In honor of Michigan Downtown Day, which happens to be on Sept. 28 this year, we are celebrating and taking a look at the wonderful downtown areas in Macomb County. Celebrating small downtowns is about shopping local — but it’s also about enjoying downtown restaurants, art work and other community favorites.
“Every one of Macomb County’s downtown communities is unique, says Amanda Minaudo, Program Director of Macomb County, “Whether you enjoy shopping at small businesses or biking to a local brewery, our downtowns offer something for everyone.”
The walkable communities with small businesses in Macomb County are:
- Center Line – This downtown area offers a variety of “mom and pop” type shops highlighted by a local Dairy Freezzz. Butter Nut Bakery offers a plethora of baked goods and is known for its enormous donuts. Gather and Grounds employs the students of Rising Stars Academy, a place for intellectually and developmentally disabled adults to develop skills to participate at full potential within the community.
- Eastpointe – Walk through the Children’s Garden and then grab a bite to eat at Cloverleaf Bar & Restaurant. The Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum is located near the downtown area.
- Mount Clemens – Some highlights of this downtown area are Discovery Center of Macomb, Anton Art Center and the interactive musical instruments in Cherry Street Mall.
- New Baltimore – Check out the one of the finest hotels of its time, the Grand Pacific House, located in downtown New Baltimore. This downtown area has so many amazing restaurants to try, including Knapp’s City Garage, On the Bay, Fin’s Eatery & Spirits and Little Mustard Seed.
- Richmond – Try Tivoli’s Pizzeria, Village Café and Chaps Food and Spirits, which are all located in downtown Richmond. The Richmond Community Theater is also located here.
- Roseville – One of the most well-known murals in this downtown area is “Roseville Girl,” which is located in the back of Gonzo Art Studio.
- Saint Clair Shores – Stop by Copper Hop Brewing Company to snap a pic of their new mural outside. This downtown area also has marina views and great restaurants on the water, including Watermark Bar & Grille, Mike’s on the Water and Zef’s Dockside Bar + Kitchen.
- Utica – The most well-known downtown area spot for Utica is Jimmy John’s Field. If you’re looking to have a picnic or relax with a good book, you can enjoy Memorial Park. Grab a bite to eat at Shamrock Pub or Erma’s Original Frozen Custard.
- Village of Armada – This quaint downtown has several businesses to visit and restaurants to enjoy. Try Tivoli’s Pizzeria, Papa’s, Armada Bar and Grille and The Creamery on Main.
- Village of Romeo – This downtown area offers storybook charm, historic sites and unique shopping on main street. Stop by The Cottage, HoneyPie Kids, Romeo Town Hall Soda Fountain and Main’s Treat Coffeehouse.
Although they all have small businesses and patrons can walk to them all, each is unique.
“Macomb County’s northern downtowns are rich with history and agricultural roots,” she explains. “Consider visiting Saint Clair Shores or Mount Clemens if you enjoy dining on the waterfront or kayaking through an urban landscape. Visitors and residents can experience art museums, eclectic shops, and diverse restaurants in one of our many walkable communities.”
To celebrate Michigan Downtown Day, a couple Macomb County cities are hosting their own events to celebrate:
- Roseville’s annual Jammin’ at the Junction event will take place downtown. It will feature car displays, vendors, live music and other family-friendly activities.
- In St. Clair Shores, take part in the Downtown Social District. This event will offer live music, yard games food trucks and more for residents and non-residents of the city.
For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.
