Detroit, MI

Detroit: Grit, Soul, and a Whole Lot of Flavor

Detroit was a trip that felt like digging into the roots of something deep. The city has a rhythm—raw, real, and unapologetic. You can feel its history in the bricks, in the murals, in the music floating out of dive bars and art spaces. It’s not a place trying to impress—it knows what it is. I came to see what Detroit had to offer and ended up connecting with the spirit of resilience and creativity that flows through every block.

And let’s be real—this trip had balance. One minute I was vibing at a Kem and Jill Scott concert feeling all the grown-and-sexy energy, and the next I was learning choreography and pole basics at a strip class that had us hyped and laughing the whole time. Detroit gave soul, strength, and a little sass too.

🍽️ Best Places to Eat

• Slows Bar BQ – Corktown
  This place came highly recommended and lived up to every word. I ordered the brisket and mac & cheese and nearly ordered it twice. The atmosphere was laid-back, but the food was serious.

• SavannahBlue
  Upscale soul food with a modern twist. The fried catfish, smoked turkey greens, and cornbread were everything. It felt elevated but still familiar. Black-owned, beautiful, and full of flavor.

• Lafayette Coney Island
  Detroit’s version of a street-food legend. Coney dogs, chili cheese fries, and a “keep-it-moving” vibe. It’s the kind of stop you make after a night out when you need something greasy and good.

🏙️ Top Things to Do

• Motown Museum
  Standing in the actual Studio A where some of the greatest music ever was recorded? Chills. Walking through Hitsville U.S.A. and learning the stories behind the legends—Berry Gordy, Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye—it was powerful and emotional.

• Detroit Riverwalk
  I spent a few hours here just walking along the water, catching views of Canada across the way, and breathing in the city. It’s peaceful and scenic, and a great way to feel connected to Detroit without the noise.

• Eastern Market
  This was a whole vibe—local vendors, art, fresh produce, street musicians, and amazing energy. I browsed handmade goods, grabbed a fresh juice, and got pulled into a pop-up DJ set before noon. Classic Detroit.

• Strip Class Experience
  One of the highlights of this trip was stepping out of my comfort zone and taking a strip-style dance class. It was fun, empowering, sexy, and a great way to just let go and laugh with friends. We were sore the next day—but in the best way.

• Kem & Jill Scott Concert
  The concert was the cherry on top. Their voices, the energy, the crowd—it was grown, sexy, and soulful. The kind of show that hits you right in the chest and leaves you glowing.

🌃 Best Nightlife Spots

• The Annex Detroit
  If you’re looking for upscale nightlife, this was the move. A little bougie, a little extra, but full of energy. Bottle service, DJs, and a crowd that came to look good and have a time.

• Deluxx Fluxx
  This place was wild—in the best way. Neon walls, arcade games, live DJs, and art everywhere. It’s creative chaos and a must-visit for something outside the box.

• Aretha’s Jazz Café
  I ended one night here and it was the perfect cool down. Smooth vocals, dim lights, good cocktails. A whole room of people just vibing to live music that felt personal.

Detroit wasn’t trying to entertain me—it invited me to understand it. Through the food, the music, the grit, and the creativity, the city told me its story. And it reminded me that even in places that have been through it, beauty, pride, and joy still bloom.