Detroit named ‘most underrated’ city in Midwest by Travel + Leisure -- Here are 15+ spots featured

DETROIT – Detroit has recently been named one of the “most underrated” cities to visit in the Midwest by Travel + Leisure magazine.

In the March 1, 2026 article titled “I Live in the Midwest—This Is the Most Underrated City Everyone Should Visit Once,” journalist Iona Brannon highlights the city, from its world-class art and vibrant culinary scene to its riverfront views, historic venues, and cultural landmarks, offering tips on where to stay, what to do, and where to eat on your next trip.

Here are some of the local spots highlighted in the Travel + Leisure article:

Best hotels and resorts

• Shinola Hotel
• The Siren Hotel
• Detroit Foundation Hotel
• Hotel David Whitney

Things to do

• Motown Museum
• Detroit Institute of Arts
• Eastern Market
• City Institute Tours
• Michigan Central Station

Nightlife

• Cliff Bell’s
• Motorcity Wine Bar
• Spkrbox
• Father Forgive Me
• Ladder 4 Wine Bar

Restaurants

• Rose’s Fine Food
• Baobab Fare
• Marrow
• Warda Pâtisserie

To learn more about these spots and to see other Detroit recommendations that were mentioned, click here to see Travel + Leisure’s guide to visiting the city.