Every journey is more fun when you're together. Grab your friends and hit the road in style in the Chevy Trax.
Photo courtesy of the Detroit Institute of Arts
Midtown is a vibrant Detroit district, blending culture, dining, shopping, and entertainment into a walkable neighborhood that draws crowds. Anchored by world-class tourist stops and buzzing with unique restaurants and nightlife, Midtown Detroit has something for everyone, whether you’re stopping in for a meal, catching a performance, or exploring art and history.
Detroit Institute of Arts
5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
A landmark on Woodward Avenue, the Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the most renowned art museums in the country. Founded in 1885 and relocated to its current home almost a century ago, the DIA has grown to encompass more than 140 galleries. Visitors can explore over 65,000 works spanning American, European, African, Asian, Islamic, and Ancient art. Highlights include Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals and Vincent van Gogh’s Self-Portrait, the first Van Gogh acquired by a U.S. museum. With a commitment to community access, the DIA offers free admission to residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, along with field trips, senior visits, and professional development for teachers. The DIA is a cultural hub and a gathering place, embodying its mission to help every visitor connect with art on a personal level.
Detroit Shipping Company
474 Peterboro Street, Detroit
Detroit Shipping Company is one of Midtown’s most popular destinations, offering a little bit of everything: food, art, shopping, and entertainment. This food hall and event space houses restaurants like Bangkok 96 Street Food, known for Hmong and Thai-inspired dishes, and Momo Cha, which specializes in homestyle Nepalese dumplings. It’s also home to Motor Burger with its Windsor-inspired burgers and poutines, Halal Street serving New York City-style street food, and Takitos AF, where taquitos are taken to the next level. Beyond the food, Detroit Shipping Company hosts regular live entertainment, showcases local artists in The Galleries @ DSC, and even features retail like Detroit Dog Mom Company. It’s a one-stop hub that captures Midtown’s eclectic energy.
The Block
3919 Woodward Avenue, Detroit
For the past decade, The Block has been serving up a menu that spans everything from pan-seared salmon to short rib tacos, with a DJ brunch that brings a dance party atmosphere to weekend mornings. “The Block has proudly called Midtown Detroit home since 2015. As a Black-owned and woman-owned restaurant, we’re known for our scratch-made comfort food, signature cocktails, and lively, welcoming atmosphere,” shares co-owner Stephanie Byrd. “The Byrd family has been a cornerstone in Detroit’s hospitality scene for over 35 years, with sister establishments including Flood’s Bar & Grille and The Garden Theater. We’re proud to continue that legacy while serving great food and building community in the heart of the city.” Whether you’re in the mood for a Pear & Fennel salad, Salmon Cucumber Burger, or Chicken and French Toast, The Block covers a variety of tastes.
The Peterboro
420 Peterboro Street, Detroit
The Peterboro reimagines Chinese cuisine with a playful twist. Guests can dig into small plates like Cheeseburger Spring Rolls with housemade pickles, Duck Bacon and Sweet Corn wontons, or Mushroom Dumplings in chili oil broth, alongside larger dishes such as the Chinese Spare Ribs and Spicy Garlic Noodles. “Our menu at The Peterboro is a reflection of our commitment to blending traditional Chinese flavors with modern culinary techniques. We’re constantly experimenting with fresh ingredients and cross-cultural inspirations to create a dining experience that feels both comforting and adventurous,” shares owner Charles Inchaustegui. Whether you’re ordering Fried Chicken Bao Buns or Lo Mein, The Peterboro balances familiar flavors with a creative edge in Midtown Detroit.
Barcade
666 Selden Street, Detroit
Part arcade, part bar, and part restaurant, Barcade combines retro nostalgia with craft beer and cocktails. With over 80 classic arcade games and pinball machines from the 1980s and beyond, it’s a hotspot for gamers and date nights. Menu highlights include Coney fries, Short Rib Grilled Cheese, Philly Egg Rolls, Pork Belly Bao, and a signature Barcade Burger stacked with double smashed patties, caramelized onions, Barcade sauce, and bacon. The drink list is just as impressive, featuring over 20 craft beers on draft alongside a full bar of cocktails and spirits. Barcade is the kind of place where you can relive your favorite arcade memories while enjoying pub food with a twist.
The Potato Place
107 West Warren Avenue, Detroit
A family-owned Midtown staple for more than 40 years, The Potato Place is all about customizable comfort food. The menu centers around hearty baked potatoes loaded with toppings, as well as rice bowls, soups, and sides. Guests can choose from options like the Alfredo Potato, the Southwest Potato with ground beef and fajita peppers, the Midtown Potato with shrimp, corned beef, bacon, and chicken, or the Roasted Veggies Potato topped with fresh mushrooms, broccoli, and onions. Every dish is made with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that even the most indulgent loaded potato tastes fresh and satisfying. Most of the menu is gluten-free as well! Its longevity in Midtown reflects both the consistency of its menu and its dedication to the community.
Midtown Detroit thrives as a neighborhood where history, creativity, and flavor come together. Whether you’re strolling through the DIA, savoring global cuisine, or grabbing a drink before a night of arcade games, Midtown delivers a mix of experiences that reflect Detroit’s spirit. The next time you’re exploring the city, set aside time to wander through Midtown; you’ll find plenty of reasons to stay awhile.
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on March 7, 2016, and was authored by Amber Ogden.
