Southfield Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Southfield with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, best hotels, must-try dishes, and more.


Introduction to Southfield

Southfield is a city in Oakland County, Michigan, located in the Metro Detroit area. It is known for its dynamic business community and vibrant cultural scene. With easy access to major highways, Southfield makes a great base to explore the Detroit area and other nearby attractions. This travel guide will provide you with a detailed overview of what to expect when visiting Southfield.

List of Places to Visit in Southfield

Visitors to Southfield will find plenty of attractions to keep them busy during their stay. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Southfield Historical Society Museum: Discover the history of Southfield and the surrounding area through exhibits and artifacts at this local museum.
  • Frank Lloyd Wright Affleck House: A must-visit for architecture enthusiasts, this house was designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1941 and remains an excellent example of his unique style.
  • Holocaust Memorial Center: Learn about the history of the Holocaust and the lessons that can be learned from it at this powerful museum and educational center.

Natural Attractions of Southfield: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Inglenook Park: This scenic park offers trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing along with a playground and picnic facilities.
  • Mary Thompson Farm: Take a stroll through this historic farm featuring a 120-year-old barn and walking trails.
  • Rosedale Park: Rosedale Park is a beautiful forested area that is perfect for bird watching and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southfield

Southfield is blessed with an abundance of hiking and biking trails. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Southfield Parks and Trails: The city’s extensive parks system includes miles of trails that wind through natural areas, parks, and neighborhoods.
  • Detroit Greenways Coalition: The Detroit Greenways Coalition is a group of citizens and organizations working to create a network of greenways throughout the region. One of the coalition’s goals is to connect Southfield to its neighbors via a bike-friendly network.

Best Things to Do in Southfield: Activities and Tours

From art galleries to sports events, Southfield offers plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Southfield:

  • Southfield Centre for the Arts: This local theater hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, concerts, and dance shows.
  • Detroit Zoo: Just a short drive from Southfield, the Detroit Zoo is a great destination for families looking to see exotic animals and learn about conservation.
  • Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village: These two museums, located in nearby Dearborn, showcase the history and innovation of Michigan and the United States.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southfield

If you are planning a week-long trip to Southfield, here is a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Historical Walking Tour of Southfield
2 Visit the Detroit Zoo
3 Bike the Southfield Trail System
4 Explore Detroit’s Eastern Market
5 Day trip to Ann Arbor for a University of Michigan Game
6 Experience the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village
7 Enjoy the day at Inglenook Park

Food and Drink Scene of Southfield

Southfield offers a diverse selection of dining options. From traditional American fare to ethnic cuisine, there is something to suit every taste.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Detroit-Style Pizza: Detroit is known for its unique spin on pizza, which features a thick, rectangular crust and toppings that are layered on after the sauce.
  • Coney Island Hot Dogs: A Detroit classic, these hot dogs are slathered in chili sauce, mustard, and onions. Be sure to try them at Coney Island Restaurant, a local favorite.
  • Peri Peri Chicken: This spicy dish, which originated in South Africa, is a popular menu item at Nando’s Peri-Peri in Southfield.

Local Beverages

  • Faygo: This Detroit-based soda company is known for its wide variety of flavors, including rock & rye, cotton candy, and moon mist.
  • Stroh’s: This iconic Detroit brew has been produced in the city since 1850 and is a favorite of locals and visitors alike.
  • Vernors Ginger Ale: This effervescent soda is a Michigan original and has been brewed in Detroit since 1866.

Where to Stay in Southfield: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southfield offers a range of lodging options to suit every budget. Here are some top picks:

  • The Westin Southfield Detroit: This 388-room hotel offers modern amenities and is conveniently located near major highways.
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Detroit Southfield: This all-suite hotel features an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast and evening receptions.
  • Birmingham Bed & Breakfast: This cozy B&B is located in the nearby town of Birmingham and offers personalized service and charming accommodations.

What to Buy in Southfield: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Local markets and shops offer a range of unique souvenirs and locally made products. Here are some top picks:

  • Mercantile on Main: This boutique store offers a carefully curated selection of gifts, accessories, and home decor.
  • Zieben Mare: This farm-to-table store offers a range of local products, including fresh produce, bakery items, and handmade gifts.
  • Southfield Farmers Market: Open from May to October, this farmers market features local produce, crafts, and prepared foods.

Local Culture and Customs of Southfield

Southfield is a diverse and welcoming community. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, which may vary depending on the individual’s ethnic or religious background. Tipping at restaurants is expected, and it is customary to offer a small gift or token of appreciation to hosts when invited into someone’s home.

Best Time to Visit Southfield

Southfield experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. The best time to visit depends on your desired activities and personal preferences. Summer offers ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities, while fall is a popular time for leaf-peeping. Winter sports enthusiasts will enjoy the many skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the area, while spring offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southfield

Do:

  • Explore the city’s parks and trails
  • Visit the many cultural attractions, including museums and art galleries
  • Try the city’s diverse cuisine
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables visible in your car
  • Litter or damage natural areas
  • Be disrespectful to others

Safety and Health

Safety in Southfield

Southfield is generally a safe city. Visitors should take typical precautions, such as locking their car doors and avoiding walking alone at night. Caution should be used when using public transportation, particularly at stops that are not well-lit.

Health in Southfield

Visitors to Southfield should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Air quality in the region can be poor during certain times of the year, so visitors with respiratory issues may want to take precautions.

Getting to Southfield: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southfield is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane.

Airports Near Southfield

  • Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) - Located approximately 25 miles southwest of Southfield, DTW is the region’s busiest airport and offers flights from a variety of national and international carriers.

Bus Stations Near Southfield

  • Detroit Greyhound Station - Located approximately 15 miles southeast of Southfield, the Detroit Greyhound Station offers bus service to a variety of destinations throughout the United States.

Other Options

Southfield is located near major highways, including I-696, I-75, and M-10, making it easily accessible by car. Visitors can also use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Southfield

Southfield offers a variety of transportation options, including rental cars, taxis, and public transportation via the SMART system. Those who prefer to bike can take advantage of the city’s extensive trail network.

Where to Go Next from Southfield: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southfield is conveniently located near a variety of other destinations in the Metro Detroit area. Here are some top picks:

  • Detroit: Visit the “Motor City” to discover its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and world-class museums.
  • Ann Arbor: The home of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is a charming college town with a walkable downtown and plenty of dining and shopping options.
  • Belle Isle: Located in the Detroit River, this island park features a conservatory, zoo, and beach.

Conclusion

Southfield offers a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there is something to suit every taste. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your visit to this vibrant and welcoming city.