The Detroit River – Flowing through Michigan History since the 1700’s

As one of the busiest waterways in the world, the Detroit River serves as a symbol for positive international relations and hope to Detroit. Beyond its historical impact between the United States and Canada, the resurgence of this historic river is timed perfectly with the city’s comeback. The integration of...
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The Emergence of West Riverfront Park

As the City of Detroit enters an era of thriving economic developments, booming real estate and a determination to create a future of success – a new project has emerged. Changing Landscapes In April 2018, the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy announced, at a press conference in the GM Wintergarden, a new...
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The Ambassador Bridge: An Iconic Symbol of Unity in Detroit

With all the amazing developments beginning in Detroit today, we often forget the iconic projects that once defined the Motor City. From the booming automobile industry, to the reputable and unique music of Motown, Detroit has always been a front runner for innovation and excitement in our changing world. As...
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How Leather “Scrap” from Detroit’s Auto Industry is Powering the First Sneakers Manufactured in the Motor City

By: Jarret Schlaff, CEO of Pingree Detroit I could not have imagined that showing up to a meeting in the GMRENCEN three years ago carrying Pingree Detroit’s newest urban utility boot prototype, and a vision for creating skilled trades jobs for veterans, would provide my team access to the materials...
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Sweat in the Sky with Rooftop Yoga at the GMRENCEN

Practice makes perfect! Rooftop Yoga is back for another summer at the GMRENCEN. The complimentary classes, hosted in partnership with RenCen Fitness, take place weekly this summer, so get ready to stretch! Break up your day with a yoga class from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. during lunch, or strike...
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Your Photo Here Contest: Meet the Photographers

Within the city of Detroit lives another city, the GMRENCEN; filled with shops, restaurants, a hotel and more. The building has defined the Detroit skyline since 1977 with its international, city and riverfront views. As one of the most photographed buildings in Detroit, we launched the Your Photo Here Contest...
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In Memoriam: John C. Portman

Architect of the Renaissance Center, John C. Portman passed away at the age of 93 on December 29, 2017. Portman was known for his futuristic concepts and modern designs as he elevated skylines into the 21st century. Portman was born December 4, 1924 in South Carolina and raised in Atlanta,...
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Celebrity Chef Shawn McClain to Reinvent Iconic GMRENCEN Dining Space

Welcome to Detroit Detroit-based James Beard Award-winning Chef, Shawn McClain will soon occupy the top of the GMRENCEN as the location for his first Detroit restaurant. Shawn is a celebrity chef with three operations in MGM-owned Las Vegas casinos. As an Iron Chef victor, Shawn has attracted his own cult...
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Detroit Artist: Nadir Ali

A lifelong Detroiter, photographer Nadir Ali knows Detroit. Regularly working with community partners such as the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, Downtown Detroit Partnership and the Platform, Nadir really knows Detroit. Detroit in 2022 As a community partner for several well-known Detroit organizations Nadir feels like a historian for the city. “There...
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Your Photo Here (in the GMRENCEN!) Winners

After reviewing all of the submissions for the Your Photo Here Contest, the public narrowed down their favorites to the top 10. These 10 photographs will soon decorate the walls of the GMRENCEN, along with an “About the Artist” biography for each photographer. The Your Photo Contest started in October...
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6 Ways the GMRENCEN Saved Your Meeting

Life is hectic sometimes. Things come up unexpectedly and it’s easy for details to slip our minds, especially in the midst of preparing for meetings and presentations you have to nail. The pressure is on, but when a few things slip through the crack…don’t worry the GMRENCEN is here to...
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100 Reasons to Love the GMRENCEN

We’ve reached 100 posts on the GMRENCEN blog and to celebrate we’re sharing 100 different reasons why we love the GMRENCEN. We love…   Guests who visit the GMRENCEN. All of the food choices inside the GMRENCEN. When Holiday Headquarters takes over in December. The wide variety of Michigan-made products...
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