Motown Museum

Overview

The Motown Museum, also known as Hitsville U.S.A., is a historic museum that showcases the birthplace of Motown Records. Visitors can explore the original recording studio, view vintage memorabilia, and learn about the legendary artists who shaped American music.

The Motown Museum is significant for its role in the history of American music. It was the headquarters and recording studio of Motown Records, which played a pivotal role in breaking racial barriers in the music industry and producing some of the most iconic songs of the 20th century.

Music Museum Historical Site

Location

Address

2648 W Grand Blvd., Detroit, Michigan

Neighborhood: Midtown

Coordinates

42.363000, -83.091200

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$25

Children

$12 (ages 5-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better opportunities for guided tours

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• Spring exhibits
• Garden tours

summer

warm to hot

• Extended summer hours
• Outdoor performances

autumn

cool and comfortable

• Fall exhibits
• Historical lectures

winter

cold

• Holiday decorations
• Winter exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Arrive early for guided tours
Check for special events

What to Bring

essential

Valid ID Printed or digital tickets Comfortable shoes

seasonal

Jacket in winter Sunscreen in summer Umbrella in spring/fall

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Professional camera equipment without permission Food and drinks (except in designated areas)

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate (some walking and standing)

• Some areas have low lighting
• Narrow spaces in historical sections

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Debit cards, Cash

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $20

guided tour $10

parking $5

souvenirs $15-$50

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Comfortable shoes for walking, Closed-toe shoes recommended for some areas, Inappropriate or revealing clothing, Hats in certain exhibits

Booking Tips

• At least 1-2 weeks in advance for peak seasons
• Official Motown Museum website
• 48 hours in advance for a full refund
• Available for online ticket holders

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Motown Museum App

Size: 35 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guided tours, Ticket booking, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe area

Charging Stations: Cafe area, Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)

Distance: 28 km

Travel Time: 30-45 minutes

taxi

$50-$70 30-45 min

public_transport

$8 60-75 min

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

bus

$2 15-20 min

taxi

$10-$15 10-15 min

ride_share

$8-$12 10-15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Motown Museum is a symbol of Detroit's rich musical heritage and cultural pride

Historical Significance: The birthplace of Motown Records, which launched the careers of legendary artists like Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, and Marvin Gaye

Insider Tips

Visit on a weekday morning for a more personalized experience
Check for free admission days or special events
Ask about the hidden gems in the museum's collection

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Detroit Institute of Arts
• Try local Detroit-style pizza nearby
• Ask staff for lesser-known stories about Motown's history

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Motown Museum Courtyard

Best Time: Golden hour in the afternoon

Tips: Capture the iconic Hitsville U.S.A. sign

Result: Aesthetic and vibrant photo with good lighting

#MotownMuseum #HitsvilleUSA #DetroitMusic #MotownLegends

Studio A

Best Time: Morning or early afternoon

Tips: Focus on the vintage recording equipment and memorabilia

Result: Historical and nostalgic shots of the original recording studio

#MotownStudio #MusicHistory #RecordingStudio

Photography Rules

allowed areas Courtyard, Gift shop, Outdoor areas

prohibited areas Studio A, Studio B, Private collection areas

flash photography Not allowed in certain exhibits

commercial photography Permit required for commercial use

drone policy Prohibited on museum grounds

tripod policy Restricted; only with special permission

selfie sticks Allowed in outdoor areas only

Nearby Attractions

Detroit Institute of Arts

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Art Museum

Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: History Museum

Ford Field

Distance: 2km

Walking: 25 min

Type: Sports Stadium

Comerica Park

Distance: 2.5km

Walking: 30 min

Type: Baseball Stadium

Reviews

4.7

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book tickets online in advance"
"Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience"
"Don't miss the guided tour"
"Check for special events and exhibits"

Contact Information

+1 313-875-2264

info@motownmuseum.org

www.motownmuseum.org

Social Media

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