Experience Downtown Detroit & Rochester City Lights Holiday Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families with children; mostly walking and standing with light skating
Overview
Glide on ice at Campus Martius Park in Detroit, then wander Rochester’s dazzling Big, Bright Light Show featuring over a million sparkling lights. Discover festive shopping and winter magic in Southeast Michigan’s most vibrant holiday outing.
Downtown Detroit & Rochester City Lights
Sunday, December 7, 2025
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Downtown Detroit with ice skating at Campus Martius Park, dazzling holiday lights, and unique shopping from local pop-up retailers. Then, immerse yourself in the enchanting Big, Bright Light Show in Downtown Rochester, featuring over a million twinkling lights adorning the buildings.
Enjoy the holiday season in Downtown Detroit where you can enjoy ice skating at Campus Martius Park, award-winning holiday lighting, shopping with local pop-up retailers, and the best local restaurants. (Ice-skating admission not included)
Then we will visit Downtown Rochester to brighten your holidays with The Big, Bright Light Show! The buildings in downtown Rochester will be covered with more than 1 million points of glimmering holiday light.
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Michigan winters are cold—wear layered clothing to stay warm during outdoor ice skating and evening walks.
Arrive early for ice skating
Campus Martius ice rink can get busy; arriving early helps secure skate rentals and reduces wait times.
Wear waterproof boots
Comfortable waterproof footwear keeps you dry and warm while exploring Rochester’s light displays.
Plan for limited daylight
This winter tour is best experienced after dark for the full light show effect, so schedule your afternoon accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer in suburban parks
- Winter songbirds like chickadees
History
Detroit’s Campus Martius Park became a civic hub in the 18th century and was revitalized as a winter focal point in the 2000s. Rochester’s light show started in 2013 and has grown into a regional holiday highlight.
Conservation
Both cities emphasize sustainable event planning, encouraging recycling and minimal environmental impact throughout festive activities.
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Adventure Hotspots in Detroit
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm winter coat
Prevents cold discomfort during extended outdoor exposure after dark.
winter specific
Gloves and hat
Keeps extremities warm while ice skating and walking outside.
winter specific
Waterproof boots
Protects feet from snow, ice, and wet surfaces during light show strolls.
winter specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning holiday lights and ice skating moments.
winter specific