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Family Winter Break Destinations To Learn About Black Culture

This year, consider checking out a few family winter break destinations where there’s an abundance of ties to Black history.

Jasmine Osby • Nov 15, 2023

travel noire detroit

Time is moving fast and that means the first semester of the school year is coming to an end. It’s time to start planning winter vacation for the kids. While some folks are going to be relaxing at home, others are hitting the streets and visiting new destinations before the new year. 

This year, consider checking out a few family winter break destinations where there’s an abundance of ties to Black history . Their connection to African Americans makes them excellent choices for families looking to dive into Black cultural travel experiences. Here are a few family winter break destinations to visit to learn more about the beauty and diversity of Black culture.

New York City, NYC

New York street sign

The Big Apple is a hub for Black culture and has been for decades. Hip-hop was born in the Bronx. The legendary Apollo Theatre sits in Harlem where iconic Black artists have performed since 1913. Harlem was also the birthplace of a renaissance of African-American creative culture and still is a NYC gem today. 

New York City is full of relics and monuments to the culture. No matter what borough you’re visiting with your family, there’s something for everyone. History lovers should visit the Louis Armstrong House and the African Burial Ground National Monument. For a taste of the islands, visit the Little Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn. You can also visit DJ Kool’s House in the Bronx for a dose of Hip Hop history.

Memphis, TN

street in Memphis

Memphis has a ton of connections to Black culture. From music to civil rights, there are a plethora of monuments, historical districts, Black-owned businesses, and nature spaces to explore. Traveling families can attend a service at First Baptist Beale Street Church, the city’s oldest African-American congregation that served as a shelter for freedmen during the Civil War. The Memphis Heritage Trail, Tom Lee Park, and Civil Rights Trails provide incredible nature views while learning about Black culture. Travelers can also visit the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr was shot. The hotel is now the location of the National Civil Rights Museum.  

library in Boston

Many people might not connect Boston to Black culture. However, for those looking to dive deep into Black history in America, Boston is the perfect family winter break destination. The city is home to the Boston Black Heritage Trail. The 1.6-mile trail connects 15 historical sites throughout Beacon Hill. Each one holds significant importance to the history of Black people in the United States. The first building in the country dedicated to educating Black Americans, the Abiel Smith School, is on the trail. A historic barbershop that served as a safe meeting place for enslaved people on the Underground Railroad is on the trail as well as the oldest house built by an African American. 

Detroit, MI

Detroit has a lot of nicknames. Whether you call it the Dirty D, Hitsvilles, or Motor City, Detroit has a rich connection to Black history. Those looking to learn more about Black history while visiting Detroit during winter break should visit the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. For music culture lovers, families should visit the Motown Museum for a guided tour of the historic record label’s original building. Those exploring the city as a family should also check out the African Bead Museum, the Hermitage Slave Quarters, the Second Baptist Church, and other stops along the Underground Railroad.

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Tag: detroit

Black bottom: detroit’s lost neighborhood and its musical legacy.

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Black Bottom, Detroit, Michigan’s lost neighborhood is where rhythm and blues fueled the lives of its residents. 

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The Detroit Travel Story Is Starting to Get Rewritten by the Black Travel Movement

Sarah Enelow, Skift

December 28th, 2017 at 2:00 AM EST

The mainstream media currently has control of the Detroit travel story, but the Black Travel Movement is about to redefine what it means to visit the blackest city in America.

Mainstream travel media, which has historically been led by white journalists writing for white travelers, has mostly defined Detroit’s travel story. But the Black Travel Movement could change that narrative for what’s arguably the blackest city in America.

“In a lot of ways [Detroit’s decline] affected the black community more than others,” said Evita Robinson, founder of Nomadness Travel Tribe , a black travel community. “There’s a personal element to a visit to a city like Detroit for a group like Nomadness or others that are part of the Black Travel Movement. It’s more personal for us, because it’s affected us personally.”

Nomadness, which has more than 15,000 members, will hold its seventh annual barbecue in Detroit on July 28, but it isn’t hosting it there for the same reasons that mainstream travel media hail the city as an up-and-coming destination.

“We’re doing it for us by us,” Robinson said.

Mainstream Travel’s Detroit

According to mainstream travel media, Detroit is hot right now. In 2017, The New York Times ranked the city number nine on its annual Places to Go list, calling it “a comeback city set to make good on its promise.” Lonely Planet ranked Detroit number two on its 2018 cities list: “Young creative types jump-started the scene when they began transforming the crazy-huge slew of abandoned buildings into distilleries, bike shops and galleries.”

A couple of Detroit’s new attractions receive frequent attention. One is the Dequindre Cut , a two-mile greenway with artwork that recalls New York’s popular High Line . In 2017, Detroit also launched a new streetcar called the QLine that follows the Woodward Avenue thoroughfare, stopping at ballparks, museums, and theaters. It’s mostly useful for tourists and serves few residents.

The endorsements in The New York Times and Lonely Planet can easily inspire two types of travel. One trip revolves around new, white-run restaurants, shops, and attractions in the gentrifying downtown of a majority-black city. Another involves curiosity about an economy that tanked so dramatically; Detroit in 2013 carried out the country’s largest municipal bankruptcy, and it hurt black residents disproportionately.

“Slum tourism” exists in many cities, including Detroit. In 2013 the Los Angeles Times investigated Detroit photography tours in which white tourists gawked at struggling neighborhoods. In 2017, a downtown Detroit high-rise displayed a sign saying, “See Detroit Like We Do,” but the advertisement featured mostly white people . Along those same lines, the recent film Detroit was criticized for its tone-deaf representation of the city’s residents.

“You may have group trips with white travelers, them going on their own — [our] type of event is grander,” said Robinson. “I don’t think black spaces within the U.S. are shown with the levels and depth that they deserve, the nuances of our art, our culture, our music, our food.”

America’s Blackest Destination

In some cases, a comeback city can be just a city touting new attractions. But in what’s arguably the blackest city in America, it’s not that simple.

Detroit is 83 percent black and has the highest percentage of black residents among U.S. cities with a population of 100,000 or more, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In an unusual turn for Detroit, the city has its first white mayor in over 40 years .

According to  Visit Detroit’s latest study, from November 2016, 86 percent of its visitors reside in the U.S., with 76 percent coming from outside Michigan.

With such heavy domestic visitation from outside of the state, the Black Travel Movement would seem like a natural source to boost Detroit’s tourism.

Only 38 percent of Detroit’s visitors are women while Nomadness’ membership is approaching 90 percent female. Visit Detroit reported having no statistics on visitors broken down by race, and declined to speak with Skift about the Black Travel Movement.

Detroit hasn’t seen much visitation yet from groups in the Black Travel Movement, but the destination is on these companies’ radar. Shannon Washington, co-founder and director of Parlour , a tour operator and travel magazine for black women, said Parlour hasn’t yet held an event in Detroit, “but definitely would be interested.”

Kent Johnson, co-founder of tour operator and community Black & Abroad , said the company was more focused on the Atlanta and New York markets, but would consider Detroit if there is demand. Tour operator and community Travel Noire , acquired by Blavity in 2017, said it has also not held events in Detroit.

The Promise of Black Travel to Detroit

Nomadness’ decision to encourage black travelers to visit Detroit could be a breakthrough in how the industry sees this destination — through the eyes of black Americans who have a stake in the black community.

Robinson noted the importance of “being able to scope the scene for ourselves and create our own narrative,” in addition to getting Detroit residents involved in the group’s barbecue July 28 and doing a large-scale service project.

Nomadness selected Detroit by member vote on Facebook, and during the vote, one member commented, “If Detroit is selected just make sure money is spent in our communities or at B.O.B.s,” referring to black-owned businesses.

“I think some people are actually going to be taking the weekend and splitting it between leisure activities with us and some potential business partnerships or investments,” said Robinson. “Particularly with a president like Trump at the helm right now, it is a powerful, powerful statement for a community in large mass, hundreds of black people, going into Detroit to celebrate and invest.”

Numerous Tribe members either live in Detroit or lived there in the past, but in a broader sense, the Black Travel Movement includes many descendants of the Great Migration. During the Great Migration years, roughly 1910 to 1970, six million black southerners fled the violent Jim Crow south for the urban north, and Detroit received a tremendous number of these migrants. Many were drawn to jobs in the then-thriving auto industry. Detroit’s population changed drastically as black migrants flooded in and white residents fled.

Nomadness’ finalist destinations for 2018 were Atlanta and Detroit, the latter winning overwhelmingly with 71 percent of the vote. In 2017, the Nomadness barbecue took place in Philadelphia; in 2016, 2015, and 2014, Atlanta hosted the event; and there were two events in New York before that. Attendance more than doubled in recent years, from about 250 in Atlanta to nearly 600 in Philadelphia. Nomadness is pivoting away from group tours toward these types of events.

During the Atlanta versus Detroit vote, a Tribe member commented that the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History was a Detroit-specific selling point.

The Wright is one of the largest, most-renowned black history museums in the country, and could inform part of the relationship between Detroit and the Black Travel Movement. The Wright delivers an immersive experience similar to that of the new Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., whose overwhelming success has already made it a black American mecca . The two museums have already collaborated in some areas.

When asked if the Wright had ever worked with a group in the Black Travel Movement, which boasts many millennials, a spokesperson said no, but that it had potential.“I think it’d be a great way to connect and engage a younger population. My team and I will look into doing some outreach.”

While part of the Black Travel Movement has black Americans traveling to international destinations that see few black visitors, Nomadness’ domestic trips lean toward established black hubs like New York, Atlanta, and Philadelphia.

Robinson said she’s had conversations about the possibility of events in Selma, Alabama, and Nashville, Tennessee, as well.

About visiting places with a significant black population, Robinson said, “I think we need it in this country right now.”

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Photo credit: The famous Joe Louis fist sculpture in Detroit's Hart Plaza, June 2015. Black travelers are redefining what it means to visit Detroit. Michigan Municipal League / Flickr

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5 Amazing Black-owned Travel Companies to Know and Support

“Travel has changed my life. And just when I think it can’t get any better, it does.”

travel noire detroit

The second time Zim Flores ever traveled internationally, it was an across-the-world move to India . Landing a fellowship post-college in the South Asian country, the then-20-something sold everything she owned and made the life-changing leap. But what she discovered when she arrived was jarring: India’s fixation with fair skin. Flores first got a glimpse into this color complex while in Delhi, when she saw a commercial for a skin-lightening cream, advertising dark-skinned complexions as something to conceal.

This was coupled with the fact that she rarely, if ever, encountered someone who looked like her during her travels. “I had been living in India and traveling frequently around Southeast Asia , and never ran into someone who looked like me doing the same thing,” Flores, who spent a little over a year in the region, told Travel + Leisure .

Though tarnished, this still-transformative trip inspired Flores to change the narrative — to find a way to amplify Black travel experiences .

“Living and working in India afforded me the luxury of frequent and inexpensive travel. In addition to close proximity to other Asian countries, I was jetting to new destinations monthly — for as little as $8 for a one-way flight,” said Flores. “I believed instead of being the subject, someone who looked like me could be the traveler…so, I set out to create a place for Black travelers to connect and explore new boundaries.” And in 2013, Travel Noire was born.

According to a 2018 study by Mandala Research , African Americans spend nearly $63 billion on travel annually. Showcasing this representation, Travel Noire launched as a space for Black travelers to be seen and share their stories, providing tools, resources, inspiration, and eventually even guided tours. “I simply wanted to create a company that spoke to the unique experiences that I encountered while traveling,” said Flores, who served as the CEO until 2017, when she sold the company to Blavity, where it continues its mission to serve as a platform for Black millennials.

Flores is still known and celebrated as a powerful voice and presence in the travel space. When asked what it means to her to be a traveler of color, The Forbes 30 Under 30 recipient, who has racked up quite a few passport stamps over the years, said, “It means that I am a cultural asset. The world is informed by Black culture — in clothes, in music, in art. I am proud, but I am also aware. I’m aware of my privilege as an African. And then as an African born in America. And as a Black person. These are all very different and carry with [them] different nuances. So, I carry these many identities with me as I travel around the world.”

And with that often comes challenges. “There are many who will mistake Black skin for dirt. There are people who have put their hands in my hair,” said Flores. “It’s getting the awkward stares when I fly in business class. It’s being denied a taxi because of the color of my skin. Then there are experiences of my friends who have been called immigrants, prostitutes, thugs, and thieves. You name it, we know it. I often have to dress nice enough for [people] to know that I have money, but not too nice so that I’m not a target. It can be an exhausting line to dance around, but when you travel as often as I have, you recognize that it’s part of the territory.”

But her relationship with travel remains strong. “I love the way [travel] challenges me to be a better person. For the way that it inspires me to dream. For the way my mind creates new worlds as a result of it. Travel has changed my life. And just when I think it can’t get any better, it does,” she said. As a travel expert — one that is tapped into the latest trends — we asked Flores to share some of her favorite Black-owned travel companies to know and support.

The Wind Collective

The Wind Collective hosts group trips that offer a mix of creativity, adventure, and cultural immersion. Travelers can choose from a variety of themes including nature, wildlife, food, culture, and nautical experiences. “What Clé and his team are doing for travel and travel content is nothing short of remarkable. Some of the most breathtaking imagery I've ever seen.”

Dipaways specializes in coordinating private and group getaways. “This brand was started by a former Travel Noire experience designer, Chadricks. He is a master at experience design — so much so that Dipaways has grown exponentially in a matter of months. He has a knack for bringing good people together. If you find yourself on this trip, you won't regret it.”

Airfordable

Drawing from her own experience of struggling to buy expensive airline tickets to visit her family in Ghana, Ama Marfo co-founded Airfordable to make travel more accessible.“They allow you to split up the cost of your flights into payment plans. I had a family friend of ours use this to fly their family of six out to France for our wedding."

Curiocity is “a network of African-designed hostels rooted in community," with locations in Cape Town and Johannesburg. "I’ve had the pleasure of staying at their Johannesburg hostel several times over the years and we’ve partnered with them to create unique experiences.”

Siviwe Tours

“ Siviwe is an inbound operator that I’ve worked with for many years. [They] specialize in guided experiences through Langa, Cape Town’s oldest township." Founded and owned by Siviwe Mbinda, a Langa local, Siviwe aims to share the culture of Langa with a wider audience, employ local residents, and support grassroots initiatives. "Much of what I know about South Africa is because of him.”

BAUCE Magazine

7 Black-Owned Travel Groups That You and Your Squad Should Join

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If you haven’t already noticed, black women are currently slaying the travel scene.

In fact, we are traveling now more than ever before. African-Americans’ intent to travel reportedly increased by 19 percent just from 2015 to 2016. According to the Mandala Research Firm, 17% of us take one or more international trips a year, and we spend $48 billion on travel in the United States alone.

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But in a society where the typical jet-setter is portrayed as white, minority travelers are consistently underrepresented by the mainstream travel industry. Despite the media’s misrepresentation, there is a large, fast-growing community of black travelers, and these six trailblazing black travel groups are at the forefront.

All owned and operated by BAUCE women, they share a common goal: to shatter the stereotype that people of color don’t travel.

1. Nomadness Travel Tribe

nomadness-tribe

With a demographic that’s 80% female and 85% African-American, the Tribe unites like-minded individuals looking for an alternative to mainstream travel. Those wishing to join must have at least one passport stamp and complete a Newbie Bootcamp. The average sellout time for their trips is five minutes!

2. Urban Events Global

Urban Events Global

Last but not least, this travel group is a secret gem that will help you discover the world. Founded in 2011, Urban Events Global members are predominately people of color who enjoy experiencing all that life has to offer, from exotic trips to international travel. The group currently has more than 50,000 members and includes accommodations for their international packages .

Every year the group hosts an adult camping trip in Central Texas for individuals who love the outdoors and are looking to bond and make new friends in the company of Mother Nature. For people that love the seas, Urban Events Group also offers a luxurious cruise weekend every March for ultimate party-goers.

If using your passport is more your travel style, then you can also partake in an annual international meetup that occurs in far-off, activity-packed locations. If you’re looking to mingle with a mature and fun-loving crowd, then Urban Events Global is your crew.

3. Travel Noire

Travel Noire

Travel Noire’s message is simple: you can and should make travel a priority—and you don’t need a ton of money or vacation days to do so. And the best part? They’re here to show you how . Aside from offering exclusive group trips dubbed “Travel Noire Experiences,” the company recently launched Compass, a community course designed to equip members with the knowledge and tools needed to travel the world on their own terms. It features guides like “How to Convince Your Boss to Work From Anywhere” and “Hidden Destinations You Won’t Believe Exist”, along with live Q&A calls and trainings with world-class experts.

If that doesn’t draw you in, one look at their Instagram account will leave you overcome with wanderlust. Be prepared to spend hours scrolling through their colorful collection of real black travelers in the world’s most stunning destinations.

4. Tastemakers Africa

travel noire detroit

Cherae Robinson started the company to change the often-negative perceptions of the continent. Her former NGO job frequently led her to African countries, but her journeys were often met with fear and skepticism from those at home. But upon seeing people’s positive interest in response to the photos and stories she brought back with her, she saw an opportunity to transform the narrative by inviting people to experience some of the lesser known aspects of African life. Soon after, the Tastemakers brand was born, and it has since grown into a global community with offices around the world.

If you’re planning your own trip, be sure to check out their mobile app, TSTMKRS, to find the best events at your destination, ranging from hidden beach escapes to pop-up dining with local chefs!

5. Black Adventuristas

travel noire detroit

Inspired by her own life-changing experience, Garnett launched Black Adventuristas as a platform to encourage, celebrate, and connect adventurous black women. According to their Facebook page, the group “aims to inspire black women to conquer their fears, pursue their dreams, and fully experience the adventure that is life. Whether it is traveling the world, tackling an epic bucket list, quitting a “good” job to pursue a non-traditional career, trying a daring new hair or lipstick color, or simply dining alone for the first time, all adventures are worthwhile.” Check out their Instagram, Facebook, and Tumblr, and keep an eye out for their upcoming website.

6. Black Girls Travel Too

travel noire detroit

With that empowering message—along with their group tours of incredible destinations like Cuba and Barbados—Black Girls Travel Too is emboldening more and more women of color to discover the world on their own terms.

7. Passport Posse

travel noire detroit

Are you into traveling in crews? Then this is the group that you need to know about. Started by two travel addicts, Shantoya and Willie, outside of a cafe in Greece, Passport Posse was born from the need to reverse the negative perceptions and encounters that they had experienced as African-Americans in foreign countries. The goal of Passport Posse, according to their website, is to 1) encourage the travel frequency of minorities abroad, 2) provide a platform for healthy travel interactions and communities of practice, and 3) create trips and sponsor activities aimed to immerse globetrotters in the culture of the countries they have elected to visit.

One thing that makes Passport Posse unique is the fact that they really help you to reduce your overhead costs when lodging abroad if you sign up to become a member. Not to mention, this crew is filled with serious travel enthusiasts — the lead ambassadors have both collected at least 25 stamps (and counting) in their passports!

Many people will choose a tour group when they travel, because it will be more convenient, and traveling with a group of people will produce more interesting things. How to make your tour group more unique, you can customize your unique lanyards, and you can customize the group logo or pattern on it to give it to your members, which can not only promote your tour group but also easily distinguish your members for easy management. If you are traveling for a family or an individual, custom lanyards can be hung with a mobile phone or water bottle to free your hands and prevent them from being lost. Order now on GSJJ, it is more cost-effective to order in bulk.

travel noire detroit

Featured photo via BrooklynAl

Bauce media partner.

This content was produced via a paid partnership with BAUCE Magazine.

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Watch CBS News

Online community targets jet-setting black millennials

July 20, 2015 / 10:30 AM EDT / CBS News

An online global community called Travel Noire has become one of the go-to sites for black travelers in search of ideas of where to go, where to stay and deals to get there.

Since launching in 2013, it has sought to appeal to young black millennials with some cash to spend and a desire to see the world, reports CBS News correspondent Vladimir Duthiers.

"I thought about creating a community of people who looked like me, who loved to travel," Travel Noire founder and CEO Zim Ugochukwu said.

The 27-year-old said the idea for site came to her while she was living in India three years ago.

"I just didn't see anybody who looked like me. I had traveled to almost every country in Asia and we were still in a minority. And so I wondered why that was, I wondered why brands weren't spending money in this very influential market," Ugochukwu said.

She created Travel Noire to show travelers how to fly to destinations abroad without breaking the bank. African Americans spend $48 billion dollars a year on domestic travel, but Ugochukwu said that money is usually spent on the same vacation spots every year.

"To see myself in a destination that I wouldn't normally expect to see myself in, that's a trigger. And that means that same $5,000 that I was going to spend in the same destination I've been going to for 10 years, is going to be spent on this new destination," Ugochukwu said.

She said her site is different from others like Priceline or Orbitz.

"They sell tickets. They're a means to an end. So if you have the funds, then you purchase your ticket. What Travel Noire is offering is the difference between one vacation and seven vacations a year. We're teaching people about how to permanently integrate travel into their own lives," Ugochukwu said.

The company uses Instagram to reach a wider audience. Vacationers post photos with #TravelNoire and the account has more than 100,000 followers. In addition to photos from every corner of the globe, visitors on the website can find articles and videos on everything from how to pack properly or rack up airline miles.

The site also has a subscription service. For $9 a month, users can access Travel Noire District and seek advice through chat rooms with experienced travelers on every continent. District users are also able to take advantage of glitch fare notifications.

"Every day you get about 15 or so glitch or low fares," she said.

Errors, or glitches, in an airline's computer system can produce low ticket fares.

"Travel Noire has also taught me how to travel for a lot cheaper, a lot cheaper, let me tell you," subscriber Modupe Sonuyi said.

She received a glitch fare notification on Christmas Eve that she said she couldn't pass up.

"There was a glitch fare could take you to Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or Manila, Philippines. I decided to definitely capitalize on these glitch fares and bought a couple of tickets," Sonuyi said.

A round-trip ticket to the Philippines cost $280, she said.

"Since Travel Noire I have found so many different ways to travel," she said. "I'm not afraid to pick up and go."

They plan to launch a new product this week called Travel Noire Experiences that will offer guided tours in several destinations around the world.

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Turkish Airlines Launches Detroit to Istanbul Flights – Travel Noire

blkalertstravel

Exploring Istanbul’s famed covered bazaars, mosques, palaces, and churches is about to get a whole lot easier. Turkish Airlines has just announced its plans to launch flights between Detroit and Istanbul. The new route opens up a world of cultural wonders for eager travelers.

Operations Begin Near the End of the Year

Starting in the final weeks of 2023, the route will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Saturday service will also begin as early as 2024. Departing from Detroit at 9:35 p.m. local time, flights will touch down in Istanbul at 3:35 p.m. local time. The return journey will leave Istanbul at 3:45 p.m. local time and arrive in the States at 6:50 p.m. local time.

Economy seats are available starting from $492 for one-way trips, while business-class seats come in at $2,001. Turkish Airlines flights will be operated by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, promising comfort and modern amenities for passengers.

travel noire detroit

Turkish Airlines Is Aggressively Pursuing More US Markets

This exciting addition to Turkish Airlines’ roster will mark Detroit as the 13th U.S. gateway for the carrier. The city joins an extensive network that includes Atlanta, Seattle, New York, Newark, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Miami, Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C.

Turkish Airlines has been bullish in expanding its presence across the United States. The airline added Newark and Dallas–Fort Worth in 2021, followed by Seattle in 2022. Looking ahead, plans to offer direct flights from Denver and Orlando are in the works, although specific dates are not yet public.

Turkish Airlines offers a stop-over program worth considering for travelers passing through Istanbul on their way to other Turkish cities or neighboring countries. Passengers with layovers of at least 20 hours have access to a complimentary hotel stay. Economy-class travelers are accommodated for one night in a four-star hotel. Business-class travelers can enjoy two nights in a five-star establishment. This program is exclusively available to round-trip ticket holders and is only available on one leg of the journey.

Serving More Than 100 Destinations Worldwide

With a network encompassing over 100 destinations worldwide, Turkish Airlines goes beyond facilitating trips to Istanbul alone. It serves as a gateway to numerous European tourist hotspots, including Paris, Barcelona, Rome, London, and Vienna. Travelers can take advantage of attractive rates, with Istanbul serving as a convenient connection point.

As Turkish Airlines propels Midwest-based adventurers towards the treasures of Istanbul, a new chapter of exploration and cultural immersion awaits. With its growing presence in the United States and commitment to exceptional service, Turkish Airlines continues to empower travelers with seamless journeys.

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MGM Grand Detroit is located in the heart of all the sports, entertainment and excitement Downtown Detroit has to offer. This Forbes Four Star and AAA Four Diamond resort offers 400 luxury rooms and suites featuring personalized service and upscale appointments. Walk into the resort and experience a variety of restaurants, try your luck within 100,000 square feet of gaming space or relax in the spa.

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Come enjoy an original take on a modern steakhouse and lounge designed with a downtown vibe. Savor globally inspired twists on flame-grilled steaks and seafood.

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Enjoy comfort food and pub classics such as the delicious TAP Classic Burger, Detroit House Nachos and savory wings. TAP’s beverage menu features a year-round curated collection of more than 50 draught and bottled beers.

Detroit Central Market

Detroit Central Market is our new urban food hall offering a fresh approach to fast-casual dining.

Fat Daddy's Hot Chicken

Fat Daddy’s does it right. Featuring signature hot fried chicken sandwiches, tenders and entrées, all spiced to your liking with just the right amount of heat, along with your choice of seasoned fries, spicy baked beans, and other mouthwatering sides.

Diablo's Tacos

Spice up your day with delicious south-of-the-border fare. Enjoy a variety of authentic Mexican street tacos, quesadillas, rice, beans and freshly made guacamole.

Grand Wok Noodle Bar

Savor other favorites such as Mini Pork Bao Buns, Glazed Pork Spare Ribs, Salt & Pepper Shrimp and other delectable dishes.

The Corners Detroit-Style Pizza

For an array of signature pizzas, sandwiches soups and salads, The Corners is where you’ll find wholesale Italian cooking with homemade Detroit flair.

The Roasted Bean

Get your day going with Detroit’s finest brews. Roasted Bean Detroit proudly serves the finest coffee.

Breeze Dining Court

For a quick bite on the go, “Breeze” into our quick-serve area and discover multiple distinct dining experiences

Detroit Wing Company

Serving your favorite all-natural wings, boneless wings and chicken tenders as well as an array of homemade sides including mac & cheese and cornbread.

National Coney Island

Enjoy classic favorites like the Coney Hot Dog or The Original Hani™ Special.

Your personalized pizza pie starts here! Red Sauce serves fast, delicious pizza with your choice of toppings.

AXIS Lounge

Grab your friends and let loose with signature cocktails and soulful sounds.

Visit 32 Degrees for a taste of summer all year round. Enjoy the coolest frozen daiquiris and margaritas or grab a frosty craft brew.

BetMGM Sports Lounge

BetMGM Sports Lounge features a full bar with signature craft cocktails and a selection of local craft beers.

Massage table, tray, robes hanging on wall

IMMERSE spa

There is something for everyone at IMMERSE spa. The award-winning, resort-style spa offers both luxury and relaxation in our 20,000 square-foot oasis.

Free weights

Fitness Center

Indoor pool, lounge chairs

Entertainment at your fingertips

From live music to edge-of-your-seat acrobatics and everything in between, there is no shortage of dazzling entertainment when you stay with us.

Couple at dinner at Ballagio Prime restaurant

Travel the world with your taste buds. From a bespoke omakase experience to a dazzling buffet or a midnight breakfast, explore our fabulous dining options.

Pool and cabanas at Bellagio

The Pool Awaits

Delight is pool time by booking an exclusive hideaway experience. Pool Season is here.

Getting Here

Mgm grand detroit.

1777 3rd Ave, Detroit, Michigan, USA, 48226

Uber/Lyft; fee: 45 USD (one way) ;on request

Property Details

Contactless mobile payments

Concierge desk service

Currency Exchange

Property has elevators

Vending Machine

Languages spoken by staff: English, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese

For more information about the physical features of our accessible rooms, common areas or special services relating to a specific disability please call +1 313-465-1777

Accessible on-site parking

Service Animals are Welcome

Van Accessible on-site parking

Accessible Entrance to On-Site Pool

Entrance to On-Site Fitness Center is Accessible

Entrance to On-Site Spa is Accessible

Main Entrance is Accessible

Meeting Spaces are Accessible

On-Site Restaurants are Accessible

Room and Suites Access through the Interior Corridor

Accessible Vanities

Adjustable Height Hand-Held Shower Wand

Alarm Clock Telephone Ringers

Bathtub Grab Rails

Bathtub Seat

Closed Caption TV

Deadbolts on Guest Room and Suites Doors

Electronic Room Key

Flashing Door Knockers

Guest Room and Suites Doors Self-Closing

Hearing Accessible Rooms and/or Kits

Lever Handles on Guest Room Doors

Lowered Deadbolts on Guest Room Doors

Lowered Electrical Outlets

Lowered Night Guards on Guest Room Doors

Lowered Viewports in Guest Room Doors

Mobility accessible rooms

Non-slip Grab Rails in the Bathroom

Roll-in Shower

Safety Chains and/or Latches on Guest Doors

TTY/TTD Compatible

Toilet Seat at Wheelchair Height - Toilet for Disabled

Transfer Showers in Guest Rooms

Viewports in Guest Room and Suites Doors

Frequently Asked Questions

The check-in time at MGM Grand Detroit is 4:00 pm and the check-out time is 11:00 am.

The pet policy at MGM Grand Detroit is:

The parking options at MGM Grand Detroit are:

The property amenities at MGM Grand Detroit are:

No, free Wi-Fi is not available to guests at MGM Grand Detroit.

Unlock your stay with the Marriott Bonvoy™ App

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MGM GRAND DETROIT

1777 3rd Ave,

Detroit, Michigan, USA, 48226

Fax: +1 313-463-4477

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INTERNATIONAL

AZ Animals (US)

Detroit Zoo: Ideal Time to Go + 2,000 Amazing Animals to See

A trip to the zoo is a perfect outing for people of all ages. A short drive from downtown Detroit is the Detroit Zoo. Here, both locals and visitors can see over 2,000 animals and 280 species up close. The zoo consists of 125 acres and has been around for nearly 100 years. 

This post is going to explore the must-see animals and exhibits at this Michigan favorite. Let’s take a look at what you can expect when visiting the Detroit Zoo. 

The Best Time to Visit the Detroit Zoo

As animal lovers, going to the zoo 365 days a year is perfect; there are certain times that are better than others. Summer mornings are the least crowded if you’re looking for time to enjoy the atmosphere without too many people. Its hours are typically from 10 AM to 4 PM, with gates closing at 3:30 PM.

You can also visit the zoo in the winter to see animals such as polar bears , who enjoy a more natural habitat. Some visitors say that going in the fall is great for those with children under a year old. Be sure to check the zoo’s calendar to keep up on happenings, events, and the best times to visit for your time in Detroit. 

Must-See Exhibits at the Detroit Zoo

These are some of the best parts of this Michigan zoo that are worth your time!

The Aviary and Butterfly House

Travel to a whimsical wonderland where plants and fluttering butterflies surround you. The Aviary and Butterfly House has birds and butterflies all around you. They often will sit on your shoulder or hand if you stay still. 

The Polk Penguin Conservation Center

Among the most popular exhibits within the Detroit Zoo is the Penguin Conservation Center. Here, you will find four species of penguins that are easy to see through a large window. The 75 penguins at the zoo love to slide around on their bellies and will sometimes even shoot themselves into the water. 

People of all ages can enjoy watching the penguins from above or below, giving a truly immersive experience. 

Arctic Ring of Life

The Arctic Ring of Life is another exhibit that allows you to view animals from above and below. Here, you can observe one of the largest polar bears in the world, seals, and Arctic foxes. 

The Australian Outback

As the name suggests, this is where you can spot animals from Down Under! It’s a lot cheaper to go to the zoo than to book a trip to Australia! Kangaroos , wallabies, and other animals roam around and greet zoo-goers. They have plenty of grass and room to roam, which they need to get out their energy! 

Animals at the Detroit Zoo

There are over 2,000 animals in total to see at this zoo! Some of the most popular animals at the Detroit Zoo are as follows. 

  • Amur tigers 

Binti is the first lion to be born at the Detroit Zoo in 40 years. This beautiful cat was born in the autumn of 2020 and is a fan favorite! She plays with the other lions and relaxes on the warm rocks and under the trees in her sanctuary. 

Another one of the most popular animals here is the giraffe . There are four giraffes here, and people say the best time to see them up close is in the winter! The Detroit Zoo has added an indoor habitat where visitors can go right up to the giraffes and feed them.

The gray wolves at the Detroit Zoo may be elusive at times, making spotting them all the more enjoyable. They have a huge area of land where they can explore. It’s filled with rocks, dens, moving water, and plenty of native plants. 

Amur Tigers

It’s hard to beat the beauty of the big cats at the Devereaux Tiger Forest at this zoo. Nikolai and Aleksei are just two of the stunning feelings that roam around here. There is a glass viewing area to give guests a unique look at these animals as they enjoy their large enclosure. 

Other Things to Do at the Detroit Zoo

Here are some other activities families and visitors can enjoy during their stay. 

  • The Detroit Zoo Carousel: This ride has 33 hand-carved figures for people to hop on to be transported back in time!
  • Tauber Family Railroad: Two trains for guests to enjoy a leisurely train ride around the zoo that takes you to the Africa Station or the Chrysler Main Station. 
  • Rackham Polar Bear Fountain: This is a massive 75,000-gallon pool with a flowing fountain. Two 10-foot-tall bronze bears adorn the 1939 fountain in the heart of the zoo.
  • 4D Theater: No trip to the zoo is complete without stepping inside the Ford Education Center. This is where the 126-seat 4D theater is! Here, you can watch a wide range of shows and educational content about animals and the world we live in. 

Sharks, lions, alligators, and more! Don’t miss today’s latest and most exciting animal news.  Click here to access the A-Z Animals profile page  and be sure to hit the  Follow  button here or at the top of this article!

Have feedback? Add a comment below!

  • Discover The 4 Best Zoos In Michigan (And The Ideal Time To Visit Each)
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  • Omaha Zoo: Ideal Time to Go + 8 Amazing Animals to See

The post Detroit Zoo: Ideal Time to Go + 2,000 Amazing Animals to See appeared first on A-Z Animals .

Detroit Zoo water tower sign

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