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Resources & References

Resources & References

Great Lakes, USA

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for Navigation

  • Transit:

    Real-time public transportation information (DDOT, SMART, QLine).

  • ParkDetroit:

    Pay for street parking meters and extend parking time remotely.

  • Uber / Lyft:

    Convenient ride-sharing services for getting around.

  • OpenTable / Yelp:

    Aid in making restaurant reservations and discovering services.

  • Google Maps:

    Comprehensive navigation including offline maps for use without internet.

Useful Websites for Planning

  • Visit Detroit:

    The official tourism site for Detroit, with events, attractions, and planning tools. Visitdetroit.com

  • Downtown Detroit Partnership:

    Information on downtown events, development, and initiatives. Downtowndetroit.org

  • The Henry Ford:

    Official site for The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation and Greenfield Village. Thehenryford.org

  • Detroit Institute of Arts:

    Official site for the DIA, with exhibition details and hours. Dia.org

  • Motown Museum:

    Official site for booking tours and learning about the museum. Motownmuseum.org

Online Connections

Social Media Accounts

Follow official tourism accounts like @VisitDetroit on Instagram or Facebook for visual inspiration and event updates.

Follow @VisitDetroit

Podcasts & Digital Content

Search for podcasts on Detroit history, its music (especially Motown), urban revitalization, or local culture.

Online Communities

Reddit communities like r/Detroit or r/Detroit_Travel deliver local insights, tips, and answers from residents and past visitors.

Explore r/Detroit Visit r/Detroit_Travel

Language & Accessibility

Language Learning Resources

  • While English is main, other languages like Spanish or Arabic are common.
  • Apps like Babbel are beneficial for learning basic phrases.
  • Show appreciation for local linguistic diversity.
  • Connect with locals through simple greetings.

Further Accessibility Information

  • Consult Section 11.4 for detailed accessibility guidance.
  • Many Detroit attractions accommodate mobility needs.
  • Confirm specific requirements with venues directly.
  • Plan routes with accessibility in mind.

General Information

Currency

  • United States Dollar (USD)
  • Credit cards are widely accepted.
  • ATMs are available throughout the city.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases.

Time Zone

  • Eastern Time Zone (ET).
  • Daylight Saving Time is observed.
  • UTC-5 (Standard), UTC-4 (Daylight).
  • Verify time zone changes if traveling internationally.

Electricity

  • 120V, 60Hz.
  • Type A and Type B outlets are common.
  • Bring an universal adapter for international devices.
  • A portable charger is advisable for personal electronics.

Print Resources

Explore Detroit Through Print

Guidebooks & Maps

  • Look for Michigan or Great Lakes region guidebooks.
  • Specific Detroit-only guidebooks are also available.
  • Physical maps of downtown and Midtown aid orientation.
  • Combine print with digital resources for comprehensive guidance.

Books About Detroit

  • "Detroit: An American Autopsy" by Charlie LeDuff.
  • "Arc of Justice: A Saga of Race, Civil Rights, and Murder in the Jazz Age" by Kevin Boyle.
  • "Fordlandia" by Greg Grandin connects to Detroit's automotive legacy.
  • These volumes illuminate Detroit's struggles and resilience.

Local Publications

  • Detroit Metro Times: An alternative weekly newspaper.
  • Detroit Free Press and The Detroit News deliver local news.
  • These publications cover local news, arts, and culture.
  • Pick up free copies for entertainment listings and updates.

Health & Safety Information

Emergency Contacts

  • All Emergencies (Police, Fire, Medical): Dial 911.
  • Familiarize yourself with your accommodation's emergency plan.
  • Keep a list of family and local emergency contacts.

Hospital Locations

  • Henry Ford Hospital: 2799 W Grand Blvd, Detroit.
  • Detroit Medical Center (DMC) Receiving Hospital: 4160 John R St, Detroit.
  • Ascension St. John Hospital: 22101 Moross Rd, Detroit.

International Traveler Information

Embassy & Consulate

  • Locate your country's embassy in Washington D.C.
  • Note any consulates in nearby cities like Chicago or New York.
  • Keep their contact details accessible for reference.

Lost Document Procedures

  • Contact your embassy or consulate immediately for lost passports or visas.
  • File a police report for any stolen items, including documents.
  • This report is often necessary for insurance claims or replacement documents.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Weather Alerts

  1. Monitor local alerts from NOAA Weather Radio.
  2. Follow local news channels for updates.
  3. Enable smartphone weather alerts for timely notifications.
  4. Stay informed about severe weather conditions.
  5. Check the forecast daily for potential changes.

Safety Actions

  1. Seek shelter in sturdy buildings during severe weather.
  2. Prefer basements or interior rooms away from windows.
  3. Follow guidance from local authorities and emergency services.
  4. Be aware of your accommodation's specific emergency plan.
  5. Remain calm and follow all safety instructions given.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

"Searching for Sugar Man" (2012), "8 Mile" (2002), and "Detroit" (2017) illuminate city aspects.

Music & Art

Explore the vast catalog of Motown artists, listen to techno pioneers, and research local artists.

Cultural Insights

Consider Detroit's unique contributions to global industry and civil rights history.

Important Safety Message

For immediate assistance, dial 911 for all emergencies (Police, Fire, Medical) anywhere in the U.S.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Solo Traveler Guidance

Safety Considerations

  • General Safety:

    Detroit is safe for solo travelers in main tourist areas.

  • Nighttime Travel:

    Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially after dark.

  • Awareness:

    Use common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, as in any large city.

Social Opportunities

  • Hostel Connections:

    Hostels like Hostel Detroit are good places to meet other travelers.

  • Activities:

    Join walking tours or attend events at Campus Martius Park to socialize.

  • Dining:

    Many restaurants deliver bar seating arrangements suitable for solo diners.

Family Travel Focus

Family Attractions

The Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village, Michigan Science Center, and Detroit Zoo make top choices for families.

Explore family fun

Family Accommodation

Look for hotels with pools or suites, or Airbnbs with multiple bedrooms and kitchen amenities for convenience.

Kid-Friendly Dining

Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus. Coney Islands are a fun and affordable option for families.

Group Travel Logistics

Group Transportation

  • For larger groups, consider renting a passenger van or booking private transport.
  • Coordinate ride-share services for smaller group needs.
  • Utilize public transit for efficient movement within central areas.
  • Plan routes to minimize travel time between destinations.

Group Reservations

  • Make restaurant and tour reservations well in advance for groups.
  • Secure availability for major shows like Broadway at the Fisher Theatre or concerts.
  • Book group rates at hotels where available.
  • Consider large Airbnbs or Vrbo rentals that accommodate your entire group.

Accessibility Guidance

Improved Accessibility

  • Detroit has made strides in accessibility, especially in core areas.
  • Many attractions and public transit options are accessible.
  • Plan routes and confirm specific needs with venues in advance.
  • Consult official websites for detailed accessibility information.

Planning for Specific Needs

  • Contact attractions directly to address specific accessibility inquiries.
  • Utilize accessible parking where designated.
  • Consider booking accessible hotel rooms when making reservations.
  • Review public transit accessibility maps for ease of movement.

Tailored Travel Guidance

Customizing your trip based on your group type leads to a more fulfilling and smooth experience in Detroit.

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