The Detroit Historical Museum is reopening after a major six-month renovation stint – and you and your family are welcome to explore all the new attractions starting on Nov. 23, 2012!
Four fresh exhibits are definitely the star attractions.
For starters, there's the Kid Rock Music Lab, an interactive gallery that'll detail 100-plus years of music history in Detroit, like jazz, funk, blues, techno and hip-hop.
Second, Gallery of Innovation highlights great creators in the D you don't usually hear about – like James Vernor and the Feigenson Brothers (of Faygo fame). It'll even host an "Innovation Station" where you can create your own soft drink flavor!
Third, there's Detroit: The Arsenal of Democracy, which spotlights the city's World War II contributions (did you know it produced 30 percent of the war material generated in the country?). It'll cover three elements: factory, community and home life. You'll learn about rationing, propaganda, victory gardens and lots more.
And fourth, visit the Allesee Gallery of Culture for all things distinctively Detroit – like original neon from Tiger Stadium. It'll also remember icons like the 12th floor of the Hudson's building (where the toys were!), Ford's Model T and more.
Many favorite exhibits have received facelifts during the half-year effort, too. Watch for spruced-up details like the Underground Railroad Doorway to Freedom and throwback Streets of Old Detroit, which features replica cobblestone streets and 19th century storefronts.
Even the entrance is now an attraction: It's been transformed into the Detroit Legends Plaza, honoring the city's entertainment and sports icons. Legends like Gordie Howe and Martha Reeves have already cast their handprints and signatures in cement. (This is endeavor will take several years to totally complete).
A ticket-only reopening gala happens Nov. 17 (save this one for the grown-ups). General admission – which is free! – begins Nov. 23. Hours are 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.
Check out the Metro Parent listing to learn more about the 2012 Detroit History Museum Re-opening.
