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You probably already know a few things about Detroit. It's the Motor City, it's home to the Coney dog and right now, it's showing some welcome signs of revival. But whether you're a frequent traveler or a first-time visitor, there's always more to discover, see and do in Motown, like this stuff:
1. Detroit's largest park is an island.
Belle Isle, often referred to as the gem of Detroit, is larger than Central Park and contains a slew of activities and attractions including the Belle Isle Conservatory, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, an aquarium and a golf practice center.
2. The GM Renaissance Center is big. Really big.
It's the tallest building in Michigan, and if you're staying at the Marriott at the Ren Cen, you're staying in the third-tallest, all-hotel building in the western hemisphere ... So you've got that going for you.
3. Motown knew how to make hits.
From 1961 to 1971, Motown Records cranked out no fewer than 110 top 10 hits, including a few little ditties like "I Heard it Through the Grapevine," "My Girl" and "Dancing in the Street".
4. The Detroit Institute of Arts contains a National Historic Landmark.
Painted on the walls of the DIA's Rivera Court are the Detroit Industry Murals by Mexican muralist Diego Rivera. The 27-panel frescos serve as both a celebration and critique of modern industry, and they were given National Historical Landmark status in 2014.
Instagram photo shared by @s3anc.
Fun fact: Despite their current recognition, however, the Detroit Industry Murals weren't initially welcomed by all; the city council even called for the murals to be destroyed, but today they remain a cherished part of the DIA's extensive collection.
5. Detroit has a rich history in booze.
During Prohibition, Detroit became the coolest guy at the party. Nearly 75 percent of all illegal liquor entered the country through Detroit thanks to its close proximity to Canada - everyone's favorite drinking buddy to the north. You can get still get a taste of Detroit's Prohibition history with groups like Motor City Brew Tours and the Detroit Bus Company.
6. Detroit has a rich present in booze.
From craft cocktails at places like Sugar House and Two James Spirits to breweries like Atwater Brewery and Motor City Brewing Works, there are plenty of watering holes in Detroit. If history is still your thing, the oldest bar in town is the Two Way Inn, established in 1876.
Fun fact: Throughout its 139-year history Two Way Inn has served as a brothel, dance hall, village jail and dentist's office. Of course, it's also rumored to be haunted.
7. This city loves to win.
When it comes to the four major sports, Detroit's one of the winningest cities in the country - third only to Boston and New York - with 17 championship titles to its name. Also worth noting is that the Red Wings' 23 consecutive playoff appearances are the longest active playoff streak in pro sports.
8. Historic homes abound in Boston-Edison.
The Boston-Edison Historic District in the geographic center of Detroit was home to many prominent Detroiters including Joe Louis, Berry Gordy and Henry Ford.
Instagram photo shared by @lfty_.
9. Cobo Center is Detroit's epicenter for international diplomacy.
Aside from hosting the North American International Auto Show every January, Cobo is also located on or near the site where French colonist Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac first landed, claiming the area in the name of King Louis XIV.
