Motown Museum

Motown Historical Museum featuring a city
Motown Historical Museum featuring signage
Motown Historical Museum
Motown Historical Museum
Motown Historical Museum featuring signage and island images


See where some of music’s greats kicked-off their careers and learn how Motown founder Berry Gordy started his influential music labels.

The Motown Museum celebrates Detroit’s formidable music legacy. It all began in this house where founder Berry Gordy started the original Tamla and Motown labels. Stand in the studio where hit tracks were recorded, admire the outfits worn by superstars and learn about Motown Records’ inspiring history. See where it all began in Studio A. Inspect the original instruments and equipment, and imagine the likes of Stevie Wonder or the Jackson 5 gearing up for recording session. If you take the tour, which is included in the entrance fee, the guide might even invite you to participate in a performance. You’ll also see the upstairs flat where Berry Gordy lived with his family. Learn about Gordy’s dream and his drive to succeed at the Hitsville U.S.A exhibit. Part of the museum’s mission is to inspire creativity, vision, and entrepreneurship. Nothing could do this better than the exhibit that tells the story of the legendary Motown Records. Gordy started with an $800 loan and eventually expanded the company to occupy eight other houses in the area before moving to downtown. Die-hard fans will love the museum’s collection of memorabilia, rare photographs, posters and performers’ outfits. You’ll also hear stories about the artists, composers, writers and others who contributed to a company that transformed music not only in the United States but around the world. The Motown Museum’s opening hours vary through the year, but usually it’s open Tuesday through Saturday. During July and August it’s also open on Mondays. The museum is about 4.5 miles (7.2 kilometers) from downtown. Nearby parking is free. City of Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) buses also stop close to the museum.

Plan a trip to see Motown Museum

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Radisson Hotel Detroit Metro Airport
Holiday Inn Express Romulus / Detroit Airport by IHG
Hilton Garden Inn Detroit Metro Airport

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

MotorCity Casino Hotel

MotorCity Casino Hotel

4.5 out of 5
2901 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI
MotorCity Casino Hotel
Hollywood Casino at Greektown

Hollywood Casino at Greektown

4 out of 5
1200 Saint Antoine St, Detroit, MI
Hollywood Casino at Greektown
Motown Hangout Near Motown Museum, Henry Ford Hospital, Fisher Theater

Motown Hangout Near Motown Museum, Henry Ford Hospital, Fisher Theater

Detroit, MI
Motown Hangout Near Motown Museum, Henry Ford Hospital, Fisher Theater
Motown BNB . Experience Detroit in style.

Motown BNB . Experience Detroit in style.

Detroit, MI
Motown BNB . Experience Detroit in style.
Modern Retreat Near Henry Ford

Modern Retreat Near Henry Ford

3.5 out of 5
1800 W Bethune St, Detroit, MI
Modern Retreat Near Henry Ford
Work/Play Base: Park Free, 10mins DTWN, Fast WiFi

Work/Play Base: Park Free, 10mins DTWN, Fast WiFi

Detroit, MI
Work/Play Base: Park Free, 10mins DTWN, Fast WiFi
Mansion in LaSalle Gardens

Mansion in LaSalle Gardens

Detroit, MI
Mansion in LaSalle Gardens
Atheneum Suite Hotel

Atheneum Suite Hotel

4 out of 5
1000 Brush Avenue, Detroit, MI
Atheneum Suite Hotel
The Inn on Ferry Street

The Inn on Ferry Street

3.5 out of 5
84 East Ferry Street, Detroit, MI
The Inn on Ferry Street
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Motown Museum

When visiting the Motown Museum in Detroit, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture with activities like art exhibits, theatre performances, and live music. Don't miss the opportunity to embark on a photo tour, capturing the essence of this iconic location. It's an experience that beautifully showcases the rich musical history and artistic flair of Motown.

Shopping

The nearest shopping area is Capitol City, just 1.9km from the Motown Museum, offering a vibrant mix of shops and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, Fairlane Town Center, located 5.0km away, features a variety of stores for an enjoyable shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience the electric atmosphere at Ford Field, just 1.9km from the Motown Museum, where you can catch a game or event. Alternatively, enjoy a round of golf at Chandler Park Golf Course, 3.7km away, surrounded by nature and outdoor vibes.

Adventure

At JD Racing Indoor Karting, located 13.7km from the Motown Museum, you can experience thrilling motor racing in an adrenaline-fuelled environment. Red Oaks Waterpark, situated 6.8km away, offers exhilarating water rides for family fun. Meanwhile, Grosse Ile Tennis Center, 11.2km from the museum, provides a fantastic setting for tennis enthusiasts.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Motown Museum is vibrant and diverse. Enjoy a show at the nearby Fox Theatre, only 1.9km away, or catch a performance at the charming Fisher Theatre, just 435m away. The Majestic Theatre, 1.2km from the museum, also offers a delightful evening experience.

Find the best attractions near Motown Museum

When visiting the Motown Museum in Detroit, you'll find a variety of attractions nearby, including event venues, universities, and churches. This area offers a rich cultural experience suitable for families and those interested in history. Be sure to explore local hotels for convenient accommodation options close to the museum, as well as other historic sites that highlight the essence of Motown.

  • Huntington Place: This dynamic event and conference venue is located 1.9km from the Motown Museum. With its professional atmosphere, Huntington Place hosts a variety of business events and conventions, making it an integral part of Detroit's corporate landscape.
  • Campus Martius Park: A vibrant urban square situated 1.9km away, Campus Martius Park offers a perfect blend of green spaces and city life. It's an excellent spot for relaxation, outdoor events, and enjoying local food vendors amidst the bustling downtown atmosphere.
  • Wayne State University: Located just 621m from the Motown Museum, this modern university is known for its diverse academic programs and beautiful campus. It's a hub of learning and culture, providing a lively setting with a rich history.

Best time to go to Motown Museum

The best time to visit Motown Museum is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January25.3°F (-3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February26.2°F (-3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April46.8°F (8.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July74.1°F (23.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
September66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October54.5°F (12.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December32.9°F (0.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Motown Museum

To save money on your trip to the Motown Museum, consider visiting between January and March, when accommodation prices are lower than in peak months like August to October. Aim for a Monday stay for the best rates, as Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and sort results from lowest to highest price. Additionally, consider booking a package deal that includes flights and activities, which can yield significant savings. Look out for great rates and amazing hotel deals to further enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Motown Museum are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August to October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Motown Museum is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Motown Museum is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Motown Museum with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.