Motown Museum (Hitsville USA)
Step into Hitsville USA, the legendary birthplace of the Motown Sound. Experience Studio A and see memorabilia from music icons.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
Motown Museum (Hitsville USA)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Hitsville USA, the legendary birthplace of the Motown Sound. Experience Studio A and see memorabilia from music icons.
"Standing in the walls and on the floors of such great legends is a priceless experience."
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Tickets sell out fast! Book your Motown Museum tour online in advance to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
🎤 Be Ready to Sing!
The tours are lively and interactive. Don't be shy to sing along and feel the music! :musical_note:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Studio A
Original recording studio
Step into the legendary Studio A, where iconic hits by Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and The Supremes were recorded. Feel the history!
Berry Gordy's Apartment
Upstairs living quarters
Explore the intimate upstairs apartment where Berry Gordy lived and worked, offering a glimpse into the early days of Motown.
Iconic Memorabilia
Throughout the museum
See dazzling costumes, handwritten lyrics, and personal artifacts from Motown's greatest artists. A true music lover's dream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Tour Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Tickets sell out fast! Book your Motown Museum tour online in advance to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
🎤 Be Ready to Sing!
The tours are lively and interactive. Don't be shy to sing along and feel the music!
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be on your feet for the guided tour, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Memories
While photos are allowed, be mindful of your guide and fellow visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead Online
Tickets sell out fast! Book your Motown Museum tour online in advance to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
🎤 Be Ready to Sing!
The tours are lively and interactive. Don't be shy to sing along and feel the music!
🚶♀️ Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be on your feet for the guided tour, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Memories
While photos are allowed, be mindful of your guide and fellow visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Motown Museum for its immersive and inspiring experience, highlighting the passionate guides and the chance to stand in the legendary Studio A. Many describe it as a deeply meaningful visit, bringing back cherished memories and offering a profound connection to music history. While the tours are highly regarded, some note that tickets sell out quickly, emphasizing the need for advance booking.
"I literally couldn’t tell you the awe I was in finally going here. I absolutely love and adore soul and blues, and coming here myself (despite the location being local) was in the works for a long time. Firstly, phenomenal museum; I recommend getting your tickets in advance and then showing up for your tour. The tour is lead by one person usually, and you’re in a larger group. So there’s really no pressure to the visit. You’ll learn some neat little facts about Motown Records and see some of the coolest memorabilia ever. You walk in the studios, basically as they were during the peak of Motowns musical presence in Detroit. If you’re reluctant to go, don’t be! Genuinely one of the best hours spent."
Christian P
"This was a great experience and my first stop during my visit to Detroit from Atlanta, Ga. This is a bucket list item I have been able to check off my list and a so glad it was an amazing experience. To stand in the walls and on the floors of such great legends, is a priceless experience. Our tour guide Aaron was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! He has a great voice on him as well. He is the best of the best for sure!"
Tiffany Hickman
"This is literally one of my top three favorite museums in the entire country. It was so meaningful, not only to trace the history of music in Detroit, but to see how the producers created such a culture of mentoring and guiding musicians through the entire process. It was inspiring on so many levels, and you will not go go home without singing your soul out. I’m thrilled that they will have a new and improved space to tell an amazing story."
Christine Ruth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Motown Museum, also known as Hitsville USA, is located at 2648 West Grand Boulevard, Detroit, MI 48208. It's easily accessible by car, and ride-sharing services are a popular option for visitors. Public transportation is also available, though routes and schedules may vary.
Parking can be limited, especially during peak times. It's advisable to arrive a little early if you're driving or consider using ride-sharing services for convenience.
Yes, visitors from Canada can easily reach the Motown Museum. It's a short drive from Windsor, Ontario, across the border. Ensure you have the necessary travel documents.
Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for a direct and convenient trip to Hitsville USA. Driving yourself is also an option, but be prepared for potential parking challenges.
The museum is housed in historic buildings, which can present accessibility challenges. It's best to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility accommodations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but it's essential to check the official Motown Museum website for the most up-to-date pricing and to purchase tickets. Booking in advance is strongly recommended as tours often sell out.
Yes, it is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance. The Motown Museum is a popular attraction, and tours frequently sell out, especially on weekends and holidays.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be subject to change. Always check the official Motown Museum website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
While it's sometimes possible to get same-day tickets if available, it's not guaranteed. To avoid disappointment, booking your tickets online in advance is the safest bet.
Your ticket typically includes a guided tour of the historic Hitsville U.S.A. buildings, including Studio A and Berry Gordy's apartment, along with access to exhibits and memorabilia.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who shares stories and insights into the history of Motown. You'll walk through the original buildings, including Studio A, and see incredible memorabilia. Expect to sing along! +1
A typical guided tour of the Motown Museum lasts approximately one hour. This allows ample time to see the key exhibits and hear the fascinating stories.
Photography is generally permitted inside the Motown Museum, but it's important to be respectful of the guides and other visitors. Some areas might have restrictions, so always follow the guide's instructions.
Yes, the Motown Museum can be a fun and educational experience for children, especially those interested in music history. The engaging tours and vibrant stories often captivate younger audiences.
You'll find a rich collection of memorabilia, including costumes worn by legendary artists, handwritten lyrics, gold records, and personal items. The museum also showcases the history of Motown's impact on music and culture.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around the Motown Museum has various dining options, from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants. You can find diverse cuisines to suit your taste.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside the historic buildings of the Motown Museum to preserve the exhibits. There may be designated areas for refreshments.
Detroit offers a unique culinary scene. You might find classic American diners, soul food, and even some innovative fusion restaurants. Ethiopian-Detroit pizza is a unique local blend.
Yes, you can find several cafes and coffee shops in the vicinity of Hitsville USA, perfect for a quick coffee or a light snack before or after your museum visit.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the diverse culinary landscape of Detroit. Consider trying local favorites for a true taste of the city after your museum experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Motown Museum. However, always be respectful of the guides and other visitors, and follow any specific signage regarding photo restrictions in certain areas.
The exterior of the iconic Hitsville U.S.A. house is a must-have photo. Inside, Studio A and displays of artist memorabilia offer fantastic photo opportunities.
While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography in certain areas to protect delicate artifacts. Always listen to your tour guide for any specific instructions.
Video recording policies can vary. It's best to check with your tour guide or museum staff regarding video recording permissions to ensure you're following the rules.
Visitors often capture photos of the historic Hitsville USA house, the interior of Studio A, iconic costumes, and displays of legendary artists' personal items.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tours during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to ensure a more comfortable experience for children. The museum's focus on music history can be a fun and educational way to introduce kids to iconic artists and a significant part of American culture.
🎶 Music Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Prepare to be inspired by the stories of innovation, artistry, and cultural impact. The museum offers a tangible connection to a pivotal era in music history, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about soul, R&B, and the evolution of popular music.
+1✈️ Day-Trippers from Nearby Cities
Given its popularity, booking tickets in advance is crucial for day-trippers to ensure you can fit the tour into your schedule. The one-hour tour is perfect for a packed itinerary, allowing you to experience a significant piece of Detroit's heritage without taking up your entire day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Birthplace of a Sound: Hitsville USA
From this unassuming location, Gordy and his team cultivated a roster of legendary artists including Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Temptations, and Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. The museum preserves the original recording studios, offices, and living quarters, allowing visitors to step back in time and feel the creative energy that emanated from these walls. The intimate setting of Studio A, where countless hits were laid down, is a particularly powerful experience for music enthusiasts.
The legacy of Hitsville U.S.A. extends beyond the music itself. It represents a significant chapter in American history, showcasing the power of entrepreneurship, artistic collaboration, and the profound impact of music on society. The museum's ongoing expansion aims to further preserve and share this incredible story for generations to come.
+1The Motown Tour Experience: More Than Just a Museum
During the tour, you'll walk through the very rooms where musical magic happened, including the iconic Studio A, Berry Gordy's apartment, and the administrative offices. The guides often encourage interaction, sharing fun facts and even leading sing-alongs, making the experience lively and memorable. Many visitors rave about the guides' enthusiasm and deep knowledge, highlighting them as a key part of the museum's appeal.
The guided nature of the tour ensures that you get the most out of your visit, understanding the context and significance of the artifacts and spaces. It's a chance to not just see history, but to feel it, making it a truly unforgettable experience for music lovers and history buffs alike.
Beyond the Music: Motown's Cultural Impact
+1Berry Gordy's philosophy of creating 'The Sound of Young America' resonated with audiences of all backgrounds, proving that music could unite people. The museum highlights how Motown artists became cultural ambassadors, shaping perceptions and fostering a sense of pride and identity. The stories shared within the museum often touch upon themes of perseverance, talent, and the creation of a unique artistic community.
+1Today, the Motown Museum continues to inspire, serving as a testament to the enduring power of music and the significant contributions of Motown to American culture. It's a place where visitors can connect with a pivotal era in music history and understand its lasting influence.
+1
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