Historic Corktown, where Tiger Stadium once stood at the corner of Michigan and Trumbull, is the oldest existing neighborhood in Detroit.
Filled with Irish heritage — perfect during this month of St. Patrick’s Day to let your kids in on a little area history – if it’s been a while since you’ve experienced what Corktown has to offer, now a great time to visit and discover what’s new.
Even after old Tiger Stadium was demolished in 2009, the neighborhood remains a destination for its food, experiences and great shopping.
How to get there
Corktown is located just west of downtown Detroit with Third Street as its eastern-most marker, Grand River Avenue to the north, Jefferson Avenue to the south and 12th Street to the West.
Where to eat
Folk Detroit
Address: 1701 Trumbull Ave., Detroit
A community driven mission fuels this lovely cafe and market. Order takeout from the walk-up window or online for pickup. Grab a coffee while you’re there, too! Tents are available to book for small private parties Thursday through Sunday.
Mudgie’s Deli and Bar
Address: 1413 Brooklyn Street, Detroit
This mainstay offers a wide selection of scratch-made foods and is perhaps best known for its long list of specialty deli sandwiches — including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. In addition to some serious grilled cheese and PB&J, the kids’ menu features a customizable kids’ size sandwich.
Bucharest Grill
Address: 1623 Michigan Ave., Detroit
Named after the capital and largest city in Romania, Bucharest Grill features food ranging from classic Romanian dishes, as well as middle eastern and American fare with a unique twist.
Brooklyn Street Local
Address: 1266 Michigan Ave., Detroit
A neighborhood restaurant focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The array of offerings include Take Home Brunch and Pasta Boxes. For the poutine lover – this French Canadian classic is a feature as well.
Bobcat Bonnie’s
Address: 1800 Michigan Ave., Detroit
A standout on the menu is a section dedicated to Tots — with six different ways to order the crispy spuds with a variety of toppings! Come for brunch on Saturday or Sunday and dive into the vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Ottava Via
Address: 1400 Michigan Ave., Detroit
Wood fired pizza is the main attraction here – however you like your pie, red or white. Offering a variety of Italian pastas and other dishes, there is surely something to please everyone in the family!
Ima
Address: 2015 Michigan Ave., Detroit
(Pronounced ee-ma) you’ll find Udon and Pho, among many other unique menu items, including a children’s menu. Noodles! Need we say more? Seriously, though, this 2019 Restaurant of the Year is a must.
Mercury Burger Bar
Address: 2163 Michigan Ave., Detroit
Have a hankering for a burger? Here the meat patties take center stage – with hot dogs, fries, shakes and more to quell picky eaters.
Slows Bar-B-Q
Address: 2138 Michigan Ave., Detroit
All things barbecue. Slows has been a destination for some time, and whether this is your first visit or your 100th, don’t forget the mac and cheese!
Where to shop
Eldorado General Store
Address: 1700 Michigan Ave., Detroit
Wander in and take your time exploring the dreamy wares at Eldorado. Featuring locally made pieces, vintage clothing, accessories, trinkets, crystals, handmade jewelry, candles, tarot books, herbal plant offerings, altar items and apothecary products.
Detroit Barbers
Address: 2000 Michigan Ave., Detroit
Shop the full line of products and go for the whole old school barber shop experience. Kids services available.
Lucky Detroit Coffee & Espresso
Address: 2000 Michigan Ave., Detroit
Grab some coffee and yummy pastries. The menu includes croissants, vegan brownies and Detroit macaroons, to mention just a few. The shop also features unique gift items like coffee bar soap and Detroit mugs — for you or a friend!
Where to play
The Corner Ballpark
Address: 1680 Michigan Ave., Detroit
Detroit PAL hosts various sports programs and events for kids at this state-of-the-art facility where Tiger Stadium was previously located. Imagine playing on the grounds where so many great legends once played!
Trumbull & Porter Hotel
Address: 1331 Trumbull Street, Detroit
An artisan boutique hotel. In addition to 144 guest rooms, the hotel offers dinner and drinks, featuring Red Dunn Kitchen. Check out an impressive art collection and commissioned installation art on view for visitors to enjoy.
What to explore
Michigan Central Station
Address: 2001 15th Street, Detroit
While it’s not open to tour on the inside, admire the exterior architectural beauty of this historic landmark. The Ford Motor Company has acquired the old train depot, and as a major revitalization project, will be transforming it into a campus for employees.
MogoDetroit Bikeshare
Address: Check the Transit app for one of the Mogo stations located within the Corktown neighborhood
As the weather breaks, it’s a perfect chance to pick up a bike and explore one of the featured rides.
