Detroit may be best known as the heart of the American auto industry, but the Motor City and its surrounding areas also offer some of the most scenic drives for car enthusiasts. Whether you’re a manual driving enthusiast or simply love exploring winding roads, the Detroit area is filled with routes that provide stunning views of both nature and cityscapes. From riverfront drives to routes that take you through Michigan’s lush greenery, Detroit offers the perfect landscape for an enjoyable drive. Discover some of the top scenic roads that manual car drivers will love exploring in and around the greater Detroit area.
1. Detroit Riverfront Drive
One of the most scenic routes in Detroit is along the Detroit Riverfront, a revitalized area that stretches for miles along the Detroit River. This drive offers stunning views of the water and the Windsor, Canada skyline on the other side. Along the route, you’ll pass several landmarks, including the GM Renaissance Center and Hart Plaza, and you can even stop at Belle Isle, an island park with winding roads and great spots to take in the Detroit skyline. This drive is ideal for manual drivers who enjoy navigating through city streets with riverside views.
2. Lake St. Clair Scenic Byway
Just northeast of Detroit, the Lake St. Clair Scenic Byway offers a relaxing and beautiful drive along the shores of Lake St. Clair. This route stretches through Grosse Pointe, St. Clair Shores, and Harrison Township, providing scenic lakefront views and glimpses of some of the most beautiful homes in the area. The winding roads are perfect for car lovers who enjoy a smooth ride with plenty of opportunities to shift gears and enjoy the scenery.
3. Hines Drive
Located west of Detroit, Hines Drive is a favorite among local drivers for its 17-mile scenic route that meanders through beautiful parklands. The drive takes you past the Rouge River, through woods, fields, and picturesque picnic areas. The curving roads make it a fun drive for those with manual cars, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the mechanics of shifting while taking in the peaceful landscapes. Hines Drive is especially stunning in the fall, with vibrant autumn colors lining the route.
4. Jefferson Avenue to Lake Erie Metropark
For drivers looking to head south of Detroit, Jefferson Avenue offers a scenic escape toward Lake Erie Metropark. This route takes you through historic neighborhoods and along the Detroit River, eventually leading you to Lake Erie. The metropark itself is a fantastic destination, with expansive views of Lake Erie and opportunities for outdoor activities. The mix of urban and natural scenery makes this drive a great choice for manual car enthusiasts who want to experience a variety of landscapes.
5. M-59 Scenic Drive (Highland Road)
Northwest of Detroit, M-59 (also known as Highland Road) offers a scenic route that takes drivers through rolling hills, forests, and small towns. This drive is perfect for car lovers who appreciate a more relaxed countryside experience. The road is filled with gentle curves and long stretches that make it ideal for manual driving. Along the way, you’ll pass by beautiful parks, lakes, and even some classic Michigan farms, providing a true escape from the city.
6. Orchard Lake Road Loop
Located west of Detroit in the affluent suburb of Bloomfield Hills, the Orchard Lake Road Loop offers a scenic drive through one of the area’s most picturesque communities. The route takes you around Orchard Lake, a beautiful body of water surrounded by luxurious homes and tree-lined streets. Manual drivers will love the winding roads that curve around the lake, making for an enjoyable and scenic drive. The area’s natural beauty and peaceful surroundings make this route a hidden gem.
Conclusion
If you’re a car enthusiast in Detroit, these scenic drives offer the perfect combination of beauty and fun behind the wheel. From the bustling riverfront to the peaceful countryside, the greater Detroit area has no shortage of picturesque routes that manual drivers will love navigating. Whether you’re looking for a quick city escape or a longer, leisurely drive, there’s something for every car lover in Motor City.
Want to improve your manual driving skills? Book a lesson with Manual Driving Academy in Detroit here. Our expert instructors will help you master the art of manual driving so you can fully enjoy these scenic drives!
