This plaza is dedicated to Philip Hart, the senator for Michigan. This 14-acre plaza opened in 1975 and has a capacity for about 40,000 people. At the center of the It is in downtown Detroit, along the river where Antoine Laumet de La Mothe, sieur de Cadillac landed in 1701 when he founded Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, the settlement that became Detroit. It was quiet & looked clean on a Thursday afternoon except for the men that were passed out on benches. read more

See all

Hart Plaza has a Stargate! Not really. It's the Transcending Monument, a powerful tribute to Michigan's labor movement designed by artist David Barr and architect Sergio De Giusti. The plaza is located next to the iconic GM Renaissance Center and is the site where Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac landed in 1701, founding Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit - the settlement that eventually grew to become the City of Detroit. The site was a bustling waterfront hub filled with docks, warehouses, and ferry terminals until the mid-20th century. In the 1970's, it was reopened as this mixed concrete and grass plaza that serves as a central spot for Detroit's festivals and gatherings. I was here around the time of the Independence Day fireworks display so it was crowded and busy and interesting. Several other monuments here that are worth seeing including the Cadillac Statue, the Horace E. Dodge and Son Memorial Fountain and the Gateway to Freedom Memorial. [Review 701 of 2025 - 408 in Michigan - 24262 overall] read more

See all

I love Hart Plaza. The fountain is gorgeous! Many festivals and events happen here, especially in summer. Very spacious area and has a stage. Located on the waterfront in downtown Detroit, it's such a lovely place to be. read more

See all

This is a nice park along the riverfront. It features a beautiful fountain, several statues, and nice views. It's also home to the Detroit jazz fest. There were food trucks set up for the festival, but I'm not sure if they're typically there. read more

See all

Beautiful Hart Plaza, while parking was tricky, I loved the walk along the Detroit River, and the picturesque views of Canada. The area was clean on this day, and even had a small music festival going on. We took great photos and walked all around. We'll be back when we return on vacation. read more

Very cool area in Detroit. Lots of beautiful art displays outdoors and statues. Definitely a must see tourist area. read more

See all

The fountain now has new upgrades with the plumbing and color changing LED lights. The space is also more ADA friendly now. read more

Hart Plaza - Hart Plaza, now with hundreds of color changing LED lights - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

2024 Detroit Jazz Festival Great space! Beautiful event! I can't wait until the next one. Delicious food, a variety of vendors, excellent music, and a lot of great people. read more

Hart Plaza opened in 1975 and is named after the late senator Phillip Hart. It's along the Detroit River and hosts an annual jazz festival and many concerts and festivals. It's nice in the summer when they turn the donut shaped fountain on. Adjacent to the Joe Louis "fist" monument. read more

Hart Plaza - Aerial view - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

See all

Awesome plaza that I'd consider more of a park. Located on a great part of downtown Detroit. This plaza offers all kinds of cool monuments to take in for your viewing pleasure. Also has a great auditorium type thing with a Detroit painting on it that was a great photo op for a tourist like me. Also while here be sure to walk directly across the street to see the joe Louis monuments and the spirit of Detroit monument. At the very back of the plaza you will have the great River walk that gives you stunning views of the River and our Canadian neighbors. There is also a giant steamboat called the Detroit princess parked in the plaza back yard on the water. Very entertaining and fun place to explore with endless amounts of photo ops for the city of Detroit. read more

See all

This plaza has been around for a while, having opened in 1975. It claims to have a capacity of 40,000 people, but I am sure that is pre-COVID. It is a decent size, coming in at about a respectable 14 acres. Currently this place is under construction and is kind of fenced off to the public. The fence did not stop a few people though. This place has so much potential and I can not wait to see what it looks like when they are finished with the construction. When it it open you can access the river walk directly from here. It is also home to the Underground Railroad Monument, Pylon, the Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac Statue (explorer who is rumored to have landed at that approximate spot in 1701), the famed Horace E. Dodge and Son Memorial Fountain (spaceship looking thing) and the Michigan Labor Monument (Transcending), which is one of the first things you see as you approach the plaza. It is a very nice and spacious place that seems to have some type a concrete amphitheatres. The plaza is clean for the most part, but is marred by graffiti all over the place. There are paid garages nearby, but I recommend finding some metered street parking and taking a little bit of a walk to get her. It will save you a few bucks in the long run and you wont be as rushed. This is a nice little spot to hang out and is located between the Joe Louis monument and the Riverwalk. It is definitely a must see and hopefully the construction will be done soon. You can surely make this part of a larger itinerary with all the other many attractions nearby. read more

Philip A. Hart Plaza is a must visit for me whenever I visit the city of Detroit for mostly the Detroit Free Press Marathon. I always anticipate finishing up at the TCF Center for the expo just so I can see Monument to Joe Louis, and Spirit of Detroit which are two of my favorite monuments nearby Hart Plaza. Hart Plaza is believed to be where the founder of Detroit, Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac landed in 1701. The area became the main source of communication and transportation to the outside world until the inventions of the railroad and telegraph. What I admire about the plaza is that it consists of commemorative monuments known to the city of Detroit. You can also get a glimpse of Canada from a far the closer you get towards the riverfront. During my recent visit to Detroit, not only did I get a glimpse of Windsor, Ontario Canada, but also the Detroit Princess as well which sits within the riverfront. It was also the first time I caught glimpses of the Horace E. Dodge and Son Memorial Fountain, and the Gateway to Freedom International Memorial to the Underground Railroad. What drove me crazy while being in the area was my terrible cell phone signal, which led me to utilizing minutes wisely, rushing to each monument for a capture as my battery drained. It ended up being a reason why I cut my time short in the area as well as downtown Detroit in general. Being that I visit during the time of the Detroit Free Press Marathon I always park at the TCF Center, which is affordable in my opinion and with no hourly limit. If you have interest in other parking options there are plentiful of them which also may be cheaper than the TCF Center. I recommend including Philip A. Hart Plaza into your tour of the city if you have an interest in Detroit, or just want pictures for memories in an area known to the city. ~Blessings~   Thomas G read more

See all

The plaza at the heart of the city offers some nice views and cool monuments. There's not much in the way of amenities, and the amphitheater looked like it had seen better days. Still, worth passing through for a look, and if there is some event going on, perhaps more. read more

See all

Heart plaza is in the heart of downtown Detroit. It is a place that has many different things to see walk around visit take pictures there's a lot of statues and different things in the area. It's easy to see it's a fun visit and definitely worth checking out when you're in the area read more

See all

We love Hart Plaza! It is located along the Detroit River at the end of Woodward. There is a lot of spots to chill and enjoy the view. You may access river walk through Hart Plaza. There are festivals held here during the summer months. read more

See all

I'm sure if I was here during Motor City Pride or Ribs R&B Jazz Fest or some other summertime gathering, I'd be giving this area five stars, no doubt. However, it was about 22 degrees Fahrenheit when Jamie W. led me here after our Coney Island dogs at American and Lafayette. Yes, we had both. The 14-acre all-concrete plaza is on the banks of where else but the Detroit River facing Windsor, Canada, and in the dead of winter, it felt barren and sterile, especially with the riverfront walk fenced off. That didn't bother us much because we were desperate to get back to the car and out of the cold. That still allowed us time to look at the Dodge Memorial Fountain (photo: http://bit.ly/2BotuSa), the Transcending sculpture (photo: http://bit.ly/2Fyq4Ak), and the Joe Louis Monument which was one big fist (photo: http://bit.ly/2AlNDqr). RELATED - Are you coming to Detroit? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: bit.ly/2TghclT read more

See all

Cool place to visit if you are in area and by the water. A lot of status to see within 3-4 blocks of walking! You can see Canada from here, literally! Don't walk here at night! read more

See all

Of course, the views are fantastic. Hart Plaza should be a city showpiece but it ain't. The neglect to the Isamu Noguchi fountain and surrounding plaza can't be ignored. Made of stainless steel, this oddly-shaped fountain is nevertheless stained and loaded with stickers. I've never seen this water feature working but, with Detroit's momentum, I hope it's just a short matter of time before rejuvenation takes place here at the plaza. It deserves it. read more

See all

Was in Hart Plaza on April 22, 2017 for the March for Science! What a great turnout, and a great place to have a rally. The only negative I can give is that they didn't have the restrooms open for the event, so we had to walk down to the Guardian building, which was only a block. The event was powerful and peaceful, and the day was perfect weather. They had parking everywhere around the plaza, but you had to walk about a block into the city to find it. read more

Detroit is full of life! I Love visiting this city and Hart Plaza! Unique Sculptures and Nice Artwork. The Riverfront walk and view is Amazing! A must visit spot. read more

See all

I wonder how many people who come here actually remember Philip Hart. He was a great man. A great Senator. And a member of our armed forces in WWII. (4th Infantry. He received the Bronze Star Medal with clusters, Arrowhead device, Purple Heart, and Croix de guerre.) The Senate office building is named for him. Other buildings and sites are named after him. And this plaza is named for him. It's a shame that it has fallen a bit into disarray. The fountain is dry and the really amazing artworks aren't as well kept up and promoted as they ought to be. But his legacy carries on and there is still a lot of powerful spirit here. Hart was a true hero and citizen and a great son of Michigan. It's nice to spend a few moments here honoring him and enjoying the comings and goings of today's tourists and Detroiters. The art and the vistas are spectacular and the company is fine. read more

When will the water ever flow again at hart plaza? I still member coming here when I was a little kid. And even come here one time for the fireworks. I don't know how long the water has been dry at the fountain, but it looks dry and barren and almost looks like the entire place should be vacated. I dislike the stickers that people put up along the one side of the fountain. And I realize they're working on the crumbling steps down to the riverfront. Her plaza is in need of some major TLC and repair, hopefully soon. read more

I absolutely love Hart Plaza. It's a beautiful scenic place to enjoy the river on a regular day. But the best part about Hart Plaza are all of the festivals that bring people from all over the city, country and sometimes the world. Detroit is an incredible city, and Hart Plaza is one of its gems! As a former Windsorite, I would come to Hart Plaza frequently. It's incredibly easy to hop on the tunnel bus as well, with it only being a couple of blocks away. read more

*** Free festivals, beauitful fountain, winter ice skating ... *** What's not to like? Parking and crowding maybe, but c'mon. ;p *** Summer festivals soon. Hope to see one. Live music rocks! *** read more

If you have friends who have never visited Detroit before coming into town, I vote that Hart Plaza is right on up there with the People Mover to convince them that Detroit isn't one giant post-apocalyptic hellhole. We recently entertained an out-of-town friend who was concerned about just that...and in the end he (and my husband and I, who haven't visited for a few years) were extremely impressed at Hart Plaza. Kinda reminded me of my pre-conceived notions about Las Vegas, only to find out that the sidewalks (at least on the main strip) are kept absolutely spotless. It's nice to be proven wrong! Anyway, the plaza, along with that stretch of Riverwalk, was spic-and-span, and there was subtle but present security patrolling the area. It ended up being one of our friend's favorite spots to see, and I wouldn't hesitate to head back down on my own. Lovely views up and down the river and, of course...("Hey, there's Canada!" -our friend). If I worked nearby, I'd trot my brown-bag lunch out here every day in nice weather! read more

Hart Plaza - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

See all

Hart Plaza is a beautiful area to check out if you're already by the River Walk. You can see Canada, and there's just something really special about standing in that plaza and feeling really small next to so many buildings like the Renaissance Center. It's a lovely stop on your tour of the River Walk, and I could see it having a great energy in the summertime if people all hung out and lounged, as one should do in public parks and public spaces. read more

Hart Plaza is a beautiful part of Detroit. It is a huge park by the water and hosts several of Detroit's festivals. It has ampitheaters and an ice skating rink as well. Recently, they added a cruise ship dock. I love being by the water, so I love this area. You can see across to Canada from here, and you have a great view of the bridge. There is always an event that's going on or around the corner. In Hart Plaza, you will also see a beautiful fountain, the monolith, and other landmarks and pieces of sculptural art. This is a great place to learn about and bring people if they want to tour detroit. Althought it is slightly touristy, it is definitely an important part of Detroit. read more

Hart Plaza - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

I've been to Hart Plaza for a couple of festivals during the summer. It's a nice space to hang out and enjoy the view of the waterfront. The last time I was here it was cool and breezy. I walked along the riverfront down to Hart Plaza from St. Aubin Street. Great views overlooking Canada. read more

Hart Plaza - Hart Plaza - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

See all

What a sad park! The views are lovely and there are some great sculptures throughout/nearby...the river walk is a nice pathway along the water. But the park/plaza itself is broken concrete, non-functioning fountains, and uncared for greenery. It's my first time in Detroit and was excited to walk around, but I'm disappointed. Missed opportunity. read more

Hart Plaza - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

To people who complain about the homeless asking for money - find me a park or outdoor public space in any major city, that DOESN'T have this happening. It's a city...that's how it goes. Hart Plaza is such a great spot, it hosts countless free festivals throughout the warmer months, and even when there is nothing going on, HP is a great place to just walk through with friends or your dog, cool off with the mist from the fountain, enjoy the view of the Detroit River. There's cool sculptures and statues, and a nice view any way you turn. I gotta say that the city keeps Hart Plaza pretty clean too...there may be litter the day or so after a festival ends, but it's picked up quickly and on the average is trash/litter free. One of the great spots of Detroit. read more

Lovely open park with lost of sculptures and statues! Great views of the water and places to lay and relax in the sun - awesome! read more

Ok..Yeah. I love Detroit. Is the park beautiful? Absolutely. Is it a five star place? Well...... There are great festivals, music events, and just everyday strolls by the river. It's mostly clean and a safe place to be. I just wish they would do something about the beggars. I can't go down to the park without some one asking me for money. I even had a guy reach into my sons stroller and hand him a little flag. After I walked away he approached my husband and asked him for money. My husband refused and he ran back to me and snached the flag back from my son. When my son said, "why?" the guy said because your Daddy is too cheap. Really? I know the guy is harmless but it's just a hassle. read more

This is another decent park in downtown Detroit on the Riverwalk. Unfortunately, we were not able to access portions of the park because they were blocked off for Lobster Fest. We were able to sneak around the barriers and check out the park anyway. This park needs maintenance and love. They had beautiful art sculptures all around. There is this huge metal artsy fountain in the middle of the park, but it is not functioning. That makes it look trashy. When you add that to the broken concrete and neglected greenery, this park needs help. Also, could not find anywhere to sit in the park. Had to go down to the Riverwalk to find seating. It is sad because this is in a great location. Great view of Detroit River and Canada. There were several homeless people hanging out in the park, but no one bothered us. Everyone we ran into said good morning or hello. read more

Hart Plaza is the ideal place to hold a festival. It has a large open space for multiple stages and the acoustics are great. And if you find yourself stuck in Canada and the mounties havent beaten you into submission yet you can always swim for it and come up on the other side of North America in Hart Plaza. I dont know what that last sentence meant, I havent written a review in a really long time. the end. read more

The eye of Detroit. Hart Plaza has and always will be just one of those spots you go to on a nice day in the D. Checked in to chill by the water opening day for a bit a few times, and its always nice. Great to see lots of Tigers fans, peopke on bikes, and families with kids who ate stopping the first time. read more

Wonderful place in season, but if you come during winter be a regular in the underground area. A lot of homeless make this their home.The steps can be a little steep, and dangerous. REGARDLESS, wonderful views of Canada, and a great place for concerts/festivals. I think they could resurface some of the bright pavement because it is easy to twist your ankle since it's uneven. Worth a go, for the view alone. read more

This is such a great venue. It has access to the water, great views of Canada, and is large enough to host Movement Festival and its guests. The plaza is relatively clean and is in the center of downtown Detroit. read more

I genuinely don't know how I'm supposed to review a "plaza". I mean, it's not Dealey Plaza where Kennedy got shot or anything, but it's still a cool plaza. Was down here for the Jazz Festival, and the amphitheater was cool enough, plenty of seating both in the venue and around the area on grassy areas under trees with shade (which is nice on a still, 90 degree day), lots of space for some great vendors to setup shop, and five stages in the surrounding area. Good times. Definitely worth hitting concerts that take place here. read more

Though people seem to think of the Renaissance Center as the premiere tourist attraction. I think Hart Plaza should be voted up. As far as landmarks are concerned, it's a block walk from the Ren cen, the Joe Louis fist, and the Spirit of Detroit. It's really more central... It offers a great grassy view of the Detroit river in an area that doesn't look like an industrial wasteland. For this alone it gets full stars. But the massive fountain in the central square of Hart adds a sense of superiority that the Ren cen can't touch. I feel like it's more connected to the fist and the spirit in this way. Because it is also the site of many of the massive Detroit festivals, the Redbull Air Race this weekend, as well as the Hoedown, the Movement, and on and on, it is so much more functional than any of the other so-called tourist attractions. I will say that security is tight at these events because of the huge turnouts - it'd be best to leave the contraband at home! read more

I grew up going to Hart Plaza every summer. There is ALWAYS a festival going on downtown, and Hart Plaza is where it is at. Tons of people outside + vendors + sunny weather = a great time always. Country, International Jazz, African American and Gospel are just a few of the festivals that take place during the summer, weekends at a time. They have about three stages and even an underground area in case it rains. I haven't been this year yet, but I have heard that they are starting to charge now (It used to be free)...so bring your pocketbooks. Parking is a HASSLE. So definitely have patience and don't mind walking. There are a few lots across the street. Do not park on random streets because the towing companies get VERY happy around this time. read more

Hart Plaza - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Detroit, Michigan

See all