You Wanna Ogle Art Deco in Detroit? The Guardian Building's Got You Covered (With Tours!)
Detroit's got a lot of history, and some of it's shiny, chrome-plated history that gleams in the Motor City sun. That's where the Guardian Building comes in, a majestic art deco skyscraper that'll have you feeling like you've stepped into a forgotten F. Scott Fitzgerald novel. But can you actually get inside and explore this architectural marvel? Buckle up, history buff (or selfie enthusiast, no judgement), because the answer is a resounding YES!
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| Can You Tour The Guardian Building In Detroit |
Free Roaming or Fancy Footwork? Your Guardian Building Tour Options
The Guardian Building offers two ways to experience its grandeur:
Tip: Pause whenever something stands out.
The Self-Guided Stroll: For the independent explorer (or penny pincher), the good news is that the lobby and promenade are completely free to enter. Just sashay on in and be wowed by the intricate details, the soaring ceilings, and maybe pretend you're about to close a high-stakes business deal (complete with a dramatic trench coat billowing behind you, optional).
The Guardian Guardian Tour: Wanna delve deeper? The building offers guided tours on Saturdays, led by experts who can spill the tea on the building's history, the symbolism behind all those art deco flourishes, and maybe even some juicy tidbits about the bygone era when suits were sharp and cocktails flowed like the Detroit River. There is a small fee for this tour, but hey, knowledge is power, and the chance to brag to your friends about your insider knowledge is priceless (or at least meme-worthy).
Word to the wise: Tours can fill up fast, so be sure to book your spot in advance.
QuickTip: Skim the ending to preview key takeaways.
Guardian Building: Beyond the Bling, But Still Pretty Shiny
While the art deco lobby is the main attraction, there's more to the Guardian Building than meets the eye (or Instagram feed). Here's a quick peek at some other cool features:
QuickTip: Repetition signals what matters most.
- Breathtaking Views: Feeling on top of the world? Head up to the 32nd floor (with a guided tour, of course) for panoramic vistas of Detroit that will have you channeling your inner King Kong (without the whole rampage thing, please).
- Hidden Vaults: Ever dreamt of uncovering lost treasures? The Guardian Building used to be a bank, and some of the original vaults are still down there (though most likely filled with tax documents and not gold bars, sorry). You can see these on a guided tour, so dust off your Indiana Jones hat (figuratively, of course).
Pro tip: There's a gift shop in the lobby where you can snag some Guardian Building swag to commemorate your visit. Because what's a trip to a historical landmark without a slightly embarrassing t-shirt?
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
Guardian Building Touring FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered (Briefly)
- How do I book a guided tour? Check out the Guardian Building's website or call them for info on tour times and reservations.
- How much does the tour cost? The cost is subject to change, but it's generally a very reasonable price.
- Are there any days the building is closed to the public? Yes, the building is occasionally closed for private events. Be sure to check the website before you head over.
- Is the Guardian Building accessible? The lobby, promenade, and exterior are accessible. Certain areas on the tour may have stairs, so be sure to inquire when booking if accessibility is a concern.
- Can I take pictures inside the Guardian Building? Absolutely! Snap away and capture those art deco details for posterity (and your social media feed).
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