Detroit in 2 Days for Seniors - Detroit Institute of Arts — Rivera murals and accessible galleries
A gentle, senior-friendly 2-day itinerary in Detroit focused on accessible museums, calm dining, short transfers, frequent rests, and minimal continuous walking. Designed for September (Autumn) when temperatures are mild and daylight is generous.
Highlights
- Detroit Institute of Arts — Rivera murals and accessible galleries
- Relaxed RiverWalk views with frequent benches and shade
- The Henry Ford — wide galleries, mobility aids available
- Pewabic Pottery — short, seated demonstrations and gallery
- Greektown — flat, easy streets and early evening dining
Itinerary
Day 1
Midtown & Riverfront at an easy pace: accessible museum time, calm riverfront stroll, and early, comfortable dining. Frequent rest breaks and short taxi/shuttle rides recommended.
Check in & settle at The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit
Arrive, collect accessible room keys, and rest after travel. The hotel offers step-free access, elevators to guest floors, and seating in the lobby for guests who need a slower check-in.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a room on a low floor near the elevator when you check in to minimize hallway walking.
- Request a roll-in shower or shower seat in advance if needed; the hotel can provide mobility aids on request.
- Keep the hotel card and a printed address handy for late returns; concierges can arrange accessible taxis quickly.
Short taxi/shuttle to Detroit Institute of Arts (accessible transfer)
Quick, climate-controlled ride from the hotel to the museum entrance. Recommend a taxi or hotel-arranged shuttle to avoid a long walk and to preserve energy.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the front desk to call a wheelchair-accessible taxi if you need level entry.
- Confirm the driver will wait or give a 10–15 minute return-window so you can exit at a relaxed pace.
- Bring a small foldable seat cushion for museum benches if you prefer extra padding during guided stops.
Detroit Institute of Arts — relaxed highlights tour
Visit key galleries including the Rivera Detroit Industry Murals. The DIA provides wheelchairs, elevators, accessible restrooms, and seating throughout galleries — ideal for seniors who prefer shorter viewing windows.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve timed-entry tickets in advance to avoid lines; request a wheelchair on arrival if needed.
- Start with the Rivera murals on the ground floor (minimal stairs) and use elevators to visit other levels — staff will direct you.
- Use the museum café seating for a mid-visit rest; benches are available near major galleries.
Lunch at The Rattlesnake Club — calm, riverfront seating
Early, relaxed lunch at a riverfront restaurant with accessible entrance, elevator access, and tables with comfortable chairs. Choose a window table for river views without stairs.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table near the entrance or window to avoid long interior walks; note any mobility needs when booking.
- Ask for a chair with armrests if you prefer easier standing and sitting.
- The restaurant is adjacent to the RiverWalk; plan a short, seated break outside if weather is pleasant.
Gentle RiverWalk stroll near Hart Plaza
A flat, paved stretch of the Detroit RiverWalk with plentiful benches, shade structures, and level access — ideal for a short, restorative walk and river views.
Tips from local experts:
- Stay on the main paved path and use benches every 5–10 minutes to rest and enjoy the view.
- The RiverWalk is mostly step-free; bring a light jacket as river breezes can be cooler even in early autumn.
- Public restrooms and shaded seating are located near Hart Plaza; plan a restroom stop before continuing.
Return to hotel to rest and refresh
Short taxi or hotel shuttle back to the Westin Book Cadillac for a seated rest, medication or nap time, and to freshen up before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the hotel elevator to go straight to your room; ask staff for an expedited return if you’re tired.
- Place a do-not-disturb sign if you prefer uninterrupted rest; request a wake-up call for dinner timing.
- If you used a mobility aid during the day, confirm storage or charging for scooters at the front desk.
Early dinner at ROAST (in The Westin Book Cadillac) — relaxed dining
A calm, upscale restaurant in the hotel with level access, reservations recommended, and seating that’s easy to navigate from the elevator.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table early (6:00–6:30 PM) to avoid peak noise and request a quieter corner if available.
- ROAST has level access from the hotel lobby; ask staff to guide you to the elevator closest to the restaurant entrance.
- Consider ordering fewer courses to keep the meal light and end the evening earlier.
Evening wind-down in the hotel lounge
A short, seated period in the hotel lounge to enjoy a warm drink, check plans for tomorrow, or simply rest before bed.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the lobby seating to avoid additional elevator trips; ask the concierge for a decaf or herbal option.
- Charge phones and any medical devices now so they’re ready for tomorrow’s outings.
- Confirm tomorrow’s transfer pickups with the front desk to avoid morning confusion.
Day 2
Day trip to The Henry Ford in Dearborn with accessible exhibits, followed by a relaxed afternoon at Pewabic Pottery and an easy evening in Greektown. Short, climate-controlled transfers recommended.
Breakfast at the hotel (reserved seating)
Start with a calm, seated breakfast in the hotel restaurant. Request low-sugar or soft-food options if preferred and ask for a table close to the entrance for minimal walking.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for breakfast to be served in a quiet corner and request a tray if you'd like to eat in the room.
- Request easy-to-handle cutlery or pre-cut fruit if eyesight or dexterity is a concern.
- Confirm departure logistics with the concierge while you eat to minimize waiting outside afterward.
Taxi/ride to The Henry Ford, Dearborn (accessible car recommended)
Climate-controlled transfer to The Henry Ford. A private car or accessible taxi reduces walking and preserves energy for exhibits.
Tips from local experts:
- Book an accessible vehicle if anyone uses a mobility scooter; many local services can be prearranged via the hotel.
- Bring a small bag with a water bottle and medication for mid-visit needs to avoid queuing at cafes.
- Confirm drop-off at the museum’s main accessible entrance so you don’t need to navigate long ramps or cross busy streets.
The Henry Ford — accessible galleries and highlights
Explore indoor exhibits (automotive, Americana, and innovation). The Henry Ford offers wheelchairs, elevators, ample seating, and accessible restrooms. Focus on a few key exhibits to keep the visit comfortable.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve entry in advance and ask for a map showing elevator locations and nearby seating areas.
- Visit the main indoor exhibits first and use the museum’s shuttle or tram options only if walking longer distances is difficult.
- Plan bathroom and snack breaks into your route — there are accessible restrooms near major galleries.
Lunch at Al Ameer Restaurant, Dearborn — calm, familiar flavors
A relaxed, widely appreciated Lebanese restaurant with level entry and roomy seating — a comfortable spot after the museum visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a table away from the front door to avoid drafts and street noise.
- Al Ameer is spacious; ask for a booth or armrest-equipped chairs if helpful for support when sitting/standing.
- Order family-style but in smaller portions to avoid lengthy, heavy meals that can tire you out.
Return transfer to the hotel (short rest en route)
Taxi back to downtown Detroit for a restful afternoon. Sit down on arrival to decompress before the next short outing.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the driver to pull close to the entrance when you’re dropped off to minimize outdoor walking.
- Use this transfer time to rest legs and hydrate; short naps in the hotel can restore energy.
- Confirm elevator location to your room so you can go straight to rest without extra walking.
Pewabic Pottery — short gallery visit and seated demonstration
Historic pottery studio with a small, accessible gallery and opportunities for quick demonstrations. Paths are step-free and there is comfortable seating for short rests.
Tips from local experts:
- Call ahead to confirm a short, seated demo time so you can watch without standing for long periods.
- The gallery is compact; take a slow loop and use benches provided to rest between displays.
- Pewabic staff are used to assisting visitors with mobility limitations — mention any needs on arrival.
Easy stroll in Greektown Historic District (flat streets, early evening)
Short, level walk through Greektown's pedestrian-friendly streets with many benches and accessible curb cuts. Explore storefronts from benched vantage points and choose an early dinner spot nearby.
Tips from local experts:
- Stick to the main streets (Monroe & Brush) where sidewalks are even and there are curb cuts at crossings.
- Sit at an outdoor bench or café seating to enjoy the atmosphere without long walking stretches.
- If you prefer, the district has many restaurants with level entrances — pick one closest to the main sidewalk.
Dinner at Pegasus Taverna — classic Greek, easy seating
A relaxed Greek taverna in Greektown with accessible entry and roomy tables. Early dinner time reduces noise and wait times.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve an early table (6:15–6:30 PM) and request a seat with good back support or armrests.
- Ask the host for a table near the restroom if frequent short breaks are helpful.
- Order dishes that can be shared so portions are manageable and dining is social but relaxed.
Return to hotel & prepare for departure
Short taxi back to the hotel for packing, medication, and a final rest before onward travel. Hotel staff can assist with luggage and arranging accessible transport to the airport or next destination.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the concierge to pre-book your airport transfer or car service (accessible options available).
- Double-check any mobility aid storage or charging needed for travel the next day.
- Collect any souvenirs purchased earlier at the hotel to avoid carrying them on the final walk.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 5 |
| Total Activities | 14 |
| Total Places | 14 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Transfer, Attraction, Restaurant, Outdoor, Break, Meal, Culture, Neighborhood |
