Awesome Things for Teens to Do in Detroit

Detroit is a large city with a long cultural tradition. From its legacy as Motor City to its musical tradition as Motown, the city has a little something for everyone. Teens who live in Detroit or who are just in town for a visit have their choice of plenty of activities, from live shows to museums to outdoor activities.

  1. Musical Entertainment

    • It's no surprise that Detroit is filled with the sounds of music. The Ark is a music venue offering live acoustical music to all ages. Some big names have performed at the small venue, including Ani DiFranco, Iggy Pop and Lyle Lovett. The club also hosts the Ann Arbor Folk Festival each year.

      Every summer, The Mall at Partridge Creek hosts a Summer Sounds Concert Series in the late afternoon and evenings. Teens can listen to free live music while hanging out with friends and can then go shopping or eat at one of the cafes in the mall.

    Outdoor Activities

    • Outdoor activities that teens can enjoy abound in the Motor City. Not only can teens walk, bike or hike on the Dequindre Cut Greenway, but they are also encouraged to create graffiti on the concrete walls lining sections of the path. The Greenway provides a below-street-level pedestrian link between the River Front, the Eastern Market and many neighborhoods.

      The Detroit RiverFront sprawls on the banks of the Detroit River, offering three miles of parks, plazas, shops and more. Several events of interest to teens are held along the RiverFront, including sand volleyball, yoga and walking tours.

    Sports and Recreation

    • Sports-loving teens will find much to love in Detroit. Ford Field is the home of the Detroit Lions. In addition to enjoying a pro football game, teens might also get a kick out of a behind-the-scenes tour -- from the locker rooms to the turf.

      Comerica Park is the home of major league baseball team, the Detroit Tigers. Teens can root for the home team and munch on peanuts and Cracker Jacks. Then there's the Ferris wheel, the Walk of Fame and center field's choreographed water fountain show.

    Events and Festivals

    • A number of festivals and events are held in Detroit throughout the year. In summer, Autopalooza features a number of events that celebrate the automotive heritage of the region. Races, car cruises and shows are all part of the festivities.

      Festifools is a street festival that includes huge puppets. It's a giant street party complete with wonderfully odd and delightful puppets -- think of it as a Tim Burton version of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Teens will enjoy the festive atmosphere and taking in the sights.

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