Downtown Detroit
Description
The Beating Heart of Detroit’s Downtown Revival
Woodward Avenue is the bloodline running through Detroit’s downtown, a pulse of life where retail, culinary options and culture pump a beat and create one of the city’s most attractive urban experiences. Known as one of Detroit’s most important high streets, Woodward Avenue is home to major brands like Shinola, Nike and Lululemon, which reside alongside eclectic dining spots and entertainment venues. This dynamic tenant mix has made Woodward a go-to destination for young professionals, tourists, high-income residents and Detroit’s growing tech and professional workforce.
The Woodward Avenue Experience
Woodward Avenue has long been a central
Pequeño Cantina is bringing bold flavors to downtown Detroit with a brand-new location at 1521 Broadway Street. Here, guests can enjoy delicious street tacos, a vibrant tequila bar, Mexican-style pizza, waffle fry nachos and other popular menu items. This new spot marks Pequeño's second location in Detroit, with aspirations for further expansion in the future.
https://whatnow.com/detroit/restaurants/pequeno-cantina-to-open-second-detroit-location-on-broadway/
This fall, a brand-new café is making its debut in downtown Detroit! Toastique, the gourmet toast and juice bar, is opening its second location at 89 Monroe Street. Renowned for its deliciously quick and healthy options, the new café will feature Toastique's signature selection of nutrient-packed toasts, smoothies, juices, and coffee drinks.
https://www.wxyz.com/news/toastique-set-to-open-cafe-in-downtown-detroit-this-fall
Downtown Detroit is thrilled to announce the arrival of Tecovas, as the Austin-based western wear company opens its first Michigan location. Renowned for their handcrafted boots and contemporary western apparel, Tecovas will become part of the vibrant lineup at Bedrock's Hudson's Detroit development, located at 1252 Woodward Avenue. The Detroit store is set to open its doors in late 2025.
https://prod.crainsdetroit.com/real-estate/tecovas-plans-downtown-store-hudsons-detroit
Attention race fans! 🏁
Get ready, because the 2025 Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear is revving up to return to the streets of Downtown Detroit this year. The festivities kick off this Friday and continue through June 1. This marks the 35th Grand Prix in Detroit's storied history and the third consecutive year it takes place in the heart of the Motor City.
This exciting weekend will feature a lineup of thrilling races, including the Chevrolet INDYCAR Grand Prix (part of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES), the Detroit Sports Car Classic (featuring the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship), and the INDY NXT by Firestone Race. Each day will be packed with races and practice sessions, offering various ways to enjoy the action—from rooftop platforms and viewing areas to reserved grandstand seats and premium hospitality suites. Don’t miss out on the excitement!
Haus of Brunch has just opened its doors in the heart of downtown Detroit, bringing a fresh new dining experience to the community. Located on the ground floor of the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit, this independently owned brunch spot officially launched on May 21. The restaurant was designed by the Detroit-based interior design firm Pophouse and will be open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
https://www.crainsdetroit.com/restaurants/haus-brunch-opens-downtown-detroit
Gardner White is making a triumphant return to downtown Detroit as they launch their brand-new concept store, GW HOME. The 3-story brick-and-mortar store will be located at 1201 Woodward Avenue in the heart of downtown, directly across from Hudon's Detroit . GW HOME will offer a custom-curated selection of premium brands, high-quality stylish furniture, home decor, distinct art, accessories, and unique gifts. In addition, GW HOME plans on hosting frequent Detroit community events for guests to enjoy. The grand opening will be held on Friday, June 6th at 10 a.m.
https://news.gardner-white.com/2025/02/gardner-white-announces-gw-home-in-downtown-detroit/
Local Expert Analysis
Retail Leasing and Market Dynamics
Leasing on Woodward Avenue is in high demand, with rental rates ranging from $50 to $75 per square foot. Still, vacancy rates currently sit at 15-20%, the strong momentum in leasing activity indicates that these openings will likely be filled as new brands and developments come online. The area’s vacancy mirrors both post-pandemic retail dynamics and the opportunities created by a steady flow of new mixed-use projects. Woodward Avenue’s prime location near Detroit’s commercial and entertainment hotspots makes it a desirable location for brands and ambitious newcomers eager to tap into the city’s revitalized downtown electricity.
Customer Demographics and
New Developments
Woodward Avenue is poised for transformative growth, with several high-profile projects set to redefine the district’s skyline and expand its commercial and residential appeal. At the forefront of these developments is the massive Hudson’s Site project, expected to bring 20,000 square feet of retail, 400,000 square feet of office space, and 90,000 square feet of event space. This ambitious project is set to become a cornerstone of Woodward Avenue, enhancing foot traffic and creating new opportunities for retailers and office tenants alike. Other projects include residential towers and the highly anticipated Edition Hotel, which will add luxury accommodations and further diversify the area’s offerings.