Detroit's RenCen, a 'City Within a City,' Is Now a Ghost Town

RenCen (depositphoto)

The RenCen, once known as a "city within a city" with its own ZIP code, is now more of a ghost town.

Crain's Detroit Business reports:

GM, which has owned the complex since 1996, has notified all tenants — retail, office, food and beverage — that the complex is being emptied, save for the Marriott hotel, and that deals would be reached to get them out.

GM is buying out leases to help businesses relocate.

GM plans to move its official headquarters to Dan Gilbert's Hudson’s Detroit building in early 2026, though truth be told, the real GM headquarters is the Warren Tech Center, where far more key employees are housed.

The automaker and Gilbert’s Bedrock are planning a $1.6 billion redevelopment of the office complex and have secured a $75 million commitment from the Detroit Downtown Development Authority.

Crain’s reports that the only restaurant option besides Andiamo and Joe Muer Seafood — which are also moving — is a Burger King. And the hamburger chain will close the day before Thanksgiving.