This impressive landmark spans the Detroit River west of the twin downtowns of Detroit and Windsor. Ambassador Bridge rises 150 feet (45 meters) above the river, allowing even the tallest ships to pass easily underneath. The view from the bridge is panoramic, on a clear day encompassing both cities, the river, and St. Clair and Erie Lakes. Its length of 9200 feet (2804 meters) made it the longest suspension bridge in the world when it opened in 1929. It is the busiest border crossing in North America, with more than 10,000,000 vehicles annually. Many of those are trucks, and 27 percent of all merchandise traded between the United States and Canada passes over the bridge. It can be easily reached from I-96 or I-75 and connects via Huron Church Road in Windsor to Highway 401, which leads to Toronto. Expanded customs plazas at both ends of the bridge have eased the congestion, but expect delays of a half-hour or more at peak crossing times.
One of the oldest structures of its kind in the city, Michigan Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument graces the famous Woodward Avenue of Detroit. Completed in 1867 by architect Randolph Rogers, this structure pays homage to the fallen heroes of the Civil War. Towering 60 feet (18.2 meter) from the ground, this majestic structure epitomizes freedom and celebrates America. The octagonal pillars depict eagles with their wings stretched out, along with infantry and artillery on two pillars and cavalry and the Marines on others. At the top of the structure is a queen basking in victory, she represents the pride of Michigan.
Located at the intersection of the Cadillac Square and Bates Street is an artistic tribute to John J. Bagley, Michigan's 16th governor. A product of architect Henry Hobson Richardson's imagination, this beautiful fountain was brought to life in 1887. It was modeled after the Ciborium located inside Venice's St. Mark’s Basilica, and it rises 21 feet (6.4 meter) above the ground. The basin of the fountain has a width of 7 feet (3.1 meter) which is filled with water pouring through four lion heads. Bragville granite is used in the construction of the structure and its pink hue adds a unique charm to the fountain.
The epicenter of downtown Detroit's arts scene, Capitol Park Historic District should feature on your list of places-to-visit while in the city. The area is dominated by scaling residential complexes with commercial units leased out to eclectic galleries and a range of eateries. The triangular namesake park is dotted with benches making perfect meeting spots under shady trees. This park is also used as a venue for several performing arts events.
