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Ethnic Neighborhoods

Tour Overview

Many ethnic groups trace their histories in Detroit to the European influence in the area during the City's infancy. The early 1900s ushered in thousands of immigrants seeking prosperity in the burgeoning automobile industry. Today, Metro Detroit is a melting pot with residents from dozens of different ethnicities, giving the area a rich cultural heritage. Below you will find five thriving ethnic neighborhoods in the metro area, all of which have something unique to offer. From burritos in Mexicantown to exciting casino action in Greektown, you are guaranteed to enjoy your visit to these fabulous cultural enclaves.

Corktown -- Model D

Corktown (Irish)

Bounded by Porter Street, Trumbull Avenue, Bagley Avenue, and the Lodge Freeway (US 10)

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The homes, businesses, and churches that form Corktown offer a glimpse into the lives of generations of immigrants that helped build Detroit during the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries. Of note are the detached homes and row houses in the Federal style and the modest one and two story Victorian townhouses with Italianate, Gothic, and Queen Anne features. Corktown is considered to be the center of Irish culture and history in Detroit and is home to the Gaelic League and Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Dearborn (Arab)

Downtown East Dearborn: Michigan Avenue between Evergreen and the Ford Freeway (I-94)

Downtown West Dearborn: Michigan Avenue between Outer Drive and Oakwood Boulevard

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Large numbers of Arabs immigrated to the area in search of work at the many Ford Motor Company automotive factories, including the Rouge Plant. Today, the Arab-American population in Dearborn is approximately 30,000, the second largest Arab population in the country (New York has 70,000). The City is home to the Islamic Center of America, the largest mosque in North America, and the Dearborn Mosque. And in 2005, the Arab American National Museum opened as the first museum in the country solely dedicated to the culture, history, and experience of Arab Americans. Because of the Arab influence, store signs and billboards are common sights, particularly in east Dearborn along Warren Avenue.

Greektown

Roughly bounded by East Lafeyette, Brush Street, the alley between Monroe Avenue and Macomb Street, and St. Antoine Street

Greektown is the traditional center of Detroit's Greek community with history dating back to the 1890s. Although most Greek residents moved out of the area by the 1920s, many Greek restaurants, coffee houses, boutiques, and small groceries remained. Today's Greektown encompasses only a few blocks, but despite its size, the district has become one of the most popular dining and entertainment hotspots in the City. The recently built Greektown Casino, one of Detroit's three primary Casinos, has attracted additional tourism to the area, and its close proximity to the Theatre District and Stadium District makes it a convenient destination.

Hamtramck (Polish)

Bordered generally by I-75, I-94, Mt. Elliott, and Carpenter

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This 2.2 mile community just north of downtown grew into a Polish enclave between 1910 and 1920 when large numbers of Polish laborers arrived seeking employment at a nearby Dodge Brothers plant. Today, Hamtramck includes many different ethnic groups, but it has maintained its Polish identity as can be found in the shops, restaurants, and bakeries in the area. In addition to taking care of your appetite with a pierogi and a paczki (pronounced "poonch-key" -- ask any local, they'll fill you in!!), Hamtramck is a great place to catch a wide variety of live music at both mainstay and alternative Nightspots.

Mexicantown

Vicinity of Bagley and 23^rd Street

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Mexicantown is located on the Detroit's southwest side near the Ambassador Bridge. The neighborhood is small but lively and is known for its popular restaurants and bakeries serving authentic Mexican cuisine. These popular eateries and a number of shops are located on Bagley, both east and west of I-75. Recent development in Mexicantown has been an example of success for Detroit, and hopes are that it continues. New proposals are in the works aimed at collaboration with other nearby neighborhoods. While you're here, make sure to check out St. Anne de Detroit church, an historic pillar of Southwest Detroit.

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Historic Neighborhoods

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