El Moore

Things to Do in January in Detroit

I’m not freezin’, I’m just funnin’. Photo Credit: hotpenguin.net

Yep. It’s cold in Detroit in  January. When you’re inside at the El Moore, however, you will be quite comfortable because of the carefully planned sustainability components that have been installed. There was a post about energy consumption at the El Moore back in July 2014; you can see that post here.

Actually, to be honest? It’s freezing. Meaning it can get really, really  cold.

So what? You really won’t want to stay inside the entire month of January, even at the El Moore, not with so many great things to do in Detroit in January.

It takes considerably more than mercury-threatening temperatures (not that mercury is even used in thermometers anymore…) to dissuade a determined Detroiter from having a good time. Or even your average Detroiter, for that matter. If there is a good time to be had, then there are few horrors of nature we won’t point and laugh at uproariously as we  make our way to that next party. And in January, there are a number of good times to be had if you know where to look. For example:

  • Campus Martius Skating Rink:It is larger than the one at 30Rock in New York City. And speaking of things that are bigger here than there, our very own Belle Isle Park is larger than Central Park. No, seriously. It is.  And if you want to know a fun fact, both parks were designed by the same guy. Not that this has anything to do with skating in January, but I just thought it would be fun to point that out. I would also point out that Campus Martius is within walking distance of the El Moore.
  •  Friday Night Live! at the Detroit Institute of Arts: First of all,if you are a resident of Detroit, which you would be if you stayed at the El Moore, then these fantastic concerts are not only free but within walking distance. Second, it’s good music. Third, it’s at the DIA. If you need more than that for motivation to get out of the house, I can’t help you.
  • The North American International Auto Show: One of Detroit’s largest annual tourist attractions built around the industry that Detroit made and that made Detroit. If you’re talking about cars then you’re talking about Detroit. There’s really no way around that one.
  • Tiger Fest 2015: According to About.com, “The 20th annual Tigerfest allows fans to interact with the team’s players and coaches. In addition to all the fan mingling, the event includes autograph sessions, photo booths, seminars, batting cages, clubhouse tours, baseball bat carvings, ice sculpting, and face painting. Tickets are $28 an adult / $14 a child.”
  • And for the truly hardcore hearty among you, it should be pointed out that snow and ice means little or nothing to local cyclists. Those who prefer their own two wheels tend to enforce that preference regardless of the seasons.  Have bike, will ride. Period.

Is there more? Of course there is. Detroit is a big city. But this should be enough to get you started.