Two of Detroit's most well-known landmarks have been voted best in the country. Both the Detroit Riverwalk and Campus Martius top USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards.
This is the third year in a row that the Detroit Riverwalk has topped the list of riverwalks, beating San Antonio, Tampa, and Boston.
“We are thrilled to be named America’s Best Riverwalk once again,” said Matt Cullen, Chairman of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. “The transformation of our riverfront over these past two decades has been tremendous. To go from a blighted and underused riverfront to one that is recognized as the best in the country three years in a row is a testament to how much people love the riverfront and to what our community can achieve when we all work together.”
The Detroit Riverwalk spans over 3.5 miles and in the next few years, will reach from the Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle. The connector at the old Uniroyal Site between Belle Isle and Mt. Elliott Park will open later this year, and the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is currently working on the Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park on the West Riverfront, which should open next year.
Campus Martius was also voted the #1 Public Square in the country. The downtown destination has made the list in the last few years, but has never won before.
Campus Martius dates back to around 1850. The public space has held a variety of uses over the years; currently it's an active spot year-round with an ice-skating rink and holiday tree, a lawn for movies and concerts, a beach with a bar, and the fountain.
In the 10Best, a panel of experts submits nominees, which are then ranked by popular vote.
