Detroit has long been at the heart of American manufacturing, and that is especially true in times of conflict. In the 20th Century no industrial center was more important than the “Arsenal of Democracy.” But more than just material Detroit's sons and daughters have gone off to fight for the United States.

As Memorial Day approaches we invite you to experience this history by visiting one of Detroit's premier landmarks that stood at the epicenter of the city's wartime efforts.  Michigan Central sent soldiers, sailors, nurses, and more off to the front, while at the same time seeing arrivals during the wars, and receiving Detroiters when they returned. Using the station as a lens, we will go through the city's experience in conflict for much of the 20th Century. The noble and the tragic will both be explored in a tour of Detroit's gorgeous Michigan Central station.

We'll go from one of Detroit's most well known landmarks, to one of Michigan's hidden gems: The Michigan Military History and Technology Society. Here we'll delve into the stories of how Detroit went from the everyday to the emergency. We'll see how Detroit’s people and industry transformed to meet some of the gravest threats this nation has ever faced.

Join us as we turn the pages of history back to the experience the best, and the worst history of what Detroit and this nation went through.

This tour includes transportation by private coach, guided interior access to both locations, an expert tour guide, and plenty of time for questions, exploration, and photographs. Admission to both sites is included in the ticket price. Bottled water is provided onboard the bus complementary. Whether you’re a lifelong Detroiter or visiting for the first time, this experience is a must for all history buffs!

To best enjoy this tour, guests should be able to walk and stand for prolonged periods, climb a small set of stairs, and navigate uneven city surfaces and walkways. Comfortable footwear is strongly recommended, and accessibility accommodations may be limited at certain locations.  

Guests 12 years old and older are welcome on this tour.

The tour leaves promptly at the ticketed time. Late arrivals can not be accommodated.

This tour departs from and returns to The Detroit History Club, (3103 Commor St., Hamtramck, MI 48212.) Parking is on street. Doors to the club open 30 minutes before ticketed tour start time. Guests are invited to come inside, check into the tour, and relax until the departure time.

Your order confirmation email will serve as your only ticket. Please save your email and be prepared to show it on your phone or printed to board the bus. (We do this to avoid the ticketing fees that come along with ticketing systems. The price of your ticket will remain the same throughout checkout with no added fees for tax.)

If you have a large group consider booking any of our fabulous tours as a private charter. We can arrange to pick your group up from any location, on any day and any time. Check out our Private Tours link for more information.