Penobscot Building
A 1928 Art Deco skyscraper in Detroit, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Penobscot Building
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1928 Art Deco skyscraper in Detroit, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
"Beautiful building with amazing architecture and so much history."
📸 Respect the Rules
Be mindful of security; some visitors report strict rules about photography inside.
🚶♂️ Admire from Outside
The exterior is stunning! Many visitors enjoy its grandeur from street level.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Deco Lobby
Ground floor
Marvel at the intricate marble work and grand design of this 1928 architectural masterpiece.
Skyline Views
Exterior vantage points
Gaze up at this 47-story icon, a significant part of Detroit's historic skyline.
Architectural Details
Exterior
Appreciate the 'H' shape designed for optimal sunlight and the building's enduring historical significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Admire the Art Deco Grandeur
Navigating Building Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Respect the Rules
Be mindful of security; some visitors report strict rules about photography inside.
🚶♂️ Admire from Outside
The exterior is stunning! Many visitors enjoy its grandeur from street level.
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Detroit Donuts inside offers coffee and a quick bite.
🏙️ Explore Nearby Gems
It's close to other historic buildings like the Guardian Building.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Respect the Rules
Be mindful of security; some visitors report strict rules about photography inside.
🚶♂️ Admire from Outside
The exterior is stunning! Many visitors enjoy its grandeur from street level.
☕ Grab a Coffee Nearby
Detroit Donuts inside offers coffee and a quick bite.
🏙️ Explore Nearby Gems
It's close to other historic buildings like the Guardian Building.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Penobscot Building is widely praised for its stunning Art Deco architecture and historical significance, making it a visually impressive landmark in Detroit. While the exterior and lobby are appreciated, some visitors have encountered strict security and limitations on interior photography, leading to a less welcoming experience for some.
"Hey, we’re Vicky🇵🇪 and Malte🇩🇪 from the travel blog "Traveling Is Our Passion"!
We just visited the building from the outside, and it’s absolutely stunning! The history behind the name is also super interesting. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a stop!
For more details and our other top travel recommendations, check out our full blog post!"
Traveling Is Our Passion
"Rude security guard. We walked in and were told to not even try to take a picture. We had just walked in. He said he saw us taking a picture of the outside of the building. We walked in another entrance and politely asked the security guard what the building housed. He replied law offices, court info, and a few dental practices. He was way nicer than the other guard. Building was cool ish due to the marble work. But not as impressive as the guardian IMO building walking distance."
Elba Leon
"Beautiful Building. Amazing architecture. So much history and stories I have been told about inside the building on different floors and the well known stars who have frequented it over the years. The office spaces are very nice, spacious, has an amazing energy being inside the 3rd tallest building Downtown Detroit. If anyone is looking to rent out an office space downtown, I would definetly recommend the Penobscot Building."
Lonnie Bush
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Penobscot Building is located in downtown Detroit. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation, including bus routes, also serves the downtown area. Many visitors find it convenient to walk to the building if they are already exploring downtown Detroit. +1
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and street parking options available in the vicinity of the Penobscot Building. It's advisable to check parking apps or signs for real-time availability and rates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the Penobscot Building is primarily an office building, the lobby is generally accessible to the public. However, access to upper floors is restricted. Some visitors have reported varying experiences with security regarding photography inside.
No, tickets are not required to view the exterior or enter the lobby of the Penobscot Building. It's a historic landmark that can be appreciated from the outside and its accessible interior spaces.
As an office building, the Penobscot Building's public access hours are typically during standard business hours on weekdays. It's best to visit during the day to appreciate its architecture and lobby.
Photography policies can be strict and vary. Some visitors have encountered security guards who discouraged or prohibited taking pictures, even in the lobby. It's advisable to be discreet and respectful of any posted rules.
🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you can admire the impressive marble work and Art Deco design of the lobby. While upper floors are for tenants, the ground floor offers a glimpse into the building's historic grandeur.
The Penobscot Building houses a variety of offices, including law offices, court information services, and dental practices.
For architecture enthusiasts and history buffs, the Penobscot Building is definitely worth seeing, especially its stunning exterior and lobby. It's a key part of Detroit's architectural heritage.
The Penobscot Building is a prime example of Art Deco architecture, built in 1928. Its distinctive 'H' shape was designed to maximize natural light for its occupants. 
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, Detroit Donuts is located within the Penobscot Building and offers coffee and quick bites. It's a convenient spot for a snack while visiting.
The Penobscot Building is in downtown Detroit, surrounded by numerous dining options. You can find everything from casual eateries to upscale restaurants within walking distance. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The best photos are often taken from the street, capturing its impressive height and Art Deco facade. Nearby streets and vantage points in downtown Detroit offer great perspectives.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas, especially around tall buildings. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near the Penobscot Building.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that security inside can be strict regarding photography, so managing expectations for interior photos is key. For a quick snack or coffee, Detroit Donuts is located within the building, making it a convenient stop.
Consider combining a visit with other family-friendly downtown Detroit attractions.🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Take time to admire its scale and historical context as one of Detroit's iconic skyscrapers. While interior access is limited, the exterior views and the accessible lobby provide ample opportunity to appreciate its architectural merit.
📸 Photographers
+1Interior photography can be challenging due to strict security policies, as noted by some visitors. If you plan to photograph inside, be prepared for potential restrictions and focus on the lobby's marble work if permitted.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art Deco Masterpiece
+1While public access is limited to the ground floor and lobby, visitors can still appreciate the building's historical significance and aesthetic appeal. The lobby itself is a marvel, adorned with rich marble and ornate fixtures that reflect the opulence of the Art Deco era. Many visitors are struck by the building's enduring beauty and its role in Detroit's rich architectural history.
Recent updates have even seen the Penobscot Building integrated into the digital realm, with renders appearing in metaverse projects, showcasing its continued relevance and iconic status.
This blend of historical significance and modern adaptation highlights the building's lasting impact.Navigating Visitor Experience & Security
One Reddit user shared an experience where they were immediately told not to take pictures upon entering, despite only intending to photograph the exterior. Another user noted that while the marble work was cool, the overall atmosphere felt unfriendly due to a 'disrespectful security guard.'
Despite these challenges, many still find the building's architecture and historical context compelling. The advice from travelers is to focus on appreciating the building from the outside and to be prepared for potential restrictions if you plan to enter the lobby.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit