Detroit's North American International Auto Show: Other stuff to do in the D

Now may be the last best time to see the Detroit auto show.  Here's what else to do in what's (for now) still the Motor City.

(numbers correlate to the adjacent map; click to open a larger image)

1. Stay

The Westin Book Cadillac

1114 Washington Blvd; 313-442-1600

A $180 million renovation has the old Book Cadillac, which was the tallest hotel in the world upon its completion in 1924, restored to its former glory.

1241 Woodward Avenue; 313-961-1115

A warm and inviting new eatery puts an interesting, often Southern, spin on breakfast classics.

121 Gratiot Ave; 313-628-2851

Browse this extensive collection of books, periodicals, and literature.

608 Woodward Ave; 313-964-4511

This legendary sandwich shop is now in a new, downtown location.  Order the Trinity (#39) and come hungry.

500 Griswold St; 313-963-1440

Pick up something funky that lets people know you've been to the 313.  Locations also in the RenCen and the Fisher Building.

2138 Michigan Ave; 313-962-9828

Our design director swears by the Triple Threat (bacon, pulled pork, and ham), but whatever you chose, a side of mac 'n' cheese is a must.

408 W. Congress St; 313-962-1293

Right across the street from Cobo Center, this dive bar is a great place to put on a pre-show buzz or cheer on the Red Wings.  Just don't expect clean bathrooms.

2901 Grand River Ave; 866-PLAY-MCC

Of the three casinos in Detroit, only one plays up the city's automotive heritage with dream-car architecture - Chip Foose helped out on the interior.

118 W. Lafayette Blvd; 313-964-8198

In Detroit, a coney island is a chili dog (with mustard and onions); Lafayette has been cranking 'em out for years.  Order it with a brew, and they'll toss you a can of Bud.

• The 2009 NAIAS is open to the public January 17-25.  
• Show floor is open from 9 a.m - 10 p.m through the 24th; it closes early - 7 p.m. - on the 25th.
• Tickets run $12 for adults; $6 for those between ages 7-12 or over 65.  Kids 6 and under are free.
• Parking is available within the immediate area (including Cobo's roof, accessible off Congress St.), but it can fill up fast. If you can find a spot, expect to shell out between $10 and $20 for the day.
• Bundle up. Yes, we're repeating what your mom nagged you about years ago, but with temperatures currently well below zero (Farenheit, mind you), warm winter gear is a must if you plan on walking to any of the above destinations (or, for that matter, from concept car to your car).