel Writers’ (SATW) 2025 Annual Convention in September.
Although Detroit still has its share of remaining challenges, this resilient city has made tremendous progress for the residents and visitors to Michigan’s largest city. At a recent writer’s conference, I stayed at the wonderful Book Cadillac Hotel, an ideal location to see many of the wonderful sights of the Motor City. This lovingly restored hotel in the heart of downtown had large, comfortable rooms and outstanding service. There are several excellent dining options, including Starbucks Reserve Café and Sullivan’s Steakhouse.
Top Attractions in Detroit
The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA): A Cultural Gem
The closing for the SATW 2025 Annual Conference was hosted at the spectacular Detroit Institute of Art. If you only have time for one museum, make it the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). With more than 65,000 works spanning continents and centuries, it’s one of the most impressive art collections in the country. One of the main attractions are Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals. These large, colorful frescoes reflect the highs and lows of Detroit’s industrial roots. In addition, the DIA houses European masterpieces, African art, and modern installations, for a world-class museum right in the heart of the city.
I made the rounds and was captivated by the variety and quality of the art. It is difficult to pick out any specific pieces over so many other masterpieces, but there were several that especially caught my attention. One was the magnificent marble carving titled Penelope, by American sculptor Franklin Simmons in 1903. The amazing statue of the wife of Odysseus is well known for the intricate details of her gown and sandals carved into solid marble. I also enjoyed Impressionist works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Degas. The magnificent murals by Diego Rivera are a marvelous series of frescoes that are vibrant representations of how technology, finance, and industry are intertwined with the humanity and social network of society.
Motown Museum: Hitsville USA
Detroit and its Motown roots have earned the city the moniker of Hitsville U.S.A. As soon as you enter this historic museum, you’ve stepped back into music history. The Motown Museum is located in the modest home where Berry Gordy launched Motown Records in 1959. Sounds, photos, and exhibitions entertain and educate visitors on the music and superstars of this fabulous musical era. The walls still echo with the voices of legends like Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and so many more.
The Henry Ford Museum: Genius and Innovation Collide
Located in nearby Dearborn, the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is much more than just a car museum. The Henry Ford Museum is a remarkable collection of artifacts, exhibitions, history, and teaching moments. In addition to a lot of cool cars, starting with the Model T to more modern automobiles, the museum presents a delightful mix of history, science, aviation, and more. Among some of the numerous fascinating attractions include the chair Abraham Lincoln sat in when he was assassinated, the bus Rosa Parks rode, the Wright brothers’ workshop, presidential limousines, and a timeline of famous mathematicians and their contributions to science.
Nearby Greenfield Village is a living history park with interpreters dressed in period costumes to greet visitors and explain the many exhibits. Many historic homes and buildings have been relocated and preserved to represent American innovation over the years. Visitors can personally experience a ride in a Model T, observe skilled artisans, and participate in fun hands-on activities. People can also view and learn about modern auto-making at the nearby Ford Rouge Factory Tour.
Eastern Market: Food, Music, Art, and Community
SATW members were treated to dinner at one of the many food options at the historic Eastern Market. This sprawling market has been a Saturday staple for over a century. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and flowers to artisan baked goods and locally made crafts. In addition to fantastic shopping, the colorful murals, street musicians, and other entertainment options make for a fun outing.
Eastern Market is open every Saturday, some Sundays and Tuesday, and some special events. Check the website for current hours, which were recently listed as:
Saturday Market: 6 AM–4 PM (The busiest day with the most produce)
Sunday Market: 10 AM–4 PM, June–September
Tuesday Market: 9 AM–3 PM, June–September
Belle Isle Park: The Central Park of Detroit
Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and cross the bridge to Belle Isle Park, a 982-acre island oasis in the Detroit River. This special playground for locals and visitors was designed by the same landscape architect who created Central Park in New York City. In addition to walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a beach, Belle Isle offers so many other options to visitors. Check out the Belle Isle Aquarium, Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and the unique marble William Livingston Memorial Light. Commune with nature and enjoy the scenic views of the Detroit skyline and Canada across the river.
Architecture in Detroit: The Guardian Building and More
Detroit is the first U.S. city to be designated a UNESCO City of Design, in recognition of its rich legacy in industrial design, architecture, and creative culture. Perhaps the best known architectural gem in downtown Detroit is the Art Deco masterpiece Guardian Building, nicknamed the “Cathedral of Finance.” With an amazing display of colors, patterns, and craftsmanship, this city treasure is free to enter and enjoy. Other good examples of Detroit’s impressive architecture include the newly renovated Michigan Central Station, Fisher Building, Book Tower, David Stott Building, and the Detroit Institute of Art.
Sailing the Detroit River: Between the USA and Canada
We enjoyed a relaxing two-hour sailing tour with Captain Ann Perrault aboard her sailboat, the Olokun (Olokun means “Owner of the Seas” in the Yoruba language). The former founder and operator of Avon Bakery now takes small groups on tours of the Detroit River and Lake St. Clair with views of Belle Isle, the downtown skyline, the Detroit Yacht Club, and the Windsor, Canada coastline. Ann is a great captain, friendly, personable, and full of interesting stories she shares with her guests. The wind was limited on this day, but we did experience a few nice gusts that pushed us along the Detroit River. We passed Gross Pointe Yacht Club, Bell Isle, and saw a group of colorful kayakers sharing the river with an assortment of other boaters.
Reservations can be made at Get My Guide for Detroit: Sailing on the Detroit River.
Sports: Detroit Lions, Tigers, Pistons, and Red Wings
Detroit is one of the few cities that hosts all four major pro sports teams, and the locals can root for them all while staying in the downtown area. The baseball Tigers play at Comerica Park, while the Detroit Lions football team is home at Ford Field. Also downtown, the Redwings hockey and Pistons basketball teams play at Little Caesars Arena, a sleek, modern, and exciting venue. Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, you will have a great time cheering for your favorite teams.
Fun in Detroit
Detroit is a city that has had its share of ups and downs. Today, it continues its journey on an upward ascent. Detroit is modern, gritty and glamorous—all at once. Enjoy bountiful parks, the river walk, world class museums, Motown music, fabulous food, and an assortment of professional sports teams. So whether you’re drawn here for the music, the cars, the art, or just the vibe of a city on the rise, Detroit is ready to welcome you.
