Northville Travel Guide

Explore Northville and its diverse attractions! Learn about the best things to do, places to stay, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Northville

Welcome to Northville, a charming suburb in Wayne County, Southeast Michigan! Located in the heart of Metro Detroit, Northville is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life, offering a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. Its historic downtown, lined with boutique shops and eateries, is a hotspot for both locals and tourists.

List of Places to Visit in Northville

Whether you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local history or discovering the outdoors, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Northville. Here are some must-see attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Northville boasts a rich history, dating back to 1827. The village has a number of historic sites and museums that offer a glimpse into its past. Here are some of them:

  • Mill Race Historical Village: A living history museum, featuring restored buildings from the 19th century, including a schoolhouse, general store, blacksmith shop, and a inn.
  • Paranormal Detroit: A guided tour of Northville’s most haunted sites, exploring the supernatural side of the town.
  • Cady Inn: An early 19th-century inn and tavern, restored and converted into a museum. The inn offers a glimpse into the lifestyles of early settlers of Northville.
  • Northville Downs Parking Lot: A historic landmark that used to be the site of a racetrack. It has historical significance as it was one of the first racetracks to have its finish line and timing devices.

Natural Attractions of Northville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, Northville has miles of trails and parks, perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. Here are some of the most famous natural attractions:

  • Maybury State Park: A beautiful park, spread over 942 acres, featuring hiking trails, fishing ponds, picnic areas, ball fields, campsites and more.
  • Northville Woods: A 217-acre park featuring running and hiking trails, cross-country skiing, and picnic areas.
  • Edward Hines Park: A well-maintained park, along the Rouge River, featuring spacious picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, boat launches, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northville

Northville is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It has several well-maintained biking and hiking trails, which offer breathtaking scenic views. Here are some popular hiking/biking routes:

  1. The Hines Park Trail: 17.5 mile-paved trail along the scenic Rouge River. It meanders through several parks, picnic spots, and nature areas. The trail is perfect for walking, jogging, running, and biking.
  2. The Edward Hines Park Mountain Bike Trail: A 12-mile route, offering a mix of technical singletrack, double track, and a few steep climbs.
  3. Maybury State Park Trails: A mix of unpaved and paved trails, with various degrees of difficulty. It offers a scenic ride through the park, along the Maybury State Park Trail.

Best Things to Do in Northville: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Northville. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or something more adventurous, here are some options:

  • Arts and Culture: Northville has a thriving art scene, with several art galleries and exhibitions showcasing local talent. The Tipping Point Theater in Downtown Northville offers great live performances and comedy shows.
  • Food and Drink Scenes: Northville has a lively food and drink scene. There is a variety of fine dining and casual eateries, offering a range of cuisines from Italian to Mexican and more. Some great places to check out are Poole’s Tavern, Rusty Bucket, Northville Sports Den, and Center Street Grille.
  • Festivals and Events: Northville hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the annual Victorian Festival, which draws visitors from all over the state. Other notable events include the Northville Art House annual exhibition show, Farmer’s Market, and the Northville Heritage Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northville

If you’re planning to stay in Northville for a week, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Mill Race Historical Village and Paranormal Detroit
Day 2 Explore Maybury State Park and go for a picnic
Day 3 Take a guided tour of Northville’s art galleries and exhibitions
Day 4 Visit Cady Inn and Edward Hines Park
Day 5 Try some local foods and drinks at the Center Street Grille and Rusty Bucket
Day 6 Attend a live performance at the Tipping Point Theater
Day 7 Join a walking tour of the Downtown Northville and visit the Northville Art House exhibition show

Food and Drink Scene of Northville

Northville has a diverse food scene, offering an array of dishes and cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Detroit-style pizza: A square-shaped pizza with a crispy crust, baked in a deep dish with toppings and cheese.
  • Coney Dog: A Michigan specialty, made with a hot dog, chili sauce, and onions.
  • Pierogi: Traditional Polish dumplings stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables. You can try them at the Polish Pottery Café, in the heart of Downtown Northville.
  • Chicken Shawarma: A Middle Eastern dish, made with marinated and grilled chicken, wrapped in a pita.

Local Beverages

  • Vernors: A sweet and spicy ginger-flavored soda, invented in Detroit.
  • Bell’s beer: A popular Michigan-based beer, known for its craft flavors.

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

From cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels, Northville has plenty of accommodations to suit every budget and preference.

  • Downtown Northville Inn: A boutique hotel, situated in the heart of Downtown Northville, offering stylish rooms and modern amenities.
  • The Holiday Inn Express: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a fitness center.
  • The Purple House Guest House: A charming Victorian-era guesthouse, ideal for a cozy weekend stay.

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

Northville has a range of shops and boutiques, offering locally made goods and souvenirs. Here are some shopping destinations to check out:

  • Northville Art House Gift Shop: Featuring handmade pottery, ornaments, and jewelry made by local artists.
  • Waterwheel Candles & Gifts: A specialty shop selling handmade candles, soaps, and other gifts.
  • Cocktails & Canvas: A local art studio, offering painting classes and workshops.

Local Culture and Customs of Northville

Northville has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, food, and art. Northville is known for its Victorian architecture, with many historic buildings preserved and restored. The village hosts several cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Victorian Festival, celebrating the town’s heritage. Its dining scene highlights local flavors and traditional dishes, reflecting the town’s multicultural roots.

Best Time to Visit Northville

Northville is a year-round destination, offering a myriad of attractions and events. However, the best time to visit Northville is during the summer, from June to August, when the weather is warm and nature is in full bloom. The fall season, from September to November, is also a great time to visit, as it offers scenic views of the fall foliage and a range of outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northville

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while in Northville:

Do:

  • Do explore the natural attractions, such as the hiking trails and parks.
  • Do check out the local food scene and try some traditional dishes.
  • Do attend a live performance at the Tipping Point Theater.
  • Do attend the annual Victorian Festival.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash in public places or parks.
  • Don’t indulge in any loud or disruptive behavior.
  • Don’t forget to follow the traffic rules, especially when biking or hiking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northville

Northville is a safe destination, with a low crime rate. However, it is always advisable to take general safety precautions, such as locking your car and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Northville

Northville has several hospitals and medical facilities that provide high-quality healthcare services. For any medical emergencies, dial 911.

Getting to Northville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northville is easily accessible from Detroit and other surrounding cities. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Northville

  • Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW): Located about 17 miles from Northville, it is the closest major airport to the town.

Bus Stations Near Northville

  • SMART Bus: A public transportation service, connecting Northville to other cities in the state via its bus network.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Several car rental agencies, including Hertz and Enterprise, have offices in the town.
  • Metro Detroit Car Service: A local transportation service offering airport transfers, private tours, and corporate transportation.

How to Get Around in Northville

Northville is a small town, with most attractions located within walking distance of each other. However, there are other transportation options available, such as bike rentals, car rentals, and public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Northville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Northville is a great base for exploring Southeast Michigan. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Ann Arbor: A vibrant college town, known for its museums, art galleries, and festivals.
  • Detroit: The largest city in Michigan, offering a myriad of cultural, sports, and entertainment attractions.
  • Lake St. Clair: A large freshwater lake, situated in the northeast of Detroit, offering fishing, boating, and camping opportunities.

Conclusion

Northville is a hidden gem in Southeast Michigan, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a culture buff, you’ll find something to love in this quaint village. From its historic sites to its stunning natural attractions, Northville has everything to make your visit unforgettable.