As my friend and I crossed the Michigan Stateline, I couldn’t help but be excited about this short pilgrimage to Detroit I’m about to embark. It’s been on my bucket list for sometime now.

Detroit. A city that pulses with the rhythm of engines, where the streets hum with the legacy of the automotive industry. It also resonates with rhythm, and sings its soulful tales.

My journey to Motor City began with a leisurely walk downtown. The cityscape unfolded like a jazz improv. Skyscrapers, art deco facades echoing stories of prosperity and resilience. The Guardian Building stood tall with its intricate symphony of colors and patterns. The Detroit People Mover, a 3-mile elevated mass transit system looped around the heart of the city with pride. And the GM building – well, it seems to be calling my name from a distance. I must go!

A short walk south took me to the Detroit Riverwalk. What a view! As I strolled along the river’s edge, the Detroit River flowed beside me, its waters harmonizing with the city’s pulse. From the Concrete Pyramid to the towering GM Headquarters, and stretching all the way up the Aretha Franklin Amphitheater. There was so much to soak in!

And there, across the water – Canada, eh…

I wish we could’ve crossed the bridge to step into the Canadian side even for just a few moments but we didn’t have our passports with us. So what’s the best we could do? Get closer.

Belle Isle is a 982-acre island that sits between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario. Its story weaves together Native American heritage, French settlers, and the pulse of urban life. Below is a picture of the James Scott Memorial Fountain and views of Detroit from the island.

Our next stop was Motown Museum. My heart skipped a beat as I stepped into Hitsville U.S.A. – the Motown Museum. This unassuming house on West Grand Boulevard birthed legends – Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, and more. The studio where they recorded their soulful melodies still echoes with their voices. Standing in the same room where Marvin sang “What’s Going On,” I definitely caught some major soul vibes.

After snagging a few souvenirs, we continued on. As we were heading out, we happened upon our last stop – the Stevie Wonder Mural. As we cruised through the streets, murals painted Detroit’s story. And the Stevie Wonder Mural was of course a standout. Stevie, with his signature shades, graced the side of a building, his piano keys merging with the city’s heartbeat. What a way to end the day!

Detroit, for sure, left a mark on me. Its historic landmarks sang stories of innovation and resilience. And as I drove away, I could hear the humming of the city’s rich history. A day well spent.