The Henry Ford is a massive cultural and educational complex located in Dearborn, Michigan, down the road from Ford Motor Company's corporate headquarters. Named after the revolutionary industry leader, the Henry Ford includes the Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, the Ford Rouge Factory, and the Benson Ford Research Center. The massive collection of historical artifacts, experiential education, dining and shopping options (not to mention an IMAX theatre) offer something for everyone.
Parking and Public Transportation at The Henry Ford
Parking for The Henry Ford campus is located off of Village Road, and services the Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village and the Benson Ford Research Center. Parking is $5, or free for members. Amtrak stops at the John D. Dingell Transit Center, located near the complex.
Admission to the The Henry Ford
Tickets can be purchased separately for each of the complex's components: The Henry Ford Museum, Greenfield Village, and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour. The Henry Ford Museum is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors 62 and older, $15 for children 5-12 and free for those 4 years and younger. Greenfield Village is $25 for adults, $22.50 for seniors, $18.75 for children 5-12 and free for those 4 years and younger. Rides, like the classic carousel, are pay-as-you go, or you can purchase an unlimited ride ticket for $16. You may want to consider a season membership to The Henry Ford, which will get you access to both the museum and Greenfield Village, free parking and discounts to the IMAX theatre, the Ford Rouge Facotry Tour, and shopping. The Ford Rouge Factory Tour is $16 for adults, $12 for children, $14.50 for seniors and free for children 2 and younger. The Henry Ford members get a nominal discount. The Benson Ford Research Center is free and open to the public, but if you are interested in accessing certain collections in their archives, it is best to call ahead for an appointment.
Must See/Do at The Henry Ford
The Henry Ford has an impressive collection of artifacts, including the chair Abraham Lincoln sat in when he was assassinated at Ford's Theatre, the bus where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat, and the limo that John F. Kenedy rode in when he was shot. There's also an extensive transportation exhibit, featuring a huge Allegheny Locomotive.
Greenfield Village is a great place to feel completely immersed in another time and place. Visit Thomas Edison's Menlo Park facilities, which were moved here from New Jersey. Stop by the real working Firestone Farm and cider mill, or the glass and pottery shops in the Liberty Craftworks district. Need a break from walking around the grounds? Grab and ice cream and hop on the century-old Herschell-Spillman Carousel.
Other Places to Visit Near The Henry Ford
The nearby Dearborn Inn, A Marriott Hotel was originally built at Henry Ford's request to accommodate guests of to the Ford Motor Company. The hotel plays host to several events and weddings through the year, and has several fine restaurants. The Arab American National Museum, which recognizes Arab-American history and culture, is the first of its kind in the United States.
Insider tip for visitors to The Henry Ford
The Henry Ford hosts many recurring events throughout the year. The Salute to America, featuring fireworks and performances by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the United States Army Field Band on the Fourth of July, is extremely popular, so plan in advance. Hallowe'en in Greenfield Village is another local favorite, where the traditions and history of the holiday are celebrated with authentic costumes, jack o' lanterns, and a headless horseman!
Author's bio: Jeff Birou is an education administrator by day, travel and freelance writer by night. You can find him at his blog, Lance+Jeff, or on Twitter at @lanceandjeff.