1. Start your visit at the Automotive Hall of Fame
Founded in 1939, the Automotive Hall of Fame is a museum that showcases the impressive contributions of men and women to the automotive industry.
Along with being part of the MotorCities National Heritage Area, the hall has galleries featuring permanent and changing exhibits. There is the spectacular painting in the Hall of Honor, and a display about Karl Benz, the inventor of the first automobile powered by an internal combustion engine. Then there is the Lincoln Highway, where we learned all about the first interstate in America.
Address: Automotive Hall of Fame, 21400 Oakwood, Dearborn, MI 48124, Phone: 313-240-4000
2. Keep learning about cars at The Henry Ford
If you are an auto enthusiast, you will enjoy exploring all of the exhibits and experiences at The Henry Ford.
It's an indoor and outdoor complex featuring five different attractions: the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, The Ford Rouge Factory Tour, The Henry Ford Giant Screen Experience and the Benson Ford Research Center.
We saw the John F. Kennedy’s presidential limousine, the authentic Model Ts and more. There was an impressive collection of cars, historical artifacts, and transportation technology displays.
Address: The Henry Ford, 20900 Oakwood Boulevard, Dearborn, MI 48124, Phone: 313-982-6001
3. Next: spend a few hours at the Arab American National Museum
The first and only museum in the United States dedicated to Arab American history and culture, the Arab American National Museum showcases contributions that Arab Americans have made in the business, political and cultural spheres.
Engaging exhibits also dispel misconceptions in the mainstream and include permanent exhibitions such as Coming to America, Making an Impact, Living in America and Arab Civilization: Our Heritage.
From documents to personal papers, photos and objects, there is much to see in the collection. I took my son and he found it very educational.
Address: Arab American National Museum, 13624 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126, Phone: 313-582-2266
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
4. On your second day, head to Fair Lane: Home of Clara and Henry Ford
Fair Lane, the elegant estate of Henry Ford and his wife Clara, spans 1,300 acres of farmland along the River Rouge in Dearborn, Michigan.
While the actual estate is undergoing renovations and may be closed periodically, visitors to the site may still explore the grounds and gardens in the warmer season.
The location is not just a home but served as an incubator for innovation and technology, and has an illustrious history welcoming guests with the brightest minds over the years including Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, and John Burrows.
Along with the historic structures, the property, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, features a greenhouse, boathouse, and stables.
Address: Fair Lane: Home of Clara and Henry Ford, 1 Fair Lane Drive, Dearborn, MI 48128, Phone: 313-668-3200
5. Shop and have lunch at the Fairlane Town Center
About 15 minutes from downtown Detroit, the Fairlane Town Center is a super-regional shopping mall featuring well-known retailers, a movie multiplex, food court, restaurants, and hotels.
The mall is known for its interesting aesthetic and features unique architecture.
Throughout the year, the center also hosts events from cooking demonstrations to family-focused events and more.
Address: Fairlane Town Center, 18900 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126, Phone: 800-992-9500
6. Next: stop by the oldest standing home in Dearborn, now the Dearborn Historical Museum
Known as the “Gateway to Dearborn’s Past,” the Dearborn Historical Museum has an interesting history.
Founded in 1950 in its original location of Detroit Arsenal Commandant’s Quarters, a former military headquarters, the cultural organization has since expanded to include the McFadden Ross House.
It showcases the local history and genealogy archives, and Richard Gardner House, reminiscent of the early pioneering days, and which also happens to be the oldest standing home in Dearborn. Admission is free but donations are welcome.
Address: Dearborn Historical Museum, 915 Brady Street, Dearborn, MI 48124, Phone: 313-565-3000
Where to Eat:
7. Finish your second day at Ford’s Garage
When it comes to burgers and beers, travelers have found the right place in Ford’s Garage.
Boasting a 1920s service station vibe with features such as vintage Ford vehicles, service pumps and more, this dining destination provides a unique environment for enjoying a meal.
While gourmet burgers such as the “Model A” black Angus with sharp cheddar are the main attraction on the menu, there are also salads and comfort food options such as Mama Ford’s Homemade Meatloaf.
Address: Ford’s Garage, 21367 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48124, Phone: 313-752-3673
8. End your day at Al Ameer Restaurant, a famous Middle Eastern restaurant
Authentic and fresh Mediterranean cuisine is on always on the menu at Al Ameer Restaurant.
Since 1989, the dining establishment, which also happens to hold the distinction of being the largest Middle Eastern restaurant in Wayne County, continues to serve savory dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in its inviting space.
Lebanese hummus and shish kabobs are among the popular staples here, as are the refreshing Fattoush salad and Special House Favorites including the Al Ameer Platter for Two with grape leaves, fried kebbie, chicken shawarma, kabobs, and kafta.
Address: Al Ameer Restaurant, 12710 W. Warren Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126, Phone: 313-582-8185
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