Summer is in the air, and here come the BBQs, beach days and outdoor adventures — but not without some major restrictions. Even so, we are determined to help you make the best of our sunniest season. Here are some ideas for things to do in Detroit this week, on a screen and out in the world: art exhibitions like you’ve never seen, a mind-blowing climate change symposium, a clever way to keep yourself active and plenty more.

Have questions about safely participating in summer activities around Detroit? Shoot us an email at events@detourdetroiter.com

Learn:

🌎   Tackling climate change: Lawrence Technological University’s Detroit Center for Design + Technology (DCDT) in Midtown is bringing the topic of climate change to life with a free exhibit, aptly named “Yeah, What Lester Said” after climate change pioneer Lester Brown. This digital experience features art exhibits, films, a sustainable architecture showcase and inspiring conversations.The symposium kicks off today, June 1 at 5 p.m. with an art exhibit that will stay “open” online through Saturday, August 15.

🎙️ Mind-blowing Motown facts: Get to know your favorite Motown artists like Stevie Wonder, The Supremes and The Marvelettes, just to name a few. The Motown Museum’s Motown Artist Spotlight airs Mondays and Thursdays on the Motown Museum’s Facebook page. Give ‘em a “like” and stay tuned for some trivia at the end — they’re the perfect quick watch, just a few minutes long.

👩‍🏫 For future educators: The School of Education at Wayne State is hosting an online webinar series all about program offerings and opportunities for prospective students. Hop in and learn about requirements, career info and connect with current WSU students. The next session will be held Wednesday, June 3 from noon to 1 p.m. with Academic Advisor Tanesha Watkins on Secondary Education. Raise.Me micro scholarships are even available for participants admitted at WSU.

Move:

🚴 Sweating for a good cause: Exercise is a lot more appetizing if you can also help frontline healthcare workers, right? Medical centers across the country are participating in the #FitForTheFrontLine Challenge, and you can join in to spread awareness and raise money for frontline workers — just do your favorite fitness activity, post a photo (or brag) of your accomplishment with a donation link for the challenge — here’s the one for U of M’s Michigan Medicine. The event runs through June 14, so make sure to get your sweat sesh in! 

Listen:

🎨 An artsy Spotify playlist: Ever wondered what Diego Rivera, Vincent van Gogh and Andy Warhol listened to? Thanks to the Detroit Institute of Arts and Detroit marketing and creative agency Lafayette American, you can discover famous artists’ favorite music based on letters they wrote way back when. Just follow the DIA’s Spotify station and you’ll feel instantly inspired!

🍳 Brunch with a side of beats: Why not add a little music with those eggs and toast? Amp up those lazy mornings with Detroit Public TV and WRCJ-FM (90.9) and listen to live recordings from great local bands. This Sunday, June 7 at 11 a.m., jam out to Prince tunes performed by the talented DSO.

Grow:

🌻 Flower Season goes virtual: To make Flower Season easier during COVID-19, Eastern Market is piloting an online flower ordering program. Click this link to see what’s available and place your order for pick-up. While you’re checking out what’s in bloom, get tips on taking care of your precious flowers from growers via Facebook Live on Sunday, June 7 at noon.

Watch art in action:

🖍️ A-maze-ing work: Local artist Michelle Boggess will attempt an unbelievable feat: breaking the Guinness World Record for completing the largest hand-drawn maze! Catch her in action starting Tuesday, June 2 at Posterity Gallery in Grosse Pointe (17005 Kercheval Ave.). Anyone can sponsor a foot of the maze — proceeds will go toward Living Arts, a nonprofit dedicated to providing art programming for kids in Detroit.

💻 Artistry goes viral: Plymouth-based artist and musician Matt Sauter is painting a portrait for online viewers in his signature style. The goal is to help raise money for Canton’s Village Arts Factory. Catch Sauter live this Thursday, June 4 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10.

Click here to find more culture, local events and ideas for things to do in Detroit — even when you’re social distancing.