Know Before You Go: What to Expect at the National Gathering 2026

Get revved up for your visit to the Motor City. The conference hotel — the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center — is on prime riverfront property, right in the heart of downtown. But this is a city built around the automobile, so make sure you get out into the neighborhoods to take in all this iconic American city has to offer.

Explore Public Art & Architecture

Detroit has developed an international reputation for its public art, which runs the gamut from grand foundation-supported sculpture to scrappy grassroots folk art. 

For example, The Heidelberg Project transformed abandoned homes and empty streets into pieces of art. Visiting the colorful free open-air art experience is free. 

The Detroit Institute of Arts boasts a series of world-famous murals by Mexican artist Diego M. Rivera.

Just a short walk from the hotel, sits The Guardian Building, a National Historic Landmark and one of the most significant Art Deco skyscrapers in the world. Enter the lobby and step back into the 1920s.   

In addition, the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) recently reopened after a renovation. The Motown Museum shines a light on the city’s epic tradition of soul and R&B. The Shepard, a historic-church-turned-gallery, is part of Little Village Detroit, a developing cultural corridor. And lastly, the city maintains a map of all its murals.

Eat Well

One of the city’s recent contributions to national culinary culture, Detroit-style pizza is beloved for its crispy browned-cheese edges. Baked in square pans, this regional delicacy can be enjoyed at the downtown location of local icon Buddy’s Pizza (Madison Building, 1565 Broadway Street), right across from Grand Circus Park. 

You’d also be missing out, if you don’t manage to scarf down a Coney. 

The city’s food scene has earned plenty of attention in recent years. Locals recommend Selden Standard for New American small plates, Baobab Fare for East African cuisine, Coriander Kitchen and Farm for global-inspired farm-to-table fare on the canal, Yemen Cafe for fresh breads and grilled meats, and Bev’s Bagels for, well — you can figure it out.

Take in a Detroit Tigers game

The Motor City Kitties are in town for a homestand against the Washington Nationals and Pittsburgh Pirates. Comerica Park is a prime example of a downtown stadium done right, with city views galore.

Get some fresh air

Looking to stretch your legs after all the eating and conferencing? Belle Isle is a 985-acre island park located in the Detroit River. Take in the natural beauty, views of the city, and other cultural attractions, including a lighthouse, aquarium and conservatory. In case of a late-summer heat wave, there is even a swimming beach.

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