One of the oldest in Michigan, Mount Clemens is a city situated by the Clinton River, with a rich history. During the 1870s it became known for mineral bath houses and prospered as a destination for wellness. Today, the riverfront and downtown attract visitors to explore and enjoy shopping, restaurants and community events.
As the seat of Macomb county, Mount Clemens continues as a financial and judicial center, which brings vibrancy to the area. Whether you’re a local or visiting, check out these family-friendly activities for a day out in Mount Clemens.
How to get there: Located northeast of Detroit, take I-94 East to Metropolitan Parkway exit 236.
Where to eat
Mt. Clemens Grill
Address: 39 N. Main St., Mount Clemens
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week, this American-style grill is in the heart of downtown Mount Clemens. Burgers, sandwiches, Coney dogs and more!
The Engine House
Address: 309 Cass Ave., Mount Clemens
An upbeat firefighter-themed restaurant inside of a restored firehouse. Locally sourced, firehouse-style home cooking and specialty cocktails. Lots of family friendly options, including build your own pizza.
Bath City Bistro
Address: 75 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens
The name harkens back to those famous bath houses — Bath City Bistro not only touts a tasty menu, but the great pastime of feather bowling. It is a form of Belgian trough bowling described as a cross between bocce ball and shuffleboard. Reservations recommended.
O’Halloran’s Public House and Hall
Address: 112 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens
A contemporary version of a European style public house, O’Halloran’s menu features gastropub food and beverages, as well as items just for the wee ones. Don’t miss brunch served Saturday and Sunday.
The CakeXperience
Address: 58 Cherry St., Mount Clemens
Grab a cupcake or some sweet treats from this recent addition to the downtown Mount Clemens community. If you’re lucky, you may catch one of their cupcake extravaganzas! Visit the bakery’s Facebook page to see some of the beautiful custom cakes these culinary wizards have made — as creative as anything you can dream up for your special celebration.
Where to shop
Max & Ollie’s Vintage Boutique
Address: 65 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens
A thrift and consignment boutique, Max & Ollie’s is the place to hunt for all kinds of treasures from clothing to decor. You can also take your time and shop these wares from the comfort of your home through Poshmark.
Pops Sweets An Treats
Address: 90 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens
A neighborhood candy shop — Pops has all of your favorites. The shop also ships all around the world — perfect for gifts! You can sign up to receive a monthly box subscription, too (for the ultimate candy connoisseur).
Champagne Chocolates
Address: 65 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens
Known for a large selection of handcrafted traditional and gourmet chocolates. Stop in to sample and make some chocolate! Online ordering available.
The Nest Collaborative
Address: 66 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens
An artisan marketplace with a variety of goods to shop — everything from jewelry and items for children to bath and beauty (and a lot more in between)! All of the products featured are created by women makers.
Where to play
Mount Clemens Ice Arena
Address: 200 N. Groesbeck, Mount Clemens
This community ice arena is open year round for open public skating, as well as group and private lessons. Youth hockey and figure skating programs are available.
Parks Galore
Featuring 12 City Parks, including Clinton River Park where the annual fireworks display can be viewed, they offer everything from playgrounds to scenic trails and kayaking.
Anton Art Center
Address: 125 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens
Located in the historic Carnegie Library in downtown Mount Clemens. Check out the website to learn about free monthly art events and performances open to the community. Virtual programs include partnerships with Arts & Scraps with free supply kits available for pick up to make projects at home.
What to explore
The Discovery Center
Address: 54 Cherry St., Mount Clemens
The Discovery Center is a community gathering place, educational studio and STEAM-based organization geared towards youth ages K-12. Kids can participate in the DIY window art project where they are invited to create artwork at home that can be dropped off to locations to be posted in downtown windows. In-person activities are limited at this time due to COVID-19.
Michigan Transit Museum
Address: 200 Grand Ave., Mount Clemens
Train enthusiasts of all ages are sure to love the Michigan Transit Museum. Built in 1859, it has been restored to its 1900 state. The Depot Museum is currently closed due to COVID-19, but train rides are still available and depart from Joy Park. Tickets may be purchased online.
The Crocker House Museum
Address: 15 Union Street, Mount Clemens
Built in 1869, Crocker House was the first mayoral home for the city of Mount Clemens, and Crocker House Museum offers many programs such as garden walks and teas, as well as opportunities for field trips where children can learn about what life was like here 140 years ago! The focus this year will be on outdoor events, with social distancing, as the inside of the museum is closed due to COVID-19.
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