Day One: Historic Sites & Homes

One of the most enticing ways to experience the automotive heritage of this city is by exploring the wealth it created. And in Detroit, there's plenty of wealth to explore. Begin your tour where it all began at the Model T Automotive Heritage Complex. Here you can tour the birthplace of the automobile assembly line, and examine how it changed the landscape of both Detroit and our country forever. 

Next it's time to explore the luxury of the auto elite. First, head to Fair Lane, Henry and Clara Ford's stunning country home estate. Named one of "America's 10 grandest mansions" by Budget Travel Magazine, this 31,000 square-foot, six level, 56-room power house is where Clara & Henry entertained some of the world's most influential people. Next, head to another Ford mansion: Edsel and Eleanor Ford. Edsel was the only son of Henry and Clara, and became president of Ford Motor Company at age 25. Famed architect Albert Kahn designed this stunning 60-room home in 1926.

Out with the Fords, in with the next auto bigwig: the Fishers. Lawrence Fisher was one of the founders of the Fisher Body Company and President of Cadillac Motors. His estate was considered one of the most lavish residences of its time. Take note of the gold and sliver leafing accenting the ceilings and moldings-it's more than 70 ounces! And watch where you walk-you're treading on rare black walnut and rosewood parquet floors sure to knock your socks off.

Dodge is one of the other big names from the auto royals. The spectacular Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester was the home of Matilda Dodge Wilson and her second husband, lumber baron Alfred G. Wilson. Completed in 1929, Meadow Brook Hall is considered an American Castle and is among the finest homes in the country. Save plenty of time to explore the 110 rooms and 88,000 square feet of this meticulous home and lushly landscaped grounds.

Day Two: Museums

There are endless stories wrapped up in Detroit's automotive history, of winners and loser, heroes and villains. This next itinerary enables you to explore some of these tales.

Begin your trip at the Detroit Historical Museum in Midtown. Here, you can wander the cobblestone streets of Old Detroit, watch a car body drops on the assembly line, and discover the story of how Detroit's neighborhoods were shaped by the auto industry.

Right across the street is your next destination: the Detroit Institute of Arts. Edsel and Eleanor Ford saved this museum from closing and, along with other rich and powerfuls, helped establish its current remarkable collection. Be sure to catch Diego Rivera's infamous murals Detroit Industry.

The Automotive Hall of Fame is your next stop. Here, you'll follow the "The Driving Spirit" as he leads you through time celebrating the many creative and inspirational people who have left their mark in the auto industry. Sure it sounds hokey, but it makes for good entertainment and a gripping story. This museum also features lots of hands-on activities.

Now it's out to Auburn Hills and the Walter P. Chrysler Museum. Located in the shadow of the Daimler Chrysler World Headquarters, this museum is where the cool park...cool cars that is. Check out the hot rods, cool mods and other exotic vehicles that showcase the past, present and future of Chrysler.