Stock Photo - Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan. Robert N. Dennis collection of stereoscopic views United States States Michigan Stereoscopic views of Detroit, Michigan. Date Created: 1880 (Approximate). Michigan Detroit (Mich.) Streets - Michigan - Detroit. Woodward Avenue is a major thoroughfare located in Detroit, Michigan. The road predates the city of Detroit, as it was originally an Indian path. The road was developed and adopted by the city in the early 19th century and became the city’s main street during the 19th century. Woodward Avenue is a combination of two roads from 1913, when Woodward was designated as a state highway. Today, Woodward Avenue is the main street through downtown Detroit, and serves as the city’s most iconic road. It runs through many of the historical monuments in the city, including the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Detroit Athletic Club. Woodward is common destination for locals and tourists alike and is home to many of the city’s most famous streets, landmarks, and neighborhoods.