Detroit’s Michigan Central Station Gets a Glow Up
Would you like to save this full guide?
We'll email this article to you, so you can come back to it later!
The recent chatter around town is all about Michigan Central Station: the most iconic symbol of Detroit’s decline is now emblematic of its #NotAComeback. I watched it deteriorate over the years, dreaming of one day seeing it restored, and I’m far from alone.
The History of Michigan Central Station
Located in Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood, Michigan Central Station was designed by nationally-renowned architects and opened in 1913.
The station greeted and bid farewell to travelers to and from Detroit for decades before rail travel’s popularity declined and it closed. The building crumbled over the ensuing three decades.
In 2018, the Ford Motor Company purchased the property and spent nearly $1 billion fixing it up.
A Triumphant Reopening
After a jaw-dropping opening celebration concert featuring top Detroit music artists, the train station opened for tours and I was there on opening day.
As I approached the 18-story landmark, I felt the excitement of every person I encountered, from my fellow visitors to the workers eager to share it with us.
I spent over an hour taking in each room, admiring the detailed work of skilled artisans – marble floors, carved mahogany paneling, intricate tile work, vaulted ceilings, soaring arches, and towering pillars, all illuminated by massive chandeliers and sunlight shining through 40-foot windows.
Anyone who saw the station’s condition six years ago knows how unbelievable this new chapter feels, and for many, including myself, walking inside is an emotional journey.
A New Beginning
In addition to corporate offices, the new Michigan Central will offer restaurants, retail, a hotel, and public parks on the adjoining grounds. Most of that is still in the works.
For the summer of 2024, the public can experience the transformed grand rooms on the first floor, which contain exhibits telling the tale of Michigan Central, from its origins to its restoration and everything in between.
People are the theme – people and their interactions with the station throughout its 111-year history.
Currently, Michigan Central is open to the public from 5 pm – 9 pm on Fridays and 10 am – 5 pm on Saturdays – no tickets necessary. The station is accessible and family-friendly.
Plan a Day Trip to Detroit’s Corktown Neighborhood
Make a day of it by visiting nearby Corktown and Southwest neighborhood establishments.
- Take a stroll through Roosevelt Park, a green space directly in front of Michigan Central Station that hosts community events like outdoor concerts.
- Enjoy a meal at Slows Bar BQ, a well-loved barbaque restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
- Visit Batch Brewing Company, a local brewery with a rotating selection of craft beers and relaxed, welcoming vibes.
- Browse through a vast literary collection in an historic building at John K. King Used & Rare Books.
- Try innovative Thai cuiside made from locally-sourced ingredients at Tokai.
- Explore the Detroit RiverWalk, a newly-expanded pathway with scenic views of the Detroit River and access to parks and restaurants.