Michigan 1 Woodward Ave Panoramic Road Itinerary
Take a scenic drive down Michigan 1 Woodward Ave and experience the beauty of this 54 km route. The best time of year to drive is between April and October, when the weather is pleasant and the road conditions are good. The trip should take around a day to complete, and is suitable for drivers of all levels. This is a great way to explore the area, and can be done on a moderate budget.
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number of days
54 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Detroit
Distance 54 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: slow
12.4 kWh
Airports
DTW
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Located in the state of Michigan, USA, Detroit is a city that is full of life, culture and history. From the Motown Museum to the Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit offers visitors a unique experience. Detroit is also the birthplace of the automotive industry, and visitors can explore the historical sites where the industry began.
For those wanting to explore Detroit, the Michigan 1 Woodward Ave Panoramic Road is the perfect starting point. This scenic drive will take you through the city's most iconic sites, including the Detroit Riverfront, Belle Isle Park and the Ambassador Bridge. You'll also get to see the city's breathtaking skyline, as well as the many bridges that connect Detroit to its Canadian neighbor, Windsor.
The closest international airport to Detroit is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). From the airport, car rentals are available, allowing you to explore Detroit and the surrounding area at your own pace. Detroit is also home to a number of public transportation options, including buses and light rail.
Whether you're interested in exploring the city's rich cultural offerings or taking a drive along the Michigan 1 Woodward Ave Panoramic Road, Detroit is a great place to start your journey. With its vibrant culture, unique history and stunning views, Detroit is sure to be a memorable experience.
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Detroit
- Pontiac
Distance 54 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
14.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Detroit-Pontiac road trip! This stage of your journey will take you through the most interesting sites of Michigan in only 33 miles and less than 2 hours of driving.
Start your adventure in Detroit, the largest city in Michigan and the birthplace of Motown music. Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, the historic Fox Theatre, and the Motown Museum.
Continue your journey to Pontiac and explore the city's rich history. Visit the iconic Silverdome, the Cranbrook Institute of Science and the historic Oakland County Courthouse.
For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll through the Pontiac Lake State Recreation Area. Enjoy the nature trails, fishing, and camping sites.
This is just one of the many stages of your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!
Pontiac - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - Wikimedia Commons
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Pontiac
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Pontiac, Michigan is the perfect destination for a road trip along the iconic Michigan 1 Woodward Avenue Panoramic Road. Pontiac is situated at the doorstep of gorgeous Lake St. Clair and is home to a vibrant and diverse culture.
Start by visiting the Waterford Oaks County Park, a sprawling park with lake access, a beach, and trails for biking and hiking. Get a bird's eye view of the area from atop the Summit at the Cranbrook Institute of Science, an interactive science museum. For those looking for a bit of adventure, the Pontiac Lake Recreation Area is a great spot for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
The downtown area is a great place to explore. Check out the Flagstar Strand Theatre for a night of live music and entertainment. The Pontiac Creative Arts Center offers classes and workshops for all ages. And for a little bit of history, visit the Phoenix Center, a former auto showroom that now houses a variety of shops and dining.
End your Pontiac visit with a meal at one of the many local restaurants. From traditional pub fare to fine dining, there's something for everyone.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW). From there, it's an easy drive to Pontiac.
Whether it's the great outdoors or the city life you're looking for, Pontiac is the perfect ending point to your Michigan 1 Woodward Avenue Panoramic Road road trip.
Michigan 1 Woodward Ave Panoramic Road at a glance
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Start:
Detroit
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End:
Pontiac
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Distance:
54 km
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Stay:
1 day
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Getting there:
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embarking on a Road Trip along Michigan's historic Woodward Avenue, designated as Michigan Highway 1, provides a remarkable journey that stretches for approximately 54 km (33.5 miles). This iconic avenue takes travelers through a tapestry of American history, automotive culture, and architectural beauty. Designed to be accessible to most drivers, the Trip can be easily completed within a day and caters to a moderate budget, offering a diverse range of experiences.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
Woodward Avenue is not only a vital artery in Michigan's transportation network but also a symbol of the Motor City's automotive legacy. Key attractions along this historic route include the Detroit Institute of Arts, renowned for its vast and varied collection spanning the globe and the ages; the Motown Museum, a testament to the birthplace of the Motown sound that revolutionized music; and the family-friendly Detroit Zoo with its diverse array of wildlife. Architectural enthusiasts can marvel at the art deco grandeur of the Fisher Building and the array of historic churches that line the avenue, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
Best Time to Go:
The prime time for a Woodward Avenue Road Trip is from April to October. This window offers the best chance for warm weather and clear skies, enhancing the travel experience with optimal driving conditions.
Potential Risks:
Although the Trip is largely safe, travelers should be aware of traffic congestion during rush hour and special events such as the Woodward Dream Cruise. Weather can be unpredictable outside of the recommended months, and Road construction may cause unexpected delays. It's wise to check local traffic updates before setting out.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
Woodward Avenue is steeped in automotive history, playing host to the Woodward Dream Cruise, the world's largest one-day automotive event, drawing enthusiasts from across the globe. The avenue has historical significance as one of the earliest paved Roads in America and the site of the first mile of concrete highway ever laid in the nation.
A good choice for:
A journey down Woodward Avenue is more than a mere drive—it is a voyage through the cradle of America's car culture and a chance to immerse oneself in Detroit's vibrant cultural scene. This Road Trip is a testament to the innovation and spirit of the region, offering an eclectic mix of sights that will captivate and educate travelers seeking a memorable day-long adventure.