Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Clawson, Michigan to Redford Township, Michigan
Overview
In a time when long-distance journeys have become long-lost adventures, the scenic road trip from Clawson, Michigan to Redford Township, Michigan offers an incredible opportunity for explorers to unravel the hidden gems between these two suburban areas. Spanning approximately 32 miles, this road trip encompasses the best of both worlds, showcasing picturesque landscapes, historical landmarks, and immersive experiences. As travelers embark on this remarkable journey, they will find themselves captivated by the rich history and natural beauty that adorns the route. A notable halfway point on this road trip is the vibrant city of Detroit, Michigan, known for its industrial legacy and renowned as the birthplace of the American automotive industry.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Visit the Detroit Historical Museum
Discover the captivating past of not only Detroit but also the entire state of Michigan at the Detroit Historical Museum. Located in Midtown Detroit, this cultural institution chronicles the city's riveting history from its humble beginnings to its rise as a powerhouse of industry. Visitors can explore exhibits that cover various eras, including the fur trade, the Underground Railroad, the Prohibition era, and the birth of jazz. Step into the restored Streets of Old Detroit display to witness a glimpse of what the city once looked like in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With its extensive collection and interactive displays, the Detroit Historical Museum ensures an enriching experience for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Interesting fact: The Detroit Historical Museum is home to the restored General Motors Futurliner No. 10, one of twelve custom-designed vehicles used during the 1936–1940 "Parade of Progress" tours showcasing the possibilities of future transportation.
2. Wander through the Henry Ford Museum
Immerse yourself in a world shaped by innovation and vision at the Henry Ford Museum, located in Dearborn, Michigan. This monumental museum bears witness to the ingenuity and determination that birthed the American industrial era. With its vast collection of groundbreaking exhibits, such as the Rosa Parks Bus, the limousine that carried President John F. Kennedy on that tragic day in Dallas, and the iconic 1965 Ford Mustang, visitors will be transported back in time. The museum's interactive displays and immersive experiences offer a unique opportunity to understand the impact of entrepreneurial spirit and technological advancements.
Interesting fact: The Henry Ford Museum houses the chair in which President Abraham Lincoln was sitting when he was assassinated at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C.
3. Indulge in Nature's Splendor at Belle Isle Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life by making a stop at Belle Isle Park, a serene island park located on the Detroit River. This oasis of nature boasts a wealth of recreational activities, including hiking trails, picnic spots, and stunning views of the Detroit skyline. Visitors can explore the Belle Isle Aquarium, one of the oldest aquariums in the United States, to witness an array of aquatic life. For those seeking tranquility, the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory provides a delightful sanctuary with its exquisite botanical gardens. Belle Isle Park offers an idyllic setting where visitors can revel in the beauty of nature and take a break from their journey.
Interesting fact: Designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Belle Isle Park is larger than New York City's Central Park and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
4. Discover Artistic Masterpieces at the Detroit Institute of Arts
Art enthusiasts will be enthralled by the extensive collection housed within the stunning walls of the Detroit Institute of Arts. Located in the cultural heart of Detroit, this esteemed institution boasts over 65,000 works of art from various periods and genres. From ancient Egyptian masterpieces to contemporary creations, the museum offers a diverse range of artistic expressions. Marvel at renowned works such as Vincent van Gogh's "Self-Portrait," Diego Rivera's epic Detroit Industry frescoes, and the beautiful Detroit Industry Murals. With its curated exhibits and immersive galleries, the Detroit Institute of Arts caters to the tastes of both seasoned art connoisseurs and casual admirers.
Interesting fact: The Detroit Institute of Arts houses one of the most significant art collections in the United States and is home to Diego Rivera's Detroit Industry Murals, a series of frescoes admired for their sheer scale and cultural significance.
5. Unveil Motor City's Legacy at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant
Step back in time and witness the birthplace of the revolutionary Model T at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant in Detroit. This historic gem is where Henry Ford and his team developed the world's first assembly line, transforming the landscape of the automotive industry forever. Visitors can explore the very factory where early Model T's were produced, gaining insight into the ingenious manufacturing techniques that revolutionized transportation. Marvel at the preserved vintage vehicles, including the oldest surviving Model T, and learn about the innovative spirit that laid the foundation for modern-day automobiles.
Interesting fact: The Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is where the prototype for the groundbreaking Model T was created, with only 12 handmade cars built in 1907 before mass production began.
The Journey and Duration
Taking the scenic road trip from Clawson, Michigan to Redford Township, Michigan and savoring the incredible highlights along the way, travelers can expect a deeply enriching experience that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. This approximately 32-mile journey enables exploration of prominent destinations such as the Detroit Historical Museum, the Henry Ford Museum, Belle Isle Park, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant.
The diverse attractions offered by each location ensure that every moment of this road trip is filled with awe and wonder. From stepping into the preserved streets of Detroit's past at the Detroit Historical Museum to immersing oneself in the legacy of American innovation at the Henry Ford Museum, each stop offers a different perspective on the region's rich history. Along the way, travelers can escape into the tranquility of Belle Isle Park's natural splendor and marvel at artistic masterpieces in the hallowed halls of the Detroit Institute of Arts. Finally, the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant serves as an invaluable window into the birthplace of the modern automobile.
The duration of this journey largely depends on the amount of time travelers allocate to explore each destination fully. With an average of two to three hours dedicated to each location, including travel time between each stop, this road trip can span approximately three to four days. However, those seeking a more leisurely pace can extend their travel time to fully immerse themselves in the captivating offerings of each location. Whether completed in a few days or savored over a longer period, this road trip promises an unforgettable adventure, leaving indelible memories of Michigan's rich heritage and captivating landscapes.