Tag Archives: Detroit

Falling in Love with the Detroit Riverfront

fall-in-Detroit

The dog days of summer have officially ended and now it’s time for fall in the Motor City. The change in weather doesn’t have to stop your fun-filled adventures. We created a guide to help you enjoy the new season on the Detroit Riverfront.

 

Fall for the Riverfront View:

 

Photo by Suzanne Braun

 

Whether you’re running joyfully into the change of season or taking a slow stroll into fall, the Detroit Riverfront views are ready for you to explore. Take a walk along the Dequindre Cut Greenway paths, enjoy Belle Isle’s nature trails or take the family on an adventure down the Detroit Riverwalk, the #1 Riverwalk in the USA, to Robert C. Valade Park for fun-filled playgrounds.

 

If you want to cover a lot of area, you can always park at the GMRENCEN and grab a MOGO bike to breeze around the city with ease.

 

Fall Food and Cocktails: 

 

Photo by Highlands Detroit

 

The change of season means delicious seasonal cocktails and food. Whether this is your first time or your hundredth time tasting one of the three award-winning restaurants at the GMRENCEN, their new menu items and autumnal views are the perfect addition to any trip to the Riverfront.

 

Andiamo offers an extensive selection of seasonal Italian dishes and an incredible assortment of wine. Joe Muer Seafood serves the freshest seasonal catch and impeccable service with its riverfront view. Enjoy Highlands Detroit with its crisp 71st-floor view of the Detroit Riverfront, accompanied by an upscale menu of diverse dishes and innovative cocktails at High Bar.

 

Fall Fun on the Riverfront:

 

Photo by The Eastern Market Partnership

 

The Detroit Riverfront and nearby areas/neighborhoods are full of fun events year-round, but autumn offers magic for people of all ages. Eastern Market is a Detroit staple with four primary markets on Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday filled with fall food, products and experiences. If you’re looking for a way to get some fresh air with your furry friend, join the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy guided Pack Walk along the Detroit Riverfront.

 

The Downtown Detroit Partnership brings nostalgic fall fun with their Cider in the City events during October at Beacon Park. Enjoy crafts, pumpkin picking, hayrides and, of course, donuts and cider!

 

It’s time to start falling in love with the new season in Detroit. Let us know how you celebrate autumn in the city on social media. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

Celebrate the 2022 Detroit Auto Show at the GMRENCEN

Rev your engines because the North American International Auto Show is back in Detroit! To help you make plans to see the incredible new vehicles and fun-filled exhibits we’ve created a guide to highlight the best places to refuel, park and stay while experiencing all the Motor City has to offer.

 

Where to Refuel

From the breathtaking Riverfront views to the award-winning cuisine, the GMRENCEN offers some of the best dining experiences in the city.  Andiamo offers an extensive selection of Italian dishes and an incredible assortment of wine, while Joe Muer Seafood serves up the freshest catch as Michigan’s #1 Seafood Restaurant.

 

If you’re looking for the full 360 experience, visit the incredible Highlands Detroit. Sitting 71 floors up in the sky, you’ll take in stunning views of the Detroit skyline while enjoying an upscale menu of diverse dishes and innovative cocktails.

 

As you speed over to the Auto Show don’t forget to reenergize with a cup of coffee or quick and convenient snack at Panera Bread, located conveniently at the GMRENCEN.

 

Highlands Detroit

 

 

Where to Celebrate

Whether you’re attending the highly anticipated Charity Preview or are just looking for a reason to dress up, consider celebrating in style at one of the GMRENCEN’s black tie dining events on September 16 to kick off the festivities.

  • Head to Andiamo’s Black Tie Charity Preview Night for an authentic five-course Italian meal. To make a reservation, click here or call (313) 567-6700.
  • Treat yourself to a night of fine dining and fresh seafood by attending Joe Muer Seafood’s North American International Auto Show Charity Preview Black Tie Event. To make reservations, call (313) 567-6837.

 

Detroit Parking

 

Where to Park

The GMRENCEN offers a variety of parking options located right on the Riverfront and within walking distance of Huntington Place and Hart Plaza. Click here to check out parking options and choose what’s best for you and your crew.

 

GMRENCEN Marriott

 

Where to Stay

Located conveniently in the center tower of the GMRENCEN, the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center includes gorgeous floor-to-ceiling views of the city, the Detroit River and Canada—the perfect spot to relax and refuel after a day of automotive excitement. Click here to make a reservation.

 

Let us know how you plan to celebrate the Detroit Auto Show on social media. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

How to Spend July on the Detroit Riverfront

Detroit skyline

Summer is the perfect time to get outside and explore the beautiful Detroit Riverfront! To skip the hassle and focus on the fun, we’ve curated the perfect guide to highlight the hottest happenings in July. 

 

Where to Eat

 

 

The breathtaking views and delicious cuisine from one of the three award-winning restaurants at the GMRENCEN is the perfect addition to any trip to the Riverfront. Andiamo offers an extensive selection of Italian dishes and an incredible assortment of wine, and Highlands Detroit provides stunning views of the Detroit Riverfront from the 71st floor, accompanied by an upscale menu of diverse dishes and innovative cocktails at High Bar. If you’re facing a serious seafood craving, head to the #1 Seafood Restaurant in Michigan, Joe Muer Seafood, for the freshest catch and even better views of the river.

 

What to do on the Riverfront with Kids

 

 

Enjoy Reading and Rhythm on the Riverfront with celebrity guest readings, interactive family entertainment, a healthy snack and a free book to take home provided by General Motors. This event occurs every week on Thursday and Friday until Aug 12, 2022.

 

What to do on the Riverfront to Stay Active

 

 

If you want to stay active this summer, the Detroit Riverfront has multiple opportunities to get moving while enjoying a scenic view. 

 

Expand your knowledge of Detroit while getting your steps in by signing up for the Dequindre Cut Walking Tours with the City Institute. Stroll along the Dequindre Cut as you learn about the greenway’s past and present. 

 

After your walking tour, relax with Yoga on the Riverfront. Enjoy a free yoga class while looking at the stunning view of the Detroit River. Yoga is held Thursday evenings at 6 p.m. and Friday at 10 a.m. in Milliken State Park.

 

What to do on the Riverfront to Experience  Local Artists

 

Did you know you can bike from the Detroit Riverfront straight into the heart of Eastern Market by cruising down the Dequindre Cut?

 

Eastern Market is a can’t-miss Detroit experience for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy a premium market with fresh produce, florals, local artists, unique cuisine and so much more from a local favorite. Markets are open weekly on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Once you grab yourself lunch from Eastern Market head to the Live Music Summer Series with D. Cipher on the Dequindre Cut to watch metro Detroit’s most talented entertainers. Enjoy this all month long with free weekly performances and a curated lineup. 

 

Where to Park

 

The GMRENCEN offers a variety of parking options located right on the Riverfront and within walking distance to Detroit’s hottest happenings. Click here to check our parking options and choose what’s best for you and your crew. 

 

If you are heading to a concert in the city, check out the multiple show shuttles Andiamo and Joe Muer Seafood are offering for select shows. 

 

There are no dog days of summer with all the exciting happenings in the Motor City! Let us know how you celebrate summer in the city on social media. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

Experience the Ford Fireworks at the GMRENCEN

Photo by Adam Welch

 

The Ford Fireworks are back on the Detroit Riverfront! Let’s upgrade your fireworks-watching experience at the GMRENCEN. With multiple incredible restaurants that offer some of the best views in the city, the GMRENCEN is the perfect destination to watch the show.  

 

Andiamo Detroit Riverfront 

Create memories the whole family can enjoy at Andiamo! Sit back and indulge in a five-course meal with live entertainment while watching the Ford Fireworks over the beautiful riverfront.

 

Ticket prices for adults are $150, children ages nine to 11 are $75 and children under nine are $50. Alcohol is not included. The package also includes a complimentary parking pass. Book your reservation by calling (313) 567-6700.  

 

Joe Muer Seafood  

What better way to experience this classic Detroit tradition than with the best seafood in Metro Detroit at Joe Muer! Enjoy an exquisite five-course dinner while taking in the views of the Ford Fireworks.

 

Tickets start at $195 and include a five-course dinner, as well as one parking pass. Alcohol is not included and pre-payment is required. Book your reservation by calling (313) 567-7320. 

 

Highlands Detroit 

Are you looking for a fireworks view from up in the clouds? Book your fireworks experience at Highlands Detroit for a special four-course menu while watching the Ford Fireworks 71 stories up in the sky. Continue the high-rise experience on the 72nd floor to enjoy drinks and small bites.

 

Tickets are $150 per person. Click here to make a reservation. 

 

The GMRENCEN offers unique packages and experiences to create a dazzling night for you and your loved ones. Let us know how you’re celebrating the return of the Ford Fireworks. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. 

 

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: 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.

 

#GMRENCEN in the Fall

The dog days of summer have officially ended and now it’s time for fall. As the weather cools, the leaves fall and the days shorten, be sure to look around you and enjoy the beautiful colors of a Detroit autumn.

 

There are many breathtaking photos of the GMRENCEN and fall foliage, but here are some of our favorites.

 

Photo by Tom Hughes

 

Photo by Linda Moss

 

Photo by Jason Clemens

 

Photo by David Saliba

 

Photo by Steven Samolinski

 

Photo by Mark McClelland

 

Photo by Wade Bryant

 

Photo by Christopher Hollis

 

Photo by Suzann Braun

 

There’s certainly more to come as the colors continue to change around the city! Which of these is your favorite fall photo?

Namaste Detroit: Rooftop Yoga at the GMRENCEN

Rooftop yoga is a community and building favorite here at the GMRENCEN.

 

In partnership with RenCen Fitness, the GMRENCEN hosts free rooftop yoga classes throughout the summer. Rain or shine, morning or afternoon, enjoy a fun, relaxing yoga session on the rooftop of the Beaubien Place Parking Garage overlooking the Detroit River.

 

Why yoga? Yoga is an ancient practice, good for the mind, body and spirit. Here’s what GMRENCEN rooftop yoga classes can do for you:

 

1. Start your day right.

 

 

2. Concentrate on your body and your needs.

 

 

3. Focus on your breathing.

 

 

4. Build strength.

 

 

5. Increase flexibility.

 

 

6. Improve your mood.

 

 

7. Challenge yourself.

 

 

8. Change your perspective.

 

 

9. Refresh after a long workday.

 

 

10. Rejuvenate.

 

 

11. Unwind through movement.

 

 

12. Ease physical, mental and emotional tension.

 

 

Free rooftop yoga wraps up this month, so be sure to join us for one of the final classes of the season. Registration is required, so sign up here.

 

If you can’t make it, RenCen Fitness has classes all year.

 

Have you been to rooftop yoga? Share your photos with us in the comments below.

Highlands Detroit to open atop GMRENCEN

An experience. That is what awaits you at Highlands – a vibrant, multi-concept culinary destination soon to be located on the 71st and 72nd floors of the GMRENCEN. Moving into the space once home to Coach Insignia and the revolving restaurant The Summit, Highlands is redefining the top of the tower dining experience.

 

Though Highlands doesn’t open until November 2019, here is what you can expect from the latest restaurant at the GMRENCEN:

 

An Award-Winning Partnership

James Beard Award-winning Chef Shawn McClain, along with his partners Sarah and Richard Camarota, have found the ideal location for McClain’s first hometown project, at the very top of Detroit and the tallest building in Michigan, the GMRENCEN.

 

 

Long before Detroit, McClain graduated from the School of Culinary Arts at Kendall College in Chicago. From there, he perfected his craft across the country, opening three award-winning and iconic restaurants in Chicago, then moving on to launch destinations in Las Vegas with partners Sarah & Richard Camarota. He won a James Beard Award for Best Chef Midwest in 2006 and even appeared (and won!) on Food Network’s Iron Chef America with Richard Camarota (business partner) and Scott Garthwaite (Executive Chef at Highlands) by his side.

 

Most recently, the partners at McClain Camarota Hospitality have grown their presence in Las Vegas, parlaying one restaurant to three starting with upscale culinary gem Sage, then moving onto pizza with FIVE50 PIZZABAR, both at Aria Resort and Casino. Finally, the third restaurant is Libertine Social at Mandalay Bay, the group’s fun, eclectic gastropub. McClain, his wife Holly and partners have been looking for the right project to take on in McClain’s hometown of Detroit; after a lengthy search the group decided GMRENCEN to be the ideal fit. “There’s really nothing that can compete with this iconic space and the legacy of the building. We are honored and excited to become the social clubhouse and comfort zone for all those who work and visit GMRENCEN,” said McClain.

 

One iconic destination, three unique concepts, endless ways to experience it all

Highlands will be three unique concepts and epic private event space in one iconic destination.

 

“Our goal was to create a spot that’s not only for special occasions, Highlands is about living it up daily, for any occasion. This is what led us to develop three distinct concepts, each with their own vibe, culinary experience and style,” McClain said.

 

 

  1. Highlands Steakhouse – Creative Riff on a Classic

Highlands Steakhouse blends tradition with innovation for a bold re-imagination of the steakhouse. Come for the vibrant, urban atmosphere, stay for the quality ingredients and epic wine list curated by Master Sommelier, Nick Hetzel.

 

  1. Hearth71 – Vibrant and Fun

Hearth 71 celebrates a simpler form of dining, emphasizing open-fire cooking, craft beer and rock ‘n’ roll. At the center of it all is a roaring fire to create sensational dishes like fried walleye with cornmeal crust, bacon potato salad and brussels sprout slaw.

 

  1. High Bar – The Happiest of Hours

High Bar encourages one to indulge in the arts and the finer things. You don’t have to wait until happy hour to order a dainty dessert, a perfectly crafted cocktail or whiskey from every corner of the world. In fact, you shouldn’t.

 

Highlands Events – Events as Unique as You

Planning an event? Those seeking customizable events should look no further than Highlands Events. Guests will have direct access to event curators, chefs and the beverage team to create personalized menus for any occasion.

 

So, raise a glass, feed your soul and lift your spirit when Highlands arrives in November. In the meantime, visit highlandsdetroit.com and keep an eye on Highlands’ Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

 

 

15 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About the Detroit Fist

The Joe Louis Fist serves as an iconic Detroit landmark near Hart Plaza on Jefferson Avenue, right across the street from the GMRENCEN. You’ve drove past it, taken photos in front of it and probably wondered about it. So here are some fun facts you may not know about the city staple.

      1. The statue was completed by sculptor Robert Graham in 1986, nine years after the opening party for the GM Renaissance Center.
      2. Graham also sculpted the statue of President Roosevelt at the Roosevelt Memorial in Washington D.C.
      3. The statue pays tribute to famed boxer Joe Louis, who defeated German boxer Max Schmeling in 1938.
      4. Louis’ win was considered an American win during World War II.
      5. The Joe Louis Fist was a gift from Sports Illustrated Magazine, dedicated on Oct. 16, 1986.
      6. At the time, it cost $350,000 to create.
      7. Despite common belief, the monument was not brought to Detroit for Joe Louis’ death, but for the Detroit Institute of Art’s centennial anniversary.
      8. The initial arm was modeled in clay at 14 inches in length.

        9.  

         

      9. Its structure is made of bronze and painted steel.
      10. The statue weighs 8,000 pounds (about four tons).
      11. It’s 24 feet long and can be seen from Canada.
      12. When the arm was unveiled, not everyone was pleased—there is still a controversy surrounding the statue.
      13. In response to the monument, sculptor Ed Hamilton created another statue of Joe Louis, which can be found in Cobo Center.
      14. To this day, we don’t know Graham’s exact intentions, as he worked in almost complete secrecy while creating the statue in California.
      15. What we do know is the Joe Louis Fist is abstract so that it may be seen as a symbol of the city. The exact symbol, however, is unknown, allowing people to draw their own conclusions.

       

       

      What does the Detroit fist mean to you? Let us know in the comments.