There is a crisp chill in the air that always feels nostalgic. It’s the welcoming whisper of wintertime and an invitation to celebrate the season. Before jumping into neighborhood recos, you of course don’t wanna miss Nick Gilbert Way to start your Michigan holiday season off right. Get a selfie with the Hudson Bear, explore the shop windows on Woodward, and experience all the Motown Magic in the heart of downtown.

Nick gilbert way with bear in downtown Detroit.

Just steps away visit Downtown Detroit’s Campus Martius Park. You have to see the tree lit up, try ice skating again, get a hot cocoa in the heated lounges, and roam the cute makers market lining the streets. The Downtown Detroit Markets and Cadillac Square are typically open from Nov. 11th to January 3rd. 

But remember that this season you can explore even more of what Metro Detroit has to offer in these 5 neighborhoods you shouldn’t miss.

East English Village & West Village 

Venture across 94 to Detroit’s East Side to historic East English and West Villages, boasting tree-lined streets. While they remain mostly residential, you can experience the black-owned and female-owned business renaissance, like SAVOY offering fresh seafood and live jazz for a dinner date or a mid-shopping cocktail/mocktail. 

Must See: Pair retail therapy with coffee from Red Hook as you pop into all the great indie shops along the corridor. 

Dropped Pin: Norm’s Diner – 8029 Agnes St, Detroit, MI 48214
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/westvillageassociation/

Boston Edison

Uptown is where it’s at if you’re looking for Art Deco landmarks like the Fisher Building or grand historic estates. Once marking the city limits, New Center serves as the gateway to north end neighborhoods, shops, and dining. Curb your cravings at The Kitchen by Cooking with Que or one of the other great spots on Woodward Ave. 

Must See: The 51st Annual Boston-Edison Holiday Home Tour, featuring five historic early-1900s residences decorated for the Holiday season. If you don’t make the specific dates, do a self-guided tour driving up and down the sweeping streets. 

Dropped Pin: The Congregation – 9321 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/bostonedisondetroit/?hl=en

fisher building detroit during the holidays

 

North Rosedale Park

Get immersed in unique, non-repeating historic French- influenced Tudors, Colonials, Cape Cods, and more in Detroit’s Westside gem, North Rosedale Park. Home to Detroit’s only privately owned Community House, Rosedale reaffirms community. 

Among community traditions, it’s the best time of the year to explore their holiday markets and local tree-lighting events. 

Must See: Shop the Grand River small businesses like Garden Bug, the best place to get your holiday wreath.

Dropped Pin: J’s Cafe – 20853 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48219
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/northrosedalepark/

The Grosse Pointes 

This affluent collection of five distinct communities welcomes you to visit their lakeside estate views and vibrant local businesses. Grab dinner along kercheval followed by a show with Grosse Pointe Theatre’s production of White Christmas. 

Must See: Hop on the BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley, taking in the lights of neighborhoods across the Pointes and Detroit’s east side rolling along all Holiday season

Dropped Pin: Two Dudes Coffee Bar – 15200 Charlevoix St, Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/grossepointemichigan/?hl=en

Downtown Northville & Plymouth

These neighboring downtowns are classic Main Street Americana. Featuring thousands of twinkling lights atop boutique holiday shops surrounded by historic city center charm. 

Must See: Take a stroll through Plymouth’s Kellogg Park and take a selfie with Wilcox Fountain for all the holiday feels!

Dropped Pin: The Sardine Room – 340 S Main St, Plymouth, MI 48170
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/cityofplymouthmichigan/?hl=en


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