*This wonderful tour will return for public runs in the Spring of 2023. If you would like a private tour, they are available throughout the year by contacting us at Pollock@detroithistorytours.com or 313-539-7377.

Detroit was founded on a hot July day in 1701. Two hundred men rowed ashore to see their leader, Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, plant the French flag for God, King, and Country into the muddy soil from which would grow our proud city. From that day to this, Detroit has been a city constantly growing, changing, and profoundly affecting the world. Join Detroit History Tours as we trek from the shores of the Detroit River and the borders of eighteenth-century ribbon farms through the streets of downtown, while learning why three different countries' flags have flown over Detroit. You’ll discover the city’s French founders, Native American populations, British soldiers, forts, various immigration waves, population booms and crashes, connections to slavery and abolition, and so much more as we weave the story from our city’s founding to Michigan’s statehood in 1837. From Rogers Rangers to the great fire of 1805, reluctant generals to conviving judges, and founding mothers to beaver trappers. You won’t want to miss this tour like none other, in a city like no other.

Each guest will be given a custom set of maps to help them better understand the scope and area of Detroit’s expansion during this period. Guests must have good mobility to walk two and a half miles at a steady pace and to traverse stairs.

The tour departs promptly, please arrive 15 mins early. This tour leaves from the flagpoles in front of the Renaissance Center. Our tour guides will be wearing Detroit History Tours shirts and big ol’ smiles. Parking is available at the garages on either side of the Renaissance Center building with costs varying from 10.00-20.00 dollars. Guests can also park for free at Greektown Casino and ride two stops on the Detroit People Mover to the Renaissance Center stop for .75 cents each way.

Children 13 and over welcome with an adult. Not appropriate for young children or strollers.