Detroit Thanksgiving Staycation: Turkey Trot + Holiday Moments Downtown
A quick overnight downtown was the perfect way to ease into the holiday weekend. We stayed at the newly renovated Westin Book Cadillac, walked to a few festive stops, and ran the Detroit Turkey Trot the next morning. It was simple, cozy, and gave us just enough holiday energy without a packed schedule.
Trip Snapshot
When: Thanksgiving week
Length: 1 night
Vibe: Festive, walkable, low-key
Good for: Couples, families, and anyone wanting holiday moments without committing to a full weekend
Weather: Cold but manageable
Highlights: Holiday pop-ups, Campus Martius lights, Turkey Trot start line right outside the hotel
Where We Stayed
We stayed in the Jefferson Suite at the Westin Book Cadillac. The renovation feels fresh, and the extra space made the night before the race relaxed and easy. It also gave us room to bring Jack’s mom along for part of the day without everyone feeling cramped.
The Jefferson Suite gave us plenty of room to settle in before race morning.
Thanksgiving Eve Downtown
After checking in and dropping our bags, we took a short walk around downtown. Campus Martius already had that early-holiday glow, even before Thanksgiving.
Campus Martius already glowing for the holidays.
Lunch + Holiday Stop With Jack’s Mom
Earlier in the day, we brought Jack’s mom downtown for Hudson Café (always reliable) and a quick walk to see the giant Hudson-inspired bear. It was cold, so we kept her time outside short, but she still got her holiday moment.
A quick stop by the Hudson-inspired bear with Jack’s mom.
We also took her the week before for the tree lighting at Parc and a cozy stop at Cadillac Lodge, so she got both the lights and the warm indoor spaces without being out too long.
Holiday Pop-Ups
After getting Jack’s mom settled back at the hotel, the two of us went out again for a couple of light holiday stops — nothing long, just enough to enjoy the evening.
Side Hustle Holiday Pop-Up
Festive drinks, funny glasses on the tables, and plenty of over-the-top décor.
A fun stop at Side Hustle’s holiday pop-up.
Chalet 313
Warm, cozy, and a great view of the tree and rink. Easy to walk into and a good mix of festive without the crowds.
Both spots were simple additions to the evening and gave us that little bit of holiday energy before heading back.
Thanksgiving Morning: Turkey Trot
The next morning we walked out the door and straight to the starting line — no parking scramble, no early commute. Just a cold, crowded, and fun way to start Thanksgiving.
Cold, crowded, and fun — our Thanksgiving morning tradition.
Tips For Next Year
Stay downtown if you’re doing the trot. It makes the morning so much easier.
Book early — Thanksgiving Eve fills up more than you’d expect.
Pair the race with a simple holiday moment the night before.
Pop-ups like Side Hustle and Chalet 313 are easy add-ons.
Hudson Café works well for breakfast or lunch and they take reservations.
Keep layers handy. It’s always colder than you expect on Thanksgiving morning.
The Campus Martius tree is worth a visit on its own — day or night.
The Campus Martius tree is worth a visit on its own — day or night.
If You Go
Everything is walkable from the Westin Book Cadillac.
Pop-ups vary year to year — check schedules ahead of time.
Plan to arrive at the Turkey Trot start line earlier than you think.
Even short Detroit walks feel colder on Thanksgiving morning — gloves and a headband help.
What We’d Do Differently Next Time
We don’t skate, but next time we’d probably walk through the rink area a little longer or stop for a warm drink before heading back. It’s an easy way to stretch out the night without adding a full activity.
A simple overnight stay, a holiday run, and a few festive stops make this an easy tradition we enjoy repeating. Detroit feels especially warm around the holidays, even in the cold. A quick reminder that small trips can still feel meaningful.
