Detroit FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Detroit.

When is the best time to visit Detroit?

The best time to visit Detroit is April to October when the weather is warmest with the most sunshine. Spring arrives mid-March until May with an average temperature of 10°C but can vary widely 2-20°C. May is generally the wettest month but spring is one of the more comfortable times to visit. Summer (June – early September) brings average temperatures ranging 20-28°C but can peak over 30°C with higher humidity, especially in July. Detroit comes alive in summer with a range of festivals. The weather in autumn (September-October) is a comfortable average of 12°C, but can range 6-20°C with frequent cloud cover and some rain. The autumn colours make this an attractive time to visit and the city is quieter than summer. Winter temperatures (November-March) range 9°C to -5°C with an average around zero and cold winds. Snow is most common December-February but generally lighter than other northern cities. Winter is a good time to explore the city’s many museums and warm up in the bars and restaurants.

What is the time difference between the UK and Detroit?

Detroit uses Central Standard Time (GMT – 6), observing Central Daylight Time (GMT – 5) March to November.

What places combine well with Detroit?

Detroit is quite close to several other major northern cities and destinations in both the USA and Canada on Lake Erie and Lake Huron. Chicago is four hours’ drive to the west, and Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes four hours to the north-west. Niagara Falls and Toronto in Canada are about four hours to the north-east.

What are the main cultural events in Detroit?

July – International Freedom Festival – independence celebrated in Detroit and neighbouring Windsor in Canada over several days with parades, concerts and fireworks
August – Woodward Dream Cruise – one of the world’s biggest car shows in a 16-mile parade of mainly classic motors
September – Detroit International Jazz Festival – one of America’s best jazz festivals across six stages