11 Fun Facts About Detroit, MI: How Well Do You Know Your City?

Detroit, MI, is a city with a rich history and a resilient spirit. Known for its contributions to the automotive industry and its vibrant music scene, Detroit offers a unique blend of urban energy and cultural diversity. Whether you’re exploring the city’s iconic landmarks or discovering its hidden gems, Detroit has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re settling into a new apartment in Detroit or have been a longtime resident, this Redfin article will dive into some fun facts about Detroit you’ll want to know.

Quick Facts about Detroit

1. Detroit is the birthplace of Motown

Detroit is the birthplace of Motown, the legendary record label founded by Berry Gordy Jr. in 1959. Motown produced hit songs by artists like Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross & The Supremes, and The Temptations, helping to shape the sound of American music.

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2. Detroit’s nickname is a nod to the city’s role in the auto industry

Detroit earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its historic role as the automotive capital of the world. Henry Ford founded Ford Motor Company in Detroit in 1903, and the city became synonymous with automobile manufacturing.

3. You can look south into Canada from Detroit

Detroit is the only major city in the United States where you can look south to our neighbors in the north. The Detroit River separates the city from Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

4. The first urban freeway was built in Detroit

Detroit was home to the world’s first urban freeway, the Davison Freeway, built in 1942. The city also boasts some of the oldest and most beautiful skyscrapers in the country, including the iconic Guardian Building.

5. The Detroit Institute of Arts houses one of the country’s biggest art collections

The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) has one of the most significant art collections in the United States, with works by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Diego Rivera’s famous “Detroit Industry Murals.” If you’re ever looking for things to do in Detroit, visiting the DIA should be near the top of your list, especially if you’re a fan of art.

6. The Coney Dog was invented in Detroit

Detroit is famous for its unique take on the hot dog—the Coney Dog. It’s topped with chili, onions, and mustard and is a beloved local culinary tradition.

7. Detroit is the techno music capital

Detroit is considered the birthplace of techno music. Artists like Juan Atkins, Derrick May, and Kevin Saunderson pioneered the genre in the 1980s, influencing electronic music worldwide.

8. Detroit is home to several historic theaters

Detroit has several stunning historic theaters, including the Fox Theatre and the Fillmore Detroit. These venues host concerts, Broadway shows, and other live performances.

9. Detroit is the home of a popular soda brand

Detroit is the birthplace of Faygo, a popular regional soda brand known for flavors like Redpop and Rock & Rye. The company has been around for over a century and is still a local favorite.

10. The iconic Henry Ford Museum is located in Detroit

Located in nearby Dearborn, Michigan, the Henry Ford Museum showcases America’s industrial history, including exhibits on innovation, transportation, and famous artifacts like the bus on which civil rights icon Rosa Parks was arrested..

11. Detroit has its own signature pizza

Just like New York City and Chicago, Detroit has its own unique take on pizza. Detroit-style pizza is characterized by its square shape, thick crust, and toppings underneath a layer of sauce and cheese.

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.