Macomb County Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and accommodations in Macomb County, a hidden gem in Southeast Michigan.


Introduction to Macomb County

Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s Metro Detroit region, Macomb County is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With a rich history, scenic natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, this county offers something for every type of traveler.

Come and discover Macomb County and its many gems that await you.

List of Places to Visit in Macomb County

Macomb County offers an array of must-visit places, from museums and historical sites to scenic outdoor areas.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For those who want to learn more about the history and culture of the area, Macomb County has a variety of museums and historical places to offer:

  • Crocker House Museum & Macomb County Historical Society - This 19th-century landmark was the home of one of Mount Clemens’ founders. Today, it houses a collection of historic artifacts and exhibits detailing Macomb County’s rich history.
  • Michigan Transit Museum - Take a trip back in time at this museum. With restored trains and trolleys from the early 1900s, visitors can experience what it was like to ride on early transportation systems.
  • Selfridge Military Air Museum - The museum tells the history of Selfridge Air National Guard Base and the military within Macomb County. The base is now an international airport serving the Greater Detroit region.

Natural Attractions of Macomb County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Macomb County has a stunning natural landscape with an abundance of parks and lakes, perfect for outdoor adventure enthusiasts:

  • Lake St. Clair Metropark - This park is located right on the shore of Lake St. Clair and offers visitors stunning views of the water. There are picnic areas, scenic trails, and a beautiful beach to relax on.
  • Stony Creek Metropark - This sprawling park boasts over 4,400 acres of natural beauty, perfect for hiking or biking during the warmer months. In the winter, it transforms into a winter sports destination with ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
  • Wolcott Mill MetroPark - This park is the perfect family outing, offering a working farm, campground, and picnic areas along with trails for hikers and birdwatchers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Macomb County

For those who want to explore the natural beauty of Macomb County, there are many hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging:

  • Clinton River Trail - This 16-mile trail runs through several Macomb County cities and is perfect for a day of walking or cycling.
  • Macomb Orchard Trail - This 24-mile trail stretches through Macomb County’s northeast communities and provides beautiful views of the county’s scenic orchards and farmland.

Best Things to Do in Macomb County: Activities and Tours

Macomb County also offers a wide range of activities and tours, from wine tastings to art events:

  • Vineyard and Brewery Tours - Macomb County has several wineries and breweries that provide tours and tastings, including Filipo Marc Winery, Baffin Brewing, and Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill.
  • Art and Music Events - Macomb County hosts several art shows and musical performances throughout the year, such as the Art in the Park festival in downtown Mount Clemens and the Michigan Philharmonic concerts at The Macomb Center for the Performing Arts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Macomb County

For those planning a week-long trip to Macomb County, here is a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Crocker House Museum and Macomb County Historical Society
Day 2 Explore the Selfridge Military Air Museum and surrounding area
Day 3 Hike or bike through the Clinton River Trail
Day 4 Relax at Lake St. Clair Metropark
Day 5 Take a vineyard and brewery tour
Day 6 Check out the local art scene
Day 7 Spend the day at Stony Creek Metropark

Food and Drink Scene of Macomb County

Macomb County has a food and drink scene that is both diverse and delicious, offering a mix of international cuisine, local favorites, and trendy hotspots.

Must-Try Dishes

Be sure to try these local favorites while in Macomb County:

  • Coney Dogs - A Michigan staple, Coney Dogs is a hot dog served on a steamed bun topped with chili, onions, and mustard.
  • Pasties - A classic Upper Peninsula dish, pasties are a hearty meat and vegetable-filled pastry.
  • BeaverTails - A sweet treat, BeaverTails are a deep-fried pastry covered with cinnamon sugar and topped with your favorite sweets.

Local Beverages

Macomb County has a growing craft beer scene, with several local breweries to try:

  • Baffin Brewing Company - Located in downtown St. Clair Shores, this brewery offers a variety of beers on tap, including its award-winning Double Rice IPA.
  • Sherwood Brewing Company - Known for its seasonal brews, Sherwood Brewing Company offers unique and delicious locally crafted beers.

Where to Stay in Macomb County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Macomb County has several options for overnight accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are a few options:

  • Royal Park Hotel - This elegant hotel in Rochester offers luxury accommodations and is close to the area’s top attractions.
  • Bella Villa Motor Inn - Located in downtown Mount Clemens, this affordable hotel offers mid-century charm and modern amenities.
  • Rebecca’s Bed & Breakfast - This cozy guesthouse in Romeo is perfect for those who want a homey atmosphere and personalized attention.

What to Buy in Macomb County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bring home a piece of Macomb County with these unique souvenirs and local products:

  • Honey - Several local farms in Macomb County sell a variety of honey products, including raw honey and honeycomb.
  • Artwork - Macomb County has a thriving arts scene, with several local artists selling their works in galleries throughout the county.
  • Cherries - The county’s fertile land is ideal for growing cherries, and several local orchards sell cherries and cherry products.

Local Culture and Customs of Macomb County

Macomb County has a unique culture that is a mix of Midwest hospitality and urban city living. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and the county’s diverse population means there is an abundance of cultural events and celebrations.

Best Time to Visit Macomb County

The best time to visit Macomb County is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, the fall months offer beautiful views of Michigan foliage and cool temperatures that are perfect for hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Macomb County

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Macomb County:

Do:

  • Visit the local farmer’s markets, such as the Mount Clemens Farmers Market and the Romeo Farmers Market, to sample the best local produce.
  • Explore the variety of local restaurants and try some of the local cuisine, such as Coney Dogs and pasties.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the importance of a good pair of walking shoes. Macomb County offers many outdoor activities, and you’ll want to be prepared.
  • Don’t forget bug spray during the summer months. With so many parks and outdoor activities to enjoy, you’ll want to be protected.

Safety and Health

Macomb County is a generally safe county, with low crime rates and a responsive police force. However, like many areas, it is essential to practice common sense and basic safety precautions.

Safety in Macomb County

  • Always lock your car and remove valuable items from plain sight.
  • Only use reputable transportation services, such as taxis or ride-sharing apps.
  • Pay attention to your surroundings when out in public areas, especially at night.

Health in Macomb County

Macomb County has several hospitals and medical facilities, including:

  • Henry Ford Hospital Macomb - This hospital is located in Clinton Township and offers a wide variety of medical specialties.
  • Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital - This hospital has two locations in Warren and Madison Heights and offers exceptional services and care.

Getting to Macomb County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Macomb County is easily accessible by car, bus, or metro.

Airports Near Macomb County

For those traveling from out of state, the nearest major airport is the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), located approximately 35 miles from Macomb County.

Bus Stations Near Macomb County

Amtrak provides several bus services to the area, with stations located in downtown Detroit and at the airport.

Other Options

Macomb County has several taxi and ride-sharing services available, such as Uber and Lyft, making transportation within the county easy and efficient.

How to Get Around in Macomb County

Macomb County is easy to navigate by car, and rental cars are readily available. For those without a car, ride-sharing services, taxis, and public transit are available.

Where to Go Next from Macomb County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Macomb County is located in the heart of Michigan and is a great jumping-off point for nearby destinations and excursions. A few nearby areas worth visiting include:

  • Detroit - Just a short drive from Macomb County, Detroit has a thriving cultural scene, history, world-class museums, and a burgeoning culinary scene.
  • Ann Arbor - Located approximately 50 miles from Macomb County, Ann Arbor offers an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural activities.
  • Lake Michigan - For those looking for scenic road trips, Lake Michigan is approximately 180 miles from Macomb County and offers beautiful views and small town charm.

Conclusion

Macomb County offers an unbeatable combination of history, natural beauty, and urban energy. With so much to see and do, a trip to Macomb County is not one to miss.



    Sterling Heights
    Washington Township