Spanning 5.5 miles along the Detroit River from the Ambassador Bridge in the west to Belle Isle in the east, the Detroit International Riverfront offers a dynamic destination voted the best riverwalk in the United States by USA Today readers for three consecutive years. You can stroll or bike along the spacious River Walk promenade, featuring dedicated lanes for pedestrians and wheeled traffic, pavilions, benches, and scenic fishing piers. Along your route, explore key public spaces such as the vibrant Hart Plaza, historic Stroh River Place, and William G.
Milliken State Park and Harbor. Discover unique attractions including the Dequindre Cut Greenway, a mile-long urban trail renowned for its impressive graffiti public art, and the 982-acre Belle Isle Park, home to the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and a swimming beach. Catch a concert at the 6,000-seat Aretha Franklin Amphitheater or admire vehicle displays at GM World inside the massive Renaissance Center complex.
Families can also visit the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park to enjoy play structures, a water garden, public grills, and a giant covered pavilion housing basketball courts.
What to see at Detroit International Riverfront
- Explore the 5.5-mile River Walk featuring separate lanes for pedestrians and wheeled traffic, plus pavilions and fishing piers.
- Discover Belle Isle Park's conservatory, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, Nature Center, and swimming beach.
- View vibrant graffiti art along the Dequindre Cut Greenway, a popular paved urban trail.
- Enjoy summer concerts at the 6,000-seat Aretha Franklin Amphitheater or explore GM World in the Renaissance Center.
- Visit Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park for animal-themed play structures, a water garden, and basketball courts.
Visiting tips
Rent a bicycle or grab concessions at Rivard Plaza to comfortably explore the expansive riverfront promenade.
How long: 2-4 hours · Best time: Summer
How to get there & what’s nearby
Detroit International Riverfront is easy to reach on Detroit’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Detroit Institute of Arts and Mariners' Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Detroit travel guide.
See the full Detroit travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.