Detroit is its own kind of special, challenging cities everywhere to match its presence and culture. It’s more than just a city—it’s a mindset. The style, sound, and heartbeat of Detroit show up in every event, restaurant, and small business. All across the D, you will find spaces, stories, and experiences that feel unmistakably Detroit.
Here’s a lineup of local brands that are not only doing it right, but they’re also doing it their way.
Source Booksellers – Detroit’s Indie Book Haven
Midtown’s got no shortage of cool spots, but Source Booksellers is a must-visit for anyone who craves substance with their style. This Black woman-owned indie bookstore focuses on nonfiction gems in wellness, history, culture, and spirituality.
In this local bookstore, browse for your next self-help or chilling horror read. Transform your weekends into a time for learning, expanding, and taking on multiple points of view.
When you sit down to have a read, be open to meeting others in the shop. Visiting Source Booksellers isn’t only about grabbing a book and being on your way, but it’s also about meeting new people, talking with the staff, and discovering a place you can call home in the bustle of the big city.
Playground Detroit – Art Gallery + Creative Launchpad
Detroit’s creative scene is bursting at the seams, and Playground Detroit is one of the driving forces behind it. This gallery gives local artists a platform to shine, offering exhibitions, resources, and major support.
Only local artists know the struggle of coming up in Detroit amongst a massive talent pool filled with perspectives, mediums, and ideas. Why not come together and share ideas and inspire one another? Playground Detroit offers a gathering place to do just that.
Absorb exhibits inspired by Women’s History Month, adorned with florals, depictions of real women, and meaningful representations of the female experience. No matter the month, you will find art that represents the people of the city, feeling connected with strangers in a way you never thought possible. Playground Detroit offers a city experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Detroit Rose – Modern Apothecary and Self-Care
Smack in the heart of Eastern Market, Detroit Rose is elevating the self-care game with candles, skincare, and wellness goods that are all handcrafted with thoughtful intention. Everything smells like heaven, looks stunning on a shelf, and is made with clean, plant-based ingredients.
Finding a shop that speaks to your soul is irreplaceable, and you don’t want to take it for granted. The shop offers events and candle-making classes for connecting with like-minded people. Not only do you get to support a local business that cares about the earth and the well-being of Detroit customers, but you also get to soak in beauty everywhere you turn.
Picture the perfect Saturday where you just finished brunch with a group of friends, and you stop by Detroit Rose to treat yourself to some indulgent must-haves for a Sunday at home. Share what you love the most with your friends and see what they are drawn to. Walk out with a smile and a bag full of Detroit-sourced finds.
Corktown Taphouse – The Soul of the City
Now, let’s talk about a place that doesn’t just represent Detroit—it is Detroit. Corktown Taphouse brings the city’s energy to life through bold flavors, fun experiences, and a true community-first spirit. This isn’t just another bar or restaurant.
What makes Corktown Taphouse special isn’t just the menus or the games—it’s the way they show up for Detroit. They support local suppliers, create space for all kinds of community hangouts, and stay rooted in what makes this city real: grit, flavor, creativity, and heart.
Join another group as you roar for your favorite team, face off on a game of duckpin bowling, cheers with your favorite beer on tap, or sample the menu family-style. Detroit is all about the people and the experiences. Are you out there living life to the fullest?
Embrace the City by Living It
Living in Detroit is an experience like no other. Here, you’re constantly meeting new people, discovering what drives them, and growing your own outlook in the process. Don’t let the opportunity Detroit offers pass you by. Lean in and live it fully.
So, whether you’re filling your tote with books, your walls with art, your shelf with candles, or your belly with tacos—these are the Detroit brands doing it right.
Inspire and be inspired.
