Once Thanksgiving is behind us, it’s time to fully embrace the holiday spirit. And for those who celebrate Christmas in Detroit, there is a wealth of awesome things to do. Following is our list of 9 beloved Christmastime adventures in and around the Motor City that you’re sure to love. And who knows, one of these just might become your new annual favorite!
1. Ice skate at Campus Martius Park
Campus Martius Park, 800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA
Bundle up with your loved ones, lace up a pair of skates, and head out for a nighttime skating adventure under thousands of sparkling lights at Campus Martius Park. There’s nowhere in Detroit that offers quite so much magic during the holidays and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland as soon as you arrive.
Make the drive to Frankenmuth for the ultimate Christmas-themed day trip. This lovely little town is overflowing with cheer, and you simply must make a stop at Bronner's Christmas Wonderland — a massive store that celebrates the Yuletide season all year long. Marvel at all of the Bavarian architecture as well as you sip on hot cocoa. What’s not to love?
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3. Check out holiday lights at the Detroit Zoo
Detroit Zoo, 8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067, USA
The Detroit Zoo Wild Lights event is an absolute blast for the whole family. While the zoo is fun year-round, there’s certainly something extra special about exploring it when the entire area is covered in millions of twinkling holiday lights. It doesn’t matter how old you are — you’ll enjoy a hearty dose of magic during your zoo excursion. To learn more, visit the Detroit Zoo website.
Usually around the first week of December, Midtown Detroit transforms into a holiday wonderland with its annual Noel Night celebration. From musical performances to open houses at various artistic attractions to horse-drawn carriage rides, there’s truly something here for every member of the family. For more information about this beloved Detroit tradition, check out the Noel Night website.
Make the short journey to Greenfield Village at the Henry Ford in Dearborn for one if its beloved Holiday Nights events. You’ll truly enjoy the charm of an old-world Christmas as you stroll throughout the grounds, which come to life with beautiful décor, costumed carolers, and old-fashioned ice skating. There’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit.
6. Visit the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House
Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI, USA
Enjoy a holiday tour of the iconic Edsel and Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores, which becomes illuminated with its holiday best each winter. Marvel at the thoughtfully selected decor throughout the mansion and enjoy a bonfire on the beautiful grounds following your tour. To learn more about this and other events at the Ford House, clheck out the Ford House website.
We’re proud to live along the Detroit River, and this pride doesn’t go away when wintertime rolls around! There’s something uniquely fascinating and lovely about the river when it’s chock full of floating ice and snow, and it is one of our favorite things to do as part of Christmas in Michigan, . Bring along your camera: this is one adventure that will show you some otherworldly beauty!
Venture to Belle Isle, our city’s beloved island park, for a fun day of exploration for the whole family. When the weather outside is frightful, nothing beats stepping into the warm controlled climate of the Whitcomb Conservatory, which displays a variety of stunning plant life from around the world. If animals are more your speed, check out the Belle Isle Aquarium, a longtime favorite that’s sure to impress.
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9. Finish up your holiday shopping in downtown Rochester
Rochester might just be the most breathtaking suburb of Detroit to explore during the holiday season. Each year, the city’s Big, Bright Light Show brings millions of lights to the downtown area, covering businesses from head to toe in sparkling decor. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the season as you grab a few last-minute gifts for your friends and loved ones throughout Rochester.
Ok, Detroiters: In your view, what signals the arrival of Christmastime in the Motor City? Are there any traditions that you’ll simply never forget? We’d love to hear from you in the comment section below!
