Edsel and Eleanor Ford House | Woodward Spine 2013
By Jeffrey Buck
I’ve written about this subject before but as I travel throughout the year to new places I am always reminded how important it is to support our local attractions. In hard times and in good these great places are always in need of local support to fund upkeep, special exhibitions and events. Detroit and its surrounding communities have an extensive amount of historical places that are great for local residents and tourists alike. I’m currently a member of the Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak Historical Society and the Henry Ford and want to continue to support others each year. Below is a list, by no means complete, of some of our great institutions you can support.
The Detroit Zoo | detroitzoo.org
The Detroit Zoo is located in Royal Oak, Mich. Memberships range from $43 to $160 depending on size of family and where you live. Open year round with hours that vary by season.
The Henry Ford | thehenryford.org
A membership gives you access to both the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village. Memberships range from $45 to $600. Members receive discounts to IMAX movies, the Ford Rouge Factory Tour and much more.
Pewabic Pottery | pewabic.org
Members receive discounts to the Museum Store and Galleries. This historic institution dates back to 1903 and is located on Jefferson Ave. Typical memberships range from $25 to $150.
Preservation Detroit | preservationdetroit.org
Preservation Detroit is known for its spectacular walking tours. A leader in the preservation of Detroit’s architectural history they offer several events throughout the year. Membership levels range from $20 for a student to $2,500 for the Founder’s Circle.
Detroit Institute of Arts | dia.org
The DIA has one of the greatest collections of art. Although supported by the tri-county area you can still become a member. Membership dues are $60 and up.
Motown Museum | motownmuseum.org
The Motown Museum does not currently offer memberships but can be supported through its Annual Fund. The historic set of houses on Grand Blvd. are a Detroit landmark. The museum also accepts the donation of artifacts.
Meadow Brook Hall | meadowbrookhall.org
Open year round this National Historic Landmark is a gathering place for many throughout the year. Memberships start at $100 and include admission, discounts and more. Meadow Brook is also always looking for volunteers.
Detroit Historical Society | detroithistorical.org
Having just gone through a large-scale renovation there’s no better time to become a member. Membership levels start at $25 for the “Researcher” level. Become a member of the Dossin Maritime Group for an extra $20.
Royal Oak Historical Society | royaloakhistoricalsociety.com
This Detroit suburb offers great exhibits in a former fire station. Single memberships are $10 and a family membership is $18.00. Members receive free admission to the museum as well as newsletters and special event alerts throughout the year.
Edsel & Eleanor Ford House | fordhouse.org
Located on 80 acres of lakefront property, this historic home is absolutely gorgeous. Members enjoy many benefits starting at just $25 for a Grounds Pass. Enjoy a guided home tour as well as an iPod Touch tour of the grounds.
Michigan Science Center | mi-sci.org
Formerly the Detroit Science Center, this family friendly attraction is better than ever. Memberships start at $35 for students and only $75 for a Family. Benefits include free admission, discounted IMAX admission and many more discounts.
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History | thewright.org
Become a member of the world’s largest institution dedicated to the African American experience for as little as $25 for a college student and $65 for a family. Located near the Michigan Science Center and DIA, make a day out of all three.
Belle Isle Conservancy | belleisleconservancy.org
For as little as $10 you can become a member of a group dedicated to preserving the largest city-owned island park in the USA. The island is home to some of Detroit’s greatest attractions including the Detroit Aquarium, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and Belle Isle Nature Zoo.
Are you a member of a group not on the list? Please let us know so we can include it.
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