You are looking for the best weekend getaways near Detroit. You want the excitement of the city without the hassle of expensive parking or loud hotels. You want a walkable neighborhood with great coffee and safe streets. You also want easy access to the big downtown attractions.
Most travelers struggle with this choice. They either stay downtown and pay a fortune for valet parking or stay in a generic hotel by the highway and drive everywhere.
There is a better way.
Royal Oak is the perfect “base camp” for your Metro Detroit adventure. It sits at the intersection of I-696 and I-75. This gives you instant access to the entire region. You get the best of both worlds here. You enjoy a vibrant, safe, and walkable downtown scene, just minutes from the Detroit Institute of Arts and Ford Field.
This guide outlines the ideal 3-day itinerary. We cover the best things to do in Royal Oak, MI, how to explore Detroit, and where to find the best local food.
Why Royal Oak is Your Strategic Hub
Location is everything. Royal Oak offers a unique blend of urban energy and suburban comfort. You can walk to over 70 restaurants and shops. You can catch a comedy show or a concert. You can do all of this without moving your car.
Staying here saves you time and money. Downtown Detroit hotels often charge $40 or more per night for parking. Traffic during sporting events can be a nightmare. In Royal Oak, you bypass the gridlock. You hop on the freeway and arrive downtown in 15 minutes.
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Day 1: The Local Experience
Your first day focuses on the immediate area. You do not need to drive far to find world-class entertainment and food.
Morning: Fuel Up on Main Street
Start your morning with a walk down Main Street. This is the heart of the city. You will see locals walking dogs and grabbing coffee.
Stop at Atomic Coffee. It is a local favorite known for strong espresso and made-to-order breakfast sandwiches. Grab a seat by the window. It is the perfect spot to plan your day. If you prefer a sit-down brunch, head to Cafe Muse. Their grilled cheese was named one of the best in the country by Esquire Magazine. It is rich and decadent.
Afternoon: The Wild Side
After breakfast, head to the Detroit Zoo. It is technically in Royal Oak and Huntington Woods. You can drive there in five minutes or take a short Uber ride.
This is not just a standard zoo. It is a world leader in animal welfare. The Polk Penguin Conservation Center is a must-see. It is the world’s largest facility of its kind. You can watch penguins “fly” underwater through a clear tunnel. It is mesmerizing.
Spend a few hours walking the 125 acres. Visit the polar bears in the Arctic Ring of Life. Walk through the kangaroo habitat where there are no barriers between you and the animals.
Evening: Royal Oak vs Ferndale Nightlife
Dinner time brings a common question. Visitors often ask about the difference between Royal Oak vs Ferndale nightlife. They are neighbors, but they have very different vibes.
Royal Oak is polished and energetic. It attracts a diverse crowd. You have high-energy spots like Tequila Blue and O’Tooles. You also have sophisticated dining like D’Amato’s for Italian or Ronin for sushi. It is the place to go if you want to dress up a little and hit the town.
Ferndale is the artsy, funky younger sibling. It is located just south of Royal Oak on Woodward Avenue. The vibe here is inclusive and alternative. You will find speakeasies like The Oakland and music venues like The Magic Bag.
The Verdict:
Stick to Royal Oak for your first night. Dinner at Ale Mary’s Beer Hall is a great choice. They have an extensive craft beer list and a menu that satisfies both meat-eaters and vegans. After dinner, catch a show at Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle. Legends like Tim Allen started here. It is one of the top comedy clubs in the country.
Day 2: Culture and the City
Today you head south. You are going to explore the Motor City.
Morning: The Art of Detroit
Many visitors are concerned about the Detroit Institute of Arts’ distance from Royal Oak. Do not worry. It is only about 10 miles away. You can drive it in under 20 minutes outside of rush hour.
The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is world-class. It holds over 65,000 artworks. The centerpiece is the Diego Rivera “Detroit Industry” murals. They cover an entire courtyard and depict the city’s industrial history. You could spend days here, but try to allocate at least three hours.
Lunch: Midtown Flavors
You are already in Midtown. Stay there for lunch. Jolly Pumpkin offers great sour beers and truffle fries. Avalon International Breads is ideal for a lighter soup-and-sandwich pairing. This area is walkable and safe. It is full of students from Wayne State University and professionals from the medical center.
Afternoon: Motown and Markets
You cannot visit Detroit without paying homage to the music. The Motown Museum (Hitsville U.S.A.) is a short drive from the DIA. You stand in Studio A, where the Jackson 5 and the Supremes recorded their hits. You must book tickets in advance. They sell out weeks in advance.
If music is not your thing, head to Eastern Market. It is the oldest open-air market in the United States. On Saturdays, it is packed with vendors selling flowers, produce, and local goods. Even on weekdays, the murals and street art in the district are worth the trip.
Evening: Downtown dazzle
Head down Woodward Avenue to the riverfront. The Detroit Riverwalk was voted the best in the country. You can see Canada across the water. It is a beautiful place for a sunset stroll.
For dinner, try Wright & Company for small plates and cocktails in a historic building. If you want classic Detroit style, go to Lafayette Coney Island. Order a Coney dog and chili fries. It is a local rite of passage.
After dinner, drive back to your base in Royal Oak. You will appreciate the easy highway access and the free parking waiting for you.
Day 3: Day Trips and Hidden Gems
Your final day is flexible. You can explore more day trips from Royal Oak, MI, or relax locally.
Option A: The Upscale Escape
Head north to Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills. This area is affluent and beautiful.
Visit the Cranbrook House and Gardens. It is a National Historic Landmark. The architecture is stunning. You can wander through 40 acres of gardens. It feels like an English estate. The on-site science museum and art museum are also excellent for families.
Afterward, walk around downtown Birmingham. It is full of high-end boutiques and luxury shopping. Grab lunch at Townhouse or The Commonwealth for a chic dining experience.
Option B: The Academic Vibe
Drive 45 minutes west to Ann Arbor. It is home to the University of Michigan. The downtown area is vibrant and walkable.
Visit the Nichols Arboretum. It is a beautiful natural area right in the city. Walk down Main Street and State Street to browse independent bookstores like Literati.
Zingerman’s Deli is the famous food stop here. The line often wraps around the block. The sandwiches are massive and expensive, but they are worth it.
Option C: The Local Royal Oak Finish
If you prefer to stay close, explore the hidden gems of Royal Oak.
Visit the Royal Oak Farmers Market on a Sunday morning. It is an antique and collectible market. You can find vintage vinyl, furniture, and jewelry. It is a treasure hunter’s paradise.
For a final activity, check out The Great Escape Room or go bowling at Bowlero Lanes. These are fun, low-stress ways to end your trip.
Where to Stay: Your Home Base
You need a hotel that understands your needs. You want to be close to the action, but you also want to sleep soundly.
Hotel Royal Oak is the smart choice for savvy travelers.
We are not a generic high-rise. We are a boutique hotel with character. Our mid-century modern vibe fits the creative spirit of the area. We offer distinct advantages over downtown Detroit hotels.
- Free Parking
This is a rarity in the metro area. You park right outside your door. You never have to wait for a valet. You never have to pay a daily fee.
- Speedster WiFi
We know you might need to check in with work. Our internet is fast and reliable. You can stream movies or join video calls without buffering.
- The “Drive-Up” Advantage
Our layout is classic motor court style. You pull up to your room. This makes loading and unloading luggage effortless. It is perfect for families with strollers or travelers with heavy bags.
- Unbeatable Location
You are within walking distance of downtown Royal Oak. You can leave your car and walk to dinner. You are safe and secure.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Here are a few final notes to help you have a smooth weekend.
Getting Around
Metro Detroit is a car-centric region. You will need a vehicle to see everything. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available in Royal Oak. They are a great option if you plan to enjoy the nightlife.
Weather
Michigan weather changes fast. Pack layers. Summers are hot and humid. Winters are cold and snowy. Fall is crisp and beautiful. Check the forecast before you leave.
Safety
Royal Oak is one of the safest cities in the region. The downtown area is well-lit and patrolled. It is a family-friendly environment day and night.
Ready to Book Your Getaway?
You have the itinerary. You know the best spots. Now you just need to book the room.
Do not settle for a boring stay. Choose a hotel with personality and convenience. Choose a location that puts you in the center of it all.
Make Hotel Royal Oak your home base for exploring Metro Detroit. Our rooms fill up quickly on weekends and during event seasons.
Secure your reservation today.
