This fall, the Detroit Institute of Arts earned the highest honor — a three-star rating — in Detroit's first-ever Michelin Green Guide. This prestigious recognition highlights the museum’s exceptional history, art collections and visitor experiences, while solidifying Detroit’s status as a world-class cultural destination.
For many, the Michelin name conjures images of fine dining. The Michelin Green Guide, however, focuses on travel and lifestyle, evaluating cities, regions, and landmarks, and guiding travelers to the most enriching and worthwhile cultural experiences. Earning a coveted spot in this guide –– especially with the highest possible rating of three stars –– puts the DIA among a unique group of institutions, including the Louvre Museum in Paris.”
So, what does it mean to be awarded three stars by the Michelin Green Guide? Quite simply, it means that the DIA has been recognized as an essential experience for anyone visiting Detroit — or, as the guide puts it, "worth a journey." This recognition speaks volumes about the museum’s role in the community and its extraordinary history, as well as the quality of our collection, our dedication to preserving and promoting the arts, and the museum’s profound impact on visitors from around the world.
The DIA is home to over 65,000 works of art, spanning thousands of years and a myriad of cultures. From ancient civilizations to contemporary pieces, our collection offers a glimpse into the universal human experience. Of course, one of our crown jewels is Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals, a National Historic Landmark that embodies Detroit’s industrial spirit and artistic innovation. I like to think of these murals as the Sistine Chapel of Detroit, inspiring thousands of art enthusiasts from around the nation and the world to make a special trip to the DIA!
But it’s not just our permanent collection that shines. The DIA consistently brings world-class exhibitions and engaging programs and lectures to the heart of Detroit. In September, we opened our latest exhibition, The Art of Dining: Food Culture in the Islamic World, which celebrates the rich culinary history of Islamic culture and art. The exhibition has received glowing reviews in the Wall Street Journal and New York Times!
To see Detroit featured in its first Michelin Green Guide, with the DIA awarded its top honor, is a reflection of the city’s revitalization. This recognition comes at a time when Detroit is not only reclaiming its place on the world stage but also redefining what it means to be a city steeped in both history and innovation. The DIA is proud to be a part of this story, contributing to Detroit’s cultural fabric and helping to shape the city’s future. We are more than just a museum; we are a place where people come together, to have fun, to enjoy an extraordinary experience and to engage with art, with each other, and with the world around them.
Our three-star rating is a testament to the passion, dedication, and creativity of everyone involved in making the DIA what it is today — from our staff and volunteers to our members, visitors and supporters. It’s a recognition that we have created something truly special — a space where the past meets the present, and where art becomes a bridge to the future.
So, next time you’re planning a visit to Detroit — or if you’re already here and looking to experience something truly special — remember that the Detroit Institute of Arts is not just a stop along the way. According to the Michelin Green Guide, we’re “worth the trip.”
