Situated Along The Detroit River Is Michigan's Waterfront Neighborhood With Family Parks And Local Marinas

Say Detroit and you also say vibrant nightlife, lively neighborhoods, and renowned local street food. If you have spent a night in Detroit's entertainment-rich neighborhood famous for Greek cuisine and historic streets, you will know what marvels the metropolis is capable of. But you don't need to go all out to enjoy the many charms of Motor City. If you are looking for a laid-back location oriented towards outdoors fun, Detroit's Marina district should be your go-to spot. Situated right on the Detroit River, this charming neighborhood is ideal for outdoor aficionados and families. Plus, it has all the beauty of a lush riverfront location, and all the perks of suburban life – from quaint coffee shops to leafy boulevards.

Marina District is the perfect place to go on a kayaking, boating or sailing adventure, at one of the many docks. It is also a great place for fishing on the bountiful Detroit River. And when you've had your sail and your supper, you can go exploring Belle Isle, a floating hidden gem rich in historic attractions and verdant nature.

Its location about 5 miles from downtown Detroit makes it easily accessible on public transport, with a fast, direct bus route. As the city is quite widely spread out, it may be easier to rent your own car when driving to districts like Marina District, as well as from Detroit's Wayne County Airport, which is a 25 miles drive away from this scenic spot.

If you've just visited the city's under-the-radar waterfront "Little Venice" and you think you've seen all the Detroit Canal has to offer, think again. The name is kind of a giveaway: Marina District is home to a dozen piers and marinas. Each is likely to have activities and tours available, from sailing and boating on the river, to kayaking. You will find Marina District is also a hotspot for fishing during fishing season. The Detroit River is home to about 65 species of fish, and the Riverside Marina is a particularly popular spot to catch white bass, yellow perch, and walleye.

Grayhaven State Harbor is your gateway to pleasant park strolls and water activities. You can rent a kayak from there and explore the magnificent river your own way, or put yourself in the expert hands of Marina District captains, and join a sailboat or powerboat excursion (respectively costing around $275 and $575). Whether you are a sailing pro or new to this wind-swept art, Edison Boat Club is the place to go in the district to set sail towards a new adventure. Far from just being a sailing and boating club, Edison also organizes events — especially in summer – such as shrimp boils and non-member dinners.

If you fancy a more jazzy activity, a quirky way to explore the area is by hopping on the Detroit Cycle Boat. A cross between a boat and a tandem bike, this means of locomotion promises hours of fun aboard, with alcoholic beverages accompanying the voyage. The tour is ideal for groups of adult friends, with boats able to accommodate up to 30 people.

The concentration of parks and riverfront delights make Marina District ideal for families and outdoorsy travelers. The 31-acre Engel Memorial Park is the best place to start. This stretch of recreational green is perfect for biking, jogging, or simply strolling peacefully on the leaf-shaded paths leading to the serene waterfront. The park even has its own tennis court, for those keen to sneak a game in between walks, and a kids' playing area towards the outer edge. Engel Memorial Park sits directly opposite another green lung of the district: Reid Memorial Park. Vowed equally to relaxing and active leisure, the park features include a picnic area, an 18-hole disc golf course, biking and hiking trails, baseball fields, and an ample playground.

Another big perk of Marina District is its location only 3.6 miles away from the insular oasis of Belle Isle. Not only is Belle Isle Park home to America's oldest, underrated aquarium, it is also an island rich in natural delights and architectural attractions. While admission to Belle Isle Natural Center on foot is free, bear in mind every car will be required to have a 'recreation passport' you can buy upon entry for $14. Wonderful views of Detroit and Windsor, in southern Canada, await on the island. Its sprawling 982-acres are filled with trees, majestic fountains, marble monuments, and a truly breath-taking water access.

You're unlikely to get bored when hopping between parks in Marina District. If you fancy a riverside walk after trodding the neighborhood's green acres at length, head to Riverside Marina or King's Marina to enjoy the spectacular sunset this area affords.