Are you sick of the same holiday traditions and hoping to mix it up this year? Are you and your family wanting to step outside your comfort zone and (safely) go somewhere different for the holiday?
We at Metro Parent have got you covered. We have compiled a list of places open on Christmas Daythat are sure to help you and your family try something new and exciting.
Although these locations may be open, check ahead for limited hours and new protocols due to COVID-19.
Restaurants
Not feeling a traditional meal of turkey or ham? These restaurants are open on Dec. 25 and are ready to serve your family a delicious and unique meal.
Note: Due to COVID-19 restrictions, sit-down dining is not available but these spots are offering carryout.
Gandy Dancer
- Address: 401 Depot St., Ann Arbor
- Phone: 734-769-0592
- Cost: $32-$39
Comes with prime rib, choice of salad, bread and choice of two sides. Add on a bottle of Cabernet or Chardonnay for $20.
J. Baldwins
- Address: 16981 18 Mile Road, Clinton Township
- Phone: 586-416-3500
- Cost: Blitzen package: $16/person; Comet package: $21/ person; Prancer package: $26/person
Each package comes with your choice of entrée, choice of side, salad, choice of dessert and focaccia bread with pesto sauce.
San Morello
- Address: 1400 Woodward Ave., Detroit
- Phone: 313-209-4700
- Cost: Christmas Feast: $95/person; Other Christmas Dinner add-ons: $35-$95, Dessert: $45-$75
Enjoy an Italian spread from this authentic restaurant. Bottles of wine for sale, too.
Testa Barra
- Address: 48824 Romeo Plank Road, Macomb
- Phone: 586-434-0100
- Pricing: Blitzen package: $16/person; Comet package: $21/person; Prancer package: $26/person
Different holiday packages for you to choose from. Comes with a salad and focaccia bread.
The Townsend Hotel
- Address: 100 Townsend St., Birmingham
- Phone: 248-642-7900
- Cost: $150/package for two
Pick up your Christmas meal for two. Includes prime rib, salad, mac and cheese, vegetables, dinner rolls and cheesecake. Holiday baked goods, afternoon tea, cocktails and wines to go available, as well.
Outdoor spots
The weather outside may be frightful but these outdoor locations open on Christmas Day offer prime family fun in the snow. Take a peek at the parks and light displays and head out for a day full of family fun.
Beacon Park
- Address: 1901 Grand River Ave., Detroit
- Phone: 313-566-8250
- Holiday hours: 6 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Cost: Free
Take pics in the winter wonderland of lights – including candy arches, a gingerbread house, a giant hot chocolate and more.
Campus Martius Park
- Address: 800 Woodward Ave., Detroit
- Phone: 313-566-8250
- Holiday hours: 11 a.m.-midnight
- Cost: $12/adults, $9/12 and under, $5/skate rental
Buy tickets online to go ice skating. Walk-up tickets are not available.
Magic of Lights
- Address: DTE Energy Music Theatre, 7774 Sashabaw Road, Clarkston
- Phone: 313-471-7000
- Holiday Hours: 5-10 p.m.
- Cost: $15-$80, pre-purchased tickets required
Drive through the 1.5-mile holiday-themed light display, including the Nightmare Before Christmas, 12 Days of Christmas, Winter Wonderland and more.
The Big, Bright Light Show
- Address: Downtown Rochester
- Holiday Hours: display lit every 5 p.m.-midnight now-Jan. 3. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday after that until Jan. 17.
- Cost: Free
Check out the colorful storefronts in downtown Rochester while holiday shopping.
Walk of Trees
- Address: Kellogg Park, W. Ann Arbor Trail, Plymouth
- Phone: 734-455-6620
- Holiday Hours: Now-Jan. 3
- Cost: Free
Take a walk along the path and look at the tree lights at this annual holiday event. The trees are decorated by local businesses, clubs and families.
Indoor options
COVID-19 has many of our local indoor activity centers closed for the time being but these two spots have figured out a way to make fun happen, inside.
Note: Make sure you call ahead to find out each spot’s COVID-19 safety protocols. Expect to wear a mask and social distance.
Boogie Babies
- Address: 1928 B Star Batt Drive, Rochester Hills
- Phone: 248-852-6288
- Holiday Hours: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Cost: $9/child ages 1-14, $6/child ages 7-11 months, free-$3/child ages 0-6 months.
Fun indoor free play in an educational space geared towards little ones. Parents and caregivers always free.
Kidopolis
- Address: 509 State Circle, Ann Arbor
- Phone: 734-769-0263
- Holiday Hours: By appointment only; opens at 10:30 a.m.
- Cost: $10/person, free/babies. $30 minimum to book.
Offers people from the same family/bubble to play by appointment. Book in advance.
