It’s going to be a busy weekend in downtown Detroit, and if you’re planning a visit, here are five things you should know before you go to ensure that you have the best possible time this weekend.
The Events
WWE’s August Extravaganza, SummerSlam, is taking place at 7:30 p.m. at Ford Field, but it’s not the only event that will bring people to the area. There’s also a Tigers game. The Tigers will play the Tampa Bay Rays, with first pitch scheduled for 1:10 p.m. A Smokey Robinson concert at Fox Theatre, a Mt. Joy concert at The Fillmore, and a Deon Cole comedy show at Sound Board will round out the events that are expected to bring people out by the thousands.
The Parking
It’s going to be expensive and hard to come by, so bring an extra bit of patience. Ford Field and Comerica have nearby parking lots available, and Hollywood Casino by Greektown allows anyone 21 years of age and older to get a Penn Play card by visiting the upper level of the casino. The Penn Play card allows for free parking at the Hollywood Casino garage.
People can also reserve a parking spot before traveling downtown by using Parkwhiz. Remember, though. Spots will be expensive and can run up to $150 per spot.
Or you can always park in New Center or Midtown and hop on the QLine. It’s not the most efficient form of transportation and you’ll need to download the QLine app, but it’ll get you close to where you want to be if your destination is downtown. Just give yourself enough time for ride because it’s not the fastest form of transportation.
The Bag Policies
Every venue has a different policy about what you can and can’t bring into their venue. Don’t be the person in the group who forgets that they’re wearing a backpack then have to take a trip all the way back to the car. If you’re going to one of the events mentioned above, visit the venue website to understand what’s restricted when it comes to what they allow you to bring.
The Places to Eat
This one is really a toss-up depending on your tastebuds. There are several quality Black-owned restaurants all around downtown. Central Kitchen + Bar on Cadillac Square has great food and cocktails. SavannahBlue offers contemporary Northern soul food. Detroit Vegan Soul brings the flavor without the bringing any meat or animal byproducts. Regardless of what you like, there’s a Black-owned restaurant in or close to downtown that can satisfy your palate.
The Weather
It’s supposed to be a picture-perfect day weather-wise in downtown Detroit. The high will be 80 degrees, with some humidity and a nice breeze. You couldn’t ask for more perfect weather in early August. The low Saturday night will be around 70 degrees, so if you get cold easily, bring a light jacket. Otherwise, enjoy the best weather you could ask for given the time of year.
With so many events happening in such close quarters, the most important thing to know before you venture downtown is to simply be smart, be safe, and be ready to have a good time.
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