Downtown Detroit
Description
The Beating Heart of Detroit’s Downtown Revival
Woodward Avenue is the bloodline running through Detroit’s downtown, a pulse of life where retail, culinary options and culture pump a beat and create one of the city’s most attractive urban experiences. Known as one of Detroit’s most important high streets, Woodward Avenue is home to major brands like Shinola, Nike and Lululemon, which reside alongside eclectic dining spots and entertainment venues. This dynamic tenant mix has made Woodward a go-to destination for young professionals, tourists, high-income residents and Detroit’s growing tech and professional workforce.
The Woodward Avenue Experience
Woodward Avenue has long been a central
The City of Detroit and the Greektown Neighborhood Partnership have announced the start of two streetscape projects in Downtown Detroit, set to enhance the Bricktown and Greektown districts.
Starting March 18, Monroe Street between Randolph Street and I-375 Service Drive will close to vehicular traffic as part of a streetscape upgrade led by the Greektown Neighborhood Partnership. The project is expected to be completed in summer 2026. Meanwhile, Randolph Street between Gratiot and Jefferson will remain partially open with lane closures and parking restrictions during construction, which is scheduled to finish by late 2025 under the City of Detroit Department of Public Works.
Throughout construction, businesses along Monroe and Randolph Streets will remain open, with pedestrian access maintained. The Hollywood Casino at Greektown’s parking garage will also remain fully accessible. Visitors are encouraged to use side street parking, surface lots, garages, and the Downtown People Mover’s Greektown stop, which will stay operational.
Apple to open new retail store in downtown Detroit
New furniture store concept, "GW Home," to open on Detroit's Woodward Ave.
The Comedy Bar to open on Detroit's Woodward Avenue on Feb 14
Local Expert Analysis
Retail Leasing and Market Dynamics
Leasing on Woodward Avenue is in high demand, with rental rates ranging from $50 to $75 per square foot. Still, vacancy rates currently sit at 15-20%, the strong momentum in leasing activity indicates that these openings will likely be filled as new brands and developments come online. The area’s vacancy mirrors both post-pandemic retail dynamics and the opportunities created by a steady flow of new mixed-use projects. Woodward Avenue’s prime location near Detroit’s commercial and entertainment hotspots makes it a desirable location for brands and ambitious newcomers eager to tap into the city’s revitalized downtown electricity.
Customer Demographics and
New Developments
Woodward Avenue is poised for transformative growth, with several high-profile projects set to redefine the district’s skyline and expand its commercial and residential appeal. At the forefront of these developments is the massive Hudson’s Site project, expected to bring 20,000 square feet of retail, 400,000 square feet of office space, and 90,000 square feet of event space. This ambitious project is set to become a cornerstone of Woodward Avenue, enhancing foot traffic and creating new opportunities for retailers and office tenants alike. Other projects include residential towers and the highly anticipated Edition Hotel, which will add luxury accommodations and further diversify the area’s offerings.