With the last month of summer on the horizon, now’s the perfect time to check off the remainder of your summer bucket list before fall sets in. Read on for a selection of the best summer activities you won’t want to miss in Detroit this August.
1. Attend the Michigan State Fair
Taking place Labor Day Weekend (August 28th until September 1st) is the official Michigan State Fair – a fun-filled festival complete with everything you need to have the time of your life!
Tickets are already available for purchase:
- Basic Fair Admission: $10.
- Ultimate Admission (unlimited rides and circus entry): $42.
It’s worth noting that as a result of a new policy, no unaccompanied minors will be permitted to enter the fair without a parent or guardian present.
2. Take someone special to a Candlelight Concert around Detroit
- Candlelight: Tribute to Madonna – Aug 8
- Candlelight Open Air: Tribute to Fleetwood Mac – Aug 21
- Candlelight Open Air: Tribute to Adele – Aug 21
- Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay – Aug 23
It’s worth noting that all Candlelight Open Air events are taking place on the lakeside lawn at the Grosse Pointe War Memorial, a perfect venue to enjoy the dog days of Summer!
3. Check out the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation goes to show how linked American history is with that of Detroit’s automotive industry. Not only is this fun and immersive experience the perfect trip for anyone who loves cars and engines, but it’s also the perfect family plan that has something for everyone!
Location: 20900 Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn, MI
4. Take your taste buds for an adventure at “Dining in the Dark”
Ever heard that you eat with your eyes? This unique dining experience takes visuals out of the equation, heightening your sense of smell and taste and surprising your taste buds.
After being blindfolded and escorted to your table, sit down to an extravagant three-course meal you and your friends will likely never forget, and indulge in a foodie experience unlike any other.
Get more info and secure your tickets here.
5. Take a trip down to Hamtramck Disneyland
This colorful folk art world can be found in Hamtramck, Detroit, and is open 24 hours a day.
6. Check out the best art museum in the country!
The best art museum in the nation is actually none other than the Detroit Institute of Arts!
It’s actually earned the top spot two years in a row, being ranked the best art museum in the country in both 2023 and 2024.
7. Head to the 30th annual Woodward Dream Cruise
On August 16th from 9 am to 9 pm – the annual Woodward Dream Cruise is a can’t-miss event for those Motor City locals that love all things on wheels!
This is the world’s largest one-day automotive event, taking place along Woodward Avenue through nine communities in the Oakland County area just outside Detroit.
8. Ribs and R&B Music Festival
Detroit’s annual Ribs and R&B Music Festival will be taking place on August 8th, 9th, and 10th right on the Riverfront near Hart Plaza!
Entry will be free each day before 1 pm, but after that, tickets start from $55 per person per night or $99 per person for all three nights.
The event is an amazing marriage between good food and great music; the vibes here are some of the best you’ll find around Detroit all summer long!
9. Shop and take a free fitness class at Eastern Market’s Tuesday Markets
Every Tuesday in August (5, 12, 19, and 26), Eastern Market will host a ‘Tuesday Market‘.
These wellness-focused markets offer local produce, food, and flowers. Guests can also take a free fitness class: yoga classes are from 11 am – noon, and Zumba is offered from 1 pm – 2 pm.
Find it at Eastern Market, 2934 Russel St, Detroit, MI 48207.
10. Detroit Jazz Festival
The free-to-attend Detroit Jazz Festival is set to take place from August 29th to September 1st in Hart Plaza and Campus Martius Park along Woodward!
The musical event will feature a wide range of artists, encompassing the full spectrum of jazz styles and art forms.
11. Afro Future Fest
Taking place at Bedrock’s Douglass Site this August on the 16th and 17th!
The lineup includes Afrobeat all-stars like Asake and Davido, who will be taking the main stage to perform, and will also feature Detroit icons like Tee Grizzley.