by Kelly Szymanski

Created on: August 22, 2009   Last Updated: August 23, 2009

Almost everyone in the city of Detroit and its surrounding suburbs knows about and loves Greektown. Though small in size, a visit to the city is not complete without a stop in the bustling neighborhood that is as alive as any of the boroughs of New York City.

In its early days, Greektown was both a residential and business area. Later on, the area became mostly commercial and many of the Greeks moved out, leaving their businesses behind. Many were torn down to add parking and newer, more modern buildings. In 1903, a group of businessmen came together to form the Greektown Merchants' Association in an effort to preserve their community. Their efforts were, and still are, successful.

When you go, you can park in the Greektown Casino Parking Structure or in one of the many business parking lots, for a small fee: anywhere from $10 to $20 depending on what events are going on. If you prefer to park further away, or if you are staying at one of the hotels downtown, just take the Detroit People Mover (DPM), Detroit's elevated rail transportation system, and get off at the Greektown stop.

Stroll down Monroe Street, which is the main thoroughfare. Eat a traditional Greek meal at Pegasus, New Hellas, or my personal favorite, The New Parthenon. Drink ouzo, a strong licorice-tasting liquor and feast on saganaki (flaming cheese) and lamb that is so flavorful and tender it's sure to send shivers down your spine! Afterwards, head up the road to Astoria Pastry Shop for a delicious dessert.

While you eat your tasty treat, have your sketch drawn by a local street artist while being serenaded by the saxophone man who plays for change next to the People Mover Station. When you've finished eating, stop in at one of the novelty shops and see if there is some trinket you absolutely must buy.

Continue your stroll down Monroe, and stop in at Marilyn's on Monroe for an after dinner drink and some dancing.

When you're done dancing, pop into Trapper's Alley, a mall adjacent to The Greektown Casino, walk through to Fishbone's Restaurant and take a gander at the world's largest indoor waterfall. Then, hey, as long as you are there, drop a few coins at the Casino.

When you are ready, mosey back to your car or the People Mover, and head back home with you tummy full of delicious food, your head full of delicious memories and your heart full of joy at your new-found favorite Detroit hangout, Greektown.

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