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Plant Walkway

This elevated walkway takes you into and above the final assembly and quality test areas of the Dearborn Truck Plant.

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You’ll see firsthand the clean and complex web of equipment, robotics and skilled assembly that characterizes modern assembly.

The Dearborn Truck Plant is a real working factory. As a result, there are many factors that can cause inconsistent active assembly hours. This includes vehicle demand, supply shortages, factory floor renovations and construction, and staffing considerations. The Dearborn Truck Plant does not build vehicles during daily breaks, shift changes, holidays and weekends.

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Please note that The Henry Ford cannot control Ford Motor Company’s production schedule and cannot guarantee that guests will see the assembly line in full operation during their visit. The Henry Ford is also not able to refund tickets in the event that vehicles are not being actively assembled.

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8 Fantastic Factory Tours You Can Only Take Near Detroit

Explore eight fascinating factory tours in the Detroit area, showcasing unique products and manufacturing processes.

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From potato chips to car parts, the Detroit area is responsible for some of the world’s most wonderful products. Few things are more fascinating than getting a behind-the-scenes look at how such products are created, and there are plenty of opportunities to do just that here in Motor City and its surrounding areas. Check out these eight awesome factory tours when you’re looking for a fun excursion.

1. Ford Rouge Factory Tour (20900 Oakwood, Dearborn)

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Visit the Henry Ford and embark on a self-guided tour through this incredible factory, which offers a firsthand look at the production of — you guessed it — Ford automobiles. With a particular emphasis on the Ford F-150 truck, the Ford Rouge experience is second to none. Click here to learn more.

2. Pewabic Pottery (10125 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit)

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This fascinating pottery workshop and store in Detroit produces some of the most beautiful and artistic creations imaginable. From vases to plates to specialty tiles, there’s sure to be something here that strikes your fancy. Check out the Pewabic manufacturing area or sign up for a class or two while you’re on site — you’ll be totally charmed! Click here for further information.

3. Sanders & Morley Candy Makers (23770 Hall Rd, Charter Twp of Clinton)

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This sweet factory is currently under renovation, but tours are expected to resume shortly. When you visit, you’ll watch videos about candy production, check out the process firsthand, enjoy a few chocolate samples, and indulge in a few of your favorite treats. Want to learn more? Click here .

4. Plymouth Orchards & Cider Mill (10685 Warren Rd, Plymouth)

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You’ll have to wait until the fall to visit this incredibly spot, but trust us when we say that your experience will be well worth the wait! When you arrive at the orchards, you’ll get a firsthand look at the production of delicious cider and donuts. The best part? Tasting them for yourself, of course! Click here to learn more about Plymouth Orchards.

5. Jiffy Mix Company (201 West North Street, Chelsea)

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If you’ve ever enjoyed a Jiffy corn muffin, you can thank this incredible plant in Chelsea! When you embark on a factory tour here, you’ll observe the unique process that goes into creating America’s most beloved corn muffin mix. Talk about a one-of-a-kind experience. For more information about taking a tour, click here .

6. The Parade Company (9500 Mt Elliott St, Detroit)

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Nothing says "Detroit Thanksgiving" more than America’s Thanksgiving Parade, and you’ll get a unique opportunity to watch the production of the parade’s fascinating floats and other cool creations when you enjoy a tour at the Parade Company. Watch artists at work and marvel at the process it requires to prepare for the holiday festivities. Click here if you’re interested in learning more.

7. Ford Piquette Avenue Plant (461 Piquette St, Detroit)

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While this plant is no longer in operation, it still offers a fascinating look at the earliest production of the iconic Model T. The plant operates between April and November each year, and you’ll be completely enthralled with the historic intrigue of this factory-turned-museum. To book a tour, click here .

8. Heritage Guitars (225 Parsons St, Kalamazoo)

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This spot is a two-hour drive from Detroit, but we promise it’s well worth the journey! If you have a full day to spare, make the jaunt to Kalamazoo and see how these gorgeous handcrafted guitars are made. If you're a music lover, you’ll be completely fascinated to watch the process — and you might even want to buy a guitar to take home! Find out more by clicking here .

Did we leave any of your favorite Detroit-area factory tours off our list? We would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below. Happy exploring!

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Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts

If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.

Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.

There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.

Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.

Best Travel Gifts of 2024

She's planning another trip candle.

A candle labeled "Smells Like She's Planning Another Trip," surrounded by festive decorations and pinecones.

Why We Love Them : How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them : Shop this candle and more on Amazon . Price (at time of publication) : $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.

Bob and Brad EyeOasis 2 Eye Massager

A white eye mask with a remote control, both featuring the logo "Bob and Bird."

Why We Love It : We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager ? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It : Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)

Kizik Sneakers

White sneakers with black accents and a red logo, featuring a classic design and lace-up closure.

Why We Love Them : It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes , especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them : Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website . Price (at time of publication) : $149

Y'ALL Baseball Cap

A woman and a young girl smile for a selfie in front of a large, classical-style building on a sunny day.

Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap , I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers , too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It : Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication) : $32

A pink audio player with orange knobs next to colorful cards titled "Around the World," "Dreams of the Forest," and "Earth!"

Why We Love Them : The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them : Yoto is available on their website and Amazon . Price (at time of publication) : $69.99 for player

Vuori DreamKnit Performance Joggers

A person wearing green jogger pants and white sneakers, standing against a plain background.

Why We Love Them : The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply ... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel ! Where To Buy Them : Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94

A light-colored tote bag with a front zipper pocket resting on a green couch.

Why We Love Them : If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them : Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website . Price (at time of publication) : $131.75

Portable Hammock

A person relaxing in a hammock with bare feet visible, surrounded by greenery and a clear blue sky.

Why We Love Them : I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them : Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication) : $69.99

Wear Your Roots Clothing

A person in a purple hoodie stands by a lake, with mountains and golden sunlight in the background.

Why We Love Them : All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them : Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication) : Varies by Product

TOBIQ Colorado 30L

A colorful duffel bag with orange, yellow, teal, and black stripes, featuring multiple zippered compartments and a shoulder strap.

Why We Love It : It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L . An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag ; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."

A top view of a cosmetic bag with organized compartments containing beauty products and a hairbrush.

Where to Buy Them : Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication) : $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)

Zestt Travel Scarf

A person wearing a brown scarf stands on a balcony, overlooking a green landscape and buildings in the background.

Why We Love Them : The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them : Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication) : $50

Patagonia Women's Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket

A person wearing glasses and a red jacket sits by an airplane window, smiling with earbuds in.

Why I Love It : This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshell five years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus : The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It : Buy it now on REI . Price (at time of publication) : $179 (both men's and women's)

Walk With Me New York Photograph Book

A book open to a page featuring a floral design shop and a charming building with autumn foliage outside.

Why We Love Them : I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City . Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them : Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon . Price (at time of publication) : $19.78

Welly First-Aid Kit

Two decorative metal tins with colorful floral designs, resting on a striped fabric surface.

Why We Love Them : A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them : Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication) : $9.70

OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker

A person wearing casual gray sneakers and light blue jeans, standing on a neutral background.

Why We Love Them : The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them : Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110

BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask

A package of BioRepublic Lost Baggage under-eye masks, featuring a blue design and claims of hydration and repair.

Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks . These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It : I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication) : 3/$15.00

Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle

A collapsible purple water bottle with a white lid, labeled "HYDAWAY," next to its rolled-up version.

Why I Love It : I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle , especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them : The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon . Price (at time of publication) : $27.95.

Packing Cubes

A collection of beige travel packing cubes and bags, including various sizes and a clear pouch for organization.

Why We Love Them : This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them : There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set . Price (at time of publication) : $16.99 for 8 cubes

Bei s Backpack

A person wearing a blue sweatshirt holds a green backpack against a textured wall.

Why We Love Them : I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned . It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips.  Where to Buy Them : Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication) : $88

Accessory Organizers

A gray organizer with clear pockets next to a colorful quilt featuring festive patterns on a striped rug.

Why We Love Them : We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them : Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication) : $17.66

Away Everywhere Zip Backpack

A navy backpack open to reveal a laptop, notebooks, a water bottle, and various accessories inside.

Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication) : $195

Sterling Pacific 40L Cabin Travel Case

A silver suitcase on wheels in a hotel hallway with elevators in the background.

Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-tested this high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It : Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150

Anker Power Bank Portable Generator

A portable power station with a digital display, USB ports, and a sleek design, placed on a wooden floor.

Why We Love It : Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication) : $149.99

If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...

Our Ultimate Gift Guide for Travelers (with over 75 ideas!) Gift Ideas for the Outdoor Traveler Gift Ideas for the Road Trip Enthusiast Gift Ideas for the Frequent Flyer Gift Ideas for the Budget Traveler Gift Ideas for the Beach Lover Gift Ideas for the Family Traveler Advent Calendar for Travelers Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Only In Your State a commission.

Take This Fall Foliage Train Ride Near Detroit For A One-Of-A-Kind Experience

Enjoy a magical fall foliage train ride with the Southern Michigan Railroad near Detroit.

There’s something magical about getting lost among the most stunning fall foliage in Detroit and its surrounding areas. While we certainly love embarking on autumn hikes or enjoying scenic drives, a train ride provides extra magic during peak leaf-peeping season. When you’re ready for an adventure that will sweep you away and give way to lovely scenery, book a fantastic fall train ride near Detroit.

The Southern Michigan Railroad Society is an all-volunteer organization that celebrates railway heritage here in the Great Lakes State. Train enthusiasts of all ages will be enamored with this history-rich institution.

Map showing Southern Michigan Railroad location, near Ann Arbor and Detroit, with highways and surrounding areas marked.

Throughout the year, the railroad offers exciting rides for members of the public. Summer tours are popular during the warmer months, while many guests count down to the annual Santa Train experience.

Two vintage trains on parallel tracks, one red and the other black and yellow, set against a green landscape.

When autumn rolls around, though, there’s real delight to be found at Southern Michigan Railroad. Through the end of October, the railway organization offers unique and educational fall color train tours.

A black train engine near a railroad crossing sign, with a red barn and trees in the background.

Fall color tours depart from the train station in Tecumseh, which sits just over an hour by car from Detroit. Your train journey will take you from downtown Tecumseh to the town of Clinton and back again.

A scenic view of a train car on a bridge overlooking a calm river and lush trees under a blue sky.

There are several train cars to select from when you book your tickets: the historic South Shore Coach, a lovely caboose car, and an open-air gondola option that provides stunning views of passing foliage.

A group of people wearing masks wave from their seats on a train, smiling and enjoying their time together.

During your ride, which typically lasts approximately two hours round-trip, you’ll pass through the River Raisin Valley, past Red Mill Pond, and alongside all sorts of vibrant trees. Don’t forget to bring your camera.

A vibrant autumn landscape with colorful trees and a clear blue sky, reflecting the beauty of fall foliage.

Train tours cost $20 per adult, $15 for seniors, and $10 for children. Fall color rides typically sell out quickly, so you’ll want to book your spot in advance by checking out the Southern Michigan Railroad site here .

A red and teal train car at a railroad crossing, surrounded by autumn leaves and a tree in a cloudy sky.

As you prepare for your next fall adventure near Detroit, keep this scenic train ride on your list of options. We can’t imagine a more spectacular way to appreciate the many wonders of autumn near the Motor City.

A colorful train with a red caboose and green car, passengers enjoying a ride on a sunny day.

For additional information about Southern Michigan Railroad, including booking details and scheduled rides for other seasons, click here . Have you been lucky enough to appreciate this train ride in years past? Share your thoughts with us in the Facebook comments or recommend another fall day trip in Detroit or its surrounding areas by filling out our nomination form here .

If you're searching for even more things to do near Detroit this season, check out our fall foliage road trip through Metro Detroit .

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The panoramic-view restaurant on baltimore’s inner harbor in maryland is a must-visit.

The Rusty Scupper is an amazing waterfront restaurant in Maryland that has been serving seafood favorites to Baltimore for decades.

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Skip the Crowds: Explore Connecticut’s 5 Quietest Trails and Parks This Month

Reconnect with nature and recharge on one of these quiet trails in Connecticut that promise plenty of breathtaking scenery.

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Skip the Crowds: Explore Massachusetts’ 5 Quietest Trails and Parks This Month

Explore five of Massachusetts' quietest hiking trails this month. Discover hidden gems with diverse scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.

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The Secluded Airbnb Cabin in Massachusetts Is the Perfect Place for a Digital Detox

Ready to unplug and unwind? A digital detox is in store for you when you book a stay at The Retreat at Eagleville, a secluded Airbnb in Athol.

A hammock with a pillow and blanket hangs from on a tree at The Retreat at Eaglesville Airbnb in Athol, MA. A table with a chair and a drink is next to the hammock. A pond is in the background.

The Secluded Airbnb Cabin in Delaware Is the Perfect Place for a Digital Detox

Put down the electronics and get ready for a relaxing digital detox at the secluded Wild Nest Tiny House In Woods in Lincoln.

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Ultimate Guide to Visiting The Henry Ford

There’s one iconic complex in the heart of the city that deserves a prime spot on your itinerary when you visit Detroit – The Henry Ford. Comprised of 4 must-see attractions, Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, Ford Rouge Factory Tour, and Giant Screen Experience, this sprawling 250-acre property showcases the ingenuity and creativity that shaped America. To ensure you make the most of your visit, use this guide to understand each attraction's offerings and get essential trip-planning information.

Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is an expansive showcase of inventions and progress throughout American history. Housing an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits, the museum chronicles the evolution of technology and transportation. From the Wright brothers' plane to the Rosa Parks bus, delight in the stories of fearless inventors, visionaries, and game-changers.

Must-See Stops

  • Kennedy Limousine: See the limousine where President John F. Kennedy was assassinated while riding through a parade in 1963.
  • Rosa Parks Bus: Step inside the bus where Rosa Parks refused to move, altering the course of history.
  • Ford Quadricycle: Henry Ford’s first automobile! It wouldn't fit through Ford’s door so he broke through the wall to get it to the street.

Trip-Planning Information

  • The museum is open daily from 9:30 am - 5 pm.
  • Enjoy a meal at Plum Market Kitchen or Lamy’s Diner inside the museum.
  • Allow at least 3 hours for exploring the exhibits although the amount of time it takes to get through the museum varies by visitor.

Greenfield Village

Greenfield Village offers an immersive introduction to the past with over 80 historic structures, rides to enjoy, and a cast of historical presenters to interact with. Spread across 80 acres, Greenfield Village preserves the skills and stories of America's past in a way that’s engaging for all ages.

The 7 historic districts of Greenfield Village

  • Working Farms: Discover the ingenuity of American foodways and farming methods alongside livestock and fields of ripening vegetables.
  • Liberty Craftworks: Observe skilled artisans using authentic period techniques to create stunning glassworks and pottery for purchase.
  • Henry Ford's Model T: Travel from his birthplace to a replica of the factory where he built his first automobiles, then take a ride in an authentic Model T!
  • Railroad Junction: Take a ride in a steam locomotive from an 1800s small-town train depot and experience the only working late-19th century roadhouse in the midwest.
  • Main Street: Stroll into a town’s center, enjoy singers performing in the park, meet shopkeepers, enjoy a meal at Eagle Tavern, and feel the hustle and bustle of life in the hub of an early American community.
  • Edison at Work: See where Thomas Edison's extraordinary innovations came to life and tour the first buildings to be illuminated by his amazing electric light.
  • Porches & Parlors: Visit the homes of ordinary people and observe the work required of them to keep their farms and homes running.
  • Greenfield Village is a seasonal venue with operating hours varying from April through November.
  • Allow a full day to enjoy all that Greenfield Village offers.
  • There are multiple dining options at Greenfield Village.
  • Dress for the weather as you’ll spend time outside walking between buildings and activities.

Ford Rouge Factory Tour

Pop open the hood of America’s greatest manufacturing experience. This five-part tour at Ford Motor Company’s Dearborn Truck Plant walks through the Legacy Gallery and Electric Vehicle Display, to the Legacy Theater where you’ll learn more about the history of Ford Motor Company. Then, feel the force of modern engineering in the multisensory Manufacturing Innovation Theater before traveling up to the observation deck for sweeping views of the Rouge Complex. End your tour on the elevated plant walkway for a bird's-eye view of where the legendary Ford F-150 is assembled during active production.

  • Allow a minimum of 2 hours for this tour.
  • The factory tour is open Monday - Saturday from 9:30 am - 5 pm with the final tour bus departing at 3 pm.
  • Active vehicle assembly times vary and guests are not guaranteed to see the assembly line in full operation.

Giant Screen Experience

Experience state-of-the-art entertainment and larger-than-life inspiration during Giant Screen Experience film showings. Be captivated by enlightening tales of America’s past, present, and future, told through 4K digital projection.

  • View showtimes and operating hours here.
  • Where can I park? Parking is available in surrounding lots for $9.00; on busy days, lots fill up quickly.
  • Can I purchase tickets in advance? Yes, tickets can be purchased online.
  • Does one ticket include everything? You can opt for individual tickets for each attraction or you can purchase combo tickets to save your hard-earned money.
  • Is there a map of The Henry Ford complex? Refer to the Greenfield Village and Museum Map for navigation assistance.
  • Do the museum’s exhibits change? Yes, temporary exhibits ensure there’s always something new to discover.

No matter where you’re from, a visit to The Henry Ford is a must. Whether you're fascinated by the Industrial Revolution, the evolution of transportation, or the cultural richness of the past, The Henry Ford promises an enriching experience. Plan your visit strategically to see it all, create lasting memories, and reflect on the spirit of grit and innovation that defines Detroit.

* This blog post is sponsored by The Henry Ford

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