Detroit Historical Society | Where the past is present

Detroit Historical Society | Where the past is present
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Discover Detroit's Fascinating History
Explore our two family-friendly museums, view online archives, or attend an event.
Plan Your Visit
DISCOVER THE RICH HISTORY OF DETROIT and the region
Step into the story of Detroit at the Detroit Historical Museum and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. From the
Streets of Old Detroit
and displays showcasing the city’s industrial innovations and maritime heritage to exhibitions featuring Detroit’s dynamic culture and development today, our museums bring Detroit’s vibrant past and present to life. Explore hands-on galleries, legendary ships, and the cultural milestones that shaped the Motor City.
Whether you’re fascinated by local history, industry, or life on the Great Lakes, there’s something for everyone to discover. Plan your visit today and experience the stories that make Detroit unforgettable!
Detroit Historical Museum
5401 Woodward Ave
Detroit, MI 48202
313-833-1805
(Phone)
313-385-4562
(Text for virtual assistance)
Wednesday - Saturday
10am - 5pm
Sunday
1pm - 5pm
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Closed - Private event
Directions
Parking
Tickets
Plan a Visit
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
100 Strand Drive, Belle Isle
Detroit, MI 48207
313-821-2661
(Phone)
313-385-4562
(Text for virtual assistance)
Friday - Saturday
10am - 5pm
Sunday
1pm - 5pm
Directions
Parking
Tickets
Plan a Visit
NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN NOW!
For the second round of
The Hustle: Celebrating Detroit’s Unsung Entrepreneurs
Learn more and nominate someone today
Explore Exhibitions
Discover the rich history, culture, and maritime heritage of Detroit. Engaging exhibitions bring to life the people, places, and events that shaped and continue to shape Detroit. With ever-changing displays and longtime favorites, there’s always something new to see.
All Exhibitions
LENI: Looking Through the Lens
Detroit Historical Museum
New Exhibits

- Ends 03/14/2027
Learn More
Centerpoint: Mapping Detroit’s Ceramic Legacy
Detroit Historical Museum
New Exhibits

- Ends 05/04/2026
Learn More
Detroit Red Wings at 100: Becoming Hockeytown
Detroit Historical Museum
New Exhibits

- Ends 11/22/2026
Learn More
Mail by the Pail: The J.W. Westcott Company
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
New Exhibits

- Ends 08/24/2026
Learn More
Automotive Showplace
Detroit Historical Museum
New Exhibits

- Ends 09/20/2026
Learn More
Heroes vs. Villains: Detroit's Comic Book Story
Detroit Historical Museum
New Exhibits

- Ends 09/13/2026
Learn More
Streets of Old Detroit
Detroit Historical Museum
Permanent Exhibits
Learn More
The Gothic Room
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Permanent Exhibits
Learn More
William Clay Ford Pilot House
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Permanent Exhibits
Learn More
The Detroit Historical museum is the gateway to the city! I highly recommend it to city residents, those in the metropolitan area, and visitors.
Randal Maurice Jelks
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Research Detroit History
Search the digital collection
Featured Collections
Browse Collections
Detroit 67 In Conversation
Browse Collection
African American History
Browse Collection
Detroit Anniversaries
Browse Collection
Architecture
Browse Collection
about us
Founded in 1921 by civic leaders dedicated to preserving Detroit’s history, the Detroit Historical Society began as a volunteer organization curating exhibits on the city’s evolution. Partnering with the City of Detroit, it established the Detroit Historical Museum and later expanded its reach with the Dossin Great Lakes Museum on Belle Isle, celebrating the city’s maritime heritage. Today, the Society honors Detroit's legacy with engaging exhibits, programs, and partnerships at both museums, inspiring pride in the city's rich past and vibrant present.
Learn More About Us
Become a Member
Donate Now
Volunteering
Events and Blog
Stay up to date with the latest news and upcoming events, including exciting programs, exhibits, and special celebrations!
All Events
Apr
25
Detroit Public Library Main Branch - Behind the Scenes
Detroit Public Library - Main Branch
11:00am
- 12:00pm
Learn More
Apr
25
A Tapestry of Culture: Art, Language, and Heritage in the Arab American Experience
Detroit Historical Museum
11:00am
- 3:30pm
Learn More
May
1
Detroit ICON series sneak preview
Detroit Historical Museum
6:00
- 9:00pm
Learn More
May
9
national train day - featuring the glancy trains
QLINE Operations & Maintenance Base
1:00
- 5:00pm
Learn More
all Blog posts
Explore Detroit’s Cathedral of Finance at the Society Ball
Read More
How Detroit Became "The 313"
Read More
Nominations Are Open for The Hustle
Read More
Plan Your Visit
Get information about hours, location, admission, and more!
Explore History
Uncover stories of innovation, culture, and Detroit’s transformative journey.