Detroit Historical Museum programs

The Detroit Historical Museum has served as a vital repository of the region’s past for over eighty years, chronicling the life and times of Detroit and its surrounding areas. Established as a leading cultural institution in the Midwest, the museum offers interactive exhibits, engaging displays, and family-friendly experiences designed to bring Detroit’s history to life. Through its changing exhibits, tours, special events, and educational programs, the museum preserves and shares the rich history of the city and the broader Detroit region.

History

For more than 80 years, the Detroit Historical Museum has been committed to safeguarding the history of the Detroit region. The museum’s origins reflect a commitment to documenting and preserving the stories of Detroit’s people, industries, and cultural developments. It evolved into one of the leading cultural institutions in the Midwest through its dedication to these goals. The museum’s continued relevance stems from its ability to adapt and offer new perspectives on Detroit’s past, present, and future.

The Detroit Historical Society, the parent organization of the museum, has a long-standing commitment to preserving and interpreting the history of the region. The museum itself serves as a physical manifestation of this commitment, housing a diverse collection of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of Detroit. The museum’s collections and programs are continually evolving to reflect new research and perspectives on Detroit’s history.

Attractions

The Detroit Historical Museum offers a variety of attractions designed to appeal to visitors of all ages and interests. Interactive exhibits allow guests to engage directly with Detroit’s history, while engaging displays showcase the city’s industries, culture, and stories. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the early days of Detroit’s automotive industry to the city’s vibrant musical heritage.

Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent exhibits, which offer a comprehensive overview of Detroit’s history, as well as its changing exhibits, which delve into specific themes and topics. School tours and group programs are available, providing educational opportunities for students and organizations. The museum also hosts special events throughout the year, such as lectures, workshops, and family activities. The Detroit Historical Museum is one of two family-friendly museums operated by the Detroit Historical Society, the other being the Dossin Great Lakes Museum.

Getting There

The Detroit Historical Museum is located at 5401 Woodward Avenue in Detroit, Michigan. The museum is easily accessible by car, public transportation, and bicycle. Parking is available in the surrounding area, and the museum is conveniently located near several bus lines. A map detailing parking and transit options is available online.

For those utilizing public transportation, the museum is accessible via several routes. Bicycle parking is also available for cyclists. The museum provides information on accessibility features for visitors with disabilities. The museum's location on Woodward Avenue, a major thoroughfare, makes it a convenient destination for both residents and visitors to Detroit.

Culture

The Detroit Historical Museum plays a significant role in preserving and promoting Detroit’s cultural heritage. The museum’s exhibits and programs showcase the city’s diverse communities, artistic traditions, and cultural milestones. By highlighting the contributions of Detroit’s various cultural groups, the museum fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

The museum’s collections include artifacts and documents related to Detroit’s music scene, including Motown and techno. Exhibits also explore the city’s vibrant arts community, its diverse ethnic neighborhoods, and its culinary traditions. The museum’s commitment to cultural preservation extends to its online archives, which provide access to a wealth of historical materials. The museum actively engages with the community through outreach programs and partnerships with local organizations.

Admission and Hours

The Detroit Historical Museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Sundays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Admission fees vary depending on age and affiliation. Adults are charged $15, while honored guests (seniors 65+, students 13-17, college students, active military, first responders, and educators with ID) pay $12. Children aged 6-12 are admitted for $8, and a family discount of $1 off per ticket is available for households with 5+ paid admissions. Children under 6 and members of the Detroit Historical Society are admitted free of charge.

The museum is sometimes closed for private events or holidays, such as Easter. It is advisable to check the museum’s website for the most up-to-date information on hours and closures. A unique offering is the free “Detroiter membership” available to residents of Detroit, Hamtramck, and Highland Park. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum’s front desk.

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