MICHIGAN’S DOWNRIVER REGION is in the state’s southeast corner on the eastern shores of Lake Erie and framed by the Rouge, Huron, and Detroit Rivers. Here you’ll find activities for all ages, both relaxing and adventurous. You can explore unique shops, sample some exotic dishes, or simply unplug.
Check out these reasons to experience Michigan’s southeast coast this season!
1. URBAN ADVENTURE KAYAKING
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2. NATURAL IMMERSIONS
CONTRARY to this area’s industrial past, the Downriver region of Wayne County is blessed with an abundance of parks and natural places. With North America’s only International Wildlife Refuge, multiple metro parks, and numerous city and county parks, downriver offers over 1,000 acres of parklands to explore and hike. In these special places, you can view natural habitats where eagles and dozens of waterfowl species roam, as well as watch beaver, deer, and other woodland creatures living in tranquil forested areas and marshlands all in the shadow of The Motor City. Soak-in views that look much the same as they did when Cadillac paddled up
the river in 1701.
3. FEED YOUR FOODIE FRENZIE
DOWNRIVER is comprised of 18 small communities, each with its own rich cultural history and all with its own style and
personality. Select from an array of culinary destinations from unique and exotic to comfort food.
Eateries include places such as Southgate’s Hungarian Rhapsody, one of only a handful of true Eastern European restaurants in the Midwest, or the popular Big Bear Lodge and Fiorelli’s collection of Italian cuisine, and diner icons like Joe’s Burgers, Atwater Street Tacos and The Auburn Cafe, which is lauded by the Detroit Free Press as the best Greek outside of Greektown.
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4. SEE HISTORY IN THE MAKING
Downriver boasts an important and noteworthy historical footprint. This region welcomed Michigan’s earliest French explorers at the dawn of the 18th century and the state’s oldest road passes through our region. And let’s not forget the birth and rapid expansion of the automotive industry. Museums, landmarks, and historic sites are abundant, but the future is also knocking.
As the region continues to transform itself from a rustbelt past to a greenbelt future, history is being made every day along the area’s nearly 100 miles of shoreline. In August, this area will see the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge viewing area in River Rouge’s Belanger Park where a special viewing platform is being erected to allow viewers to witness history as the international span of nearly a mile is under construction.
5. DISCOVER FUN FESTIVALS
THERE’S NO SHORTAGE of variety with 40 different festivals and events in Downriver throughout the year. Everything from Michigan’s second-largest art fair to nationally based fishing tournaments, ethnic-based celebrations, and community fairs dot the landscape throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
Music, food, rides, fireworks, and unique attractions all offer a tapestry of entertaining experiences. Browse art, enjoy live performances, search for one-of-a-kind buys, and savor everything from spirits to everyone’s favorite summer indulgence, decadent comfort fair food.
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6. FISHING IN WORLD-CLASS WATERS
Great Lakes Fishing Facilities
7. GOLF THE SOUTHEAST COAST
WITHIN AN AREA of just 190 square miles, you’ll find 14 playable golf courses that encompass striking views, tree-lined fairways, natural wetlands, sharp doglegs, tight water hazards, and sand traps to test your skills. This lineup of course options provides “par-fect” experiences for all levels of golfers. Each downriver course shares a common goal of providing golfers with quality experiences that include exceptional service and comfortable atmospheres. With designers like renowned course architects Jerry Matthews and Art Hills, the array of downriver courses offers “must-play experiences” for anyone who appreciates the game.
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8. ENJOY TRAIL EXPEDITIONS
Downriver Linked Greenways
DESTINATION DOWNRIVER’S MISSION
Our mission is to build stronger communities, support Downriver businesses and create a greener tomorrow for the region by offering a new vision of Downriver’s identity, empowering local business owners, and encouraging outdoor exploration and environment awareness within our communities.
