The Spirit of Detroit — Attraction in Detroit

A beautiful bronze statue dedicated to the city of Detroit. Interesting to see closeup. The Spirit of Detroit" is a Detroit icon, synonymous with the city itself and the dedication of those who love the Motor City. You’ll see this statue pictured and printed on many city pamphlets, tour guides etc…

The bronze monument sits on a 60-ton marble base and is in front of the Coleman Young building. Near Hart Plaza.

Metro Detroit sculptor Marshall Fredericks was commissioned in 1955 to create the piece. The 26-foot bronze monument was the largest cast statue made at that time.

The “Spirit" cost $58,000 (about $467,750 today, when adjusted for inflation) to erect. The statue's left hand grips a gilded sphere emanating rays that symbolizes divinity, while its right hand holds a family, which symbolizes all human...

This muscular man near the Detroit River is the Spirit of Detroit. It is cast bronze with a green patina that could be copper but isn't. He's 26 feet tall and was dedicated in 1958. At the time, it was the largest cast bronze statue since the Renaissance.

In his left hand, he's holding a gilded sphere radiating rays, symbolizing divinity. In his right hand, a family, representing human relationships. Behind him, the marble wall is a quote from 2 Corinthians 3:17, "Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."

He seems to get a few people posing in front of him, mimicking his style and pose. I opted not to do that and waited to get...

One of Detroit’s most iconic landmarks! The big green statue sits right in front of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, and it’s free to visit. Perfect photo spot and right across the street from the Joe Louis “Fist,” so you can see both at once.

What makes it even better is the vibe at Spirit Plaza right outside — today (Monday) there were food trucks lined up and a DJ spinning music, giving the whole plaza a fun block-party feel. Great place to grab a bite, relax, and soak in the energy of downtown.

📸 Perfect for pictures 🚶 Easy to reach on foot from downtown 🚗 Parking nearby (Ford Underground Garage is cheap & close)

A quick stop that really captures the spirit...