Under $100: Detroit, Mich.

Detroit gets a bit of bad rap for its high-crime rate and crumbling infrastructure, but it’s on the rebound and there is plenty to see and do without risking life and limb.

The Spirit of Detroit, Michigan © Bmosh99 | Dreamstime

Start your day with breakfast at the Dime Store, which promises Breakfast, Lunch, Booze. The house-made duck confit hash with a Bloody Mary is my go-to, but nothing will disappoint.

It’s pretty difficult to plan a day in Detroit without a trip to the Motown Museum. You’re likely best off getting an Uber up there, but there are other options. If you know nothing about Motown and its music, well you’re a heathen no matter your age. That said, you’ll find it all here, even if you think you know music. Berry Gordy started Motown with $800, and a dream and will forever have contributed to the history of Detroit.

Hitsville U.S.A., The Motown Museum © Gepapix | Dreamstime

Something about Motown screams BBQ, so head to Slows after the museum for lunch. It’s within walking distance of Hitsville U.S.A. (the Motown Museum does allow you to reenter), so you can head to Slows for brilliant BBQ and then learn more about the Detroit Sound. Slows features incredible sandwiches and BBQ platters, but its menu changes too frequently to make any credible suggestions.

If you’ve followed our suggestions to this point you’re not going to want much in the way of a big dinner, so head to Taqueria Mi Pueblo for Cochinita Pibil tacos or other mighty Mexican offerings. Many forget Detroit has a thriving Latino community both in and outside of Mexicantown in southwest Detroit. Mi Pueblo has ample seating, cold beer and, on most nights, live mariachi music in this fun destination.