Detroit RiverWalk
Award-winning 3.5+ mile urban oasis with stunning skyline views, parks, and family fun along the Detroit River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Detroit RiverWalk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Award-winning 3.5+ mile urban oasis with stunning skyline views, parks, and family fun along the Detroit River.
"The Detroit RiverWalk is honestly one of the coolest riverwalks I’ve ever been to."
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
The RiverWalk is extensive! You'll want comfy shoes for walking, jogging, or biking the 3.5+ miles. :athletic_shoe:
🛥️ Book Boat Tours in Advance
Popular boat tours like the Diamond Queen fill up fast, especially in summer. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Detroit Skyline Views
Along the entire RiverWalk
Panoramic vistas of the iconic Detroit skyline and across the river to Windsor, Canada. A truly breathtaking urban landscape.
Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park
West Riverfront
A new 22-acre park featuring green space, attractions, and year-round fun. Perfect for families and outdoor activities.
Diamond Queen Boat Ride
Departs from RiverWalk
Enjoy a relaxing and scenic boat tour on the Detroit River, offering unique perspectives of the city and international border.
Uniroyal Promenade
Connecting Gabriel Richard Park to Mt. Elliott Park
This expanded section links the RiverWalk from Belle Isle to Downtown, offering new pathways and scenic beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Views
Embrace the Walkability
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
The RiverWalk is extensive! You'll want comfy shoes for walking, jogging, or biking the 3.5+ miles. :athletic_shoe:
🛥️ Book Boat Tours in Advance
Popular boat tours like the Diamond Queen fill up fast, especially in summer. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
☀️ Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
Detroit summers can be hot. Bring water and sunscreen, especially if you plan to spend a full day exploring. :sunwithface:
🛴 Rent a Scooter
Zip along the RiverWalk with rented scooters for a fun and efficient way to cover more ground. :scooter:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key
The RiverWalk is extensive! You'll want comfy shoes for walking, jogging, or biking the 3.5+ miles. :athletic_shoe:
🛥️ Book Boat Tours in Advance
Popular boat tours like the Diamond Queen fill up fast, especially in summer. Book ahead to secure your spot! :ticket:
☀️ Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
Detroit summers can be hot. Bring water and sunscreen, especially if you plan to spend a full day exploring. :sunwithface:
🛴 Rent a Scooter
Zip along the RiverWalk with rented scooters for a fun and efficient way to cover more ground. :scooter:
📸 Capture the Skyline
The views of the Detroit skyline and Canada are stunning. Don't forget your camera or phone for amazing photos! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Detroit RiverWalk as one of the best in the country, highlighting its stunning skyline views, clean and well-maintained paths, and vibrant atmosphere. It's lauded for being family-friendly with amenities like playgrounds and splash areas, while also offering a peaceful escape for walkers and cyclists. The international views of Canada add a unique charm, making it a must-visit destination that exceeds expectations.
"Not a lot to do. Nice views from both sides of the river. Couple playgrounds for kids to play. Several places to stop in. Liked the GM building, cool seeing some cars I've never seen before. There is a BurgerKing inside."
Eckodolphin
"The Detroit Riverwalk is such a treasure! 🌆🌊 Whether you’re walking, jogging, biking, or just relaxing, the views of the river and skyline are gorgeous. The path is well-maintained, clean, and feels safe. Along the way there are playgrounds for kids, parks, splash pads, and plenty of spots to sit and take in the scenery. It’s family-friendly, peaceful, and full of energy all at once. Truly one of the best places to experience Detroit!"
R VanRoss
"On our Girls Trip to Detroit, we had to stop by the Detroit Riverwalk. Lots of friendly people from Detroit and other cities. The view was very nice! It was a clear day, so we were able to see the Canadian flag, and took some great pictures. We went later in the day, so there was not much going on. There was a group playing "bongos," so we brushed up on our African dancing! 🤣
Detroit Riverwalk is a must see!"
Darlynn Ball
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Detroit RiverWalk is easily accessible by car, public transport, or even by walking if you're staying downtown. Parking is available at various lots and garages near the RiverWalk. Several bus routes also stop in the vicinity. :bus: :car:
Yes, there are several parking options available, including garages and surface lots along Jefferson Avenue and near the various parks. Rates can vary, so check signs for details. :parking:
Absolutely! The RiverWalk is designed for pedestrians and cyclists. If you're staying downtown, it's a pleasant walk. Bike rentals are also available nearby. :bike:
Yes, several Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) bus routes serve the downtown area and stop within walking distance of the RiverWalk. Check the DDOT website for specific route information. :bus:
The RiverWalk stretches over 3.5 miles, connecting various parks and attractions from Belle Isle to the Ambassador Bridge area. The Uniroyal Promenade further extends this connection. :round_pushpin:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Detroit RiverWalk is free to access and enjoy. It's a public space designed for everyone to experience. :moneywithwings:
The RiverWalk is generally open 24/7, though specific park amenities or facilities within the RiverWalk may have their own hours. It's always a good idea to check for any specific event times. :clock1:
While the RiverWalk itself is free, special events like festivals or concerts may require tickets. Keep an eye on the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy's schedule for event details. :ticket:
As the RiverWalk is a public park, there are no admission fees or passes required. It's a free amenity for all visitors and residents. :gift:
Dogs are welcome on the Detroit RiverWalk, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be respectful of other visitors and clean up after your pet. :dog:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include stunning skyline views, the new Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park, playgrounds, splash pads, public art installations, and the Uniroyal Promenade. Boat tours are also a popular activity. :star2:
Yes, it's very family-friendly! There are playgrounds, splash areas, and plenty of open space for kids to run around. The carousel is also a hit. :child:
Yes, bike and scooter rentals are often available near the RiverWalk, offering a fun way to explore the extensive path. :scooter: :bike:
Absolutely! Benches and seating areas are plentiful along the entire length of the RiverWalk, providing perfect spots to rest and enjoy the views. :chair:
The RiverWalk features various art installations and sculptures, adding a cultural dimension to your stroll. Keep an eye out for these unique pieces as you explore. :art:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the RiverWalk itself is primarily a recreational path, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and food trucks located in the surrounding downtown area and near the parks. :forkandknife:
Yes, picnicking is welcome on the RiverWalk. Many visitors bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy while taking in the scenery. :sandwich:
Food trucks often frequent areas near major parks and event spaces along the RiverWalk, especially during festivals and community events. Check local listings for current locations. :truck:
You'll find several cafes and coffee shops in the downtown Detroit area adjacent to the RiverWalk, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a break. :coffee:
The downtown Detroit area offers a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, many within walking distance of the RiverWalk. :restaurant:
📸 📸 Photography
The entire RiverWalk offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the Detroit skyline and Ambassador Bridge as backdrops. Look for unique angles near public art and the waterfront. :camera:
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light for capturing the skyline. Midday can be bright, but the expansive views are still impressive. :sunriseovermountains: :city_sunset:
Yes, you can photograph the various boats, including cruise ships like Viking, that dock or pass along the Detroit River. :ship:
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and urban areas due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to check with local authorities or the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy for specific regulations. :noentrysign:
Many visitors capture cityscapes, waterfront scenes, and candid shots of people enjoying the space. Engagement photos and casual strolls are also popular subjects. :couplewithheart:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
🚴♀️ Active Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of the Detroit Riverfront
+1The development has been phased, with significant expansions like the Uniroyal Promenade opening up new sections and connecting previously disparate areas. The upcoming Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park further signifies this commitment to creating a world-class urban park. This ongoing evolution ensures the RiverWalk remains a dynamic and exciting place for both locals and tourists.
+1Visitors often express surprise and delight at the quality and scale of the RiverWalk, with many noting it's far better than they expected. The blend of natural beauty, urban architecture, and recreational opportunities makes it a unique urban oasis.
Activities and Experiences on the RiverWalk
Families will find plenty to keep children entertained with playgrounds, splash pads, and a carousel. For a unique perspective, boat tours like the Diamond Queen offer a memorable way to see the city from the water, often passing by international waters into Canada.
Beyond recreation, the RiverWalk also hosts wellness activities like meditation and stretching classes, highlighting its role as a holistic community space.
The International Connection
This proximity also makes Detroit a stop for international cruise lines, such as Viking Cruises, which dock along the RiverWalk. This brings a global influx of travelers to the area, further enhancing the vibrant atmosphere and contributing to Detroit's growing reputation as a tourist destination.
The views are consistently praised, with the juxtaposition of the large American metropolis and the smaller Canadian town creating a compelling visual narrative.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit