The largest city in Michigan, and its commercial metropolis, it is
beautifully situated on the Detroit River, 18 miles from Lake Erie, and
7 from Lake St. Clair. It is one of the prettiest, pleasantest cities in
all the West, and the oldest, as well. Its rapid growth during the past
twenty years is a marked feature in connection with its history. The
many lines of railroad centering here, and its extensive commercial
interests, together with the rich agricultural region which here finds
an outlet for its products, all contribute to the prosperity of the
city.
The excursionist will find much to interest in a visit to Detroit. Its
location upon the river, which is here about half a mile wide, suggests
excursions by water, which constitute a considerable share of the
recreation of its people, by the numerous lines of steamers which ply
between the city and various points on the river and the lakes. The
public parks of the city afford pleasant “breathing places” for those
who choose to avail themselves of their advantages. In addition to the
older resorts of this class, the city has recently purchased Belle Isle,
with an area of about 800 acres, and a park commission are engaged in
the work of improvement, the result of which will be the providing of a
place of recreation for citizens and visitors, comparing favorably with
the parks of any of the large cities. Boats leave at frequent intervals
for the Island, from the foot of Woodward Avenue.
To notice the many attractions which tempt the tourist to prolong his
stay in the beautiful City of the Strait would require too much of our
space. We can only add that the resources of the vicinity in the way of
entertainment and recreation are ample, and of sufficient variety to
render a visit to the city an occasion of much enjoyment. The hotel
facilities are unexcelled, comprising fifty or more, including the
Antisdel, Brunswick, Griswold, Madison, Michigan Exchange, Rice’s
Temperance, St. Charles, Russell, and a variety of lesser houses, at all
prices. At those above mentioned, the terms range from $1 to $3.50 per
day.