I love to go for walks, and brisk morning walks through Detroit are my favourite! I especially love the RiverWalk because the view is beautiful. A walk through Hart Plaza offers much to see, and many photo ops. It's also really cool to look over and wave to Canada! ("Hi Dad!") haha. The weather can be crisp, so you should dress warmly (well, depending on the season). You'll see other walkers, and joggers, and I think the best part is that everyone takes the time to say "hello," or "good morning," at least that has been my experience. It is really great what the city has done and created a welcome environment for everybody. read more

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I love being able to be outside and enjoy a city! This is indeed a marvelous place to do that from! The views across the river, down the river, up the river, into the city - the skyline Part of it was under constructions, but it's better to do it off season! The light house was neat! Bonus: they keep the bathrooms at the center area open year round! Yeah for my bladder (there are no other options - no stores, no nothing!) There are cute areas with chairs and sculptures, lots of friendly people. I really had an amazing day and it was an excellent way to get introduced to Detroit! I parked in the structure by the marriot, but there is a free lot further down (but there was construction and the road was closed). Go, enjoy the city, see the people, enjoy the views! read more

The River Walk is one of the biggest attractions in downtown Detroit and is one of my favorite things about the D. The walk way starts at around Cobo and goes all the way down a few miles to Rivard Park. The river walk has a few attractions that bring in the masses...the first would be the amazing view of the water, the mighty Detroit Princess docked or smoothly sailing along the waters and a few specks in the horizon we would call Windsor. Right along the walk by the Hart Plaza is the underground rail road memorial which is just beautiful (pay attention to the bricks by the sculpture..not telling you why...just pay attention to it) The area right in front of the RenCen features LED lights in the walk walk and a water fountain like thing that shoots up water from the ground which is enjoyed equally by the the youthful and aged. It also has a map of the continents carved out in the concrete. As we walk further down towards Belle Isle there are benches placed along the way and as you walk east of GM Renaissance Center you will be at Rivard Plaza which "is home to many Riverfront highlights, including the Cullen Family Carousel, an in-laid granite map of the Detroit River, a standing glass sculptured map of the St. Lawrence Seaway, fountains and gardens. Also located at Rivard Plaza is the new RiverWalk Café and Wheelhouse Detroit, a bike shop offering bike rentals, tours, retail and service" (courtesy of http://www.detroitriverfront.org) The is also the Dequindre Cut, "a pedestrian link between the Riverfront, Eastern Market and many of the residential neighborhoods in between" (courtesy of http://www.detroitriverfront.org) The West River Front is not fully constructed as yet. **I was going to give the River Front 5 shining stars but I feel that it needs more attractions to bring the people back into the city and bring the D back on the world map. read more

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Detroit's many hidden gems include the renovated River Walk, a slip of paved pathway that slinks along the Detroit River. Beautiful views of the Windsor skyline glitter across the distance at night, while by day, huge tankers transport wheat and metal ingots on aquamarine waters with ponderous, stately grace. You could bring a sandwich, snag a bench, and watch the world go by for hours in the shadow of the RenCen and the Atwater Brewery. Much effort has gone into revitalizing the shoreline, erasing the industrial blight and repurposing abandoned or derelict properties for public use. Summer showcases the RiverWalk at its best when festivals like River Days set up sandcastle contests, fireworks displays, and music. Free concerts fill the large auditorium and the sounds spill across the water into Windsor, and adjacent buildings get to enjoy fine classical, jazz, folk, and rock performances from their balconies. The Atwater slip where tour boats moor has cafeteria facilities, washrooms, and ice cream when the weather is fair, and I noted police patrolling the lower end. The carousel is charming and hilarious, replacing most mythical creatures with common loons, trout, and the odd river maiden or two. I hope they haven't been sourced from Wagner. The fountains near the RenCen are family friendly, shooting up water to the delight of children, puppies, and the young at heart. The upper end is popular with bikers, runners, and walkers; sometimes they get a bit congested, but I'd rather see people pursuing healthy lifestyles than leaving their bikes locked up at home. All along the way, landscaping provides shade and welcome refuge for wildlife, like birds. It's quite a picturesque and pretty scene. Restoration is ongoing and I hope they continue to extend the reach of the RiverWalk. It would be great to be able to bike from the Grosse Pointes all the way downtown. read more

Recipe for a perfect summer day = grab the dog + comfy walking shoes + the Detroit Riverwalk Recipe for a perfect autumn day = grab the dog + comfy walking shoes + light jacket + the Detroit Riverwalk ...notice a pattern? The Detroit Riverwalk is definitely one of my favorite "stroll" spots in the city. Despite the bits that seem perpetually under construction, this waterfront walk is still a peaceful place for a stroll or a bike ride on nicer days. The riverwalk is also the ideal place for people watching during high traffic times. Dharma, the dog, is also a huge fan, especially since they provide doggie doo-doo bags on certain stretches of the walk (so handy when I forget to bring some). The best thing though is all the events that take place on the walk or nearby. The riverwalk is always the best "mini-escape" during DEMF. The summertime Riverdays festival lovingly puts the Riverwalk in the spotlight. And the recent Michigan Humane Society Mega March made sure to save the best for last as the final stretch of the two mile 'march' took place on the Riverwalk. Only crappy thing? Its freezing in the winter! Damn you, Michigan winter! If it wasn't for you I could enjoy the Riverwalk year round! read more

What a breath of fresh air! We looooovvvveeeddd it here so much! It probably also helped that the day we came, it was sunny and breezy outside. There is something about taking a stroll on a sunny day along the water that relaxes your entire body to the point you just wanna snooze and bask the day away. :) We came here with two of our friends who were first timers. They felt like they struck gold because of how glorious the weather was. The four of us parked at the free lot near the Rivard Plaza, and headed west. During our stroll we saw numerous water features, a nice café courtyard, and plenty of bench seating along the path. The lush greenery that accompanied us was a nice retreat from the surrounding urban architecture. Additionally, you get the beautiful view of Windsor and the rest of Detroit. The day we went wasn't filled with crowds, but a good turn out. I can only see more and more people coming here; we just gotta get the word out on what's going on down here! Our friends left in awe and couldn't wait to come back. We certainly can't, and it'll be a great place to brainstorm creatively as well. Please go now!! read more

Hello Yelp, b00dah back in full control. I am new man today. Recession proof and all to see that I'm fine. Okay, enough about ME... on to RIVERWALK in Detroit. I took time out to walk stretch of asphalt from RenCen to carousel. I cannot contain amount of excitement I held inside as I thought this hidden gem should be told to more. I guess I wrong based on other review here! LOL I love river... water is super calming for me. I took lady friend to this place. Had ice cream and people watch for a couple hours. Oh, saw former Channel 2 anchor... Fanchon Stinger? Spelling off, I sure. How hot is she! Oh, sorry I say on track. Recommend this RiverWalk for all those who want outdoor fun and activity. You meet very sexy people out here. Eye candy for day... cannot go wrong. Food too... 3 shops and public restrooms. Do this... today. read more

The only good thing that ever resulted from Kwame's time in office. The Riverwalk is beautiful, clean, well kept up and monitored. During the summer, I try to walk my dog here every day if I can. Something so peaceful about the views of Canada and the Ambassador Bridge....stopping for a break on the steps outside of the Ren Cen, where speakers play classical music and I can watch kids (and adults!) play in the little water fountain. This is one of my favorite places in the city. :) read more

If you come downtown the riverwalk is a MUST! I luv the riverwalk. I like to come down to the river walk at night and walk along the detroit river. Then just have a seat and stare at the water and Canada on the over side of the river. I like to come after a long day at work and just relax. Helps me clear my mind. This was on of the best things they added to downtown. read more

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You can be cynical about Detroit if you choose to. I completely understand how emptying it is as a MIchigan resident to see our one major city fall into such mismanagement, bureaucracy, and corruption. I completely understand the national frustration at seeing a great American city decline and decay so soundly. I've stayed around through that all (and sometimes been very frustrated that I did stay). It doesn't make me a hero, but it does make me realize that changes are happening - and really happening this time. I admit that I have not followed all the changes in Detroit, but the RiverWalk is a fantastic addition that should have happened years ago. Cross the river to Windsor, Ontario, Canada like we did when I was younger, and you will see a beautiful river area with parks and walking trails. Now we finally have the same. It is beautiful to finally be able to take a stroll at night along the river when there is an event happening. I know safety is still a concern but it is beautiful at night when things are happening. The RiverWalk connects such a long stretch that you will always see people walking and running at least for part of your walk but everyone has been pleasant so stroll along at your own pace. I do think that it is one of the best places in Detroit for a picture as well. In the background you would have our iconic Renaissance Center (General Motors Headquarters) or another country (Canada)! If you are a visitor to the city or have visitors in town, please take them here to show them our city. Check out the pictures and other reviews to get more details. I wonder what is next for the Detroit Riverfront. More parks, more attractions, more hotels? Yes, I have been cynical as well, but I am excited for the future. read more

Milwaukee has a lot to aspire to. The Riverwalk in Detroit is absolutely fantastic. Very well-maintained. Lots of parks along the path. I didn't feel unsafe at any time. Everyone on the trail was very friendly and said hello. Great views of Detroit River and Canada. I am kind of sad we did not have a phone or camera with us when we did the walk. I definitely think we will be going back to Detroit. If you happen to be in Detroit, I would definitely make some time to go down to the Riverwalk. read more

The RiverWalk is far relative of the old riverfront. There is so much to do, it is kid friendly, and it is beautiful! I never used to come to the Riverfront and when I did, I hung out by Joe Louis and drank at night with my rowdy, teenage friends. This new RiverWalk though... this is where I take my family. And where I take pride in the City. The water is obviously beautiful and glistens. For free fun, my little girls run through the water fountains in front of the RenCen or climb the playscape at the park. For a small fee, there is a merry-go-round for them to play in and a small concession stand selling a pretty good variety of decently priced food options. There is a bike rental place nearby and a stage that always has something going on. One time it was story time hosted by the Detroit Public Library, another time it was an animal show during the River Days. The Library does stuff there ALL THE TIME (during warmer months). I probably tend to go when there are events being hosted, so this review may be biased, but my children always have a blast and we get to enjoy the beauty of our place on the Detroit River. read more

Such a beautiful place to walk. I love lo look at the water. There are also really good restaurants nearby.

I'm about seven minutes away & love coming here. It's a breathe of fresh air. Literally.

We were looking for an afternoon stroll prior to dinner and I have to say this is so worth it. Ample parking around the area, nice atmosphere by the water and a beautiful stroll down the walk. This is right in the downtime area so you have the Skyline available also. Definitely something you should add to the list be it Family, Romantic or Solo : ) read more

One the best aspects of Hart Plaza has always been that small stretch right along the riverfront. So when the city decided to build the RiverWalk I couldn't be more excited. What city wouldn't want to capitalize on its landscape along the water? This is a great spot for walking, running and biking whether you have a few hours to spend or a short lunch break. I agree with Chris M., it's a great date option. With the skyscrapers all around you and the view of Windsor just across the water, there's something really special and simple about the RiverWalk. I'll be back soon. read more

Didn't plan on attending but glad I did. Beautiful views of downtown and Windsor, Ontario (Canada). There's a bike rental shop so if you would like to bike the beautiful riverwalk you can. Riverwalk is clean, has a eatery that sells food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks. There's also a carousel. read more

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Very clean for the most part and beautiful. Customer service! The workers are not friendly. This past weekend, the RiverDays weekend, it was 7:55 a.m. and i heard the workers complaining at the bathroom near the carousel - they said, these people can wait until 8 I don't care! Wow... read more

The Riverwalk must be doing alright for itself. They just secured $44 million in funding to expand it all the way to Belle Isle. Good luck getting a cop to help you down there if you get robbed since the city doesn't have any money for police...or buses...or firefighters...or streetlights...well, you get the idea. Honestly, though, the Riverwalk is really nice. And it does feel safe down there in bougieland. (Even my friend Bob Sestok called it "bougie" and he's got a metal sculpture on the Riverwalk!) If it wasn't bougie why would a bunch of corporate suits throw all these millions at it? Trying one more time to put sour grapes aside - the fountains are really nice for cooling off on a hot summer day, and the inlaid maps in the Riverwalk itself are pretty neat. There's also a couple of cafes I passed by. (Bougie) What's really a hoot, though, is the free Friday night summer concert series down on the Riverwalk. It's a bunch of washed up old Classic Rockers. I saw Foghat here back in 2009 and it was most epic. They were selling ballcaps that simply said "FOG"! Priceless. And during "Fool for the City" I counted no less than 3 air drummers and 2 air guitarists in the the crowd. One of the air guitarists was so drunk he fell over onto a card table that was set up as part of an impromptu bar, scattering empties everywhere. His buddy tried pulling him back up but he just fell over again. Man, did I ever laugh my guts out at that. So, yeah, Riverwalk - exercise, enjoy the view and maybe catch a show every once in a while. Might as well take advantage of it. 4 stars - one for every $11 million the corporate suits are throwing at it. read more

Everyone should visit the riverwalk! Take the dequindre cut down to the riverwalk & see the lighthouse, various foliage, & soak in the beautiful views of downtown detroit. Walk all the way down to the GM building & go through Hart Plaza. read more

This is a true story of an ugly ducking turning into a swan. For many years Detroit's water front was dedicated to industry, which made for a very unfriendly place for people to visit, but now it is an absolute treasure. As other reviewers have indicated, it is a great place walk, job, ride a bike or just sit and have lunch. The GM Plaza has a wonderful fountain for kids to play in on hot Summer day. There is the cute carousel and outdoor cafe, which serves Detroit inspired sandwiches, Better Maid potato chips, and Faygo pop. There is also place to rent bikes for the day. The Riverwalk is a true Detroit Jewel! This a great place to take visitors! Check it out! read more

I recently went on a walk with my son right by the water in Detroit. RiverWalk is an excellent place to jog, walk, or take a stroll with your family. It is absolutely beautiful and connects many important areas of this part of Detroit. It runs from the Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle. You can walk along any portion of this, and it all overlooks the water. From this area you have a great view of General Motors, Renaissance Center, Hart Plaza, the state park, and much more. There are plenty to benches to rest on. I saw many couples sitting by the lake having cute little moments together. There is also an area for fishing. The path is wide so that you can also bike or blade through. Another thing is that there is a barrier between the path and the water. I mention this only because when I visited Chicago there was nothing preventing you from going over the egdge when I was walking by the lake! read more

I like the Riverwalk! 4-4.5 stars. It's a great addition to the Detroit riverfront. It starts around the GM buildings and then goes up in the North/Northeast direction. I went on a Saturday morning and there were lots of active people, including a whole crowd of people wanting to stay active and fit with a very funny and awesome coach/motivator, small groups of people fishing, and a handful of tourists. I stopped with my friend in a little garden nook to spend some time reflecting and journaling. It was great to be out on the Riverwalk and I was glad to see people taking advantage of it! We also rode bikes down the riverwalk and through the fun little fountain they have there, which seems to be great for kids! I just wish it was longer and more expansive with more bike trails! read more

5.5 miles of the beauty of Detroit on one side, and Canada on the other side. It was a wonderful breeze coming off the water as people cycled, walked, and simply enjoyed themselves on this lovely day. I truly enjoyed seeing the boats and hearing the music, and I'd definitely come back again. read more

RiverWalk - Beautiful! - Parks Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

Great attraction and love the beautiful views. The river walk offers such a great way to see the city and Windsor. Wish they offered more commercial properties for dining and shopping like they do in the French quarters or a boardwalk. Love that they have many events and live music along the river walk as well. Great to see Detroit revitalize with the river walk as the centerpiece of Detroit. read more

No one outside of Detroit ever mentioned this and I think that's why it gets an unnecessarily bad rap. This is so nice, the water is a crystal blue, the views of downtown are phenomenal (and Windsor too) and it's so nicely decorated. If I lived anywhere near here, I'd go a few times each week. So peaceful. read more

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The Detroit riverwalk is a nice little oasis in the city. There is beautiful landscaping, unique artwork, a couple of Little Free Libraries, and some great places to stop for a treat along the way. Do yourself a favor and stroll down the riverwalk and take in the best of Detroit and a great view of Windsor, Ontario. read more

RiverWalk - Parks Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

We walked around and took pictures. Restrooms by the William G. Milliken State Park & Harbor signs were clean. Snow was cleared out of the pathways so we didn't have to worry about slipping on ice. Just be careful where you step because apparently dog owners who walk their pets there do not know how to clean up after them. read more

RiverWalk - view of the skyscrapers of Detroit - Parks Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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I had never been here until last night and I'm so glad I did. Women and children and joggers and tourists and lovers were all out and about! Lots of security and seating, plenty of space for everyone to have a great view and relax, wonderful for active date nights. I can't wait to go back during the day with a book to enjoy the view and RELAX! read more

A must visit! Very relaxing and fun place to chill out, sit by the river, boat watch, picnic, biking and so much more!

The "D" is on the come back, the Riverwalk is great love the view as you walk or run is the best. read more

RiverWalk - The Riverwalk. - Parks Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

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Live right by here! This is such a beautiful place to spend a morning or afternoon! There is a carousel and lots of outdoor attractions! It is safe to bring a family and you'll feel comfortable. Usually there is ample parking. read more

RiverWalk - Renaissance center as viewed from the river walk. 2014, - Parks Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

This Riverwalk is a must see when you stop by Detroit. I went solo travel and happened to be there on a Friday night. They have music lol and drink selling right there. Everyone was so happy, you can see Canada too. I would love to come back here again next time I'm going up north. read more

There are two reasons reasons to visit the Riverwalk: to show out-of-town friends that downtown Detroit isn't a burned-out war zone studded with crack needles and bullet casings; and to remind yourself of what an incredibly cool city we have here. Case in point, on our most recent trip... Out-of-town friend, upon entering Hart Plaza: WHOA, this is really nice! Me and hubs, thinking: WHOA, this is a whole lot nicer than the last time we were here, we should have come back sooner! Friend, pointing: So...is that CANADA?!? Me: Yup. Friend, taking pictures: Like, right there? Canada is RIGHT THERE? Hubs: Yup, a whole other country. Although some politicians seem to think it's actually a Detroit annex. Friend: So we could be in another country in like, five minutes? Me: In theory, yes. I last visited when I turned nineteen. Friend, shading eyes and squinting: What's that, up that way? Me: Belle Isle. It's an island park, they've got an aquarium and a fountain and lots of other stuff. It's really pretty. Friend: COOL!!!! And is that a bridge that goes to Canada? Are those...are those TRUCKS?!? Me: Yeah, the perspective is pretty crazy when you realize those tiny rectangles are semi trucks. We all fall silent for a bit as a freighter slides by, because watching those things is strangely hypnotic. Friend takes pictures of EVERYTHING (and so do I). Friend vows to tell everyone he knows back home about how cool Detroit is. I think to myself, Yeah, it really is pretty cool. The Riverwalk is like a booster shot for your Detroit appreciation. Even if you don't have an out-of-town friend to impress, head on down there and re-impress yourself! read more

Excellent place to enjoy a summer walk along the Detroit river. Park at the Rivard Plaza, which is FREE. Enjoy the plaza that has restrooms, tables, café and a wonderful carousel for the kids. For sure, bring your camera to snap views of Canada and of the art work along the walk. Walk toward the GM Renaissance to enjoy the in ground fountain, that's popular with the kids. read more

A few years ago, a Detroit blogger mocked a city council member for putting too much importance on city services by referring to those services as a "precious jewel." It's become a trend with some Detroit bloggers to use the term to mock local politicians. But, the Detroit RiverWalk is the real thing. It truly is one of Detroit's 'precious jewels'. When it's warm out, I'm on the RiverWalk at least four times a week, sometimes every day. And on a hot Saturday evening, a whole lot of other people are there, too. In fact, I'm always surprised at how crowded it can get, considering there isn't much parking directly adjacent to it. But I'm always on my bike. I go there because it's a few miles of boardwalk with well-kept landscaping, benches (some with a heat-resistant coating so they don't get really hot in the sun!), lighting, and security. I love that people walk their dogs there. I love that there's a guy in the stretch in front of Cobo who sells incense and always has a few sticks burning. I love that there's a robot-toilet in Gabriel Richard Park. I love that several parks are attached or nearby. I love watching the kids play in the GM Wintergarden fountain in front of the Ren Cen. I love that there are often wedding parties being photographed. I love the Detroit Princess, which docks near Hart Plaza. I love that you can pass right in front of festivals happening at Hart Plaza. I love the views of the city. I love Rivard Plaza, which the RiverWalk runs through - you can board the Diamond Jack River Tour boats there. I love that you can also buy a bike, rent a bike, or get a bike serviced at the Wheel House, located at Rivard Plaza. And of course I love the river and the boats and the birds and the peacefulness that comes from all of that. The Detroit RiverWalk is something that Detroit desperately needed. The evidence is there when you can't even ride a bike because there are so many people. That's the best part - Detroiters aren't always good at coming together, but they do on the RiverWalk. read more

I bought 3 bricks on the riverwalk near the carousel. Recently I went there along with my family and saw the bricks and how beautiful this walk is. The kids were able to jump through the sprinklers behind the Renaissance and then we walked over to Greektown for lunch. How splendid was this. Detroit's riverwalk is one of Detroit's jewels and I am so very happy that they have developed this area. Hate to say it, but thanks Kwame for investing in the riverwalk! Since this riverwalk is a lot closer than Port Huron to me, I can take the 1/2 hour drive and devour the beautiful sites of the Detroit River and Canada--just across the river. Even if you bring your dog they have little bags that you can clean up their mess with. It is wonderful for the family or with your significant other! read more

Am I missing something? There is nothing here. I went in the summertime and on a dreary day and saw hardly a soul when I was down here. They sanitized the area quite nicely. But other than looking out at a distant Belle Isle, walking past RenCen, and gazing across at tacky Windsor casinos, is there anything else to do? read more

I was in town for a few days and knew I was only going to have one day to get a run in and chose the RiverWalk. I really did like the run. It's open and visually attractive. I would give it five stars if it wasn't for the fact that the Walk breaks up in parts from undeveloped parcels of land. I don't know if the city plans to add on once those properties are developed, but it would be nice to have one long scenic run. Running up a block and down several more before rejoining the Walk wasn't very attractive. Just the same I would recommend it and will visit it again the next time I come home. read more

Yes, I'm that person who's giving 3 stars to the Detroit River Walk. As someone who's lived in Chicago and has experienced the Navy Pier and the lake front trail and spent time in San Antonio on their river walk, I have higher expectations of things to do, places to eat etc. while I did enjoy seeing some art along the way and the view of Canada across the river, I didn't see much else in terms of food, etc. I went for River Days and that, I felt at least, was more of a fair geared towards kids. Anything adult geared was a few blocks away at a park. I'm sure it has some appeal to runners/bikers when it isn't closed off, but if has a shot at rivaling Chicago or San Antonio, more businesses are going to have to come in read more