Aretha Franklin Amphitheater, located along the Detroit Riverfront in downtown Detroit, is a beautiful outdoor concert venue that hosts many popular music events throughout the summer. With its prime location and scenic riverfront views, parking near the amphitheater can be a bit tricky, especially on busy concert nights. So do you have to pay for parking at Aretha Franklin Amphitheater and what are the best options?
Parking Options at Aretha Franklin Amphitheater
There are a few different parking options available near the Aretha Franklin Amphitheater:
- On-site parking – There is a parking structure located directly next to the amphitheater that concertgoers can pay to park in. Rates are around $20-40 per vehicle depending on the show.
- Nearby lots and garages – Within a short walk of the amphitheater there are various parking lots and garages that offer event parking, typically ranging from $10-30 per vehicle.
- Street parking – If you arrive early enough, you may be able to find a metered street parking spot nearby. Rates vary but tend to be $1-2 per hour with a 2-3 hour limit.
- Park Detroit app – The Park Detroit app allows you to pay for select lots/garages and street parking spots through your phone. Rates vary.
So in short, yes, you do have to pay for parking if you drive to an event at Aretha Franklin Amphitheater. There is no free option unfortunately. The good news is there are affordable rates available if you don’t mind walking a few blocks.
Best Parking Tips for Aretha Franklin Amphitheater
If you want to save money and avoid the parking headaches at Aretha Franklin Amphitheater, follow these tips:
Arrive Early
Give yourself plenty of time and try to arrive at least 1 hour before showtime, if not earlier. This will open up more parking options before the prime spots fill up.
Walk a Few Blocks
Parking gets more affordable and readily available the further you go from the amphitheater. Aim for lots that are a 5-10 minute walk away to save money.
Use the Park Detroit App
The Park Detroit app allows you to pay for parking ahead of time and even reserve a spot in some lots. This is the most convenient way to pay.
Check Parking Rates & Availability Online
Many lots will list concert parking rates and availability on their websites or social media pages. Do your research ahead of time to find the best deals.
Consider Alternative Transportation
If you don’t want to deal with parking at all, consider taking public transportation, rideshare, or bike to the show instead.
Cheapest Parking Near Aretha Franklin Amphitheater
To save you money and time, here is a comparison of some of the cheapest parking options within walking distance of Aretha Franklin Amphitheater:
Parking Location | Distance to Amphitheater | Average Cost |
---|---|---|
Riverside Park Garage | 0.3 miles | $10 |
Premier Parking Surface Lot | 0.4 miles | $15 |
Boll YMCA Garage | 0.5 miles | $10 |
Paradise Valley Parking Lot | 0.6 miles | $15 |
Grand Circus Park Garage | 0.7 miles | $10 |
As you can see, prices tend to range from $10-15 at lots about a half mile walk or less from the amphitheater. These fill up fast, so get there early to grab a spot.
FAQs about Parking at Aretha Franklin Amphitheater
Can you park for free near Aretha Franklin Amphitheater?
Unfortunately there are no free parking options in the immediate vicinity of Aretha Franklin Amphitheater. Street parking is available but you have to pay the meters or use the Park Detroit app. If you’re willing to walk further, you may be able to find free street parking outside of the immediate downtown area.
Where should you NOT park near Aretha Franklin Amphitheater?
Avoid parking in residential areas or unauthorized parking lots that do not have proper permits for event parking. You are at risk of being ticketed or towed from these spots. Also avoid parking in no parking zones, blocking driveways/ramps, or in handicap accessible spots without a permit.
Can you park in lots nearby if you aren’t going to an event?
Most lots will let non-concert goers park for a fee, but rates may be higher than their event parking prices. Check for regular hourly/daily rates if you are looking to park downtown for reasons other than an amphitheater event.
How early should you arrive for parking near Aretha Franklin Amphitheater?
Aim to arrive at least 1 hour before showtime, if not earlier for big concerts. Prime parking spots can fill up quickly, especially on busy nights. The earlier you can arrive, the more parking options you will have.
Can you park overnight at Aretha Franklin Amphitheater?
Overnight parking is not allowed in the amphitheater lots. Nearby garages and lots also have restrictions on overnight parking, usually not allowing it or requiring permits. Street parking has limits of 2-3 hours before you need to move your vehicle.
Is parking available at Aretha Franklin Amphitheater for disabled guests?
Yes, there are dedicated handicap parking spaces available at the amphitheater. Make sure you have the proper disabled parking placard or license plate to use these spots. If the handicap spots fill up, notify parking attendants for assistance.
Can you get dropped off near Aretha Franklin Amphitheater?
Yes, there are designated rideshare and drop-off zones right by the amphitheater entrances. These areas allow for quick pick-up/drop-off but no parking. Use them to be dropped off as close to the venue as possible.
Conclusion
Parking near Detroit’s scenic Aretha Franklin Amphitheater does require payment, with typical event rates ranging from $10-40 depending on proximity. To save money, arrive early and be prepared to walk a few blocks to your car. Nearby garages like Riverside Park and Grand Circus Park offer affordable rates under $20 when you reserve a spot in advance online or via apps like Park Detroit. With a few parking tips in mind, you can minimize headaches and costs to enjoy great shows on the riverfront this summer.