Detroit / 10 photo spots
10 Instagram spots around Detroit
Detroit offers riverfront paths, public squares and richly detailed buildings. These spots pair broad views with architectural details that can be photographed from outside.
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Photo spots on the map
5 of 10 photo ideas have sourced location coordinates. The initial view is for orientation. An area marker does not indicate an exact photo position.
Select a highlighted number to show its sourced location on the map. Every name links to the photo spot.
If the map does not load, use the OpenStreetMap link or the photo spot list.
All photo spots
- James Scott Memorial FountainSourced place
- Fisher BuildingSourced place
- Spirit PlazaApproximate area
- Michigan Central StationSourced place
- Guardian BuildingSourced place
Map data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL.
Destination reference: GeoNames (CC BY 4.0). Spot coordinates: Wikidata, CC0. Selection, association and some calculations by You, Me, Away.
Cullen Plaza riverfront
Cullen Plaza sits on the Detroit RiverWalk and has a carousel and space to pause by the water. Use the paved edge to make the river a broad background behind a closer plaza detail.
Search Google MapsJames Scott Memorial Fountain
The marble James Scott Memorial Fountain stands on Belle Isle. Photograph the shapes of the basin and central structure from the surrounding plaza. As of November 2026, the fountain is scheduled to resume operation in spring 2027.
Search Google MapsEastern Market sheds
Eastern Market has historic open-air sheds and storefronts. Photograph the rhythm of the shed entrances from the public street. During market photography, the operator asks for consent from any vendors and guests who appear in the image.
Search Google MapsFisher Building
The Fisher Building is known for its marble-clad façade and tall tower. From a public sidewalk in New Center, isolate the vertical lines of the upper building against the sky.
Search Google MapsDequindre Cut Greenway
This former rail corridor is now a below-street path with separate walking and cycling lanes. Include an overpass and the path in a long view, leaving space for people moving through.
Search Google MapsCampus Martius Park
Campus Martius is a public gathering place in central Detroit. Work from the edge of the square and frame the surrounding buildings above the park, adjusting to seasonal installations.
Search Google MapsSpirit Plaza
Spirit Plaza is a civic gathering space beside the Spirit of Detroit statue. Compose from the pedestrian plaza with the sculpture and a portion of the civic building behind it.
Search Google MapsMichigan Central Station
The restored former station stands in Corktown. From the surrounding public street, use the repeated tall windows to create a façade detail. Check the operator for current indoor access.
Search Google MapsGuardian Building
The Guardian Building has brickwork and sculptural reliefs around its entrance. From the public sidewalk on Griswold Street, focus on one section of the decorated exterior.
Search Google MapsDetroit Institute of Arts exterior
The Detroit Institute of Arts has a prominent Woodward Avenue entrance. From the public approach, frame the entrance and its steps together for a street-level architectural photograph.
Search Google MapsSources for these photo spots
- Detroit Riverfront Conservancy: Cullen Plaza
- Michigan Department of Natural Resources: Belle Isle Park
- Eastern Market: Market information
- Fisher Building: History
- Detroit Riverfront Conservancy: Dequindre Cut
- Visit Detroit: Campus Martius Park
- City of Detroit: Spirit Plaza
- City of Detroit: Spirit Plaza reopens
- Michigan Central: Plan Your Visit
- Guardian Building: History
- Detroit Institute of Arts: DIA Exterior
- Belle Isle Conservancy: Vision and history
- Eastern Market: Explore the Market and photography information