DETROIT, MICH.—A Saturday in Detroit is not satisfied without a trip to Eastern Market.
Since the 1800s, this indoor and outdoor market has been feeding Detroiters and the surrounding area. Businesses are open throughout the week, but every Saturday the market is in full swing with more than 200 weekly vendors selling everything from organic produce to handmade clothing and jewelry.
But what really makes Eastern Market special is its connection to the local arts community.
The district has a long history of public art, with iconic illustrations of produce adorning walls for decades. Inspired by this tradition, the annual Murals in the Market festival in September brings local and international artists together to add more paint to the area’s colourful legacy.
Walking around the brick warehouse buildings surrounding Eastern Market puts you face to face with incredible street art that’s always changing.
A piece in support of Standing Rock by graffiti artist Sintex graces a wall near Orleans St. and Division St. Another by Sydney G. James depicts the adversity facing black people in America. Art in the Market walking tours are available for visitors looking for a more in-depth way to explore.
The Red Bull House of Art, on Winder St., frequently hosts exhibitions and artist talks. Just a quick walk over an overpass to 1410 Gratiot Ave. is Inner State, a well-known local contemporary gallery and partner of Murals in the Market.
For shopping, Eastern Market Antiques has a unique selection of vintage clothing from the ’60s and ’70s on its top floor.
And of course if you get hungry, there’s plenty of options just steps away. If you’re looking for a quick bite, try Supino Pizzeria on Russell St. A thin-crust slice of pepperoni will cost you $2.75 (U.S.)
Coffee and bagels are best found up the street at Germack Coffee Roasting Co. If you’re more in the mood to sit down, try Vivio’s on Market St., a busy local bar and restaurant. The Dinty Moore — a sandwich concoction packed with corned beef, turkey, coleslaw and Swiss cheese — will put you back $8.95 (U.S.) After a day of walking around Eastern Market and taking it all in, your stomach will thank you.
Grace Lisa Scott was hosted by Red Bull House of Art, which didn’t review or approve this story.
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