Here Are 9 Things Everyone In Detroit Absolutely Loves

We Detroiters are an undeniably diverse bunch, but there are a few things that most of us can agree on. After all, we’re all united by our shared experiences in the Motor City, and this gives us a unique perspective on everything from food to fashion to the great outdoors. If you’re lucky enough to call Detroit home, here are nine things you likely adore.

Flickr/Mike Fritcher

We’ll kick off our list with a fun Detroit favorite: Vernors ginger ale! For most Detroiters, Vernors is so much more than a casual beverage: it’s also a medicinal drink when stomach aches strike, a base for delicious Vernors floats, and a symbol of the Motor City. There’s nothing more soothing than taking a sip.

Flickr/TheKarenD

Whether you’re a fan of the Tigers, the Lions, the Pistons, the Red Wings, or all of the above, you know that Detroit residents don’t take sporting events lightly. We’ve been known to paint our faces, wave signs, lead cheers, and spend hours every year supporting our favorite teams. Sports are a staple for those of us who call Detroit home.

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From Slows to coney dogs to authentic cuisine from Mexicantown, there’s no shortage of deliciousness just waiting to be enjoyed here in the Motor City. We might just be the most underrated city in America when it comes to foodie-friendly locations, but those of us who live here are happy to indulge.

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Those who aren’t from Detroit might not understand, but we’ve been known to kick off hockey games by tossing a live octopus onto the ice rink. That’s right: Detroiters adore traditions, from the silly to the more celebratory, like ice skating in Campus Martius Park every Christmas or checking out the Woodward Dream Cruise. Our annual events allow us to stay connected to our past, present, and future.

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If you’ve ever met someone from Detroit, you know that we’re proud of where we’re from. After all, what other major American city offers such quick access to Canada? Who else has overcome the sorts of obstacles that we have? Which other city is so woefully misunderstood? We’re always eager to boast about the many improvements and innovations that our hometown can claim.

Flickr/Jason Mrachina

It really does get cold here in the D, and while wintertime has its benefits, most of us simply adore warmer weather. After another long, trying winter season, there’s nothing better than heading outside to shop at Eastern Market, making our way along the Dequindre Cut, enjoying craft beer on patios throughout town, or simply basking in the sunshine. Post-winter Detroit is a special place to be.

Flickr/Mike Boening Photography

In recent years, the Detroit River has only grown in popularity as its Riverwalk has become a key attraction in the Motor City. There’s something calming about spending time along the waterfront, and our river is no exception: it offers scenic views, soothing breezes, and a gathering place that brings together Detroit residents from all age groups and backgrounds.

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Here in Detroit, we play just as hard as we work. As the home of Motown, there’s always a musical performance to be found throughout the city, whether we’re heading to the Fox Theatre or enjoying a stadium-sized concert at Ford Field. In addition to music venues, we’ve got casinos, nightlife, restaurants, and festivals galore. We sure do love to have a good time.

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Flickr/Jason Mrachina

More than anything else on this list, those who live in Detroit love each other. Our connections to the community are unbreakable and far-reaching, whether our families have lived here for generations or we’ve only established bonds in recent years. There’s just something unspoken and special about the experience of calling the Motor City home, and we’ll defend our neighbors with everything we have.

We want to hear from you, Detroiters: are there any other well-loved attractions, activities, or items that should have been included on our list? What are some of your favorite elements of the city? We want to hear from you, so feel free to leave a comment to share your thoughts!

Feeling that Motor City pride? Read this piece about why Detroit is America’s best vacation city.