Campus Martius Park is the living room of downtown Detroit. This public square sits where Woodward Avenue and Monroe Street meet, in the spot from which the city's early street plan radiated, and it has been rebuilt in recent decades as a place to sit, eat and gather. It is free to enter and busy at almost any time of year. In summer the park has a sand beach with chairs and umbrellas, a fountain, outdoor tables and live events, and a ring of cafes and restaurants overlooks it. In winter it turns into one of the most popular ice rinks in the country, with a big Christmas tree and seasonal markets, and the whole area is hung with lights. The surrounding streets hold some of the most photographed buildings in the city, including the Art Deco towers and the Soldiers and Sailors Monument nearby. For visitors it works as a hub: walking tours, the People Mover and the QLine all pass close, and it is an easy place to meet, rest and decide what to do next. It suits every age and every season.
The seasons
The character of the park changes with the weather. Summer brings the beach, outdoor dining and events such as concerts, while autumn and spring are quiet and pleasant for a walk and a coffee. Winter brings the rink, which usually opens in November and runs through the cold months, with skate rental available if you do not bring your own. The rink charges for entry and rental, while the park itself is free. Check the park operator's calendar for the current rink hours and event schedule.
What to do
Sit with a coffee and watch the square, walk around the fountain, look up at the surrounding buildings and use the park as a starting point for the rest of downtown. The Guardian Building, the Penobscot Building and other towers are within a few minutes' walk, as is the start of the RiverWalk. If you are visiting with children, the splash of the fountain and the winter rink are the big attractions. Food is easy to find, from quick bites around the square to sit-down restaurants a block or two away.
Getting there
The park is in the center of downtown, so almost every route passes it. The People Mover stops nearby, the QLine streetcar runs along Woodward Avenue, and many downtown hotels are within a short walk. Parking decks are close, but a rideshare or the transit lines are easier. Evenings are lively and well lit in summer and in the holiday season, and the park is generally busy enough to feel safe, but use ordinary city sense after dark.
What to expect
The experience
A free public square with seasonal activities: a beach and events in summer, an ice rink and lights in winter.
Best time
Summer for the beach and events, or the holiday season for the rink and lights.
How long
Thirty to ninety minutes, longer with skating or a meal.
Tips
Use it as a meeting point, check the rink hours before you go, and walk from here to the Guardian Building and the RiverWalk.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone staying downtown, and visitors who want a free, easy introduction to the heart of the city.
- Families
- Excellent: the fountain, the beach in summer and the rink in winter appeal to children.
- Couples
- A pleasant spot for a coffee or an evening stroll among the lights.
- Pair with
- The Guardian Building, the People Mover and the RiverWalk.
- Time needed
- An hour.
Good questions
Is Campus Martius Park free?+
Yes, the park is free to enter. The ice rink charges for admission and skate rental, and food and drinks are extra.
When does the ice rink open?+
It usually opens in November and runs through the cold months. Check the park operator's calendar for current hours and any special sessions.
What is there in summer?+
A sand beach with chairs, a fountain, outdoor dining and a calendar of events, in a ring of cafes and restaurants.
Where is it?+
In the center of downtown Detroit, where Woodward Avenue meets Monroe Street, close to the People Mover and the QLine.
What is nearby?+
The Guardian Building, the Penobscot Building, Greektown and the RiverWalk are all within a short walk.
