Category Archives: Explore

5 Ways to Enjoy the Detroit Riverfront

Detroit Riverfront

 

Summer is here and it’s the perfect time to get outside and explore this beautiful city we’re lucky to call home. To help you get started, we’ve curated five of our favorite happenings right near the GMRENCEN.

 

Tour the Detroit Riverfront 

 

Start your day in the D with a Detroit Riverfront: Past, Present & Future Socially Distant Walking Tour by the Detroit Experience Factory. This tour offers something for everyone, whether you’re new to Detroit or just looking to gain more knowledge about the city’s rich history. With tour stops including Milliken State Park, Cullen Plaza, Dequindre Cut and Valade Park, you’re sure to experience something new.

 

Dine Along the Detroit Riverfront

 

 

 

Enjoy views of the Detroit Riverfront at one of the GMRENCEN’s fine dining restaurants! Andiamo offers an extensive selection of Italian dishes and an incredible assortment of wine. Highlands Detroit offers impeccable views of Detroit from the 71st floor, accompanied by a diverse menu of handmade dishes and innovative cocktails at High Bar. If you’re facing a serious seafood craving, visit Joe Muer Seafood for the freshest sushi and even better views of the river.

 

Explore the City from the Detroit Riverfront

 

Eastern Market is a can’t-miss Detroit experience for locals and visitors alike – and you can access the market from the riverfront. Park at the GMRENCEN, then walk, bike or run through the Dequindre Cut that leads right to Eastern Market. Saturday markets are open year-round, while summer markets on Tuesdays and Sundays are open from June to September. Fresh produce and local art are just some of the many things you can expect to find here – so make it a must for your day in Detroit!

 

Bike the Detroit Riverfront 

 

Mogo

 

Ride the riverfront on a MoGo Bike! MoGo bikes allow you to rent a bicycle for as long as you’d like and use it at your own pace. You can pick up or drop off your bike at one of dozens of stations in and around the city including a station on the GM Plaza. Prices are flexible based on your length of use. Bike racks are also located around the GMRENCEN.

 

Enjoy Yoga by the Water

 

Round out your visit to Detroit with a relaxing Yoga on the Riverfront practice, held in Milliken State Park every Thursday at 6 p.m. and every Friday at 10 a.m. Classes are free – provided by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, just bring your own mat and water!

 

The GMRENCEN offers parking year-round which is only steps from the Detroit Riverfront to help simplify planning for your day downtown. Hopefully, you’ve now gathered some ideas and are ready to plan your next trip to the D!

Artist Spotlight: Richard Talamantez

The GMRENCEN is Detroit’s most iconic building. It’s at the forefront of just about every photo representing Detroit. You know what it looks like from the outside, but what about the inside? It’s filled with cars, history and art that make up the Motor City.

 

If you’ve never been inside the building, or haven’t been in years, local photographer Richard Talamantez invites you inside the GMRENCEN as he takes over the building’s Instagram account from Sunday, March 1 through Saturday, March 14 to show you how much the building has changed and the things that make it so memorable. Sit back and let Richard be your guide to experience the GMRENCEN like never before.

 

Meet Richard

 

 

Four years ago, Richard Talamantez and his wife, Chelsea, had just gotten married and were looking for a new place to call home. The two ultimately decided to settle in Detroit, moving across the country from California.

 

Now, Talamantez works in downtown Detroit. In his free time, he walks around the city capturing anything that catches his eye.

 

“I like what’s happening in Detroit,” he says. Despite Talamantez getting his start in photography 10 years ago shooting for the professional world, he has since shifted his focus to the people and places in Detroit. “I just fell in love with the city.”

 

Step Inside

 

Because he works downtown, Talamantez takes his camera with him on his walk to and from the parking structure, shooting as he goes. And he’s always been drawn to the GMRENCEN.

 

“The exterior of the GMRENCEN is very photogenic, but everyone sees the building from the outside,” he says. “To me, the interior is just as striking and there’s a lot of visually interesting things going on in there that I think people should see.”

 

For Talamantez’s interior takeover, expect to start outside the Jefferson Lobby and travel inside to explore the different sights, shapes, colors and more, all from his perspective.

 

Artful Architecture

 

According to Talamantez, he was initially blown away by Detroit, particularly by the vibrant history incorporated into the city’s planning. When comparing the city to his previous hometown in downtown Los Angeles, he felt Detroit has significantly more history in its architecture.

 

“Every time I go out to shoot with other photographers, everyone sees something completely different from one another, such as settings, tones, etc.,” Talamantez says. “That type of diversity makes the experience even richer.”

 

As for the GMRENCEN, which stands out far from the rest of the city’s skyline, its bold art and architecture are part of the experience, like the glass Borealis art installation found in the Jefferson Lobby.

 

Motor City Metal

 

 

Because Talamantez’s photography is guided by whatever catches his eye, there are plenty of pit stops during his visits to the GMRENCEN. As a car guy living near the Motor City, he’d be remiss if he didn’t experience GM World.

 

Keep your seatbelt on and enjoy the ride as Talamantez takes you on a cruise through not one but two GM World displays. While the first is a throwback exhibition showcasing the eight generations of Corvette, the other is every driver’s dream featuring brightly colored sportscars.

 

Come Full Circle

 

With Talamantez as a guide, you will see the GMRENCEN from his perspective.

 

“Everyone photographs the city because it’s pretty,” he adds. “I want to use my photography to be the eyes of someone who’s not from the area.”

 

In his interior takeover, he’ll show off what happens at the GMRENCEN, helping you navigate through the towering levels and winding walkways that lead to the offices, restaurants and stores.

 

Dine Detroit

 

Detroit is known as a dining destination, and the GMRENCEN is no exception. As you discover more about the building, keep an eye out for the unparalleled views of Detroit’s hottest restaurant: Highlands.

 

Talamantez’s first time at Highlands was for a romantic dinner on Christmas Eve. Ever since that night, he knew he had to return to see more of Detroit’s only sky restaurant with the best views of the city. Now you can explore Highlands with him. After all, food, drinks and the views are just better 71 stories up.

 

Detroit, Inside and Out

 

 

“The GMRENCEN is a guide for the city,” he says. “You know where you’re at in Detroit when you see the top of the GMRENCEN.”

 

Though it’s undeniable that the GMRENCEN is a forever recognizable piece of the city’s skyline, it’s truly what’s on the inside that counts.

 

From the glass walls and ceilings that let in natural light, to the concrete pillars that hold up its substantial structure, and the glass atrium that opens to the bustling Riverfront – Talamantez is here to show what the GMRENCEN is really made of.

 

Richard Talamantez works in Detroit and lives in Trenton. Follow him on Instagram to see more of his work.

 

6 Detroit Date Night Ideas for Valentine’s Day

A holiday dedicated to love, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to take your significant other or BFF on a Detroit date night. Luckily, the city is home to restaurants offering a range of flavors, atmospheres and activities to eat, drink and experience Detroit.

 

Here are a couple recommendations if you want a Detroit-style Valentine’s Day celebration:

 

Classic Italian cuisine from Andiamo

 

Classic and Romantic

 

Classic and romantic, Andiamo Detroit has an unparalleled view of the Detroit Riverfront to go along with its signature authentic cuisine. Imagine sitting face-to-face with your loved one enjoying Andiamo’s urban chic atmosphere and listening to Italian music faintly serenading you in the background. What better way to celebrate the “official day of love” than with an authentic Italian entrée and a glass of wine in-hand?

 

Fun and Games

 

Want your Detroit date night to have more than just dinner? Take the People Mover and get off at Broadway Station for a night of drinks and entertainment at Punch Bowl Social. Hang out with your date all night long playing Jenga, shuffleboard, billiards, arcade games and, of course, bowling.

 

A Little History

 

Interested in learning more about the city? Experience a taste of Detroit’s rich history by sampling the unique food and cocktails at Grey Ghost. Aptly named for an infamous local pirate during the Prohibition era, Grey Ghost offers guests a little history and a lot of craftsmanship.

 

Joe Muer’s famous coconut cake

 

Sophisticated Seafood

 

For a sophisticated night with unbeatable scenery, Joe Muer is Detroit’s prime destination for seafood. Visualize a perfect night, complete with exquisite lobster dinner, chilled wine, a slice of Joe Muer’s famous coconut cake and picturesque views overlooking the water’s edge of the Detroit Riverfront. Looking for exceptional service? You and your date will be well tended by Joe Muer’s knowledgeable and gracious staff seeing to your every need.

 

Comfort Food

 

Comfort food is anything but traditional at Townhouse. This restaurant is a favorite date night spot in the city, offering true Detroit flavor in every lunch, brunch, dinner, dessert and happy hour it serves. Sit under the lights at the bar or next to one of Townhouse’s greenery walls to immerse yourself in this Detroit hub.

 

Highlands offers more than just a beautiful view

 

New and Exciting

 

Experience high quality high above the city on the 71st and 72nd floors of the GMRENCEN at Highlands Detroit. As the city’s latest date night destination, Highlands is a truly unique Detroit dining experience in the sky. Whether you’re starting out with a lively happy hour at High Bar, connecting at the casual-cool Hearth71 or ending the night with an intimate dinner for two at Highlands, this new Detroit staple has everything you’re looking for – and more.

 

The GMRENCEN wants to show you some love this Valentine’s Day! Share  your GMRENCEN love story (a fun date, an awesome event you attended, what you love most about the building or Riverfront, etc.) by commenting on the pinned post on the GMRENCEN Facebook page for the chance to win a $100 gift card for a GMRENCEN Detroit date night destination of your choosing at Andiamo, Joe Muer or Highlands Detroit.

Highlands: A True Detroit Dining Experience

Towering 71 and 72 floors above the city, Highlands Detroit is now taking reservations for a truly unique dining experience in the sky.

 

From the non-traditional riff on the classic steakhouse at Highlands, to a casual-cool eatery at Hearth71, to the buzzy, spirited High Bar, you’ll experience high quality high above the city at Highlands Detroit.

 

The views are worthy of date night, after-work cocktails, pre-game shenanigans or a “just because” outing.

 

Food

 

Say cheese! Sample it all with the Artisan Cheese Board, which offers the perfect amount of variety for any palate.

 

Indulge in savory Bacon-Wrapped Medjool Dates, the perfect start to any meal.

 

Start out strong at Hearth 71 with a classic app like the Italian Prosciutto and Burrata Board, complete with shaved prosciutto, creamy burrata and herbed pine nut relish.

 

Moving on up to the main course. After all, Highlands is Detroit’s premier steakhouse in the sky.

 

Feeling saucy? Highlands Detroit may be a steakhouse, but the seafood is truly mouthwatering.

 

There’s nothing like a bowl full of perfectly cooked mussels. Yum!

 

Feed your soul with an order of Highlands’ savory Mushroom Bucatini. Take it up a notch and pair your dish with a light white wine.

 

Why choose between land and lake? A little surf, a little turf and a whole lotta wonderful.

 

End on a sweet note with an order of Warm Chocolate Chip Cookies topped with sea salt and served with a Guernsey Farms Milkshake. Remember, the calories don’t count 71 floors up.

 

Drinks

 

Experience the cocktail as an art form at High Bar.

 

Raise your glass, whether it’s vodka, wine or a handcrafted Whiskey Sour.

 

The Chef’s robust whiskey collection.

 

Racks on racks of aged wine.

 

Whether you have a party of one or four, reserve your table today.

 

Highlands Detroit is ready for you.

 

Whether you’re local or just passing through, Highlands Detroit welcomes you to experience top of the tower dining at its finest. Reserve your table today.

Artist Spotlight: Chris Burton

The GMRENCEN is dedicated to the safety of our tenants and visitors. In compliance with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services emergency order, new procedures and precautions are now in place at the GMRENCEN. Learn more about our new guidelines here.

 

Local photographer Chris Burton has seen Detroit’s true colors. After moving back to the city from a two-year stint in Dallas, he’s returned with a new goal:  showcase Detroit as a beautiful space with cool things to see and do.

 

In October 2019, Chris took over the GMRENCEN Instagram account to show you Detroit from his perspective.

 

Here is everything you need to know about Chris and his takeover.

 

He’s rediscovering the city through photography.

 

It all started when he moved back. Chris picked his camera up after returning to the city because he was overtaken by all the architecture and art in Detroit.

 

Though he had a positive first impression of the Motor City, he became more familiar with it through his photography. He spent his nights walking around with his camera to capture the sights that caught his eye.

 

He’s self-taught.

 

From first picking up a camera in high school to developing music videos to booking his weekends full of wedding and real estate shoots, his photography encompasses a wide-range of purpose and style.

 

But for Chris, photography was a self-taught skill. Though he’s only been shooting for about two years now, his work has grown tremendously thanks to his late-night walks trying new things and honing his craft.

 

He sees Detroit in a positive light.

 

As he travels, Chris enjoys sharing the beauty he experiences with his audience. Detroit is no exception.

 

“I personally love Detroit, but I think people’s first opinion of Detroit tends to be negative,” said Chris. “I’d love to change that.”

 

With his audience reaching across the states, he can introduce his followers to a city they have only heard about. Luckily for Detroit, he has plenty of good things to share.

 

He thinks Detroit is the most exciting city.

 

Chris’s work will always showcase something new. Whether it’s a bird’s-eye view of the city’s skyline or a snapshot of dinner and drinks at the hottest restaurant in town, he wants to share his experiences with you.

 

“I think Detroit is the most exciting city,” he said. “It seems every month, something new is opening.”

 

 

 

He loves a place with a view.

 

As a photographer, Chris loves any place that allows him to experience cool views, and there’s something special about being high above the city. According to Chris, you can get such a different perspective from up high.

 

“I love the GMRENCEN”, Chris said. “Volt in the Detroit Marriott is one of the coolest, most lowkey places in Detroit. It’s one of the city’s best kept secrets.”

 

He also enjoys the exclusivity of some of the city’s newer hot spots, such as the Monarch Club, Little Caesars Arena and Highlands Detroit.

 

He appreciates the details.

 

Chris’s photography is based off capturing the intricate details of a city that might otherwise go unnoticed. With an appreciation for the history and culture behind the city’s architecture, he wants to make people aware, seeing the same things they’ve seen before but in a new perspective.

 

“Detroit has some amazing architecture, but often times, people can walk by some of those finer details without even noticing,” he said. “I want to make people see a photograph of something they’ve seen before, but this time realizing just how cool the details behind it are.”

 

He is inspired.

 

For Chris, the whole process is inspiring. His journey of exploring different parts of the city always takes him somewhere new, leading him to create art from his camera.

 

“I’m trying to help people see their own backyard in a different light,” he said. “I’d love for them to see things in a different way and truly appreciate what they’re walking by.”

 

He believes in working outside of your comfort zone.

 

“Take something you’re afraid to do and do it,” said Chris. “Be confident in yourself. If you put in the work, there’s a lot more you can accomplish.”

 

Chris Burton lives in Detroit. Follow him on Instagram or check out his online portfolio to see more of his work.

 

A New Perspective with Detroit Artist James Gates

James Gates is no stranger to Detroit. In fact, he spends most of his time here, capturing familiar sights from different perspectives

 

He entered the GMRENCEN’s Your Photo Here contest, a contest where local photographers submitted their best shots of the GMRENCEN for the chance to have the photo featured inside the building. It’s where we were first introduced to his work. You can view Gates’ photo on Level 2 in Tower 200. In August 2019, he took over the GMRENCEN Instagram account showcasing Detroit through his lenses.

 

What motivates you to shoot?

I started photography for the stress relief. I work in IT, and after a particularly grueling day I like to walk around with my camera to clear my head. During the day, people are just going and going constantly. With photography, I can take my time to get the effect I want to get. It requires patience and I like that.

 

What’s a typical photography outing like?

I always start and end at the GM Wintergarden, right on Atwater. From there I take a long walk along the Riverfront. It’s my favorite place in Detroit. I don’t necessarily know what I’m going to shoot, but I feel more relaxed when I come back.

 

How long have you been photographing?

I got into photography in the fall of 2014, and 2015 was a learning year, practicing long exposure and other types of shots. It started out inconsistent, but then I got hooked.

 

What was it like winning the GMRENCEN’s Your Photo Here Contest and being featured in the building?

It’s still such an honor. I had only been into photography for about a year and a half when I took that shot. My friend loved it so much and encouraged me share it. A little while later, the Your Photo Here Contest began, so I submitted my shot. It was a strange coincidence.

 

That photo is one of the first ones I took, and it’s still there.

 

 

What have you learned since then?

I feel it’s important for me to keep up with the times and continue learning new camera settings. I’m just constantly learning from other Detroit photographers.

 

Always look for a unique angle because you don’t want to be like everybody else.

 

Do you ever change up your style?

I’m always learning new ways to do things, but I tend to stick to one type at a time. I choose a technique and work on mastering it before jumping to the next thing. Right now, I’m trying to work filters into my photography. I’ll be at that for a while.

 

What challenges do you face with your photography?

One challenge that affects me is that I’m legally blind. This doesn’t really hinder my work, but it can be frustrating. Sometimes when I’m reviewing my work after a photoshoot, I’ll notice blemishes in my shots that I couldn’t see out in the field. Although this isn’t a huge issue with architectural photography, it would make portrait and other photography more difficult.

 

 

What did you want people to take away from your Instagram takeover?

I was born and raised in Detroit, so I have 30 plus years of good memories here, especially of the GMRENCEN. I want people to know I love Detroit and I hope that shows in my photos.

 

 

What did you want to convey with your GMRENCEN August takeover?

I wanted to share some of the photos I’ve taken on my walks, with a focus on the GMRENCEN and the Riverfront. It captured the authentic Detroit, complete with Cullen Plaza tulips, Milliken State Park Lighthouse and city sunsets.

 

James Gates lives in Detroit and is a legally blind photographer. See his work on his Instagram at @james.m.gates or check out his online portfolio at jgatesphotography.com.

Rockin’ on the Riverfront with Marriott

Attending this year’s Chevrolet Rockin’ on the Riverfront concert series? Enjoy the encore and don’t worry about the drive home by booking a room at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center.

 

Conveniently located on the famous RiverWalk in downtown Detroit, the 70-floor hotel is just steps away from the main stage.

 

Gaze out on downtown, the Detroit River and Canada through floor-to-ceiling windows in its spacious hotel rooms and suites.

 

The GMRENCEN is a perfection staycation spot for visitors of the city, with more than 25+ dining options, a newly-renovated GM World and its convenient distance from downtown activities.

 

What more could you ask for? Book your room by visiting marriott.com/dtwdt.

Artist Spotlight: Chris Marinica

Whether he’s in the city or out in nature, local photographer Chris Marinica finds beauty everywhere he goes.

Luckily for Detroit, it just so happens the Livonia native likes to head downtown. His work features everything from quiet trails to towering architecture, all the while experimenting with perspective and color.

In the next two weeks, Marinica will share all of this and more as he takes over the GMRENCEN Instagram account. We recently caught up with him to learn a little more about his start, his photography and his plans for his GMRENCEN takeover.

 

A Jack of All Trades

A videographer by trade, Marinica was first moved to capture moments through film. In fact, he works as a wedding videographer helping newlyweds remember their big day. He continues his photography in his free time, which means capturing the beauty of Detroit, as he does so well, is a true passion of his.

Marinica’s approach to photography is to focus on what inspires him and only shoot things that make him happy. After hunting down and taking his pictures, he edits them to show various angles, movement and color.

“All the things you see on my Instagram, that’s all me,” he says. “Most of my photos are actually 3-10 photos merged together to show people a different perspective.”

 

An Artist’s-Eye View

When Marinica is out shooting in the city, inspiration is everywhere. Sometimes all it takes is a little perspective.

Detroit’s colors, architecture and skyline have always drawn him in, but Marinica didn’t really start photographing the city until he travelled off the beaten path.

“Some of my favorite places in the city are places I used to go to before they were renovated,” he said. “I would sneak in, and that’s how I got started with photography.”

Nowadays, Marinica still goes above and beyond for every shot, such as using a drone to capture moments from high above the bustle of the city. His use of aerial photography gives him a bird’s eye view, which comes in handy when your subject is over 700 feet tall.

Towering Above the Rest

Marinica’s favorite part about the city is its diverse photo opportunities, making the GMRENCEN the perfect place for him to shoot.

“I have so many photos of the GMRENCEN. It’s the tallest piece of the Detroit skyline, and that just stands out to me,” he says. “It’s so beautiful with different lights.”

Hues of gold and pink can really change the effect of the photograph, transforming it into something completely new. We look forward to seeing the towers lit up with Marinica’s expert touch.

So when you’re in the city in the next two weeks, take a moment to hunt down a few of Marinica’s shots. Get inspired as he takes over the GMRENCEN Instagram account, and travel with him as he finds beauty all around the city.

After all, whether you’re living here, working here or just stopping by, Detroit has so much to offer you.

 

Chris Marinica lives in Livonia. Follow him on Instagram or work with him through his Falcon Film Studios profile.

Artist Spotlight: Mike Boening

There’s nothing quite like the hustle and bustle of city life.

 

While big cities may have their charm, Detroit has something others simply do not. Just take it from Mike Boening.

 

As a Detroit-based street photographer, Boening knows this better than most. He takes pride in shooting the real Detroit and sharing it with his audience.

 

Follow him on one of his street tours of Detroit as he takes over the GMRENCEN Instagram account over the next two weeks.

 

City Streets

 

Boening finds inspiration all around him on the streets of Detroit. His focus as a photographer has always been on observing people and how they interact.

 

“My photography style is all about movement within big cities,” he says. “After all, city life is busy and offers much to see. Urban landscapes, especially in Detroit, have buildings, history, people and movement within them. I just love capturing all of it.”

 

Through his street and urban photography, he simply captures everyday moments, such as commuting to work or running to catch a flight.

Worldly Shots

 

Boening’s work in the mitten has led him to work with the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and the Pure Michigan campaign, where his shots graced calendars and billboards throughout Michigan.

 

Though his camera is often pointed at Detroit, he sometimes shifts its focus to other large cities around the world.

 

“I travel to all parts of the country for work,” says Boening, who leads urban photography street tours to share his love of the art by teaching others.

 

But no matter where he lands, Boening says Detroit always stands out to him because he appreciates witnessing the diverse development of the city.

 

Building History

 

“I love seeing the changes and capturing history being built, and that history is here.”

 

Boening remembers the construction of the GMRENCEN and feels lucky to have the opportunity to see the beginning of a true Detroit destination.

 

“Detroit has changed so much from where it was to where it is now and the GMRENCEN is a big part of that transformation. To me, there’s nothing more iconic.”

 

For Boening, history and inspiration are just down the street.

 

Mike Boening lives in Clinton Township. Follow him on Instagram or visit his online portfolio to see and shop more of his work.

Spring into Detroit’s Beauty

Happy Spring, Detroit! A photographer’s playground, spring time in Detroit is full of areas to capture the beauty of the city and Riverfront.

 

Talented, local photographers share some of their favorite shots of the city as the weather begins to warm up and Detroit’s beauty is in full bloom!

 

“In Bloom” by Detroit photographer Jason Clemens. Follow him on Instagram @Share_Detroit. Check out our featured blog post highlighting his work here.

 

“The GMRENCEN, framed” by Detroit photographer Suzann Braun. Follow her on Instagram @suzannisuzanni. Check out our featured blog post highlighting her work here.

 

“Spring time on the Riverwalk” by James Gonyea.

 

 

“In Bloom” by Detroit photographer Jason Clemens. Follow him on Instagram @Share_Detroit. Check out our featured blog post highlighting his work here.

 

“From Belle Isle on a Spring Afternoon” by James Gonyea.

 

“Princess Sunset” by Jason Clemens. Follow him on Instagram @Share_Detroit. Check out our featured blog post highlighting his work here.

 

 

“Sherbet Sunset” by Ray Akey.

 

“Peeking Through” by Lou Peeples. Follow him on Instagram @loupeeples_photography. Check out our featured blog post highlighting his work here.

 

“Detroit Silhouette” by Wade Bryant.