Walking Tour Of Detroit Campus Martius Park

Are you ready to embark on a journey of discovery through the heart of Detroit? Join us as we take a mesmerizing walking tour of the iconic Campus Martius Park, a true gem in the bustling city. As part of our Look Up America Series, we aim to showcase the beauty and historical significance of this cultural hotspot.

Exploring the Heart of Detroit

Detroit, often referred to as the "Motor City," is a city steeped in rich history and culture. While it may have faced its fair share of challenges over the years, one thing remains certain – its resilience and determination to thrive. Campus Martius Park stands as a symbol of Detroit's revival and progress, and today, it is a thriving hub of activity that attracts locals and visitors alike.

A Brief History of Campus Martius Park

In the early 19th century, Detroit was a growing city on the banks of the Detroit River. As the population expanded, so did the need for a central gathering place. In 1834, the idea for Campus Martius Park was born. The park was originally designed as a military drill ground and quickly became a focal point and social gathering spot for city residents.

A Walking Tour of Detroit - Campus Martius Park (Look Up, America! Series)

by Doug Gelbert(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1737 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	42 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Over time, the park underwent several transformations and became home to a variety of amenities, including a vibrant market, a bustling commercial district, and even an underground parking facility. Today, it stands as a symbol of urban revitalization and serves as a thriving public space where people can relax, socialize, and enjoy various activities.

Highlights of the Walking Tour

Our walking tour of Detroit's Campus Martius Park will take you on a journey through time, allowing you to witness the park's evolution firsthand. As you stroll through the park, you'll be surrounded by stunning architectural landmarks, modern art installations, and lush green spaces.

The tour begins at the heart of the park – the Spirit of Detroit statue. This iconic bronze sculpture has become an emblem of the city, representing the spirit and resilience of its residents. From there, you'll have the chance to explore the park's beautifully landscaped areas, discover hidden gems, and learn about the historical significance of various elements within the park.

One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument. This majestic tribute honors Michigan's fallen heroes during the Civil War and serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made. As you stand before this impressive monument, take a moment to reflect on the bravery and courage displayed by those who fought for freedom.

Activities and Entertainment

Campus Martius Park offers an array of activities and entertainment options for visitors of all ages. During the warmer months, the park hosts a variety of concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie screenings. From live music to food trucks, there's always something happening at Campus Martius Park.

If you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll, make your way to the park's ice skating rink during winter. This seasonal attraction allows visitors to glide across the ice, surrounded by the breathtaking skyline of downtown Detroit. It's a truly magical experience that shouldn't be missed.

A trip to Detroit isn't complete without a visit to Campus Martius Park. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone looking to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, this park has something for everyone. Join us on our walking tour and discover the hidden treasures of this remarkable Detroit landmark. Get ready to be captivated by its beauty, immerse yourself in its history, and create unforgettable memories.

A Walking Tour of Detroit - Campus Martius Park (Look Up, America! Series)

by Doug Gelbert(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1737 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	42 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

There is no better way to see America than on foot. And there is no better way to appreciate what you are looking at than with a walking tour. Whether you are preparing for a road trip or just out to look at your own town in a new way, a downloadable walking tour is ready to explore when you are.

Each walking tour describes historical and architectural landmarks and provides pictures to help out when those pesky street addresses are missing. Every tour also includes a quick primer on identifying architectural styles seen on American streets.

Before Detroit became shorthand for the automobile industry it had grown into the 13th largest city in America with more than 285,000 people in 1900, first through fur trading and then on the manufacture of tobacco and varnish and shoes and pharmaceuticals and, most fortuitously, carriages and bicycles that would lay the foundation for production of cars in the 20th century.

In 1701, the French officer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, along with fifty-one additional French-Canadians, founded a settlement called Fort Ponchartrain du Détroit, naming it after the comte de Pontchartrain, Minister of Marine under Louis XIV. France offered free land to attract families to Detroit, which grew to 800 people in 1765, the largest city in the Americas between Montreal and New Orleans. After Great Britain ceded the Northwest Territory to the United States in 1796 under the Jay Treaty Detroit was named the capital of the Michigan Territory.

Through the 1800s Detroit grew into a thriving hub of commerce and industry. Then in the spring of 1896 Henry Ford built his own horseless carriage. In 1901 Ford challenged Alexander Winton and his world champion "Bullet" at Grosse Pointe race track outside Detroit. Three cars lined up for the ten-mile race but only Ford and Winton left the line. Winton led Ford for 8 miles but sputtered badly as the Ford racer puttered past. Newspapers the next day anointed Ford as "top rank of American chauffeurs." In 1903 Ford and eleven others pooled $28,000 to start the Ford Motor Company. At the time the population of Detroit was inching towards 300,000. By 1930, after decades as the fastest growing city in America, the population was north of 1.5 million and no other city in America was as identified with a single industry as Detroit was with automobiles.

It was also the golden age of building on Detroit's streets. The more enthusiastic called the city the "Paris of America." Every year seemed to bring a new "biggest" or "tallest" this or that. Detroit has not been shy about tearing down historic structures but many skyscrapers remain from that era that have long formed one of America's most prominent skylines. Our walking tour of the area south of Campus Martius Park will find many of these heritage buildings in the Financial District and surrounding neighborhoods and we will start in a park space that itself was run over in the rush to the automobile in the early 1900s but recently re-emerged...