10 Things to Do in Dearborn That You Shouldn't Miss

Trace the history of the auto and our fascination with it along with other American inventions through the staggering collection of Henry Fords estate, which includes such memorabilia as the chair Abraham Lincoln sat in when he was assassinated and the limo in which John F. Kennedy was shot.

Considered to house one of the best art collections in the United States, the Institute showcases everything from mummies to modern art and African masks to Monets in its outstanding collection of over 65,000 works. Don't miss the General Motors Center for African American Art, a part of the DIA which showcases 400 pieces, in various media, by African American artists.

Experience the Original Model T Factory Visiting the Piquette Avenue Ford Plant is a unique experience-it's the oldest auto plant open to the public anywhere in the world. Almost unchanged since Henry Ford's day, the plant is a three-story New England-style mill building. Each floor is divided into sections by the original metal fire doors, complete with the shadows of Henry Ford's "Positively NO Smoking" stencils. The old plank floors are worn from the 12,000 Model Ts built on them, so wear appropriate shoes for your visit. The plant is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is a designated National Historic Landmark and a Michigan State Historic Site. Walk the worn wood floors and touch the brick walls where Henry Ford and his team of automotive pioneers developed the car that led to an automotive and social revolution. See Henry Ford's office as it was in 1908 when he was on the cusp of fame. And learn why it still matters today. See a selection of rare Detroit-built cars from the first decade of the 20th century and learn their fates.

Museum serves to document, preserve and educate the public on the history, life and culture of African Americans.

The Arab American National Museum (AANM) is the first and only museum in the United States devoted to Arab American history and culture. Through its interactive hands-on exhibits, the AANM documents and presents the Arab American story. By bringing the voices and faces of Arab Americans to its audiences, the AANM affirms its commitment to dispel the many misconceptions about Arab Americans and other minorities.

This old Detroit home belies the greatness that was born here: the Motown Sound. But one step inside Hitsville, USA, the original house where Berry Gordy lived and recorded the Motown hits, and you'll catch the beat and spirit of this booming music era. Photos, costumes, artwork, music and other memorabilia take you back to simpler times.

Fair Lane is the historic home of Clara and Henry Ford. It was the Fords' 15th and final home. They built the 31,000-square-foot estate as their dream home on 1,300 acres in Dearborn, Mich. The historic structures of the estate, including the main house, are closed for restoration. The grounds and gardens are open for visitors Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. year round, plus additional weekend hours during the late spring and summer. The estate is closed on weekends during the winter. Grounds admission is free. The house will open periodically for special celebrations, events and sneak peeks at restoration in progress.

This museum gives the nod to those who distinguished themselves in the auto industry by innovation, determination and inspiration.