Did you know that superstars such as Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, Bob Seger and rapper, Eminem all came from the same city? This city is of the course, Detroit, and is the largest city in the U.S. state of Michigan.

This major port city is nestled on the banks of the Detroit River and is known as America's traditional automotive centre. Also called "Motown", "The Motor City" and "The D", this vibrant city has many fun and exciting things to do and places to visit. The waterfront here shows a variety of architectural styles, demonstrating the rich cultural scenes that Detroit has to offer. Essentially, this is a place of people and places, trends and events, world-changing inventions and ground breaking music. This rich diversity is what makes it the perfect destination for your next car hire holiday.

1. Motown Historical Museum

For a pristine preservations of the past present and future, a visit to the Motown Historical Museum is in order. This is one of the city's most popular tourist destinations and is definitely a must-see while in town.

The museum preserves the legacy of the Motown Record Corporation and aims to educate and motivate people through exhibitions and programs that promote the values of vision and creativity.

The all time highlight of the museum would have to be the "Empire on West Grand Boulevard", which is a fascinating exhibitions of the growth and development of Detroit. This is just one of the many exhibitions that can be enjoyed in the museum, and with cheap admission and an easy location, there really is no excuse not to visit.

2. New Detroit Science Centre

The New Detroit Science Centre is where "creative exploration is the key to discovering the wonders or science and technology". You will find the Science Centre in the heart of Detroit's cultural centre, which means that it is easily accessible in your rental car. During your exploration of the centre you will discover Michigan's only IMAX Dome Theatre and the Dassault Systems Planetarium. Along with many other interesting scientific, hands-on exhibitions, there is sure to be something here to please those young and those young at heart.

3. Downtown Detroit

While visiting the city of Detroit, you simply must pay a visit to the famous downtown district of the city. The downtown area is home to over 125 bars and restaurants, offering a variety of culinary delights and pleasures. The region is also home to one of the largest theatre districts in the country, so if you are into theatre experiences you should definitely check this out.

In the downtown district you will also come across the Campus Maritus Park, which is known as Detroit's gathering place. This is the perfect place to relax, enjoy, play and celebrate Detroit and is the perfect start to the Detroit River Walk, which allows you to walk the beautiful water's edge.

4. Detroit Heritage Tours

The Preservation Wayne Organisation is Detroit's oldest and largest architectural preservation society. This organisation "preserves, promotes and protects the neighbourhoods and structures that define Detroit". The organisation offers many tours that are suitable for all age groups and interests. The tours are a great way to experience the city's rich architectural heritage and discover the landmarks of this great city. Popular tours include the Auto Heritage, Eastern Market and the Theatre District experiences, all guaranteed to be a good time had.

5. Model T Automotive Heritage Complex

As previously mentioned, Detroit is regarded as an automotive centre so it only seems fitting that the city is filled to the brim with automotive museums and complexes. As the name suggests, the Model T Automotive Heritage Complex is the birthplace of the Model T, and is the only example of an early Detroit auto factory, open to the public. This is essentially the place to see where Henry Ford designed one of the world's most famous automobiles, and a visit here will literally take you back in time. Be sure to pay a visit to the museum's gift shop and take home your very own piece of automobile history.

Detroit is just one of those places that must be visited if you happen to be in the state of Michigan. Whether it is to see the birthplace of some of the nation's most successful musicians and automobiles, or simply to soak up the diverse culture here, you are sure to have a good time.

Christine Barton