Looking for things to do in Detroit in October? This is the perfect time to enjoy crisp air, cozy vibes, and everything fall has to offer. At Detroit Furnished Rentals, we love the season and know just how to help you make the most of the Motor City in October.
Our studio lofts and one-bedroom units are steps from downtown, the riverfront, and bike paths. Fully stocked kitchens, comfy beds, and high-speed Wi-Fi let you rest, work, or relax after a day of exploring. In this guide, we share our favorite picks for fall festivals, spooky haunts, sports games, art shows, and scenic drives—all happening just minutes from your door.
Table of Contents
Top October Activities in Detroit
1. American Speed Festival at M1 Concourse Speed Ring
Rev up your October at the American Speed Festival, a showcase of vintage Indy cars, historic stock cars and supercars on the 1.5-mile Speed Ring. Staying with us means you’re just a short drive from the track!
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Ratings: 4.7/5 (1246 reviews) -
Location: 45399 Woodward Ave, Pontiac, MI 48341 -
Phone: +1 248-326-9999 -
Learn more: American Speed Festival
2. Detroit Harvest Fest & Food Truck Rally
Celebrate the flavors of fall at the Detroit Harvest Fest & Food Truck Rally on the Riverfront. Over 50 food trucks, six music stages and family fun await just minutes from your rental.
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Ratings: 4.4/5 (1834 reviews)
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Location: 1820 E 9 Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220
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Phone: +1 248-951-2890
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Price: Moderate -
Learn more: Detroit Harvest Fest & Food Truck Rally
Craving more Detroit flavors? Check our Best Metro Detroit Takeout & Food Delivery guide.
3. Youmacon
Dive into pop culture at Youmacon, Detroit’s 4-day anime and gaming festival. Cosplay, panels and live music fill the venue. Perfect for fans and first-timers alike.
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Location: Detroit, MI, USA
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Learn more: Youmacon
4. Ofrendas: Celebrating el Día de Muertos
Honor loved ones with vibrant altars at this annual Día de Muertos exhibition. Local artists and community groups share stories and traditions in a moving display.
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Location: Detroit, MI
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Contact your local cultural center for details
5. Visit a Cider Mill and Apple Orchard
Nothing says fall like fresh cider, donuts and pumpkin patches. Take a short drive to these family-run spots.
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Yates Cider Mill
4.7/5 (6599 reviews)-
1950 E Avon Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307
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+1 248-651-8300
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Daily 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
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Franklin Cider Mill
4.5/5 (2612 reviews)-
7450 Franklin Rd, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301
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+1 248-626-8261
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8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
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Apple Charlies Orchard & Pumpkin Patch
4.0/5 (1238 reviews)-
38035 S Huron Rd, New Boston, MI 48164
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+1 734-753-9380
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Wed–Sun 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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6. Take a Scenic Drive to See Fall Colors
The Detroit area bursts into red, orange and gold in October. Hit the road or trail for views you won’t forget.
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Belle Isle State Park
4.6/5 (10013 reviews)-
99 Pleasure Dr, Detroit, MI 48207
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5:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
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Don’t miss the new Oudolf Garden for a burst of color
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Kensington Metropark
4.7/5 (4831 reviews)-
4570 Huron River Pkwy, Milford, MI 48380
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6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
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Stony Creek Metropark
4.7/5 (7712 reviews)-
4300 Main Park Dr, Shelby Township, MI 48316
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6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
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Scenic roads like M-53 and Lakeshore Dr. offer epic leaf-peeping from your car.
7. Zoo Boo at Detroit Zoo
Dress up and trick-or-treat at Zoo Boo, a family-friendly event with games and animal encounters.
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Ratings: 4.5/5 (24956 reviews)
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8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067
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Phone: +1 248-541-5717
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10:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
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Learn more: Zoo Boo
8. Haunted Attractions for Spooky Fun
October in Detroit means world-class haunted houses and hayrides. Perfect for thrill seekers!
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Erebus Haunted Attraction
4.1/5 (2482 reviews)-
18 S Perry St, Pontiac, MI 48342
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Thu 7:30 PM–10:30 PM, Fri–Sat 6:00 PM–12:00 AM
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Eloise Asylum Haunted Attraction
4.5/5 (1868 reviews)-
30712 Michigan Ave, Westland, MI 48186
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Wed–Thu 4:00 PM–10:00 PM, Fri–Sat 4:00 PM–11:00 PM
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Haunted Hayride & Zombie Paintball at Blake’s Farms, Armada: ride a trailer and shoot paintballs at roaming zombies (Oct weekends).
9. Cheer on Detroit Sports Teams
Catch a game and feel the city’s spirit. From baseball to soccer, there’s a home team waiting.
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Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park
4.7/5 (25334 reviews)-
2100 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
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Detroit Free Press Marathon: run or cheer on Oct racers downtown.
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3.3/5 (32 reviews)
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Detroit Lions at Ford Field on Sundays (NFL season kickoff).
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Red Wings & Pistons preseason games at Little Caesars Arena & elsewhere.
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DCFC games bring soccer fans to Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck.
10. Explore Art and Music History
Discover culture at top Detroit museums and historic studios just minutes from your lodging.
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Detroit Institute of Arts: 65+ galleries from ancient to modern. Free for local residents.
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Motown Museum (Hitsville U.S.A.)
4.7/5 (6402 reviews)-
2648 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208
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Tue–Sun 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (Sat 10:00 AM–8:00 PM)
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Candlelight Concert at the Masonic Temple and Broadway shows at nearby theaters light up the October nights.
11. Sip Seasonal Brews on the Detroit Brew Trail
Warm up with hard cider and pumpkin ale on this self-guided tour of local breweries.
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Ratings: 4.2/5 (687 reviews)
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Price: Moderate
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1529 Broadway St, Detroit, MI 48226
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+1 313-962-1529
12. Relax at Campus Martius Park and Detroit Riverfront
Stroll city parks, snap river views and join free daily events.
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Campus Martius Park: food trucks (Street Eats), ice rink in winter, live music in fall.
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Detroit Riverfront
4.8/5 (131 reviews)-
588 E Jefferson Ave, Detroit, MI 48207
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Daily 6:00 AM–10:00 PM
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Tips for a Memorable October Stay
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Pack layers: sweaters, light jackets and comfy shoes.
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Book festival tickets and sports games in advance.
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Arrive early at cider mills and haunted attractions to avoid long lines.
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Bring a camera for fall colors on the Paint Creek Trail and Belle Isle.
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Rent a bike or use MoGo bike lanes right by your rental.
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Purchase an Explore Detroit Pass for savings on rides, tours and museums.
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Need a longer stay or group trip? Explore our Best Places to Rent in Detroit for more options.
Final Thoughts
October in Detroit is a perfect time for crisp air, bright leaves and lively events. From the roar of the M1 Concourse to haunted hayrides, cider mills and museum tours, there’s a fall adventure for every traveler. Staying at Detroit Furnished Rentals puts you close to the action in our comfortable, fully equipped lofts. Book your stay now and enjoy easy access to all the top things to do in Detroit in October. We can’t wait to welcome you!
https://www.detroitfurnishedrentals.com/
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Detroit cold in October?
October in Detroit is mildly chilly with daytime highs around 62°F (17°C) and lows near 46°F (8°C). Bring layers to stay comfortable on riverfront walks and park trails.
What is the most famous thing in Detroit?
Detroit is best known as the Motor City, the birthplace of America’s auto industry, and home of Motown music. You’ll find car shows, studio tours and live music celebrations throughout the city.
Is it safe to walk around downtown Detroit during the day?
Yes. Popular areas like Campus Martius Park, the Riverfront and the Detroit Institute of Arts have regular security patrols and plenty of daytime visitors for a safe, vibrant experience.
What does 313 mean in Detroit?
“313” is Detroit’s area code and a symbol of local pride. You’ll see it on murals, apparel and digital art as a nod to the city’s community spirit.
What to wear in Detroit in October?
Layers are key. Pack a sweater or light jacket, long pants and closed-toe shoes. A scarf or hat can help on breezy walks by the river.
Where to see fall colors in Detroit in October?
Belle Isle, Kensington Metropark and Stony Creek Metropark all shine in gold and red. Scenic roads like M-53 and Lakeshore Dr. also offer drive-by leaf-peeping.
