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As the epicenter of the American auto industry, Detroit, Michigan, attracts visitors who want to learn more about the history of the automobile. If you're a car lover and looking for a museum to explore, make sure you stop in at one of these three museums. Detroit Historical Museum Located on Woodward Avenue in Detroit's Cultural Center, the Detroit Historical Museum chronicles and preserves the history of the last 300 years in the Detroit area. In 2012, the museum added five permanent exhibits, while its other signature exhibits received upgrades. Visit America's Motor City, which explains how Detroit became known as Motor City. It also houses the Automotive Showplace exhibit and its numerous classic cars. The museum is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission for adults is $10, while seniors, students, active military, and first responders pay $8. If you have children, admission for them is $6, but children under the age of 6 are free. more Ford Piquette Avenue Plant As the birthplace of the Ford Model T, the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant is known as one of the most important automotive heritage sites in the world. Built in 1904, the plant sits on Piquette Avenue and the Milwaukee Junction Rail Line in Detroit. The first 12,000 Model Ts were assembled here and shipped out via train. Ford only used this site for a short time, selling the building to Studebaker in 1911. The company used the location until 1933. Over the years, the building changed hands several times, until the year 2000 when it was restored and turned into a museum. Today, you can stop into the museum Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults; students with ID, veterans, and seniors age 65 and older are $10, children age 5 through 17 are $5, and children under the age of 5 are free. The museum offers guided tours at noon and 2 p.m. Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation Sitting on 250 acres of land on Oakwood Boulevard in Dearborn, Michigan, the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation has several must-see attractions for any car lover. The museum itself houses the bus where Rosa Parks took a stand, a collection of world-famous cars, and several vehicles that carried political icons of the 20th century. Another part of the museum is Greenfield Village which highlights 300 years of life in America in seven historic districts. Learn how the Wright brothers took flight, and see a Model T up close and personal. Tickets for the museum vary depending on the day and your age. The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. However, the Greenfield Village is only open Friday through Sunday from November 2 through 29 and select nights from November 30 through December 31. It will be closed from January 1 through April 16. If you're a car lover and end up near Detroit, make sure you stop in at any of these three museums. You can learn more about the history of the automobile and see a few older vehicles up-close.

Image Via Pexels.com Detroit, even though it's a metro area, has some beautiful green spaces and parks. Whether you're looking to get out for a walk, hike, bike ride, or to play tennis or any other outdoor sport, the city has the perfect park or outdoor space where you can go. Enjoy the great outdoors at these local area parks near Detroit. more Belle Isle Park Belle Isle is a small island gem with something for everyone. The list of activities available at this park is endless with courses, courts, and fields for any sport you want to play, a fountain, a beach, and even an aquarium. The huge slide is always a hit with the kids, and if you want to spend time out on the water, rent a pedal boat or kayak, or bring your own and use the launches to get it in the water. Dodge Park The newly renovated Dodge Park is better than ever with a new splash pad for the kids to use in the summer, an improved playground, and basketball and volleyball courts. It covers over 51 acres and has lots of outdoor activities including paths for walking and biking, some small soccer fields if you want to practice some footwork, a horseshoe pit, and an outdoor concert stage. When it's time for a break, sit in the shade under one of the picnic shelters, or grab a seat on one of the benches throughout the park. William G. Milliken State Park The William G. Milliken State Park is unique in that it is a state park in an urban area. It sits on 31 acres, including a section of the International Riverfront, offering several covered picnic areas, fishing along the shores of the lake, and trails for walking, running, and biking. Stony Creek Metropark Stony Creek Metropark sits on the shores of Stony Creek. It's the perfect place for an afternoon of biking, with bike rentals available if you don't have one. You can also go boating or swimming in the lake. This park also has some of the best hiking trails in the Metro Detroit area with trails that run through lush woodlands, wetlands, and parties. In the winter, the trails turn into the perfect place for cross-country skiing. Stony Creek has a disc golf course, baseball diamonds, a soccer field, and basketball courts, along with several picnic areas with grills, and some reservable shelters. River Rouge Park Head to the west side of Detroit to Rouge Park and experience its 1,110 acres of nature. Rouge Park has seven miles of trails to explore, a butterfly garden, and 15 acres of prairie to explore. Three Olympic-size outdoor pools provide swimmers with a place to exercise or practice, and a short mountain bike trail brings you around the Rouge River if you want to try it out. Take a ride to one of these Detroit area parks to get some exercise and fresh air out on the local green spaces. Whether you want some time to relax on your own or make it a family trip, each of these has something to offer.

Who doesn't love a great burger? Redford, Michigan, is loaded with awesome burger joints that are sure to lure you back for more. If you're in the area and craving a quick burger to go, be sure to give these four places a try.  As with all public locations call ahead before visiting and if possible order take out. more Burger Shack At Burger Shack, you'll enjoy a fresh, all-natural 6-ounce black Angus patty with every burger. If you want a fast option, you can choose one of the house burgers, such as the Western BBQ or blazin' glory. The Western BBQ comes with sauteed mushrooms, onions, bacon, Swiss cheese, onion ring, and barbecue sauce on an onion bun. The blazin' glory burger offers a spicier twist with lettuce, tomatoes, fresh jalapenos, jalapeno poppers, onions, bacon, pepper jack cheese, and spicy mayo on an onion bun. If you want a burger that better fits your personality, you can build your own. You can take your Burger Shack experience to a whole new level by pairing your burger with one of the hand-spun milkshakes. The restaurant offers the three essential flavors — vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.   Whether you're looking for a classic burger or something with a unique twist, Redford's multitude of tasty burger joints will not disappoint.

There's nothing like the taste of a fresh cup of joe. When you order-in, in Redford, MI, you'll find shops with delicious coffee. If you're looking for a sip on a latte, these coffee shops in Redford, Michigan, are the best to order from. Mugs Coffee and Grub For scrumptious coffee, head into Mugs Coffee & Grub. It's your classic local coffee shop with unique menu items and a kind staff. They're also an environmentally conscious business, as they steer clear of using plastic items like straws or cups. Their beans come from Grounds for Change, which is an organization that roasts carbon-free, certified organic coffee. You can get great dishes and drinks here as they sell hot and cold drinks as well as breakfast and lunch. If you just want a morning cup of coffee, try one of their many options, including a chai tea latte, French press, or a caramel macchiato. You can add vanilla, chocolate, caramel, spicy chocolate, lavender, raspberry, or hazelnut to any of the beverage menu items. Locals love their breakfast items. One of the favorites is the bagel bombs, which are locally made bagels stuffed with cream cheese, bacon, jalapeno, and fruit. They also have a bakery with a fresh batch of assorted baked goods each morning and a macaron assortment. Common Grace Coffee Company Here, you can purchase unique coffee flavors like Papua New Guinea Kiam Mill, Creme Brulee, Colombia Timana, and Columbia Cauca. They sell several tea flavors as well, including Earl Grey, English Breakfast Tea, Lemon Green, and Long Island Strawberry. Another unique benefit to this coffee shop is you can purchase a majority of their coffee and tea to take home and brew yourself.   These are just a few of the many flavorful and unique coffee shops in Redford.

There are plenty of things to do in and around Redford Charter Township, Michigan. But if you're looking for something a little more adventurous, you could try one of these action-filled activities to get your adrenaline fix. more Detroit Axe If you think throwing an axe at a target sounds pretty easy, head to Detroit Axe on West Nine Mile Road in Ferndale where you'll find that it's more difficult than it looks. They have 12 lanes where you can hurl hatchets at the bullseye and attempt to earn bragging rights over your friends. Technique is more important than strength and skilled instructors are on hand to show you the way to do it. If you are victorious, you can sit on the throne with its wings made of axes and tell the world about it. If you have to wait for a lane, the Corner Bar and Grill on the lower floor offers full bar and food service. A game wall features more than 500 board games and you can play retro arcade games, like Frogger and Pac-Man. Take a gamble on your cocktail by rolling the eight dice for the ingredients, which can turn up some unusual combinations. The Detroit Axe experience is open every day except Tuesday and costs $40 per person. TreeRunner Adventure Park Take to the trees at the TreeRunner Adventure Park on West Maple Road in West Bloomfield, which offers an exciting and challenging aerial adventure for the whole family. The park features 12 trails with varying levels of difficulty, which you'll tackle while being suspended in the tree canopy. You need to conquer obstacles such as barrels, cargo nets, bridges, and zip lines to complete the course. The trails have six difficulty levels and there are 195 obstacles and 41 zip lines. Add to the excitement by attending a Glow Night. For your little adventurers, the Junior Park is suitable for ages 4 to 7. Safety is a priority and the park offers the highest standard of instruction and equipment. The park opens for the season in late April. Hours are dependent on the season and ticket prices vary according to age. These activities all offer you the chance to challenge yourself and your family or friends while enjoying an unforgettable experience.

Are you continually looking for a bargain? Do you like to browse flea markets? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then Redford Charter Township, Michigan, is the place to be. You are sure to find a bargain you can't resist or sell unwanted items at the flea markets in and around the area. Here are a few flea markets to check out in the Redford Charter Township area. more Dixieland Flea Market If you are looking for collectibles and antiques, Dixieland Flea Market has a vast selection to choose from. They are known for buying and selling anything and everything, so there is no telling what you might find while you are there. Merchandise categories include collectible toys, signs and printing, vinyl records, ceramics, jewelry, fossils and gems, tools, new and used furniture, musical instruments, collectible magazines, and much more. Their hours are from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Greenlawn Grove Flea Market You can buy and sell just about anything at the Greenlawn Grove Flea Market. They have been in business for more than 50 years and average over 350 vendors every week. You will always find great bargains and are sure to be impressed with the selection you will find there. Venders at this flea market include small businesses, individuals, wholesalers, and more. A variety of merchandise categories include music, collectibles, lawn equipment, tools, guns and knives, fishing gear, electronics, and so much more. You can reserve spots starting at $23, and you can pick from single, double-sized, corners, and trailer sized spots. Each vendor is furnished with one table, but you can request more if needed. Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. is open for reservation and setup only. Saturdays and Sundays, they are open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. to the public. County Line Trade Center Opening its doors in October of 1992, the County Line Trade Center continues to thrive. They are located in a 40,000 square-foot indoor market that is a treasure hunter's paradise. They have vendors with merchandise such as coins, antiques, sports memorabilia, collectibles, jewelry, books, tools, new and used computers and electronics, and furniture. Outdoor sales are available every weekend of the year as well. They are open from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays, and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. These are three of the best flea markets in Redford Charter Township, Michigan. You may never know what you might find at these locations unless you go and explore them. They all provide a variety of merchandise and a place to sell your treasures. These aren't the only flea markets around, but they should give you an excellent starting place to take advantage of unbeatable bargains. So the next time you are in the Redford Charter Township area, check these locations out and see what you find.

image via Ford.com Ford has an SUV for every driver. With options in every class from the subcompact EcoSport to the enormous full-size Expedition, you can find one that will work for your lifestyle. The lineup also includes SUV hybrids for drivers looking for a fuel efficient option. Whether you need something that will haul your family and friends or something that will haul your camper or boat, you can find it with a Ford. more The 2020 EcoSport The EcoSport is Ford's smallest SUV. It has two rows of seats, room for five, and a 20.9 cubic foot cargo space behind the rear seats. The base-level EcoSport has a 4.2-inch display screen, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and two USB ports, but if you bump up to one of the higher-end models, you can get the SYNC 3 infotainment system along with an 8-inch touch screen display that works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This subcompact SUV has a three-cylinder EcoBoost turbo engine with 123 horsepower and the option for a four-cylinder with 166 horsepower. The 2020 Ford Escape The compact Escape received some significant updates for the 2020 model year. The redesigned Escape is longer and wider than before, and with new high-strength steel used in its construction, it is lighter than before. The Escape comes in five different trim levels including a hybrid version, and it has four different engines in the lineup. Front-wheel drive comes standard in all trim levels with all-wheel drive available as an option on all models except the base. The 2020 Ford Explorer The Ford Explorer moves into the three-row SUV market and has room for up to seven passengers. The 2020 Explorer received a complete redesign with significant updates that include a move to a rear-wheel drive platform and an increase to six different trim levels. For the first time, the Explorer will have a hybrid version that can reach up to 500 miles of range, and a new ST trim level has enhanced performance features and a new sporty look. Inside, the 2020 Explorer has more space and more legroom for both the second and third-row passengers, and the optional twin-panel moonroof lets more light into the cabin. The 2020 Ford Expedition The large Expedition has a huge cabin, a powerful V-6 engine to that makes accelerating and passing easy, and the option for lots of luxury features. This Ford SUV can haul both people and a heavy trailer with ease, and it also comes in the longer wheelbase Max body style if you need even more cargo space. For the 2020 model year, Ford added the King Ranch trim level with extra luxury features such as premium leather upholstery, power-retractable running boards, and real wood trim elements in the cabin. All the Expedition models come standard with the SYNC 3 infotainment system and the CoPilot360 group of advanced safety features. This suite includes blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and a forward-collision warning system with automatic braking. The SUVs in Ford's lineup offer something for every driver. With options for commuters, families, and adventurer's you can get the SUV that fits your lifestyle.

Donuts are the perfect treat. You can get them either sweet or savory, and they work with any drink from coffee to cocoa or tea. Whether you like them raised, old fashioned, with jelly, or frosted, there is a flavor and style for everyone. In the Detroit area, the top doughnut destinations offer a mixture of old-fashioned sweets to a modern take on this classic breakfast. Here are some of the best spots in Detroit for doughnuts. more Dutch Girl Donuts Dutch Girl Donuts has been serving the Detroit area for 73 years. There is almost always a line, so be prepared to wait, but it is always worth it. The smell when you walk in the door is amazing, and the doughnuts taste even better. You can watch as the staff prepares the doughnuts, which is all done by hand, including the glazing. If you want to get a mixed dozen, you'll get to enjoy a wide variety of flavors. Some of the top local favorites are the bow tie glazed, the cinnamon rolls, and the glazed cake stick. You can also get a sour cream glazed, and their famous raisin doughnut. Rose's Fine Foods Stop by Rose's Fine Foods for delicious doughnuts. The featured items change each day, but you can often get it topped with fresh raspberries soaked in honey. Depending on when you go in, you might be able to get the toasted coconut doughnut, which comes topped with chocolate frosting and toasted coconut. These sweet treats are always made fresh, and you won't find that they are too sweet. Check out these Detroit area doughnut shops. Each one has its own special recipe for the perfect doughnut, and you can get them in a wide variety of flavors and topped with almost anything you can think of.

Detroit, Michigan, is famous for many things. From the home to Motown, to the Motor City, there's a lot to see in the city. While you are off urban exploring in Detroit, follow these tips and tricks to explore the city safely. Visit During the Summer Months One tip we have for visiting and exploring urban Detroit is to visit during the summer months. It will be more heavily populated with people visiting the city so you will be less likely to have someone try to do anything illegal. The downtown tourist areas are safer during these months especially. The weather will also be nicer and not as cold, so you will be able to do and see more as well. more Stay in the Downtown Area as Much as Possible The downtown Detroit area is one of the safer urban areas to be in, any time of year. It is even mostly free of some of the crime that takes place in other parts of the city such as drugs, gangs, and pick-pocketing. Just be sure to be aware and stay with your travel partner. Keep Your Belongings Close to You This rings true for any city, keep your belongings as close to your body as possible. Items such as wearing a cross-body purse, or putting your wallet in your front pocket, can help keep you from being a victim of robbery or pick-pocketing. These types of crimes usually happen to people who are carrying their handbags loosely in their hands or large wallets hanging out of their pockets. Be Aware of Your Surroundings PAY ATTENTION! Paying attention to where you are at all times is one of the absolute easiest ways to stay safe in Detroit. You should also pay attention to that feeling you get if you start to feel uneasy. Keep your head up, stay alert, and try not to get lost. Learn Basic Self Defense Knowing some basic self-defense moves definitely won't hurt either. Being able to defend yourself if something were to happen is a major plus. You should also know when to apply it. Just because someone approaches you doesn't mean you need to karate chop them. You should always try to neutralize a threat before physical defense becomes necessary. Don't Overindulge With Strangers If you have just met someone local, you don't have to tell them all of your plans. This could turn into a rather difficult situation fairly quickly. Don't tell that man at the coffee shop your whole day plan, and don't tell the woman at the hotel that you are going to be gone all day either. We hope that this list of ways to explore the urban Detroit area gives you more confidence the next time you go out. Remember these tips to help keep you and your belongings safe while having fun! You shouldn't feel like you have to stay at home in a city with as much to offer as Detroit.

The Christmas season is approaching quickly and that means time to find gifts. All that good behavior should be rewarded! So grab something sparkly, something cozy, or something personalized and fill up those big red socks. Stuff the stockings with items from nearby shopping malls this Christmas. Redford Plaza This outdoor strip mall located right here in Redford is a great choice to find a variety of stocking stuffers. At R edford Plaza, you can grab something from Burlington Coat Factory such as warm stockings, gloves, or even a coat for under the tree. You can get some socks or shoes for the little ones at Payless or Foot Locker. At Perfect Nails, you can pick up a gift card for the girls in your life. There are several other stores here too for all your shopping needs. Redford Plaza is located at 9367 Telegraph Road. Most stores are open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. more Fairlane Town Center If you're looking for more options, then try out Fairlane Town Center. Grab some candles or holiday scented body supplies from Bath and Body Works for anyone in your family. You can head out to Macy's next for some adorable Christmas ornaments to make next year's tree special. The Children's Place has adorable hats and other cold-weather supplies for the kids too. Claire's has an assortment of great stocking stuffers for girls as well. There's a GameStop too for last-minute video game gift. If you're trying out new gift ideas this year or continuing a tradition, there's plenty of options. You can pick up a movie gift card at AMC Star Theatre for a movie lover. You can always stop by Things Remembered for a beautifully personalized stocking stuffer. Fairlane Town Center is located at 18900 Michigan Avenue in Detroit. They are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tower Center Detroit At Tower Center Detroit, you can grab all those last-minute stocking stuffers you need to wrap up your Christmas list. Ardo Wear has belts, wallets, and hats you can fit in stockings. Diop Accessories has jewelry and much more. You can also try out the Tower Center Media Store for movies and games. The Tower Center Detroit is located at 15400 Grand River Avenue in Detroit. They are open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. New Center One Fully decorated to get you into the Christmas spirit, New Center One is another great local mall finish your shopping. They have some great stores where you can find something for everyone on your list. Stores such as The Fashion Place and Art Designs Gift Gallery are located here for unique stocking stuffer choices. New Center One is located at 3031 West Grand Boulevard in Detroit. They are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Hopefully, this list of great stores in local shopping malls helps you with all your stocking stuffing needs this year. Bring in the good tide and seasonal cheer with the perfect little gifts from our favorite stores. Merry Christmas!

Let's face it. Americans crave those spicy, bold flavors that originated south of the border. These tasty dishes are a cultural experience that has come to dominate our dietary habits, from Taco Tuesdays to Margarita Mondays. Next time you're near Redford, Michigan and you just have to have Mexican cuisine, try one of these four restaurants. Mexican Fiesta Located in nearby Dearborn Heights at 24310 Ford Road, Mexican Fiesta is your one-stop venue for all your favorite boldly-flavored classics. Why not start the journey off with the queso cheese dip from the appetizer menu? The housemade corn chips are the perfect way to get heaping helpings of warm, melty cheese mixed with spicy peppers onto your taste buds. Move on to one of Mexico's most treasured traditional dishes: Menudo. This hearty tripe and hominy soup tastes just like Abuela used to make, with a bold red-pepper base. End your authentic meal with a bowl of fried ice cream. It's delicious. more Mi Pueblo Mexican Restuarant Mi Pueblo is all about your favorites — fast. Order the flauta special. It's three rolled corn tortillas filled with your choice of seasoned chicken or mashed potatoes, plus a side of beans and zesty rice for under eight bucks. Don't forget to ask the server for a big glass of horchata or sweet and fruity agua de jamaica to wash it all down. Located at 7278 Dix in Detroit, it's only about 20 minutes from Redford and well worth the trip. You can even get your Mexican food from Mi Pueblo conveniently delivered with Uber eats. Las Palapas Authentic Mexican Restaurant You don't have to take a southern road trip to get Mexican cuisine. Las Palapas is right around the corner at 33308 Plymouth Road in Livonia, just off Interstate 96. Enjoy a variety of mouthwatering options, from fresh, flavorful seafood and juicy steaks to enchiladas and quesadillas. The empapelado Marino comes highly recommended. It features a tasty combination of shrimp, scallops, and tilapia with sauteed vegetables; all served inside a pineapple. Sip an adult beverage with your meal. Las Palapas has an extensive drink menu featuring 10 different margarita concoctions, including "Mango Mezcal" and the "Skinny Raspberry."   When your taste buds demand flavors that only authentic Mexican food can satisfy, try one of these four restaurants around Redford, Michigan. Each one offers a unique menu, and they're all scrumptious. Which will you try first?

Arts and crafts classes are a terrific way to spend time together as a family. For kids, it enhances fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and develops problem-solving abilities, while adults see an increase in creativity and open-mindedness. From painting to pottery, get creative at these three studios near Redford, Michigan. The Painted Glass Since 2014, the folks at The Painted Glass have offered this unique, creative opportunity to the residents of Redford. Grab your friends and family and paint a wine glass. No prior painting experience is necessary to enjoy this fun and relaxing lesson from a studio that promotes freedom of expression through the medium of glass. The classes at the Painted Glass are two-hour instructor-led lessons. A class is a perfect excursion for couples, for a girls' night out, or for any special event or celebration, such as a bridal shower. Bring your wine and beer, and The Painted Glass will provide the wine glass and painting supplies. There's a class every Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 25543 Five Mile Road. more Painting Escapes Get away from it all and make lasting memories at Painting Escapes at 827 Penniman Ave. in downtown Plymouth. Come with friends or come alone. Either way, you're going to leave with a unique piece of art. Talented, judgment-free instructors guide students through a two- or three-hour acrylic-on-canvas painting class. Everything you need is included, from easels and aprons to brushes, paints, and canvases. Each class starts with a pre-sketched 16-inch-by-20-inch stretched canvas. With step-by-step guidance, you'll create your very own masterpiece. Come by on Saturdays and Sundays for open paint from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring lots of drop-in art activities. Painting Escapes also offers public classes seven days a week from 7-9 p.m. Creative Art Studios Walk right in to Creative Art Studios anytime and start your next project. There's no need to book an appointment, because this local studio offers instruction all day long, every day of the week, in glass fusing, pottery painting, wax hands, mosaics, and spin art. Looking for something even more unique? Schedule a class in pallet-board painting or wheel-throwing clay. Explore your creative side together at 114 W. Fourth St. in Royal Oak. An ideal destination for the whole family, the studio is open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday until 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. It offers parties for both children and adults. Choose a one-hour project with the pottery painting party and pick from a vast assortment of animals, figurines, mugs, plates, and bowls. Work and life demands keep you busy, and finding the time to fit in an art class can be a challenge. If you're like many of us, having a way to express yourself artistically is essential to your well-being — plus it's loads of fun. Nurture your creative side today at one of these three studios near Redford.