A NEW TWIST: I’m itching to try a neat feature — a dedicated multi-use path for both pedestrians and cyclists — of the new 1.6-mile-long Gordie Howe International Bridge, connecting Detroit and Windsor. The 11.8-foot-wide path, designed for two-way traffic, allows users to cross about 150 feet above the Detroit River safely separated from the six lanes (three in each direction) of vehicle traffic. Crossing is toll-free at a separate bridge entrance, and everyone is required to show a passport or an enhanced driver’s license for access. gordiehoweinternationalbridge.com
ISLAND DISCOVERY: Visitors will like how the Belle Isle Conservancy is reimagining Belle Isle as a “Detroit’s backyard” experience. In January, the group unveiled a new brand identity and a redesigned website with better information on how to visit the park. Included are a Plan Your Visit hub with maps, seasonal updates, what’s open, and more; curated content for families, runners, seniors, nature explorers, and eventgoers; an expanded section to upload a visitor’s photos, videos, and audio recordings; and an improved island calendar. In addition, a new audio identity was introduced on Spotify, featuring “Detroit Joy” playlists. belleisleconservancy.org
YUMMY FIND: While exploring the St. John’s Marsh along M-29, my wife and I discovered On the Rocks Tiki Bar and Grille in Clay Township, between Algonac and New Baltimore. The waterfront restaurant, with indoor and outdoor seating on Anchor Bay, features tasty roasted and smoked meats, above, from the owner’s McFat’s Meat and Catering company in nearby Fair Haven. The eatery is open Wednesday through Sunday year-round, and it has sweet sunset views and docking for watercraft — plus, there’s often entertainment. Some 7,600 Facebook fans are testimony to the food, location, and laid-back ambience.
PLAY TIME: The 5.5-mile-long Detroit Riverfront greenway keeps getting better. The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park, near the Ambassador Bridge, opened last October. It’s a 22-acre oasis that includes four zones: The William Davidson Sports House, with two full-size Detroit Pistons basketball courts; the Delta Dental Play Garden, with the Gilbert Family Foundation Water Wonderland (set to open this spring); the Huron-Clinton Metroparks’ Water Garden, with trails; and the DTE Foundation Summit green space — an ideal setting for outdoor fun. A new boardwalk by the Riverfront Towers connects downtown to the park. detroitriverfront.org
SHOW AND TELL: Set aside some time to explore the public-access areas and grounds of the Michigan Central campus in Detroit. The former Detroit train station, which closed in 1988 and was later abandoned, was wonderfully restored by the Ford Motor Co. Explore on your own, shop, and relax with a refreshment in the charming area known as The Study, above. For insights into the station’s fascinating past, book a 90-minute, $20 tour offered by Detroit History Tours. The site is now connected to the Southwest Greenway and the Detroit Riverfront. detroithistorytours.com, michigancentral.com
LET’S ROLL: As an avid bicycle tourist, I love riding along rivers. That’s why St. Clair County’s Bridge to Bay Trail has been so energizing for me over the years. It’s a 50-mile network of bike paths, rail trails, boardwalks, and riverwalks that extends from north of Port Huron to west of Algonac, taking in Lake Huron, the St. Clair River, and Lake St. Clair. Segments of the trail are terrific for walking. Freighter-watching, friendly towns, and tempting dining spots line the route. For a trail map and more ideas, check out bridgetobay.org
