Heidelberg Project
An outdoor art environment transforming abandoned homes into vibrant installations using recycled materials, a symbol of Detroit's resilience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
To fully appreciate the art
Heidelberg Project
Best Time
To fully appreciate the art
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An outdoor art environment transforming abandoned homes into vibrant installations using recycled materials, a symbol of Detroit's resilience.
"A unique gem - the kind that could only have ever existed at this location, during this particular span of time."
Donate to Support the Art
Consider donating to help maintain and grow this unique outdoor art space. :heart:
Respect the Neighborhood
Remember this is a residential area. Be mindful of residents and avoid trespassing. :housewithgarden:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Houses of Art
Entire street
Abandoned homes transformed into vibrant, eclectic art installations using recycled materials.
Tyree Guyton's Vision
Throughout the project
Discover the powerful messages of civic pride and resilience embedded in the artist's unique creations.
Recycled Masterpieces
Various installations
Intricate sculptures and mosaics crafted from discarded objects, telling a story of transformation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art, Respect the Neighborhood
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Donate to Support the Art
Consider donating to help maintain and grow this unique outdoor art space. :heart:
Respect the Neighborhood
Remember this is a residential area. Be mindful of residents and avoid trespassing. :housewithgarden:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the installations. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Colors
Bring your camera or phone to capture the vibrant and unique art. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Donate to Support the Art
Consider donating to help maintain and grow this unique outdoor art space. :heart:
Respect the Neighborhood
Remember this is a residential area. Be mindful of residents and avoid trespassing. :housewithgarden:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore all the installations. :athletic_shoe:
Capture the Colors
Bring your camera or phone to capture the vibrant and unique art. :camerawithflash:
Look for the Artist
Tyree Guyton is often on-site and happy to chat with visitors. :smiley:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Heidelberg Project for its unique, vibrant art and the powerful messages it conveys about community and resilience. Many highlight the opportunity to meet the artist, Tyree Guyton, as a particularly special and inspiring part of their visit. While some pieces show signs of wear due to weather, the overall experience is described as thought-provoking and a true Detroit gem.
"The Heidiberg Project was such a sight to see! There were so many amazing and creative pieces, and we even got the chance to meet the artist himself. He was so down-to-earth and took the time to answer all our questions. I even bought his picture book and got it signed, which made the experience even more special. If you’re an artist yourself, I highly recommend visiting. I would also encourage donating, as this place is constantly working to improve and grow for the better."
Jennifer Rodriguez
"Really enjoyed how open this display was - that you could just walk up to and around the collection. Weather and time hasn't been overly kind to pieces, but popping by this and the murals nearby while you're in the island view neighborhood is definitely worth a stop."
Regan Baker
"My family and I absolutely love Heidelberg. It's a quirky place to visit that doesn't cost anything. Started by Tyree Guyton to bring Detroit back to life when it was going through hard times. We have been going there for years and have always enjoyed seeing the new creations. Our most recent visit Mr. Guyton happened to be there and he was so friendly. He took pictures with us and allowed me to paint a polka dot on the street. It was definitely a moment to remember. A few years ago my cousin did a documentary on it for his entrance into college making films. This place is truly a Detroit hidden gem and a work of art. It will always have a place in our hearts."
Jaymie Wilde
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Heidelberg Project is located on the east side of Detroit. Many visitors arrive by car, as it's situated in a residential neighborhood. Public transportation options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering ride-sharing services is recommended. Some visitors have noted that navigating to the exact location can be part of the adventure, with GPS being helpful. +1
Parking is generally available on the street surrounding the Heidelberg Project. Visitors are advised to be respectful of residents' driveways and to park considerately.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach the Heidelberg Project, especially if you are coming from downtown Detroit or other parts of the city.
While public transport can reach the general area, direct access to the Heidelberg Project might require a walk from the nearest bus stop. It's best to check current Detroit bus routes for the most up-to-date information.
Using a GPS or a mapping app on your smartphone is highly recommended to find the Heidelberg Project. Some visitors have found it to be a unique discovery experience. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Heidelberg Project is an outdoor art environment and is free to visit. It operates as a nonprofit, so donations are greatly appreciated to support its continued work.
The Heidelberg Project is an outdoor installation and is generally accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended to best experience the art.
There is no admission fee to visit the Heidelberg Project. It's an open-air museum designed for everyone to experience.
While the art is visible at night, it is strongly recommended to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the details and safety of the installations.
While not always formally scheduled, the artist Tyree Guyton is often present and may engage with visitors, offering insights. Checking their official website or social media for any announced tours or events is a good idea.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find an entire street of abandoned houses transformed into vibrant, eclectic art installations. Expect to see sculptures made from recycled materials like cars, tires, toys, and dolls, all reflecting powerful messages. 
The Heidelberg Project is located in a residential neighborhood. While generally safe during daylight hours, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and stick to the main art areas.
Visitors are encouraged to view and appreciate the art, but direct interaction or touching the installations is generally discouraged to preserve them. However, some visitors have had the unique experience of interacting with the artist himself.
The best way to explore is on foot, allowing you to take in the details of each unique installation. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking along the street.
Restroom facilities are not typically available on-site at the Heidelberg Project, as it is an outdoor art environment. Visitors should plan accordingly.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is highly encouraged at the Heidelberg Project! It's a visually stunning place, and visitors love to capture the unique art.
Every corner offers a unique photo opportunity! The houses themselves, the intricate recycled art, and the overall streetscape are all incredibly photogenic.
While generally encouraged, always be respectful of the art and the neighborhood. Avoid intrusive photography that might disturb residents.
Drone usage policies can vary and may be restricted due to privacy concerns and local regulations. It's best to check with the Heidelberg Project directly or local authorities before flying a drone.
Any camera, from a smartphone to a professional DSLR, can capture the vibrant art. Good lighting during the day will enhance your photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to keep a close eye on children, as it's an outdoor environment with many intricate pieces. Encourage them to observe and discuss what they see. Visiting during daylight hours is best for safety and visibility. Consider bringing a small sketchbook for them to draw their favorite installations.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Creatives
+1Many visitors have the chance to meet Tyree Guyton himself, which can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Hearing his story and insights directly from the artist adds a profound layer to the visit. Donating to the project is a great way to support this unique artistic endeavor.
🚗 Day-Trippers & Road Trippers
It's easily accessible by car and provides fantastic photo opportunities. Combine your visit with other Detroit attractions for a well-rounded itinerary. Remember to allocate enough time to wander and absorb the atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Visionary Behind the Art: Tyree Guyton
Guyton's artistic process involves collecting found objects from the neighborhood and beyond, then meticulously arranging them onto abandoned houses, cars, and the street itself. This creates an immersive, open-air museum that constantly evolves. Visitors often have the unique opportunity to meet Guyton himself, who is known for his warmth and willingness to share his vision, making the experience even more personal and impactful.
His commitment to Heidelberg Street is unwavering, aiming to bring life, art, and hope back to an area that has faced significant hardship. The Heidelberg Project has become a symbol of Detroit's creative spirit and its capacity for renewal, inspiring visitors and the local community alike.
A Street Transformed: The Art Installations
+1Each house on Heidelberg Street becomes a canvas, covered in found objects, painted murals, and unique assemblages. The sheer creativity and the sheer volume of materials used are astounding. Visitors often remark on the unexpected details and the thought-provoking nature of the pieces, noting that each visit can reveal something new.
Beyond the visual spectacle, the art carries significant meaning, often addressing themes of urban decay, community pride, and the resilience of Detroit. The installations serve as a powerful commentary on societal issues while simultaneously beautifying the neighborhood and fostering a sense of hope.
Community Impact and Support
Visitors are often encouraged to support the project through donations, which help fund ongoing art creation, maintenance, and community programs. Meeting the artist, Tyree Guyton, and hearing his story can be a deeply inspiring experience, often leading visitors to feel a personal connection to the project's mission.
The project has become a beloved 'hidden gem' of Detroit, drawing visitors from around the world and showcasing the city's vibrant artistic talent and its residents' enduring spirit. It stands as a testament to how art can be a catalyst for positive change and community empowerment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit