Michigan, affectionately known as the “Great Lakes State,” has more than just pristine freshwater shores to boast about.
It’s a state that pulses with automotive passion, where engines roar and chrome gleams under the sun.
From Detroit’s Motor City legacy to scenic drives along winding roads, the Detroit Michigan car culture is a symphony of horsepower, nostalgia, and community.
Detroit Car Museums & Exhibits
Detroit, rightfully dubbed the Motor City, remains in the driver’s seat when it comes to automotive culture.
Let’s kick off our journey with a pit stop at some of the city’s iconic car museums and exhibits:
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation:
This expansive museum celebrates not only cars but also the people behind the wheels.
The “Driving America” exhibit showcases over 100 vehicles, tracing how the invention of the automobile transformed everyday lives. From the Kennedy Presidential limo to Rosa Parks’ bus, it’s a ride through history.
Automotive Hall of Fame:
Located next to The Henry Ford, this hall celebrates automotive pioneers like Henry Ford, Eiji Toyoda, and Walter P. Chrysler.
Walk the floors where the first 12,000 Ford Model Ts were assembled—the birthplace of the 20th century’s most significant automobile.
Car Events & Cruises
Throughout Michigan, every single day during the car show season, you literally can find some type of automotive event to attend. There’s plenty of local car shows in assorted parking lots. At least once a month there’s a car cruise happening somewhere (with August having one every single weekend!).
Woodward Dream Cruise:
Billed as the largest one-day automotive event on earth, the Woodward Dream Cruise draws 1.5 million spectators to Detroit. More than 40,000 hot rods, classic cars, and custom rides cruise Woodward Avenue between Ferndale and Pontiac. It’s the centerpiece of a week filled with automotive-themed events.
Back to the Bricks Cruise Weekend:
Flint, the birthplace of America’s first sports car (the Corvette), hosts this annual event. With rolling cruises, car shows, live music, and dance parties (check out the Buick Girls), it’s a celebration of all things automotive.
Automotive Museums Beyond Detroit
The Gilmore Car Museum:
Located in Hickory Corners, this museum boasts over 400 vintage vehicles spread across 90 acres. From Detroit’s classic cars to muscle cars, it’s a nostalgic journey through automotive history.
R.E. Olds Transportation Museum:
In Lansing, explore the legacy of Ransom E. Olds, the man behind the Oldsmobile brand. The museum showcases his innovations and the impact of Oldsmobile on American roads.
Detroit: The Heartbeat of American Automobiles
Michigan’s Automotive Symphony
Racing Action
One of the most iconic racing events in Detroit is the IndyCar Series race held at the Belle Isle Park every year. This 2.3-mile street circuit race attracts top drivers from around the world to compete for the coveted Detroit Grand Prix title.
But it’s not just IndyCar that has a strong presence in Detroit. The city is also home to the NASCAR Cup Series race at the Michigan International Speedway. This 2-mile oval track is known for its high speeds and thrilling finishes, making it a favorite among fans and drivers alike.
Scenic Drives & Auto Enthusiast Routes
M-22: This iconic route hugs Lake Michigan’s shoreline, offering breathtaking views and winding roads. It’s a favorite among car enthusiasts (like 2020 Dodge Challenger owners) seeking a scenic drive.
Tunnel of Trees: Along M-119, this narrow road winds through lush forests and offers glimpses of Lake Michigan. It’s a must-drive for those who appreciate natural beauty.
Car Clubs:
Where Passion Meets Pavement
Michigan’s car clubs are more than just gatherings — they’re tight-knit communities fueled by shared enthusiasm. This Michigan Chrysler car club is one such group that participates in numerous activities thoughout the course of a year.
Whatever classic, vintage, hot rod or muscle car you may drive, there’s plenty of car clubs in the Motor City you can participate in.
Specialized groups for certain cars or brands, city specific clubs, and a wide array of other types are ready and waiting for you to join in on the club’s activities! Check out some Michigan Car Videos today, and you’ll see what you’re missing!
Michigan’s car culture isn’t just about horsepower —
it’s about the stories, the craftsmanship, and the shared love for the open road.
Whether you’re at a car show looking at a 1982 Buick Grand National, cruising Woodward Avenue in your vintage Mercury, or exploring scenic routes in your Hot Rod Mopar, Michigan’s automotive legacy continues to rev our engines.
So buckle up, fellow enthusiasts. Michigan’s car culture awaits, ready to ignite your passion for all things automotive.