Detroit, Mich. – Motown
The oldest city west of the seaboard colonies, Detroit was founded first by French Colonizers who gave it its name which means “Strait”. Detroit has a pretty interesting history as it was continuously fought for by the French, the British and even by the Indians due to its strategic location. The location of Detroit is also the link for all major Great Lakes cities, making Detroit a major exporting center.
Due to its massive manufacturing power, which mostly deals with automobile manufacturing, Detroit was dubbed as “Motor City” or “Motown”. Sadly, due to foreign competition, the manufacturing sector is in a bit of a decline. Fortunately, however, the city is not limited to automobile manufacturing only. Detroit also supports itself with its medical and health sector as well as employment in finance, insurance and real estate. Those other ventures have been around for decades but are now experiencing more growth than what they had experienced before.
Like all other cities, Detroit also attracts its fair share of tourists with its arts, culture and museums. Music is also a big part for Detroit as it holds many musical fairs annually for all to enjoy; the city is even said to be the birth place of techno music.
For a casual visitor to Detroit, the large number of attractions to visit may be confusing. However, there are some spots that international visitors should not miss. Belle Isle Park is a 900+ acre land on the Detroit River. From Belle Island, visitors can have panoramic views of the Detroit downtown skyline. Charles Wright Museum of African American History archives sorrowful journey of the African Americans who were forcefully brought to America and the joyous ways in which they found freedom and acceptance in a racist, ignorant world.
Other attractions in the busy city of Detroit are the Cranbrook Art Museum, Greenfield Village, Henry Ford Estate and MoTown Museum dedicated to the history of pop music.
Since the city is surrounded by lakes and forests, there is no dearth of activities here, especially for visitors who come to Michigan in summer.
