The Best Small Town Getaway In Michigan: Best Things To Do In Birmingham
By Megan Todaro|Published August 08, 2023
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Megan Todaro
Author
Megan Todaro was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and still calls The Sunshine State home today. While saving lives and putting out fires during the day, Megan is also passionate about writing and travel, especially when it comes to sharing her knowledge of her home state. A few of Megan's favorites include: favorite Florida vacation destination - New Smyrna Beach. Favorite Florida restaurant - Eastside Pizza in Miami. Favorite Florida hidden gem - Shibuya Sushi Art. Favorite Florida OnlyInYourState article: Take A Terrifying Florida Road Trip That Will Surely Haunt Your Dreams.
Visiting small towns in Michigan is important as it allows travelers to experience authentic culture, traditions, and hospitality. These towns offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history, with preserved architecture, museums, and landmarks. Additionally, tourism supports the local economy, sustaining small businesses and encouraging heritage preservation. Exploring Michigan’s small towns can often be more fun than the big cities, and we have the perfect small town to start with – Birmingham, Michigan. Birmingham has made our list of Small Town Getaways across the United States, and we can’t wait to show you all of our favorite things to do in Birmingham.
When you initially hear the word “Birmingham,” you might immediately think about the giant city in Alabama. However, many might not know there is also a small town called Birmingham, in Michigan! Birmingham, Michigan, is a charming town located in Oakland County, known for its picturesque streets, vibrant community, and upscale charm. With a population of approximately 21,000, Birmingham provides a perfect blend of small-town coziness and modern amenities.
Residents and visitors alike are drawn to its tree-lined neighborhoods, boutique shops, and diverse dining options. The area’s commitment to the arts is evident in its various cultural events and galleries. Boasting excellent schools and parks, this charming town is a family-friendly haven. From its historic architecture to its lively downtown, this thriving town exudes a welcoming atmosphere that captivates all who visit.
For starters - Birmingham is known as one of the most walkable cities in Michigan. This sought-after suburb in the Detroit metropolitan area offers a mix of small-town coziness and modern amenities.
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The town is famous for its neighborhoods adorned with graceful trees, charming shops, and a plethora of dining choices. The town's downtown scene exudes a vibrant energy, acting as a bustling hub featuring many restaurants, cafes, and galleries.
With excellent schools and parks, it's also known for being a family-friendly and desirable place to live.
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Over 180 years ago, the town began as a small pioneer community when Elijah Willits, John Hamilton, and John West Hunter purchased land at the crossing of the Rouge River and Saginaw Trail in 1818. Unlike other settlements, Birmingham’s founders diversified their ventures, establishing businesses related to the trail and settlement. Foundries, tanneries, blacksmith shops, and transportation services defined this frontier town.
The 1860s saw a shift from industrial aspirations to a local commercial and agricultural hub. Infrastructure improvements, including roads and streetcar lines, led to progress and a mix of quaint and progressive qualities. The automobile industry’s growth in nearby Detroit and Pontiac further enhanced the town’s appeal, culminating in its transition to a small city in 1933. Today, Birmingham retains its small-town charm while embracing its rich history of government, commerce, transportation, and education.
Taking a day trip to Birmingham means you’ll likely be traveling by car. If you're driving, Birmingham is conveniently accessible via major highways. From Detroit, take I-75 North, and then merge onto M-1 (Woodward Avenue) heading north. From the northern suburbs, you can also reach the town via I-696 or M-59, and then connect to Woodward Avenue.
However, if you want to spend a weekend or week in downtown Birmingham and the surrounding area, you might want to travel by plane. The nearest major airport is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), located approximately 30 miles southwest of Birmingham. From the airport, you can rent a car or use other ground transportation services.
Getting Around Birmingham
The downtown area, in particular, is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with well-maintained sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals.
The area's planning and urban design have prioritized creating a welcoming environment for pedestrians, making it easy for residents and visitors to explore the area on foot.
Overall, the town's walkable layout adds to its charm and contributes to the sense of community and convenience for those who prefer to walk. You can also choose to bike the city too, and find it just as easy to get around.
The ideal time to visit Birmingham, Michigan, varies according to individual preferences and desired experiences. But hopefully, we can offer a little bit of insight into what each season has to offer.
Winter in Birmingham can be cold, with occasional snowfall. However, the holiday season brings festive decorations and events, adding a charming ambiance to the city. It's a great time to enjoy cozy indoor activities, shopping in boutiques, and savoring warm meals in local restaurants.
Indulge in the enchanting holiday spirit at the yearly Birmingham Winter Markt, where local artists and vendors showcase their displays. Savor delectable European cuisine, bask in the glow of thousands of holiday lights, and marvel at intricate ice sculptures. Live entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere, while complimentary carriage rides offer a delightful experience.
Spring is a beautiful time to visit as the weather starts to warm up, and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. It's a great time for outdoor activities, such as exploring the parks and enjoying pleasant walks through the charming neighborhoods.
Summer brings warm temperatures and longer days, making it ideal for enjoying the town's outdoor events, festivals, and concerts in the park. The downtown area bustles with activity, and you can take advantage of the numerous shopping and dining options.
Fall in Birmingham is picturesque with colorful foliage, creating a scenic backdrop for exploring the city. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it a popular time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the nearby cider mills and pumpkin patches.
Staying overnight in Birmingham, Michigan, offers an exciting experience with a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. While the town is not known for having large chain hotels, you can likely find charming bed and breakfasts, boutique inns, VRBOs, and other nearby local hotel options.
This incredible VRBO option can accommodate up to six people comfortably with two bedrooms and four beds. Seemingly resembling a European cottage, you’ll have all the charm and character without breaking the bank.
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Or, if you’re looking for a luxury hotel option head on over to Daxton Hotel.
Daxton Hotel, 298 S Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009, USA
The Daxton Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Birmingham, Michigan. It boasts a modern and sophisticated design, offering upscale amenities and personalized service. With its prime location, guests can easily explore the area's vibrant shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, making it a premier destination for travelers.
Day One – Shopping and Sipping
On our Day 1 Itinerary, we’re taking you to some of the best spots Birmingham has to offer. Kicking it off with shopping and ending with an award-winning brewery, this is an action-packed day of fun.
Shop and stroll through downtown Birmingham’s Shopping District.
Let's shop in one of the best shopping districts in the state. Birmingham’s Shopping District, primarily located along and around Woodward Avenue, offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from high-end fashion and jewelry to unique gifts and home decor.
Quarton Lake Park offers a serene escape with picturesque views of the lake and surrounding greenery. It's an ideal spot for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying nature's tranquility in the heart of the city.
Take a trip to Paris without ever leaving the country. The French Lady offers a wide array of French foods from Chef Claude Bouly-Pellerin. A master of diverse French cuisines, she skillfully delivers an authentic taste of her home country to anyone who loves French food.
Situated in the town's blossoming Rail District, this brewery and distribution facility showcases a taproom and a classic outdoor Biergarten. Try a few award-winning beers, or do a tasting to end the night.
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Day Two – Relax & Indulge
Are you ready for another day of fun? We’re taking you to the most popular park in town for a little bit of outdoor adventure. Plus, you get to indulge in delicious international cuisine for a most memorable dinner.
Booth Park is a scenic green space featuring lovely gardens, a serene pond, and inviting walking trails. It offers a tranquil escape for visitors and locals to relax, enjoy nature, and embrace the beauty of the outdoors in the heart of the city.
Indulge in relaxation at Rivage Day Spa.
Rivage Day Spa Birmingham, 210 S Old Woodward Ave #250, Birmingham, MI 48009, USA
Rivage Day Spa offers a luxurious and rejuvenating experience with a range of spa treatments and services. From soothing massages and facials to pampering body treatments, guests can unwind and enjoy a little self-care.
Discover unique art installations and murals throughout town.
The city's downtown area showcases local and regional artists' works, while annual festivals and art walks celebrate creativity and foster a sense of community appreciation for the arts.
Madam, situated on the Daxton Hotel's ground floor, offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Presenting a fresh take on American cuisine, you'll find menu items like spring pea hummus, baby artichokes, and mushroom dumplings.
Is it summer? Head to The Dairy Mat for dessert!
Dairy Mat, 35032 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009, USA
Dairy Mat in Birmingham, Michigan, is a beloved local spot known for its nostalgic charm and delicious frozen treats. Serving up ice cream, frozen yogurt, and more, it's a popular destination for families and ice cream enthusiasts seeking sweet delights in a classic setting.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this adventure through this small, charming town. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being your Birmingham travel guide. Do you want to see some more? Thanks to the City of Birmingham, MI, we have some YouTube drone footage from high above the town:
Are you ready to explore Birmingham, Michigan?! Here, history and modern charm come together, offering a delightful blend of experiences. You can stroll along the charming streets adorned with boutique shops, art galleries, and fabulous dining spots. Embrace the vibrant culture through exciting events and festivals all year long. With a flourishing shopping district and warm neighborhoods, Birmingham welcomes everyone with open arms for a truly memorable Michigan experience.
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