Discover Detroit's Hidden History
A Walk Through Detroit's Hidden History
For over three centuries, Detroit has pulsed with innovation, culture, and unyielding resilience, weaving its rich history, legendary music scene, and revolutionary automotive legacy into the fabric of America. Yet, despite what many believe they know about this iconic city, even lifelong residents rarely grasp the full depth of Detroit’s untold story—how it rose, fell, and continues to redefine itself. Now, for the first time, embark on a journey through Detroit’s hidden past. Hear gripping tales of visionaries, inventors, and warriors who shaped its destiny. Feel the sting of heartbreak, but also the enduring spark of hope. Our expert-led tours go beyond mere facts, revealing the soul of Detroit—what it once was, what it could never be, and what it might yet become. Don’t just visit Detroit—uncover its HIDDEN HISTORY. Book your tour today and step into the Motor City’s extraordinary saga!
What you need to know
How long is the tour?
Where do we meet?
All tours meet in Grand Circus Park, across from the People Mover station. Your guide will be waiting at the corner of Woodward and Park Avenue. The meeting spot is within walking distance of many event centers and easily accessible via public transit. If you require assistance finding the meeting location please call customer assistance at (586) 209-2238. To search on Google Maps click HERE
Who will lead the tour?
All tours are lead by seasoned and experienced guides, vetted for their knowledge and passion for our city.
When do tours start?
Tours begin every night at 6 PM. Tour times may change per seasonal demand.
What should I bring?
A good pair of walking shoes! We also highly advise you check weather reports before departing and wear weather appropriate clothing.
Where do I park?
Our tours take place in the center of downtown Detroit and as such parking availability and prices can fluctuate depending on many factors. We highly encourage you to visit Parkopedia.com or other sites to reserve parking ahead of time.
Are there rest stops during the tour?
There are no scheduled rest stops during the tour. We highly advise everyone to arrange for rest stops before arriving for the tour.
Will we enter any buildings on the tour?
Our walking tour is entirely outdoors. On occasion there may be the opportunity to enter some historical buildings, this is conditional and cannot be guaranteed. Dress appropriately.
Who can join this tour?
All are welcome. Our tours are kid friendly, but parents should consider their child’s tolerance for 90 minutes of walking. In addition the entire tour will take place over mostly flat urban concrete, but guests with mobility concerns should consider the length and pace of the tour.
When is the cutoff to join a tour?
All guests must purchase their ticket online at least 4 hours before the start time.
Are refunds or exchanges available for ticket purchases?
To receive a full refund, travelers may cancel up to 24 hours before the experience start time in the local timezone. No refunds will be given after that time period. Please double-check your dates and times before finalizing your order.
Will tours continue in case of bad weather?
All tours depart rain or shine as long as it’s safe. In the event of unsafe conditions guests will get a phone call and email in the event of a tour cancellation. This is incredibly rare however, it is important guests give the correct contact info at check out so that they can be notified.
Customer Reviews
My wife and I had an extra afternoon to spend in Detroit and wanted to learn more about some of the unique history that Detroit has to offer. Michael was amazing and took us around downtown explaining the city’s history – definitely recommend him to anyone who has some extra time to spend! He had great energy throughout the entire tour and you could tell he was extremely passionate about Detroit.
Vas Kota
This hidden history tour was unlike any other I have taken in Detroit. It was rich with stories that most tours completely overlook. Our guide brought forgotten landmarks and untold
narratives to life with passion and insight.
Jeanette G
Super nice tour. The tour guide was very passionated and had a lot to tell about the history and added smaller stories for each sightseeing spot. Detroit is not the most beautiful city in the world but I for sure had missed out a lot on the history and some spots without this tour.
Vanessa B
Some of the stories you will hear
We hope for better things
Augustus Brevoort Woodward was nobody’s idea of normal – naming himself after a Roman Emperor was just one example – but he had a vision to turn Detroit into the greatest city in the world. Unfortunately the most powerful men in Michigan had other ideas.
The slaves and the hunter
When Thornton Blackburn and his wife arrived in Detroit they probably assumed the worst was behind them. Little did they know a slave hunter was hot on their trail and the ensuing struggle for freedom would push a city already on the edge into destruction.
The Flivver King
When a relentless tinkerer rolled his first horseless carriage out of a Detroit garage, he couldn’t have foreseen the revolution he’d ignite. Henry Ford crowned Detroit the Motor City—but did his legacy also sow the seeds of its unraveling?
The brown bomber's revenge
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