We are the generation of laziness, self-entitlement, and over-stimulation. One would suspect that sitting through an hour-long concert or strolling through a museum and NOT taking a selfie, would be a psychological battle that few Millennials would want to endure. However, despite our negative archetypes and our cell phone appendages, cultural events nationwide have seen a shift in behavior and attendance among our generation. The 2014-research study conducted by LaPlaca Cohen found that Millennials actually had the highest cultural event attendance, averaging two per month. Granted the definition of a “cultural experience” is far reaching in itself, but there are many traditional and nontraditional performing arts and cultural experiences in the city of Detroit, and they are harnessing the curiosity and involvement of Millennials.

Detroit Passport to the Arts is a nonprofit organization that appeals to the 45 and under crowd by offering a “passport” to six different cultural experiences followed by a social networking event.  DP2A’s mission is to cultivate the next generation of arts and culture enthusiasts in Metro Detroit through increased awareness of and access to the arts community. Appealing to the curiosity in all of us, events have ranged from an Oscar shorts film premiere to a light and sound collaboration by the Eisenhower Dance troupe.

Partnerships across the cities powerhouse art institutions have also emerged with the new Detroit Experience Pass offered by the Detroit Experience Factory.  Echoing the variety and flexibility of DP2A events, the DXF passes offers access to six museums and a cultural tour of Detroit for only $32! Museum goers can explore not only well known institutions like the DIA and the Mo-Town Museum, but also get discounts to treasures and treats at The Peacock Room and Firebird Tavern. Keep in mind the pass is valid for only eight days, but can make for a great stay-cation in Detroit.

The Detroit Young Professionals and Detroit Opera Access Pass provide discounts for the 40 and under club as well. DYP hosts pop up dinners, quarterly book clubs, and nightlife mixers throughout the year connecting city dwellers and suburbanites committed to making a positive impact in the region. The Access pass at the Detroit Opera provides 50% off tickets, a complimentary drink, and cast access. Performances range from Elektra to Faust and offer flexibility and variety for theater attendees.

Step away from the selfie stick, the Netflix, and the Book of Faces, and experience Detroit in real-time. With a plethora of institutions catering to the Millennial Generation, there is no better time to experience the Detroit arts scene.