Welcome to the 2019-2020 Detroit Red Wings season. This is the third version of this guide to help out visitors looking for some information from locals about Little Caesers Arena (LCA) and surrounding area in Detroit. I hope you find it helpful. Suggestions welcome!

• Safety around the LCA as well as nearby Detroit city streets is very good. Detroit has a reputation of having high crime however in the 25+ years I've been going to games in downtown Detroit I've never felt threatened for my safety. Inside and outside the LCA main entrances are police as well as Olympia Security before, during, and after the game. The streets around the LCA and out to the restaurants and hotels are walkable. But like in any modern city don't go down the sketchy dark streets. Stay on the well-lit streets. Park in a structure or lot and not on a dark side street. Lock your car doors. Don't leave visible items inside the car. In other words don't be a victim.
  
• A guided tour of the LCA is available by scheduling in advance on specific dates. Check the LCA tours webpage for more information on prices and scheduling.
  
• Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster, or at the LCA box office, or through a reseller like Stubhub or even Ticketmaster's Ticket Exchange. Join the mailing list and check out the Red Wings social media for short notice deals like student and military rush ticket pricing and Fan Packs. Be advised the special offers are typically for low demand games like weekdays. Friday and Saturday games especially near holidays or against Canadian teams are high demand and typically not going to have special offers. These games will most likely not have cheap seats even on the reseller market. Starting last season the LCA has changed to mobile tickets only so no more paper tickets. Check out the mobile ticketing guides for more information. There are mobile ticket assistance street teams at the main entrances if you have an issue onsite.
  
• There is a promotional schedule of in-arena giveaways for specific home games. These giveaways are given to entrants at the door after ticket scan until supplies run out. You can get these even at the restaurants if you entered through their doors. If there is a giveaway item that you really want I recommend being at the doors as close to opening as possible. The longer after doors open the less likely you are to get them item.
  
• Joe Louis Arena is activaly being torn down right now. It should be completed by the end of 2019, maybe sooner. If you want a last glimpse, head over to 19 Steve Yzerman Dr, Detroit, MI 48226.
  
• There are a variety of hotels in Detroit ranging in prices from high at the Westin Book Cadillac to lower at the Holiday Inn Express next door to the Westin. Nearby casinos such as the Ilitch-owned Motor City Casino or MGM offer free shuttle to the LCA or short 8 block walk. Check out TripAdvisor Detroit hotels for additional lodging options. My hotel experience is very limited in Detroit because I have no reason to stay in them so post your hotel tips in the comments below.
  
• The LCA has a variety food options (pizza, shawarma, burritos, salads, sammiches, pulled pork, grilled cheese, etc.) inside but they are all at a premium price. The free game day program at the LCA contains a map. In my experience the best bang for your buck is the chicken pita from The Coop. If you want a complete Ilitch experience then get a slice or whole pie of Little Caesars pizza. Detroit is a foodie town and there are many options to choose from outside the arena. If it is your first time to Detroit or haven't been there yet I recommend getting an iconic coney island hot dog from American or Lafayette PROTIP: Lafayette. Check out the /detroit sidebar for more Detroit restaurant suggestions. There are simply too many to list here so suggest your favorites in the comments below.
  
• Harry’s Bar and Temple Bar are neighborhood bars that are within a 2 block walking distance to the LCA if you want to drink and hangout with fans before or after. The /detroit sidebar has more bar suggestions in and around the city. PROTIP: take the QLINE streetcar (US$1.50/3 hours) to the Canfield stop and quaff a few brews over crack fries at HopCat then take the QLINE south 2 stops (10 blocks) to the LCA stop at Sproat St. Got favorite bar in the area? Post in the comments below.
  
• If you're rich and want convenience, park at the LCA VIP parking structure. It may be pricier (US$45 as of 2019-09-17) but it is a comfortable sheltered stroll to the LCA. If you are up for a short walk and would like to save a buck park at the MGM Casino or Motor City Casino for free. From there you can walk 8 blocks or take their free shuttle. The further away you park from the LCA the cheaper it is. Fox Theater is $35, the two Comerica Park structures off the I-75 service drive are both $30. There are also several surface lots nearby, some let you pay in advance. Check out the parking map Want to reserve a spot? Try Parkwhiz.com or their app. Some bars also have shuttles for free or a couple bucks. PROTIP: Nemo's has the best shuttle drivers. Early birds park for free on Temple, Woodward, and in Brush Park across Woodward from the LCA but be careful where you park because the police will write tickets if you park illegally. Ask me how I know. The parking situation is always evolving so post your tips in the comments below.
  
• Coming from Canada? There is a Windsor tunnel bus US/CAN$5.00 one way from the bus terminal downtown Windsor (Chatham and Church) to Cass Ave. and the I-75 service drive next to the LCA. Getting through immigration takes a few minutes. Have your passport and don't be drunk. Check the link above for service times and details.
  
• The LCA doors open 1.5 hours before puck drop. There are four sets of doors one at each corner. The Chevy Plaza at the southwest corner has a large screen that shows pre-game hype videos and on occasion the live game. Also on occasion, there are beebeverage stands in the plaza as well as picnic games (e.g. corn hole). You may have to pass through security to enter the Chevy Plaza but no ticket scan until you enter the arena doors. LCA restaurants will let you in even earlier with a ticket but access to the concourse is blocked off until all doors open. PROTIP: in cold weather prior to main doors opening either hang out at the Box Office (northeast corner) or the District Market entrance just south of the Box Office.
  
• You can sort of watch the players arrive by car (and visitors by bus) into the parking structure off Clifford north of the I-75 service drive. Get there at least 2 hours before puck drop.
  
• The best photos of the LCA exterior are from the east side of Woodward just north of the westbound I-75 service drive looking at the building from the southeast corner. Photo
  
• Will Call tickets at the box office located at the northeast corner of the arena off Woodward Ave.
  
• There is a strict bag size policy enforced at the door. I’ve seen some upset people turned away at the doors. Know before you go.
  
• You will have to go through a metal detector and may be subject to extra screening to enter the LCA.
  
• Free WIFI is available inside as well as outside of the arena.
  
• There are free game day programs inside the LCA at the entrances. Grab one because it has an arena map with section numbers and vendor locations including where to get Detroit and Michigan beers. Sometimes there are interesting articles too.
  
• The Team Store souvenir shop is in the southwest corner of the LCA. The authentic signed gear and memorabilia located in the east end of the store. There are also vendors scattered around the via and upper concourse selling souvenirs. PROTIP: the LCA prices are high for swag. Buy your gear ahead of time online or at Vintage Detroit in Detroit or FanaticU and Hockeytown Authentics out in the suburbs.
  
• Friendly ushers are everywhere to help out and answer your questions. Most will take your photo for you if you ask politely.
  
• During warmups, fans congregate around the glass. Players come out at 30 minutes before game time for warmups. PROTIP: I recommend watching the Red Wings shoot at the net during warmups from behind the net on the glass in section 102/103. Hearing the puck smack the glass inches from your face is neat. Same for aisle for 115/116 on the visiting team side behind the net. The ushers will let you down to the ice level for warmups even if you don’t have tickets in that section.
  
• The sea of banners is gone but the retired jerseys and Stanley Cup Championship banners remain. They are not the originals which are now hanging in the practice rink below the main rink. You may not see them until after hype video because they are retractable. The banners share the ceiling with the Pistons banners on the other side. PROTIP: The best photo op for the Red Wing banners is in front of the Fox Sports Detroit broadcast desk at the top of section 219.
  
• There is a nice mix of old and new artwork in the LCA. Take some time before the game to walk around the lower and upper level concourses to see the manholes, the Howe, Lindsay, Delvecchio statues from the Joe, the original Olympia sign, murals of Red Wing greats. Look for the Red Wing logo at the northeast corner lower concourse made of auto parts. There are multiple selfie and photo spots too like the Red Wings bench and Little Caesars spear. The LCA is shared with the Detroit Pistons basketball team so you will see artwork and displays featuring their greats as well.
  
• Every seat at the LCA has a view of the ice. Some seats in the upper level (rows 6 and above between the red lines) have obstructed views of the center ice score board but there displays mounted behind the gondolas. The layout of the seats are steep especially in the upper bowl where there is less leg room than lower bowl. Sections, rows, and seats are on your ticket but navigation is based on portals. Check your ticket for your portal, go to that, then find your section/row/seat. Sit in your own seat. If you see seats that are still empty well into the first period then move to them. If someone asks you to move out of their seat just do it. Explore the arena to check out different seat views. PROTIP: go up to portals 78-82 to check out the vertigo inducing view down from the gondola.
  
• Get to your seat 10 minutes before puck drop to see the pre-game hype video on the huge scoreboard and on-ice projection.
  
• The LCA has a custom organ with in-house organists that play before the hype video, end of intermissions, and between plays. Lance Luce is recognizable in his red sequined jacket. To see the organ go to the upper concourse behind section 301.
  
• Most Red Wings fans are friendly people and quite knowledgeable about their team and the sport. Strike up a conversation and you'll probably learn something new.
  
• Cheer for your visiting team but don't be a dick about it.
  
• DO NOT STAND UP OUT OF YOUR SEAT WHILE THE PUCK IS IN PLAY.
  
• The LCA has a strict no smoking policy. There is no smoking inside or anywhere outside of the arena at any door. If you leave the LCA to smoke you will not be readmitted.
  
• No, that's not the goal horn from the Joe. It is a recording of the Joe horn and to many people it sounds dull, flat, and disappointing. The horn sound is louder in the lower bowl but then again the speakers are louder in the lower bowl and have a lot more bass than the upper bowl. I have complained to no avail.
  
• Don't leave early! If the Red Wings win the DJ will play Don't Stop Believing in the final seconds or right after the game ends for you and thousands of your friends to sing along. The arena DJ plays music from multiple genres from Motown to country to pop and is known to take suggestions. He can be reached on Twitter @thehockeyjockey.
  
• There is no public accessible spot for athlete autographs. The best opportunity for autographs is an event created for that purpose such as the Season Ticket Holder Open House, Fan Day Open House, or charity events like Toast of Hockeytown, Charity Poker Tournaments, as well as autograph signing events posted on facebook.
  
• Post-game ride share pickups are along the I-75 service drive southeast of the LCA. Shuttles will pick you up where they dropped you off.
  
• Have fun and enjoy the game!
  

It’s the second season of hockey at Little Caesers Arena (LCA). Many fans are still making the trek to the new arena for their first time to watch the Detroit Red Wings play. This is my second version of this guide help out visitors looking for some information from locals. I hope you find it helpful. Suggestions welcome!

• Safety around the LCA as well as nearby Detroit city streets is very good. Detroit has a reputation of having high crime however in the 25 years I've been going to games in downtown Detroit I've never felt threatened for my safety. Inside and outside the LCA main entrances are police as well as Olympia Security before, during, and after the game. The streets around the LCA and out to the restaurants and hotels are walkable. But like in any modern city don't go down the sketchy dark streets. Stay on the well-lit streets. Park in a structure or lot and not on a dark side street. Lock your car doors. Don't leave visible items inside the car. In other words don't be a victim.
  
• A guided tour of the LCA is available by scheduling in advance on specific dates. Check the LCA tours webpage for more information on prices and scheduling.
  
• Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster, or at the LCA box office, or through a reseller like Stubhub or even Ticketmaster's Ticket Exchange. Join the mailing list and check out the Red Wings social media for short notice deals like student and military rush ticket pricing and Fan Packs. Be advised the special offers are typically for low demand games like weekdays. Friday and Saturday games especially near holidays or against Canadian teams are high demand and typically not going to have special offers. These games will most likely not have cheap seats even on the reseller market. New for the 2018-2019 season the LCA has changed to mobile tickets only so no more paper tickets. Check out the mobile ticketing guides for more information. There have been mobile ticket assistance street team members stationed at the main entrances if you have an issue onsite.
  
• Joe Louis Arena is still standing and most of the signage is now gone but you can still snap a photo. The Joe is designated to be torn down at a future date. You can visit the Joe at 19 Steve Yzerman Dr, Detroit, MI 48226.
  
• There are a variety of hotels in Detroit ranging in prices from high at the Westin Book Cadillac to lower at the Holiday Inn Express next door to the Westin. Nearby casinos such as the Ilitch-owned Motor City Casino or MGM offer free shuttle to the LCA or short 8 block walk. Check out TripAdvisor Detroit hotels for additional lodging options.
  
• The LCA now has larger and more variety food options (pizza, shawarma, burritos, salads, sammiches, pulled pork, grilled cheese, etc.) inside but they are all at a premium price. The free game day program at the LCA contains a map. If I am eating at the arena I go for the chicken pita from The Coop. If you want a complete Ilitch experience then get a slice or whole pie of Little Caesars pizza. Detroit is a foodie town and there are many options to choose from outside the arena. If it is your first time to Detroit or haven't been there yet I recommend getting an iconic coney island hot dog from American or Lafayette PROTIP: Lafayette. Check out the /detroit sidebar for more Detroit restaurant suggestions. There are simply too many to list here so suggest your favorites in the comments below!
  
• Harry’s Bar and Temple Bar are neighborhood bars that are within a 2 block walking distance to the LCA if you want to drink and hangout with fans before or after. The Chevy Plaza outside the southwest corner of the LCA has beer stands. The /detroit sidebar has more bar suggestions in and around the city. PROTIP: take the QLINE streetcar (US$1.50/3 hours) to the Canfield stop and quaff a few brews over crack fries at HopCat then take the QLINE south 2 stops (10 blocks) to the LCA stop at Sproat St.
  
• If you're rich and want convenience, park at the LCA VIP parking structure. It may be pricier (US$45 as of 2018-09-20) but it is a comfortable sheltered stroll to the LCA. If you are up for a short walk and would like to save a buck park at the MGM Casino or Motor City Casino for free. From there you can walk 8 blocks or take their free shuttle. The further away you park from the LCA the cheaper it is. Fox Theater is $30, the two Comerica Park structures off the I-75 service drive are both $30. There are also several surface lots nearby, some let you pay in advance. Check out the parking map Some bars also have shuttles for free or a couple bucks. PROTIP: Nemo's has the best shuttle drivers. Early birds park for free on Temple, Woodward, and in Brush Park across Woodward from the LCA but be careful where you park because the police will write tickets if you park illegally. Ask me how I know.
  
• Coming from Canada? There is a Windsor tunnel bus US/CAN$5.00 each way from the bus terminal downtown Windsor (Chatham and Church) to Cass Ave. and the I-75 service drive next to the LCA. Getting through immigration takes a few minutes. Have your passport and don't be drunk. Check the link above for service times and details.
  
• The LCA doors open 1.5 hours before puck drop. There are four sets of doors one at each corner. The Chevy Plaza at the southwest corner has a large screen that shows pre-game hype videos and on occasion the live game. There are also beebeverage stands in the plaza as well as picnic games (e.g. corn hole). You will have to pass through security to enter the Chevy Plaza but no ticket scan until you enter the arena doors. LCA restaurants will let you in even earlier with a ticket but access to the concourse is blocked off until all doors open.
  
• You can sort of watch the players arrive by car (and visitors by bus) into the parking structure off Clifford north of the I-75 service drive.
  
• The best photos of the LCA exterior are from the east side of Woodward just north of the westbound I-75 service drive looking at the building from the southeast corner. Photo
  
• Will Call tickets at the box office located at the northeast corner of the arena off Woodward Ave.
  
• There is a strict bag size policy enforced at the door. I’ve seen some upset people turned away at the doors. Know before you go.
  
• You will have to go through a metal detector and may be subject to extra screening to enter the LCA.
  
• Free WIFI is available inside as well as outside of the arena.
  
• There are free game day programs inside the LCA at the entrances. Grab one because it has an arena map with section numbers and vendor locations including where to get Detroit and Michigan beers. Sometimes there are interesting articles too.
  
• There is a souvenir shop called the Team Store in the southwest corner of the LCA. The authentic signed gear and memorabilia located in the east end of the store. There are also vendors scattered around the via and upper concourse selling souvenirs. PROTIP: the LCA prices are high for swag. Buy your gear ahead of time online or at Detroit Athletic in Detroit, FanaticU or Hockeytown Authentics up in the suburbs.
  
• Friendly ushers are everywhere to help out and answer your questions. Most will take your photo for you if you ask politely.
  
• During warmups, fans congregate around the glass. Players come out at 30 minutes before game time for warmups. PROTIP: I recommend watching the Red Wings shoot at the net during warmups from behind the net on the glass in section 102/103. Hearing the puck smack the glass inches from your face is neat. Same for aisle for 115/116 on the visiting team side behind the net. The ushers will let you down to the ice level for warmups even if you don’t have tickets in that section.
  
• The sea of banners is gone but the retired jerseys and Stanley Cup Championship banners remain. They are not the originals which are now hanging in the practice rink below the main rink. You may not see them until after hype video because they are retractable. The banners share the ceiling with the Pistons banners on the other side. PROTIP: The best photo op for the Red Wing banners is in front of the Fox Sports Detroit broadcast desk at the top of section 219.
  
• There is a nice mix of old and new artwork in the LCA. Take some time before the game to walk around the lower and upper level concourses to see the manholes, the Howe, Lindsey, Delvecchio statues from the Joe, the original Olympia sign, murals of Red Wing greats. Look for the Red Wing logo at the northeast corner lower concourse made of auto parts. There are multiple selfie and photo spots too like the Red Wings bench and Little Caesars spear. The LCA is shared with the Detroit Pistons basketball team so you will see artwork and displays featuring their greats as well.
  
• Every seat at the LCA has a view of the ice. Some seats in the upper level (rows 6 and above between the red lines) have obstructed views of the center ice score board but there displays mounted behind the gondolas. The layout of the seats are steep especially in the upper bowl where there is less leg room then lower bowl. Sections, rows, and seats are on your ticket but navigation is based on portals. Check your ticket for your portal, go to that, then find your section/row/seat. Sit in your own seat. If you see seats that are still empty well into the first period then move to them. If someone asks you to move out of their seat just do it. Explore the arena to check out different seat views. PROTIP: go up to portals 78-82 to check out the vertigo inducing view down from the gondola.
  
• Get to your seat 10 minutes before puck drop to see the pre-game hype video on the huge scoreboard and on-ice projection.
  
• The LCA now has a legit organ with in-house organists. They're pretty entertaining. Check it out the upper concourse behind section 301.
  
• Most Red Wings fans are friendly people and quite knowledgeable about their team and the sport. Strike up a conversation and you'll probably learn something new.
  
• Cheer for your visiting team but don't be a dick about it.
  
• DO NOT STAND UP OUT OF YOUR SEAT WHILE THE PUCK IS IN PLAY.
  
• The LCA has a strict no smoking policy. There is no smoking inside or anywhere outside of the arena at any door. If you leave the LCA to smoke you will not be readmitted.
  
• Yes, that's not the goal horn from the Joe. It is a recording of the Joe horn and to many people is sounds dull, flat, and disappointing. The "horn" is much louder in the lower bowl but then again the speakers are louder in the lower bowl and have a lot more bass than the upper bowl. Since they didn't get a real horn in the off season, chances are the owner doesn't care and won't "fix it" any time soon if at all. I've complained to no avail.
  
• Don't leave early! If the Red Wings win the DJ will play Don't Stop Believing in the final seconds or right after the game ends for you and thousands of your friends to sing along. The arena DJ plays music from multiple genres from Motown to country to pop and is known to take suggestions. He can be reached on Twitter @thehockeyjockey.
  
• There is no public accessible spot for athlete autographs. The best opportunity for autographs is an event created for that purpose such as the Season Ticket Holder Open House, Fan Day Open House, or charity events like Toast of Hockeytown, Charity Poker Tournaments, as well as autograph signing events posted on facebook.
  
• Post-game ride share pickups are along the I-75 service drive southeast of the LCA. Shuttles will pick you up where they dropped you off.
  
• Have fun and enjoy the game!
  

It’s the inaugural season of the new Little Caesers Arena (LCA). Many pilgrims are making the trek to the new arena to watch the Detroit Red Wings play. This is my first version of this guide for first time visitors modeled after the one I put together for The Joe. I hope you find it helpful. Suggestions welcome!

• Safety around the LCA as well as nearby Detroit city streets is very good. Detroit has a reputation of having high crime however in the 25 years I've been going to games in downtown Detroit I've never felt threatened for my safety. Immediately around and inside the LCA there are Detroit City and Michigan State Police as well as Olympia Security before, during, and after the game. The city streets around the LCA and out to the restaurants and hotels are walkable. But like in any modern city, keep your eyes and ears open and don't be stupid. Walk in groups. Stay (reasonably) sober. Don't go down the sketchy alley. Stay on the well-lit streets. Park in a guarded structure or lot not on a dark side street far away. Lock your car doors. Don't leave visible items inside the car. In other words don't be a victim. You'll be fine and you'll have a good time.
  
• A guided tour of the LCA is available by scheduling in advance on specific dates. Check the LCA tours webpage for more information on prices and scheduling.
  
• Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster, or at the LCA box office (if not already sold out), or through a reseller like Stubhub or even Ticketmaster's Ticket Exchange. Join the mailing list and check out the Red Wings social media for short notice deals like student and military rush ticket pricing and Fan Packs. Be advised the special offers are typically for low demand games like weekdays. Friday and Saturday games especially near holidays or against Canadian teams are high demand and typically not going to have special offers. These games will most likely not have cheap seats even on the reseller market. Ticket prices for the first season of the LCA have been higher than historically at the Joe.
  
• Joe Louis Arena is still standing but no longer being used. The Joe is designated to be torn down but that date is currently not public. You can visit the Joe at 19 Steve Yzerman Dr, Detroit, MI 48226.
  
• I personally do not have much experience with hotels in Detroit but I know people who have stayed at the Westin Book Cadillac and the nearby Ilitch-owned Motor City Casino which also has free shuttle to the LCA or an 8 block walk. MGM Casino is also nearby with a shuttle. On the cheaper side is the Holiday Inn Express next to the Westin Book Cadillac. Check out TripAdvisor Detroit for other hotel options.
  
• With all of the new good food options I recommend checking out a restaurant inside the LCA. Sure the food is stadium prices but there are now three full restaurants located inside the arena as well multiple food stall vendors serving a variety of tastes. The free game day program at the LCA contains a map. I am partial to The Coop. If you want a complete Ilitch experience then get a slice or whole pie of Little Caesars pizza to go or sit down at Mike’s Pizza Bar. Outside the arena I also recommend somewhere iconic such as a coney from American or Lafayette (PROTIP: Lafayette). There are many good restaurants near the LCA and beyond. Check out the /detroit sidebar for more Detroit restaurant suggestions in and around the city. Popular spots include Hockeytown Cafe and flaming cheese in Greektown.
  
• Harry’s Bar and Temple Bar are neighborhood bars that are within a 2 block walking distance to the LCA if you want to drink and hangout with fans before or after. The Chevy Plaza outside the southwest corner of the LCA has beer stands. The /detroit sidebar has more bar suggestions in and around the city. PROTIP: take the QLINE streetcar (US$1.50/3 hours) to the Canfield stop and quaff a few brews over crack fries at HopCat then take the QLINE south 2 stops (10 blocks) to the LCA stop at Sproat St. Be advised the northbound QLINE LCA stop is Adelaide St.
  
• For convenience, park at the LCA VIP parking structure. It may be pricier (US$40 as of 2017-11-09) but it is a comfortable sheltered stroll to the LCA. If you are up for a short walk and would like to save a buck park at the MGM Casino or Motor City Casino for free. From there you can walk 8 blocks or take their free shuttle. The further away you park from the LCA the cheaper it is. There are several surface lots and structures nearby, some let you pay in advance. Some bars also have shuttles for free or a couple bucks. PROTIP: Nemo's has the best shuttle drivers. Regardless, remember where you parked, how you got to the LCA.
  
• Coming from Canada? There is a Windsor tunnel bus US/CAN$5.00 each way from the bus terminal downtown Windsor (Chatham and Church) to Cass Ave. and the I-75 service drive next to the LCA. Getting through immigration takes a few minutes. Have your passport and don't be drunk. Check the link above for service times and details.
  
• The LCA doors open 1.5 hours before game start. There are four sets of doors one at each corner. The Chevy Plaza at the southwest corner has a large screen that shows pre-game hype videos and on occasion the live game. There are also beebeverage stands in the plaza as well as picnic games (e.g. corn hole). You will have to pass through security to enter the Chevy Plaza but no ticket scan until you enter the arena doors.
  
• You can sort of watch the players arrive by car (and visitors by bus) into the parking structure off Clifford north of the I-75 service drive.
  
• The best photos of the LCA exterior are from the east side of Woodward just north of the westbound I-75 service drive looking at the building from the southeast corner. Photo
  
• Will Call tickets at the box office located at the northeast corner of the arena off Woodward Ave.
  
• There is a strict bag size policy enforced at the door. I’ve seen some upset people turned away at the doors. Know before you go.
  
• You will have to go through a metal detector and may be subject to extra screening to enter the LCA.
  
• Free WIFI is available inside as well as outside of the arena.
  
• There are free programs inside the LCA at the entrances. Grab one because it has an arena map with section numbers and vendor locations. Sometimes there are interesting articles too.
  
• There is souvenir shop called the Team Store in the southwest corner of the LCA. The authentic signed gear and memorabilia located in the east end of the store. There are also vendors scattered around the via and upper concourse selling souvenirs. PROTIP: the LCA prices are high for swag. Buy your gear ahead of time online or at Detroit Athletic in Detroit or Hockeytown Authentics up in Troy.
  
• Friendly ushers are everywhere to help out and answer your questions. Most will take your photo for you if you ask politely.
  
• There are local Detroit and Michigan craft beer vendors scattered around the arena priced at around US$10. Check the map in the free program for locations.
  
• During warmups, fans congregate around the glass. Players come out at 30 minutes before game time for warmups. PROTIP: I recommend watching the Red Wings shoot at the net during warmups from behind the net on the glass in section 102/103. Hearing the puck smack the glass inches from your face is neat. Same for aisle for 115/116 on the visiting team side behind the net. The ushers will let you down to the ice level for warmups even if you don’t have tickets in that section.
  
• The sea of banners is gone but the retired jerseys and Stanley Cup Championship banners remain. They are not the originals (those are hanging in the practice rink below the main rink) but are retractable. The banners share the ceiling with the Pistons banners on the other side. PROTIP: The best photo op for the Red Wing banners is in front of the Fox Sports Detroit broadcast desk at the top of section 219. Say hi to Keats for me.
  
• There is a nice mix of old and new artwork in the LCA. Take some time before the game to walk around the lower and upper level concourses to see the manholes, the Howe/Lindsey/Delvecchio statues from the Joe, the original Olympia sign, murals of Red Wing greats. Look for the Red Wing logo at the northeast corner lower concourse made of auto parts. There are multiple selfie and photo spots too like the Red Wings bench and Little Caesars spear. The LCA is shared with the Detroit Pistons basketball team so you will see artwork and displays featuring their greats as well.
  
• Every seat at the LCA has a great view of the ice. Some seats in the upper level (rows 6 and above between the red lines) have obstructed views of the center ice score board but there displays mounted behind the gondolas. The layout of the seats are steep and from the ice it looks like the stands are stacked on top of you. Sections, rows, and seats are on your ticket but navigation is based on portals. Check your ticket for your portal, go to that, then find your section/row/seat. Sit in your own seat. If you see seats that are still empty well into the first period then move to them. If someone asks you to move out of their seat just do it. Explore the arena to check out different seat views. PROTIP: go up to portals 78-82 to check out the vertigo inducing view down from the gondola.
  
• Get to your seat 10 minutes before puck drop to see the pre-game on the huge scoreboard and on-ice projection.
  
• The LCA now has a legit organ with in-house organists. They're pretty entertaining. Check it out the upper concourse behind section 301.
  
• Don't be disrespectful during the national anthem(s). Just stand politely and shut up. Some visitors don't understand how disrespectful they can be. It's like 2 minutes, put the phone down.
  
• Most Red Wings fans are friendly people and quite knowledgeable about their team and the sport. Strike up a conversation and you'll probably learn something new.
  
• Cheer for your visiting team but don't be a dick about it.
  
• DO NOT STAND UP OUT OF YOUR SEAT WHILE THE PUCK IS IN PLAY.
  
• The LCA has a strict no smoking policy. There is no smoking area outside of any door. If you leave the LCA to smoke you will not be readmitted.
  
• We know the goal horn recording sucks. We've already told the Red Wings organization about it. They know. They're working on it.
  
• There are a lot of restrooms in the LCA. I haven’t see any long lines like the Joe had. Sadly(?) there are no urinal troughs in the men’s rooms.
  
• Don't leave early! If the Red Wings win the DJ will play Don't Stop Believing in the final seconds or right after the game ends for you and thousands of your friends to sing along. The arena DJ plays music from multiple genres from Motown to country to pop and is known to take suggestions. He can be reached on Twitter @thehockeyjockey.
  
• There is no public accessible spot for athlete autographs. The best opportunity for autographs is an event created for that purpose such as the Season Ticket Holder Open House, Fan Day Open House, or charity events like Toast of Hockeytown, Charity Poker Tournaments, as well as autograph signing events posted at https://www.facebook.com/DRWautographs/.
  
• Post-game ride share pickups are along the I-75 service drive south of the LCA. Shuttles will pick you up where they dropped you off.
  
• Have fun and enjoy the game!
  

Edit 1: typos and ride share info
Edit 2: photo spot location and photo

Happy New Year /Detroit! Every day people come to ask "What should I do in the city??" and this updated thread is our chance to tell them. It's been 3+ years since its been updated so a lot has changed. Keeping a similar format to the 2014 and 2011 editions comment below with any suggestion(s) and a short reason why you recommend it.
Everyone's collective picks will be added into the list below and then added to the sidebar. Closed businesses have already been removed, new Museums section now broken out, if you have any adds/deletes/edits to existing list, just shout it out, I'll leave this post as a sticky and open over the next week so all have a chance to contribute. See below:

Entertainment & Attractions

Public Spaces/Parks:

• Belle Isle Michigans most visited State Park; from Sunset Point to the Conservatory and Aquarium, many beaches there's lots to discover here.
• Eastern Market one of the largest and oldest open-air farmers markets in the country
• Campus Martius highly regarded as one of the best city parks in the country and home to many events throughout the year. Home to Detroit's Christmas tree and an ice-skating rink in the winter.
• Detroit People Mover it's not the most useful system for transit, but is actually a good way to see downtown in a quick 20-30 minutes
• Riverwalk A walkable view of Canada and Detroit River.
• Rouge Park for great outdoor times
• Chandler Park
• Historic Fort Wayne when open

Entertainment Venues:

• El Club Music venue in Mexicantown that also has amazing NY style pizza
• Marble Bar Music venue that also hosts WDET's monthly Moth storytelling
• Garden Bowl/Magic Stick Historic bowling alley, dive bar and concert venue under one roof.
• Baker's Keyboard Lounge top-notch jazz club
• PJ's Lager House live music, local beer on tap
• Theaters Detroit is home to the second largest theater district in the Fillmore, Fox Theater, Masonic Temple, Fisher Theater, Gem, Music Hall, St. Andrews, Detroit Opera House, City Theater, Majestic, Max M. Fisher Music Center

Seasonal:

• Detroit City Football Club (also see /DetroitCityFC) amazing soccer team, nationally recognized.
• Detroit Derby Girls Bouts take place at the Masonic Temple

Other:

• Detroit Film Theatre 1,200 seat auditorium located at the DIA, catch a screening.
• Cinema Detroit Movie theater located in Midtown, select indie films and new releases
• Casinos We have three! Greektown, MGM Grand and Motor City.

Museums & Exhibits

• Detroit Institute of Arts Free for Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb county residents.
• Motown Museum the birthplace of Motown music, located in New Center
• Henry Ford Museum/Greenfield Village Good for vistors if they have a few hours and transportation.
• MOCAD Contemporary Art Museum in an amazing raw space, always changing exhibitions and a nice little shop inside. Located on Woodward in Midtown.
• Michigan Science Center hands-on exhibits, IMAX Dome, Planetarium, mad scientists with liquid nitrogen and lightning. good for kids, located in Midtown.
• Outdoor Adventure Center located in the newly restored Globe Trading Building.
• Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History
• Tuskegee Airmen Museum
• African Bead Museum
• Dossin Great Lakes Museum located on Belle Isle
• Ford Piquette Plant historic auto production facility and birthplace of the Model T.

Retail & Shopping

• John K. King Books Downtown; Largest used bookstore in the state, located in an old glove warehouse
• Pewabic Pottery near Islandview; Detroit original, lots of original ceramic art work to view and purchase
• Third Man Records Retail store and Vinyl Manufacturing plant, owned/operated by Jack White
• City Bird Midtown; Handmade goods from local and regional designers
• People's Records Gratiot in Eastern Market; Internationally renowned treasure trove of rare vinyl, with a focus on Detroit produced stuff
• Hello Records Corktown; Newer record shop with a great collection of new and old vinyl
• Pure Detroit Downtown and New Center; Detroit themed t-shirts, magnets, etc.
• Shinola Flagship Store watches, bikes and leather goods.
• The Hub A Bicycle shop with a charitable bent and affordable bikes.
• Avenue of Fashion Located at Livernois and Outer Drive; shopping district off the beaten path
• Run Detroit Running gear store in Midtown, hosts a welcoming run club every Saturday morning at 8am
• Paramita Sound Record store in West Village

Places to eat:

• Coney Islands Lafayette or American, take your pick. Duly's Place in Mexicantown as another OG contender.
• Supino Pizzeria Eastern Market; Best NY style pizza in the city, delicious fresh ingredients
• Cass Cafe Restaurant and art gallery in Cass Corridor.
• Green Dot Stables Grab your saddle, best sliders in the city.
• Johnny Noodle King one of Detroit's ramen noodle houses
• The Bronx Midtown. Classic dive bar with an equally classic jukebox and a burger that's out of this world.
• Sweetwater Tavern Downtown, /Detroit's pick for 'Best Wings in the City'
• Buddy's Pizza Original Detroit style pizza, well regarded by foodies and chefs.
• Rock City Eatery on Woodward in Midtown. Cheap drinks and great food.
• Dutch Girl Donuts Palmer Park. Best donuts in the city, been doing it the same way forever.
• Mudgies Deli Corktown fresh sandwich shop with patio, recently expanded.
• Cadieux Cafe Jazz music throughout the week and authentic Featherbowling.
• Slow's BBQ Corktown. BBQ that put Corktown as a food destination on the map. Check out Slows-To-Go in Midtown if you're looking to skip the wait.
• The Food Exchange famous for the Big Baby burger
• Vincente's Great Cuban food. Salsa dancing. 20+ types of tequila
• Ottava Via Italian joint in Corktown. Great food, laid back atmosphere.
• Mercury Bar Good food and beer selection and the atmosphere is really cool.
• Townhouse located Downtown
• Bucharest Grill Amazing Shawarma and good prices, 3 locations around the city.
• Scotty Simpson's Northwest side for fish and chips
• Polish Village Cafe Eat your Polish Grandmother's cooking. A Hamtramck staple.
• The Whitney Restaurant in a gorgeous historic mansion. Ambience is spectacular, food has gone through down periods. Good spot for an important date night. Don't be surprised to see a marriage proposal.
• Giovanni's Arguably the best Italian food in the city. Neighborhood is what happens when you zone Heavy Industrial in Sim City, but the food, service and ambience are world-class.
• London Chop House A famous Detroit restaurant name brought back to life, it's a classic dark-wood, old-school steakhouse. Frank Sinatra and Henry Ford II had tables there. Just opened a cigar bar in the same building for after-dinner lounging.
• Roast "Iron Chef" Michael Symon's restaurant in the Westin Book Cadillac hotel. Things happen to meat here that you never thought possible.
• Joe Muer's Seafood Like the London Chop House, a classic name from Detroit restaurant history brought back to life. Located in the ground floor of the GM Renaissance Center, lunch is comprised almost entirely of GM suppliers taking their customers out to lunch, but dinner is another matter.
• Golden Fleece Greektown. "Best Gyro in town" and other greek specialties.
• Mexicantown Most authentic Mexican food in the city, can't go wrong: Los Altos, Taqueria Lupitas, Taqueria Nuestra Familia, Taqueria El Rey, or Taqueria Mi Pueblo.
• ** Takoi** Northern Thai inspired restaurant. James Beard finalist
• Selden Standard Fine dining, local, small plates. Also great brunch.
• Wright & Co Fine dining, local, small plates.
• Republic Fine dining, local, small plates.
• ima Corktown, Udon noodles.
• Flower's of Vietnam Vietnamese restaurant run by a Lebanese chef in an old Mexicantown coney. Only in Detroit.
• Polonia Restaurant Home style Polish and Eastern European food, located right next to Polish Village cafe in Hamtramck.
• Apparatus Room Fine restaurant & bar in the Detroit Foundation Hotel near Cobo Center.
• People's Bakery One of Southwest's finest local shops.

Brunch Spots

• Cliff Bells Foxtown. Bottomless mimosas and bloody Mary's and great selection of French and Soul Food inspired dishes
• Hudson Cafe Downtown. Red velvet pancakes, graham cracker-crusted French toast, and Voodoo Eggs Benedict
• Seva Midtown. great Brunch for Vegan's and Vegetarian's- Small but good beewine selection
• Brooklyn Street Local Corktown. banana pancakes with caramelized walnuts, an inevitably delicious quiche-of-the-day, and of course, the Hangover Special, and some damn good Poutine!
• La Dolce Vita North Detroit. smooth jazz, salmon hash, and the shrimp Benedict make for a fabulous brunch experience
• The Dime Store Downtown. a great selection of Omelets, Benedicts, Sandwiches, and Hash (from Executive Chef Josh, who has spent 2 decades in award winning restaraunts in Chicago, NYC, and A2) and of course, BOOZE! (Their Duck Rueben is out of this world)
• Foran's Grand Trunk Pub Downtown. Great meal options throughout the day but their brunch is great (May I recommend their Corktown sandwich or the Lobster Benedict) with a great local beer selection to boot
• Rose's Fine Foods Rivertown. Homesick for mom's cooking? This place has incredible baked goods and delicious sandwiches that make you feel right at home
• The Clique Breakfast spot on Jefferson in Rivertown area
• Honest Johns Midtown. Good all around menu, drink list and Chicken & Waffles.
• Detroit Institute of Bagels Traditional bagels plus soups & sandwiches in an airy, industrial space with counter seating.

Places to drink:

Breweries:

• Batch Brewing Co. Corktown small batch brewery with 15+ beers on tap and Louisiana-style food.
• Detroit Beer Co. Great beer as well as great food. The Hair of the Dog burger is fantastic.
• Atwater Detroit brewery near the Riverfront
• Brew Detroit Contract brewing facility with a great open space and their own brews. Across the park from Batch. The Loaded Die hosts Tuesday boardgame nights here.
• Eastern Market Brewing Company The large pink elephant mural is hard to miss.
• Founders taproom Needs no introduction
• Motor City Brewing Works Midtown; Microbrewery with delicious beer and uniquely-topped pizzas, rooftop seating in the Summer
• Jolly Pumpkin Brewery Tap room specializing in Sour Beer and Ciders

Bars:

• Motor City Wine located in Corktown.
• SugarHouse Carefully crafted cocktails in a hunting lodge sharing a wall with Slow's. Hells yea.
• Woodbridge Pub
• Cafe D'Mongo's a unique and eclectic "speakeasy." reasonably priced and strong cocktails, live music every night (Fri & Sat only)
• Cliff Bells a solid jazz club right downtown (could be under entertainment as well)
• Dakota Inn Rathskeller a German underground beer hall that transports you straight to Europe, featuring German food, music, and beer. Especially popular during Oktoberfest (mid-September to end of October).
• Jacoby's Biergarten good selection of draft beer, solid German food, and a huge international beer selection
• Jolly Ol' Timers North Cass Corridor. If they're open, you won't find a bar full of more interesting people.
• Old Miami Midtown. A Veterans bar, During the summer, the back yard is the best place to drink in the city.
• Foran's Grand Trunk Pub Downtown; great selection of local Michigan beers, with decent food to accompany it
• Northern Lights Lounge New Center bar with a great patio and decent food.
• Two Way Inn One of the oldest bars in the city
• The Skip Popular alley bar in The Belt
• Ready Player One Barcarde
• Checker BaOffworld Arcade Burger bar & Barcade near Campus Martius

Coffeeshops:

• Astro Coffee a popular cafe in Corktown
• Great Lakes Coffee Roasting Co. Chill coffee bar with beer, wine and some food.
• Socre Tea A tea shop/cafe in midtown. Tucked away on Garfield and John R. Super quiet and relaxing.
• Ashe Supply Co. Small-batch java drinks plus pastries, sandwiches and other goods just off Grand Circus Park in Downtown
• Dessert Oasis Espresso, house-roasted coffee & pastries served in a brick-walled space with artwork & live music. Good window views located Downtown in Capital Park.

Landmarks

• The Grand Lobbies of Detroit See here: http://imgur.com/a/tqC8i
• Guardian Building another beautiful example of Art Deco architecture
• Fisher Building "the worlds largest art project" and a prime example of Detroit's rich Art Deco history
• The Fist of Joe Louis Woodward/Jefferson Ave
• Ford Piquette Plant historic auto production facility and birthplace of the Model T.
• The Spirit of Detroit Woodward/Jefferson Ave.
• Hart Plaza Found along the Riverwalk; a public space that's home to Movement, Detroit Jazz Fest and other festivals throughout the year.
• Senator Palmer’s Font Hill Log House and fountain in Palmer Park (when open).

The list below are high school dropouts:
Thomas Haffa – self-made double-digit billionaire German media businessman
J.R. Simplot – self-made billionaire American agricultural businessman
Robert Maxwell – self-made billionaire British publisher
Jim Clark – self-made billionaire American businessman; founder of Netscape – first Internet billionaire (17, U.S. Navy)
Jimmy Dean – singer-songwriter-actor; self-made multimillionaire American businessman; founder of the Jimmy
Andrew Jackson – 7th U.S. President; face is pictured on the U.S. twenty dollar bill (13, U.S. Continental Army; orphaned at 14; little formal education; home schooling/life experience; studied law in his late teens and became a lawyer
Leon Uris – best-selling American author (Exodus, etc.) (17, U.S. Marines)
Walter L. Smith – former president of Florida A& M University (equivalency diploma, at age 23.
Clement Stone – self-made multimillionaire (some sources indicate billionaire) American businessman-author; founder of Success” magazine (elementary school dropout; later attended high-school night courses and then some college
Jack London – best-selling American author (dropped out at 14 to work; later gained admission to the University of California; left after one semester
Arthur Ernest Morgan – American flood-control engineer; college, president-author; appointed by President Roosevelt to be director of the Tennessee Valley Authority public works project (left high school after three years; later attended the University of Colorado for six weeks
Maurice Chevalier – Oscar-winning actor-singer; French Legion of Honor inductee/Medal recipient (note: rank bestowed in
Pierce Brosnan – actor
Daniel Gilbert – Harvard University psychology professor (equivalency diploma
Patrick Henry – American Revolutionary War era politician; Virginia’ first governor; famous quote: Give me liberty, or give me death! (little formal education; home schooling/life experience; later studied on his own and earned a law degree
Peter Jennings – Canadian-born American television journalist; evening news anchorman
Ansel Adams – American wilderness photographer;Â photography book author; Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient
Brooke Astor – wealthy American socialite-philanthropist-author; Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient
Pearl Bailey – singer-actress, Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient
Bill Bartman – self-made billionaire American businessman
Lew Grade – British film/TV producer (TV: The Avengers, The Saint, Secret Agent, The Prisoner, The Muppet Show, etc.); knighted (United Kingdom: Sir Lew Grade)
Philip Emeagwali – supercomputer scientist; one of the pioneers of the Internet (high-IQ high-school dropout; left school in native Nigeria due to war conditions and lack of tuition money; continued to study on his own and earned an equivalency diploma; later won a scholarship to Oregon College of Education in the United States; transferred after one year to Oregon State University)
Hiram Stevens – American-born engineering inventor, knighted (United Kingdom: Sir Hiram Stevens)
Kemmons Wilson – self-made multimillionaire American businessman; founder of the Holiday Inn” hotel chain
Kjell Inge Rokke – self-made billionaire Norwegian businessman
Walter Nash – New Zealand Prime Minister 1957-1960, knighted (United Kingdom: Sir Walter Nash)
Rosa Parks – U.S. civil rights activist-pioneer; Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient; Congressional Gold Medal recipient
Mary Pickford – Oscar-winning actress; early Hollywood pioneer; co-founder of United Artists Corporation” (little formal education [six months]; home schooling/life experience)
Frederick Freddy” Laker – self-made multimillionaire British businessman; airline entrepreneur; knighted (United Kingdom: Sir Frederick [or Freddy] Laker)
Tommy Lasorda – baseball team manager; National Baseball Hall of Fame inductee
Anton van Leeuwenhoek- Dutch microscope maker; world’s first microbiologist; discoverer of bacteria, blood cells, and sperm cells)
Richard Branson – self-made billionaire British businessman; founder of Virgin Atlantic Airways,” Virgin Records,” etc.; knighted (United Kingdom: Sir Richard Branson)
Isaac Merrit Singer – American sewing machine inventor; self-made multimillionaire founder of Singer Industries,” I.M. Singer and Company,” etc. (elementary school dropout)
Alfred E. Smith – New York Governor; 1928 Democratic U.S. Presidential candidate (elementary school dropout)
Sean Connery – Oscar-winning actor; knighted (United Kingdom: Sir Sean Connery)
Jack Kent Cooke – self-made billionaire Canadian-born American media businessman
Charles E. Culpeper – self-made multimillionaire American businessman; early 1900s’ owner and head of The Coca Cola Bottling Company
Robert De Niro – Oscar-winning actor-producer; knighted (France: Chevalier [Knight] of the Legion of Honor; Chevalier [or Chev.] Robert De Niro)
Gerard Depardieu – Oscar-nominated actor; knighted (France: Chevalier [or Chev.] Gerard Depardieu) (elementary school dropout)
Richard Desmond – self-made billionaire British publisher
Joe Lewis – self-made billionaire British businessman
Carl Lindn er – self-made billionaire American businessman
John Llewellyn – U.S. Labor leader pioneer; for 40 years until his retirement, president of the United Mine Workers Union
Marcus Loew – self-made multimillionaire American businessman; early Hollywood pioneer; founder of the Loews” movie-theater chain; co-fondner of MGM studios (elementary school dropout)
Mary Lyon – American women’s education pioneer; early American teacher; founder of Mount Holyoke College (America’s first women’s college)
Sonny Bono – singer-songwriter-actor, U.S. Congressman (California U.S. Representative)
Horace Greeley – American newspaper publisher-editor; U.S. Congressman; U.S. Presidential candidate; co-founder of the Republican party in the United States
Here is another list of people that dropped out of high school or college. They have gone on to make more money then the rest of their graduating class all together:
Alan Gerry is another billionaire high school dropout. Gerry 71 also filled his bank account by exploiting a new technology. In 1956, ten years after he dropped out of high school, Gerry built the first cable television network in upstate New York. He made his fortune in this new market, and then sold his company, Cablevision, to Time Warner for $2.6 billion four years ago. Now Gerry is chairman of a venture capital firm called Granite Associates. Granite funds entrepreneurs trying to make their money in burgeoning technology industries, just as Gerry made his fortune by getting into cable when it was still in its infancy.
When you have a brilliant idea, nobody is going to ask to see your diploma, Gerry says. You don’t need a four-year college degree if you have burning ambition or a great plan.
Take Spud King John R. Simplot. Simplot, was born on an Idaho farm and left home when he was 14 because he was sick of milking cows.” Simplot followed that with a half century of hard work and shrewd investments, he made a killing in Micron (nyse: MU – news – people ). How important was education to his success? Hell, he says, I didn’t even get out of the eighth grade.
Tom Monaghan owner of Dominioes and former owner of the Detroit Tigers:
I floundered during the rest of high school and graduated last in my class. They weren’t even going to graduate me, but I pleaded with a nun. She said, Well, you got good marks in the seminary, so I’ll let you graduate. But don’t ever ask me to recommend you for college.
One day in 1960, my brother told me about a pizza shop in Ypsilanti, Mich., called Dominoes, that a friend of his was selling. My brother was interested but afraid to do it on his own, so he asked if I’d do it with him. I was having problems paying my way through school, so I said yes. It was $500 down, and we borrowed $900. I got a 15-minute lesson in making pizza from Dominick, and I was off. We opened up without an attorney. I didn’t even collect sales tax “didn’t know I had to. The plan was for me to work half the night and my brother to work the other half. But it didn’t work because he didn’t want to leave his full-time job as a mailman. Within about eight months he wanted out, and I bought him out by giving him the Volkswagen we used for deliveries.
Most of you probably know that Dave Thomas the founder of Wendys was a high school dropout.
Peter Jennings-High School Dropout
Here is a couple of notable geniuses that were not billionaires. They were rich with knowledge but not cash. They were high school dropouts.
Albert Einstein Thomas Edison
Hong Kong self-made billionaire Li Ka-Shing, worth $18.8 billion or so, is Asia’s richest man. He is also the richest Chinese in the world, and according to Forbes, the 10th richest man in the world.
When he was just 12 years old, Li and his family fled to Hong Kong when Japan invaded China. When he was 15, Liâ’s father died and he was forced to drop out of high school to support his family.
Li got his start as a salesman selling watches at his uncle’s store, and soon proved to be a diligent worker: he worked 16 hour days, visited customers during the day and worked at the factory at night. Determined to better himself, Li even found a tutor to teach him English every night!
When he was 21, Li opened a plastic manufacturing company and grew his business by selling high quality plastic flowers at bargain prices. When Li was 30, he accidentally got into real estate because he couldn’t renew the lease for his factory and was forced to purchase and develop a site himself.
From there, Li diversified into electronics, telecommunications, retails, ports, and even power and electricity. Li is also noted for his philantrophy: he gave millions to various universities and disaster-relief.
All in all, not bad for a high school drop-out.
Amancio Ortega.
Amancio Ortega was a son of a railway worker turned fashion-mogul and Spain’s richest man. He is worth $14.8 billion.
Ortega started out at the age of 14 as a gofer in a shirt store. At the age of 27, he started his own company to make bathrobes. Twelve years later, he opened his first store called Zara, which would become an enormously popular chain.
Ortega kept a very low profile (so much so that when he did make a public appearance in 2000, it made headlines in Spanish press!) but we’re guessing it’s not because this billionaire dropped out of high school.
François Pinault.
François who? You may not recognize the name, but you’ll definitely know his products: through his retail and luxury goods holding company PPR, Franasois Pinault owns (or has owned) Gucci, YSL, Converse sneakers, Samsonite luggage, the Vail ski resort in Colorado, and the auction house Christie’s.
But donâ’t tell the luxury goods buyers that Pinault is a high school dropout – just tell them he’s worth $7 billion.
David Murdock had a tough childhood – he dropped out of high school in ninth-grade and pumped gas until he was drafted into the Army.
Since then, however, life had worked out for him: Murdock did a leveraged buyout of Castle & Cooke, which then bought Dole Food Company and assumed its name.
So, next time you eat a Dole pinapple, remember that the guy that owns it was a high school drop out (and by buying the product, you’re making him that much richer than the $4 billion he’s currently worth)
Kirk Kerkorian.
Self-made billionaire Kirk Kerkorian was an amateur boxer (Rifle Right Kerkorina) and a pilot. At the age of 30, he got his start by buying a small air-charter service flying gamblers from Los Angeles to Las Vegas in 1947.
Seeing opportunities in Las Vegas, Kerkorian bought land and got into the lucrative real estate / casino development. Since the 1960s, Kerkorian had bought (and sold) hot properties like the Caesars Palace, the Las Vegas Hilton, MGM Grand Hotel and Casino, and others.
Kerkorian’s current fortune is estimated to be around $8.7 billion – not bad for someone who was a highschool dropout.
YC Wang.
Can you technically label someone a dropout if he never started high school to begin with? Dunno, but this is too remarkable not to mention.
Wait, there’s a billionaire here that never even set foot in high school?
Yes. That’s YC Wang, a self-made Taiwanese billionaire who made his fortune in plastics and chemicals. The octagenarian is now the head of Taiwan’s Formosa Plastics, one of the largest plastic manufacturers in the world.
Wang was born to a tea farmer and was forced to enter the work force with only an elementary school education.
He did well for himself, though – Wang is now worth $5.4 billion.
Virgin’s Richard Branson is worth $2.8 billion and that’s not too shabby for a guy who didn’t even finish high school.
Branson suffered from dyslexia and dropped out of high school at 16 years of age. What he lacked in schooling, however, he made up in curiosity and entrepreneur zeal – when he was 15, he had started two business ventures: growing Christmas trees and raising parrots!
When he was 17, Branson opened his first charity and started his first record business. Along with Nik Powell, Branson opened a small record store in London called Virgin. It specialized in krautrock imports.
Virgin became a veritable giant (branching out into things like airways, telecommunication and so forth) and Branson was knighted in 1999 for services to entrepreneurship.
More education doesn’t mean you’ll be more successful. It’s all about your drive. Your passion in life and sticking to it. Not necessarily playing it safe. I’ve meet many people that have played it safe, with a good job and such and then retire broke. Don’t play it safe. Go for it like these people have.
So, next time you want to call him a high school dropout, remember that it’s Sir high school dropout to you.
From http://blog.christophersherrod.com/high-school-dropouts-are-more-successful/

So this is actually my first Reddit post, if I fuck it up please let me know so I can correct it.
Ok so a little back ground on me, I was born and raised in Detroit, I left when I was in my late teens and am now fast approaching 40. I went off to become a chef, moved a few places most notably Las Vegas, SF and now NYC. I have learned a lot over the years about the restaurant business and have a strong desire to open my own. I am currently a partner in a business, food related but not a restaurant. This business looks like it will be sold in the next six months or so and as a result I will actually have what I am hoping is enough money to actually realize my dream. It won't be a ton of money around $200k so I need to maximize my investment.
I'm not looking for advice on how to start a restaurant, I'm confident in my ability there. As a side note I helped open the MGM casino and am comfortable with what I am getting myself into as far as talent pool and resources. Here is the advice I am seeking, what should I do and where should I do it? Ha!
Let me explain. What should I do, in that what is Detroit missing food wise? I have been looking and it seems like some places are coming about but there really seems a lot of room in the field and I want to narrow it down. To help in this I believe in simple, honest food at a reasonable price. I'm not talking fine dining or quick service either. Kind of a marriage in the middle. Upscale diner, pizzeria, brasserie maybe? Think Slow's but in a different cuisine.
The second part of where is equally important to me I want someplace with character not a white box with shitty cafe tables. I want a neighborhood that appreciates good music, good food, and a fun vibe. So nix the suburbs, mostly because of the boring architecture, I'm sure there are plenty of good people there it's just too homogenized for my taste.
I know that it's rapidly changing there and I am quite sure I am not up to date. I'll be heading out in July to scout around to see what's up.
Thanks for any advice, also if you think I'm delusional about the confidence in starting a restaurant and there are unique things in the Detroit restaurant scene I need to look out for please feel free to let me know. Any help is help.
Edit: thanks to all who commented and sent me messages. This post is helping me solidify my decision to move back home and get this thing going.
What the consensus here seems to be is keep it cheap (ie under $10 for an entree) but good and limit menu options. I really have been thinking craft beer and pizza or sandwiches where no corners are cut and absolutely everything is made from scratch with old school techniques.
Please keeps the comments coming I am taking notes and it helps to keep the fire burning.

I grew up in Michigan but left in 2007. Can anyone tell me what impact the opening of the casinos in Detroit have had? Links would be great; the city I live in now is considering opening one and I'd like to know what you all think has been the result of MGM & Co. in Hockeytown. Thanks!