Season's Greetings and a Farewell to Blogging!

I hope everyone had a very VERY Happy Thanksgiving.

Although I did not participate in the Turkey Trot this year, and I did not make my way to Detroit to watch the Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade live, I did see both in the comfort of my very own living room on our 92 inch projector screen TV. Along with watching the parade, I helped cook the ENTIRE Thanksgiving dinner this year! Who would have thought that the gizzards were what made the gravy so delicious?? The dinner was a success and the day was more than relaxing.

Because I was so relaxed all day, I found the energy to grab my brother and his fiance and took them to Target at midnight with me! I could not believe that Targets across the nation were opening at MIDNIGHT to let crazy Black Friday shoppers into their store (but I guess I could be perceived as one of those crazy shoppers then couldn't I??).

One of my friends from high school actually went to the same Target I went to...but at six o'clock in the evening on THANKSGIVING DAY! I could not believe that he wasted his Thanksgiving night to stand in the cold outside of Target just to get a good deal on a flat screen television. As I said, I participated in going shopping at midnight but I did not show up until 11:30pm to wait in line! But low and behold, as I was standing in what seemed like the back of the line, waiting to be allowed into the store, I looked in through the sliding glass doors and my friend had already bought the huge television and was strolling out of the store at 12:15am. He got his cheap television, but was it worth it to waste the night away like that?

Anyways, Black Friday was not as much of a success story for me. I was looking to find the Kindle Fire on sale (wishful thinking, I know), or at least one of the Wii video games that has been on my wish list for a while, but no such luck. In fact, everything my brother, my brother's fiance, and I set out to buy was NOT on sale. I ended up leaving the store with a J Lo DVD for $3.99 and the book called "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" for less than five bucks.

All in all, it was a fun experience because I have not participated in Black Friday since the 4th grade when my mom and I went to Marshal Fields at 4am to get a great deal on a down feather blanket (that I still use to this day). My brother's fiance and I have decided that we will make a tradition of it each year, but actually plan out better where we want to go and what we want to buy :)

Now that Thanksgiving has passed, Christmas spirit is in full swing. The Christmas tree is up and decorated, Christmas music is playing in every room, Christmas movies are the only thing seen on any of our televisions in the house, and the spirit of giving and love is in full force.

I hope you all have enjoyed learning about different and exciting places to visit in the Metro Detroit area and I hope that each and every one of you has a

VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Hip Hip, Parade!

If you find yourself near Detroit during the Thanksgiving holiday, going to the Detroit Thanksgiving Parade is an absolute MUST.

The Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade has grow tremendously since its first debut in 1924. In 1924, the parade consisted of four bands, giant heads carried on the shoulders of marchers, ten floats that depicted nursery rhymes, and a few local band high schools. Since 1924, this event has grown beyond the dreams of those who participated in it in 1924, and this year is celebrating its 85th annual Thanksgiving Parade. The hallmark trait of the Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade is Santa appearing at the very end and receiving the Key to Detroit.
(Information found at http://apps.detnews.com/apps/history/index.php?id=173)

Another fun activity that happens before the parade begins (at approximately 9:05am) is this years 29th annual Turkey Trot. The Turkey Trot is a fun run for all those willing to run a couple of miles before the parade begins, and before consuming the endless amounts of Thanksgiving food later that day. The Turkey Trot is fun because many people who run in the race dress up in costumes of all sorts of weird things.

I had the pleasure of experiencing the magic of the Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade for the first time in 2008.

If You Live in Detroit and You Have Yet to Experience the Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade, What Better Time to Experience This Nationwide Known Event Than This Holiday Season?

Somerset Collection

In honor of Thanksgiving and Black Friday this week, I thought I would blog about another place to shop.

Somerset Collection is located at Big Beaver Road and Crooks, and is home to over one-hundred and eighty stores and restaurants. The most unique feature about this shopping center is that there are two separate shopping buildings, the North and South, that are connected by a glass enclosed skywalk. The skywalk spans across the six-lane boulevard Big Beaver Road and is one of the first skywalks of its kind in the country.

Image from: http://www.panoramio.com/photo/511423

Image from: http://www.panoramio.com/photo/50281561

Some of my favorite places to visit when I go to Somerset are:

-Rocky Mountain Chocolate factory (where I indulge in dark chocolate caramel bars)
-Urban Outfitters
-Fossil
-Haagen-Dazs (where I indulge in the BEST strawberry banana smoothies)
-Forever
-Vera Bradley (where I obsess over funky patterns for purses, wallets, and travel accessories)
-Eddie Bauer
-Anthropologie

A very popular restaurant that is located in the Somerset Collection center is the Chinese restaurant, PF Changs China Bistro. After a long day of shopping on Black Friday, what could be better than sitting down for a nice relaxing chinese dinner?

Another great place to go out to eat is California Pizza Kitchen. Yes, California Pizza Kitchen makes excellent pizza, but this "pizza" restaurant also makes fabulous pastas as well.

In honor of the theme of my blog, Metro Detroit, another very important store at Somerset Collection to note is the Detroit Shoppe, which is part museum and part retail shop. This museum portion of the shop allows shoppers to explore the moments, memories, and products of the great city of Detroit.

Some of the  products that the Detroit Shoppe offers are: Better Made Snack Foods, Faygo, Verner's, Velvet Peanut Butter, and Sanders. The Detroit Shoppe also includes Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings merchandise.

For the full Somerset Collection directory, please visit The Somerset Collection Homepage

Whether you are looking for Detroit souvenirs, or a great place to shop or dine, Somerset Collection is a great place to visit. 

Library Lovers and Book Nerds

Imagine endless shelves of books filled with stories of medieval times, tropical rain forests, European history, witches and wizards, and anything else your creative mind can think of. Imagine being able to get to these endless shelves of books by traveling through the heart of a thriving city...

The Detroit Public Library can make everything you just imagined come true.

Image from: http://www.maggiesnotebook.com/2011/04/detroit-library-chairs-cost-1092-each/

The Detroit Library opened in March of 1921 and has never had to move its location. The library's wings were opened in June of 1963.

The Detroit Public Library is the largest library system in the state of Michigan. There is a main library and twenty-three neighborhood branches.

The main Detroit Library is located at 5201 Woodward Avenue.

This library system makes the Detroit Public Library one of the most valuable and accessible public institutions in Metro Detroit. The Detroit Public Library consists of a Main Library with ten subject departments and numerous collections, and, as stated above, there are twenty-three branch libraries, as well as a program called LOW (a bookmobile service for the community).

Image from: http://detroit1701.org/DetroitPublicLibrary.htm

Come on, 

Library Lovers and Book Nerds, 

this is an institution that you don't want to miss out on!

Facts and information found at: http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/index.htm

DIA

I have lived in Metro Detroit my entire life and it took me seventeen years to visit one of Detroit's most inspirational and historic museums: the DIA, otherwise known as the Detroit Institute of Arts. What led me to finally explore the enlightening museum at the age of seventeen? My wonderful Creative Writing high school class during my junior year. My Creative Writing teacher had arranged for her Creative Writing classes to spend a day observing and taking in all the wonderful art that is exhibited at the Detroit Institute of Arts in hopes that we, her students, would be inspired by the art to write a piece for her class.

What about the DIA?


The foundation for the DIA was laid by a scholar and art historian from Berlin, William Valentiner, who was director from 1924-1945. Because Valentiner had extensive contacts back in Europe, along with support from patrons, he was able to attain many important works that now establish the framework of today's collections.

The DIA has been enriching the lives of those living in or near Detroit (or visiting Detroit) who visit the institution since 1885 - for over a century! Since 1885, the museum had grown tremendously, and now covers 658,000 square feet and includes more than one hundred galleries, a 380-seat lecture and recital hall, a 1,150-seat auditorium, and even an art reference library!

Image from: http://www.detroit-travel-guide.com/detroit-institute-of-arts.html

The DIA's collection of art is among the top six in the United States that one would find. The trademark of the DIa is the diversity of the art collection. From the celebrated works of American, European, Modern and Contemporary, and Graphic art, the museum also constitues a significant amount of work of Native America, African, Asian, Islamic, Oceanic, and Ancient art.


The DIA is located at 5200 Woodward Avenue. Available visiting hours are:

Sunday

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Thursday

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Friday

10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Saturday

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

General admission is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $4 for youth (ages 6-17), $5 for college students (with valid school photo ID), children five years or younger are admitted free into the institution, and Detroit residents get in FREE on Fridays!

For more information on the DIA, please visit DIA

So if you are someone who enjoys meandering your wall through what seems like endless hallways of art, a history lover, or an artist who needs inspiration, the DIA is the place to go!

More Frankenmuth!

What is a trip to Frankenmuth without the Bronner's experience of Christmas cheer?!

When my family took a visit to Frankenmuth for that delicious chicken dinner, we also made at pit-stop at Bronner's Christmas Wonderland!

(It only took a million years for my parents to find the perfect spot for us to take pictures)

Bronner's Christmas Wonderland is the world's  LARGEST Christmas store...open 361 days a year and featuring over 50,000 trims and gifts!!! Bronner's is 5.5 football fields of PURE CHRISTMAS!

Some people feel that the display of Christmas decorations and the radio playing Christmas music before Halloween is a tacky party foul. I, however, find it absolutely WONDERFUL. Christmas is my favorite time of the year and I think the sooner Christmas cheer is brought out, the better!

That is exactly why I love Bronner's. I could visit this giant Christmas store in the middle of July and instantly wish that it were December as soon as I walk through the sliding doors. And I must not be the only one because, according to Bronners' website, over two million people visit Bronner's Christmas Wonderland each year.

You can find hundreds of different kinds of ornaments (including personalized), artificial Christmas trees, Christmas lights, Nativity Scenes, decorations, collectables, and more at Bronner's!

Bronner's Christmas Wonderland was founded in 1945 by Wally Bronner to celebrate the joy of Christ's birth. The motto of this massive Christmas store is: "enjoy CHRISTmas, It's HIS birthday; Enjoy Life, It's HIS way."

For more Christmas Wonderland details, please visit Bronner's Christmas Wonderful

Spread the Holiday Cheer and visit Bronner's Christmas Wonderland This Year!

Frankenmuth!

This past weekend, I was given the privilege to spend a beautiful, Autumn, Sunday afternoon meandering through the German town of Frankenmuth with my family.

As a child, my family would make a trip to Frankenmuth at least once a year to have a delicious dinner at the Bavarian Inn. However, I was unable to visit Frankenmuth for the past six years due to busy family schedules; this past Sunday was an exquisit treat!

Image from: http://www.city-data.com/picfilesv/picv15574.php

As I noted, the Bavarian Inn is the main attraction that my family always flocks to when we go to visit Frankenmuth. The Bavarian Inn is famous for their home-cooked, family-style chicken dinners. Their chicken noodle soup and northern-bean salad are two dishes that I especially love before I dig into my chicken and mashed potatoes. To top a great dinner off, the family-style dinners include the BEST vanilla-orange twist ice cream.

What is fun about the Bavarian Inn is that there are several quant shops in the basement of the restaurant. These shops include anything from beer and wine, to toy shops, to souvenir shops.

Take a step outside of the Bavarian Inn and you will find yourself on a pleasantly crowded street of tourists strolling along a street filled with numerous stores that include jewelry, candy, fudge, souvenirs, and much, much more.

What's fun about exploring the streets of Frankenmuth surrounding the Bavarian Inn are the numerous fun "Face Holes" to take pictures in.

The Bavarian Inn is located at 1 Covered Bridge Lane, Frankenmuth, MI.
For more details concerning the Bavarian Inn, please visit The Bavarian Inn

If you're looking for a place to have a delicious, all you-can-eat chicken dinner, come to the Bavarian Inn!

Come One, Come All...

...Come to Michigan's largest producing professional theatre of all! If you live in Michigan, or you are presented with an opportunity to spend a decent amount of time exploring Metro Detroit, a visit to Meadow Brook Theatre is a must.

As evident from the attention-grabber of this particular blog, Meadow Brook theatre is Michigan's largest producing professional theatre, located on the campus of Oakland University (Go Oakland!) at 207 Wilson Hall, Rochester Michigan.

Image from: http://www.mbtheatre.com/

The 2011 season at Meadow Brook will end with performances of everyone's favorite holiday classic, "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens.  Dates for performances of this play range from November 19 until December 23. Plays to look forward to at Meadow Brook for the upcoming year are "Nunset Boulevard," "Mary Stuart," "Spreading it Around," "From my Hometown," and "Xanadu."

I had the pleasure of going to see two comedies at the Meadow Brook Theatre last year. Last year was the first time I had ever been to Meadow Brook Theatre and, needless to say, after my viewing of the first play, I was eager to return for another great evening of lots of laughs and quality entertainment. I was not sure what to expect upon my first visitation of Meadow Brook Theatre. However, I was pleasantly surprised with the quality of the theatre. I found the seats quite comfortable (which is important when going to a theatre because what are you supposed to do for the 3 hours you are watching a play if the seats dig into your back??) I was also impressed with sound quality, and, although this has much to do with the prop designers and less to do with Meadow Brook itself, I was extremely impressed with the way the stage was transformed into relevant scenery for each play.

As I stated in an earlier blog about the Fox Theatre, I love going to plays because plays are so real. You feel a more personal connection with the actors because you are watching them live and sometimes have to do improv, and you feel a sense of unity with the audience when everyone in the theatre responds to funny, scary, or surprising parts of the play.

Visit Meadow Brook Theatre for more information about the theatre itself and for dates on upcoming plays.

P.s. Did I mention that Oakland University students can buy up to two tickets each time visiting the theatre at only $10 each by presenting a valid student ID? 

Even more of a reason to visit!

Welcome to Hockey Town!

In honor of my favorite sports team EVER, I thought I would blog about Detroit Hockey Town!!

The Joe Louis Arena is a second home for many of the dedicated Detroit Hockey Red Wings fans. Commonly known as "The Joe" to Detroit hockey fans, the sports arena is located at 600 Civic Center Drive in Detroit.

The Joe Louis Arena was built in 1979, making it the fourth oldest arena in the NHL (National Hockey League). "The Joe" is named after the boxer (and former heavyweight champion) Joe Louis, who grew up in Detroit. The cool thing about the Joe Louis Arena is that it is only one of three remaining NHL arenas that does not have a corporate sponsorship name, capable of seating 20,058 crazed hockey fans.

Image from: http://www.waynecounty.com/dashboard/

The Detroit Red Wings played their first game at the Joe Louis Arena on December 27, 1979. The Red Wings have been very successful since played at The Joe. They have won four Stanley Cup Championships, two of which were won at home in The Joe specifically.

For complete Joe Louis events and ticket purchasing, please visit: Detroit Red Wings

Let's go Red Wings!!

Spend an Hour...Spend a Day!

Sticking with my love for parks this week, I will write about another park to visit in Detroit: Belle Isle, located at E Jefferson at East Grand Boulevard. No visit to Detroit is too short to enjoy this historic crown jewel of Detroit's public park system.

Image from: http://www.aerialpics.com/H/greatlakesshoreline.html

Belle Isle has it all: a children's zoo, golf, maritime museum, a nature center, and a beach. And why shouldn't a park like this that is located on 983 acres? Park lovers will not be disappointed when they visit Belle Isle.

The 983-acre island was purchased in 1879 by Detroit's city fathers, who agreed to retain the name Belle Isle (which means beautiful island), which the property was already popularly known. Frederick Law Olmstead, the designer of New York City's Central Park, created the master plan for Belle Isle in 1883. Visitors could enjoy Belle Isle via the island's first wooden bridge in 1889, and has been toured and enjoyed by people ever since.

Whether you are interested in nature, athletics, history, or architecture, Belle Isle will never cease to amaze you. 

Admission, and most of the park's attractions are FREE!

Stoney Creek Metropark

Parks are my favorite places go visit this time of year. The weather has finally cooled down enough to wear a hoodie and jeans, but has not turned cold enough to keep everyone indoors. The huge green trees turn into beautiful autumn rainbows, while crunch crunch crunch can be heard with every step you take. Today I'm going to talk about Stoney Creek Metropark. I've been going to Stoney Creek ever since I was a baby. While it was always a tradition in my Italian family to have picnics frequently throughout the summer vacation, both my parents were very active and encouraged day trips at the park.

Image from: http://www.metroparks.com/parks/index_all.aspx?ID=11

Stoney Creek Metropark extends across Oakland and Macomb counties and is located at 4300 Main Park Road in Shelby Township. The annual motorvehicle permit is $25, which I definitely believe is worth the cost because daily passes cost $5. What's cool about this permit is that it allows you to visit all 13 Huron-Clinton Metroparks. So if you are someone who enjoys visiting different parks and plans to be active all summer, the annual permit is more than worth it.

What is great about Stoney Creek is that it is open all year. So whether you're looking for a place to swim,  kayak, canoe, rollerblade, or run, or whether you are looking for a place to sled, cross-country ski, or walk the trails, this place is a fabulous park to become familiar with!

Stoney Creek Rental Facility allows people to rent  different types of water crafts such as rowboats, paddleboats  canoes, and kayaks. There are also numerous picnic tables spread around the park, as well as a lake for people to swim and fish in, several sand volleyball courts, a golf course, as well as a disc golf course.

Images from: http://www.metroparks.com/parks/index_all.aspx?ID=11

For park hours and more information on Stoney Creek Metropark, Click Here

For anyone who enjoys being in the great outdoors and is looking for a great place to spend their time being active, 

Stoney Creek is the place to visit. 

Science! Science! Science!

Are you a teacher who is having a hard time getting your students to get excited about learning science? Are you a parent with children who show no interest in science concepts? Or are you playing host for your out-of-town cousins for long weekend and you are trying to find neat places to go to spend family time together? A wonderful place to get children excited about science concepts and for family fun is the Detroit Science Center. The Detroit Science Center is located at 5020 John R Street.

The operating hours are Wednesday through Friday from 9:00am to 3:00pm, Saturday from 10:00am to 6:00pm, and Sunday from 12:00pm to 6:00pm. Genera admission rates for the Detroit Science Center are $18.95 for adults (thirteen years and up) who want to experience the Dinosaurs Unearthed AND the Museum Admission PLUS 1 IMAX. For adults who just want to be admitted into the Museum (which includes 1 IMAX), tickets will cost $13.95. For children ages 2-12, admission rates are $16.95 for Dinosaurs Unearthed and the Museum Admission (plus 1 IMAX) and admission rates for those who are only interested in the museum, as well as 1 IMAX, will be charged $11.95. Children under the age of 2 will be admitted FREE.

Group pricing can be found at Detroit Science Center Admission Rates

Image from: http://www.sciencedetroit.org/pressroom.html

*Note: Due to financial hardship, the Detroit Science Center will be closed until October 26, 2011. The closure of this museum became essential after a review of financial operations. This review made it clear that the museums could not function at their finest ability. The closure will allow the museum to keep expenses down, conserve operating cash, and work towards developing a tactical plan to make certain that the long-term capability of the Detroit Science Center is ensured to those devoted to it.

To learn more about the exhibits and programs at the Detroit Science Center, and to stay updated on the opening dates of the Science Center, please visit: Detroit Science Center

Take Me Out To The Ball Game...

The Detroit Tigers may not have made it to the 2011 World Series, but they deserve some recognition!

The Detroit Tigers currently play at Comerica Park, located at 2100 Woodwood Avenue. Comerica Park is an open-air ballpark and replaced the historic Tigers Stadium in 2000. The ballpark was named after the corporate sponsor, Comerica Bank, which was based in Detroit when the park opened and paid for the naming rights. The stadium seats 41,255 fans and the park’s record attendance was 45,010.

The first time I ever visited Comerica Park was actually in the fifth grade for an NSYNC concert with my mom, Katie (my best friend at the time), and Katie’s mom instead of for a Tigers game. That was the first time I had ever been to a ballpark (even if it was for a music concert). I remember being amazed at how unbelievably huge the stadium was, and thinking how hard it would be to see my boy band lovers (good thing the stadium had a big screen to magnify the teenage heart-throbs).

Since the fifth grade, I have only visited the stadium once. This one occasion was in the summer of 2009 to finally go see a Tigers Game. I do not know why I have not gone to Comerica Park to watch more Tigers games, seeing as how I love to watch baseball and I love the Tigers.  Being a broke college student may have a lot to do with my lack of attendance at Tigers games but I hope to see more in the future. The reason I went in the summer of 2009 is because my boyfriend found it appalling that I had never been to a Tigers game and bought us tickets. 

If you find yourself in Metro Detroit during baseball season, 

come check out a Tigers game!

Fox Theatre Detroit!

Looking for different types of entertainment? Ready for some entertainment that does not involve going to the movies or eating at an expensive restaurant? How about getting tickets to watch a play at the Fox Theatre Detroit??

Image from: http://experiencedetroit.com/theatres.htm

The Detroit Fox Theatre is located at 2211 Woodward Avenue and is one of the five dazzling Fox Theatres built by William Fox in the late 1920s. Other Fox Theatre locations include Brooklyn, Atlanta, St. Louis, and San Francisco. There are three levels of seating at the Detroit Fox and the interior was designed with Burmese, Chinese, Persian, and Indian motifs in mind when architect C. Howard Crane designed the theatre.

Image from: http://apps.detnews.com/apps/history/index.php?id=63

Three years ago I had the pleasure of seeing a play at the Fox Theatre during the month of December. White Christmas is my favorite Christmas movie EVER and Fox Theatre decided to grace me with the opportunity to see the play live! I traveled down town with my mom, my best friend, Chelsea, and Chelsea's mom. It was a wonderful experience - the theatre definitely met my expectations. It was the first time I had ever been to the Fox Theatre seeing as the only theatre I had ever been to before was the Fisher, to see Beauty and the Beast with my mom and grandma, and my own high school theatre at Troy Athens.

I actually really enjoy going to see plays. I like the idea of knowing that no two plays will ever be acted out the exact same way. I like seeing the actors do improv if they mess up a line or something goes wrong. I think that this is a wonderful characteristic of theatre.

Upcoming plays at the Detroit Fox Theatre include My Fair Lady, Scream Tour, and Irving Berlin's White Christmas. For a complete list of upcoming plays at the Fox Theatre, and show times and dates, please visit: Detroit Fox Theatre

QDOBA!!

Find yourself in Metro Detroit looking for a delicious restaurant healthier than a fast food place like McDonald's but cheaper than an uppity restaurant like Maggiano's? Ok all you food lovers - I have decided to share with all of you my ALL TIME favorite Mexican food chain restaurant... QDOBA MEXICAN GRILL!!

Image from: http://www.ifranchisenet.com/qdoba-mexican-grill.html

From the moment I walked into this restaurant five years ago, I was sold. As I said, Qdoba is a fast food Mexican restaurant. After visiting several Qdoba's across Metro Detroit over the last five years, I can honestly say that this chain restaurant has never disappointed me. The food is always hot, the meat is always cooked to perfection, and the service in every Qdoba restaurant that I have been to has been absolutely phenomenal.

My regular order at Qdoba is the chicken gumbo with black beans, extra verde sauce, extra pico de gallo, sour cream, and tortilla strips. What makes the gumbo so delicious is the zesty tortilla soup that is poured over delicious cilantro and lime cooked rice. I also highly recommend the chicken burrito (or the naked chicken burrito with the tortilla on the side), the chicken and cheese quesadilla with pico de gallo, or the nachos.

Here is a photo of most of Qdoba's menu:

Image from: http://www.gogreenmenus.com/Menu.aspx?RID=MTEyMw%3D%3D&N=UWRvYmE%3D&DID=OQ%3D%3D&AT=OA%3D%3D&AC=MTc%3D&URL=&CC=

If you have not already been to a Qdoba, I highly recommend visiting one of the many Qdoba locations around Metro Detroit - You will not be disappointed. 

Embrace America's History!...Part II

After focusing and informing you all on the Henry Ford Museum, we can now take a look at a neighboring outdoor museum, Greenfield Village!

Greenfield Village is "right next door" to the  Henry Ford. However, unlike the Henry Ford, Greenfield Village is an outside historic museum. Visiting Greenfield Village is like stepping into a time machine that takes you back to revisit some of America's most exciting sights, sounds, and sensations of the  past. According to the website of Greenfield Village, there are 83 authentic, historic structures ranging from Noah Webster's home where he wrote the first American dicationary, to the courthouse where Abraham Lincoln practiced law, as well as civil war reenactments! Greenfield Village is located on 80 acres so these buildings and things to see are just the tip of the iceberg; at Greenfield Village there is plenty of other great historic sights to see!

Not only does Greenfield Village capture historical structures, but there are also fun things to do there, too! You can watch 1867 baseball, ride a train with a 19th century steam engine, or even ride in a genuine Model T! Greenfield village is a reminder of how people came to define modern-day America.

Here is an image of a steam locomotive from Greenfield Village:

Image from: http://picasaweb.google.com/116512474184071531500/HenryFordMuseumGreenfieldVillage

Although the Henry Ford Museum is open all year, Greenfield Village is only open April through November, due to the fact that the Michigan winter season can get a bit rough. When Greenfield Village is open, admission tickets for adults cost $22, while youth tickets (ages 5-12) cost $16, and children under 5 years are free. Like the Henry Ford Museum, those serving in the military are granted free admission.

For more information about Greenfield Village, click here Greenfield Village

Until Next Time...

Embrace America's History!

Okay, so, today I have decided to focus on the Henry Ford Museum as a Metro Detroit attraction that EVERYONE who lives or comes to Metro Detroit should visit :)

The Henry Ford Museum is located in Dearborn, on 20900 Oakwood Boulevard and is open all year around, seven days a week from 9am to 5pm. General admission tickets are $15, kids ages 5-12 are $11, and children under 4 years at FREE! Military is offered free admission all year.

What is the Henry Ford Museum? The Henry Ford Museum is a collection full of rich American history and learning opportunities...without the bordum! It documents America's history of resourcefulness and innovation over the generations. Founded by Henry Ford in 1929, his hopes for the Henry Ford Museum were that it would "give us a sense of unity...through the generations, and to convey the inspiration of American genius to our youth."

 Visiting the Henry Ford will take you back to explore the tremendous impact the automobile had on American society (with exhibits and all). Visitors will be able to see the exact limousine John F. Kennedy was riding in when he was shot, and the same historic rocking chair that Abraham Lincoln was assassinated in. You will be able to explore the history of American society and lifestyle, as well as the famous Rosa Parks bus and the Wienermobile.

For much more information on the history and exhibits at Henry Ford Museum, please visit:

 The Henry Ford

Images from: http://www.hipstertravelguide.com/archives/5042

Stayed Tuned...More exciting Metro Detroit Attractions to Come!

I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for...Apple Cider and Donuts!!

Hello!

So... I am a little behind on my blogging BUT this just means that for this week you get three blog entries from me instead of two! I hope you all enjoy this weeks suggested activities :)

Without further ado, what a PERFECT morning for me to spend with my older brother, Billy, and his fiancee, Robyn at Yates Cider Mill. Located at 1990 E. Avon Road in Rochester, Yates is a great place to visit no matter how old or young you may be.

I've been going to Yates Cider Mill every fall for as long as I can remember. It started out as an outing with my mom, brother, and family friends every fall. Every October, us kids were rounded up and thrown in the big van to be taken to dunk some most appetizing donuts in the most delicious cider. Not only are the donuts and cider a reason to go to Yates, but there is a beautiful path to stride along, complete with a river to walk next to!

Yates Cider Mill is open Monday through Friday from 7am to 7pm and Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 9pm. This cider mill is known for the donuts and apple cider but it also has fudge and ice cream, as well as a petting zoo and pony rides!

For those of you who have taken my advice and have gone shopping at Great Lakes Crossing, you may want to note that Yates Cider Mill has become so popular to Metro Detroit Michiganders that there is now a Yates Cider Mill outpost station in the food court at Great Lakes Crossing! So, in case the rain has ruined your plans to spend the morning or afternoon at the cider mill, go check out the outpost at Great Lakes and eat some delicious donuts as you leisurely walk around the biggest outlet mall in Michigan!

Enjoy Your Wonderful Fall Afternoon

Make Time For Family!

In need of some quality family time? Why not spend a beautiful day visiting the Detroit Zoo with the family! These fall days are perfect for spending time outside. A cool breeze is blowing, the sun peaks out of the clouds every once in a while, and the temperature in Metro Detroit around this time of year ranges from 60-70 degrees (give or take a couple chilly days). Why spend family time at the Metro Detroit Zoo? Aside from the fact that kids LOVE animals, the Detroit Zoo happens to be the largest family attraction in Michigan!

Image from: http://www.city-data.com/picfilesc/picc33855.php

Don't let that last bit of interesting fact about crowds discourage you though! There is plenty of room at the Detroit Zoo because it is located on a 125 acre lot which gives you plenty of room to sprawl out. Here is a map of the zoo:

Image From: http://www.detroitzoo.org/Zoo_Map

As a child, my time at the zoo was usually spent with my older brother, cousins or friends, but ALWAYS with my mom. I can thank her for my love for and interest in animals. One of my fondest memories of the zoo as a child was walking around inside the butterfly house. This was exciting for me as a child because the butterflies would actually land on me, and any kid who goes to the zoo and has any contact with the animals always thinks it is the coolest experience ever.

For further Detroit Zoo information, please visit: http://www.detroitzoo.org/

Spend some quality time with family or friends at the Detroit Zoo - You won't regret it!

Have No Fear - IKEA Is Here!

Okay, so for the second time this week, the rain has ruined my blogging plans for the day BUT I once again am able to catch up on some homework AND it has inspired me to come up with a new and exciting place to visit in Metro Detroit.

On this rainy day, I thought I would take you on a trip to IKEA!! This home furnishings store is located in Canton - only about 15 minutes from the Metro Detroit Airport!

Image from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IKEA 

Although I had heard of this awesome home furnishing store many times before, last year was the first time I had ever set foot in it. Now that I've been there...I can't stop going!! From kitchen layouts, to lamps and comforters, to modern living rooms and bedrooms, IKEA has it all! If you're looking to remodel any part of your home and you're looking for a fairly inexpensive way to do it, IKEA is the way to go! Here is a bedroom layout I saw set up recently in the store that I one day hope to imitate!

Looks cozy, huh?

Well, until next time! 

I hope all of you find a way to enjoy this rainy day just as much as I am!

Rain Rain Don't Go Away!

Greetings From A Cozy Local Star Bucks!

Although many would be the first to say that today is a very crummy day, I personally think rainy days leave plenty of room for possible opportunities to have fun! Even though the plans I had for my blog today were shot when I woke up and it was pouring, I took God's blessing of rain to catch up on my enormous stack of homework at my local Star Bucks :)  While sipping on my White Chocolate Mocha, I've been pondering what I'd like to do on this rainy day if it weren't for my procrastination that has landed me doing endless amounts of reading and writing.

So for all of you who are ahead of the game and looking for something to do in Metro Detroit on this rainy day because you've finished up all of your homework, why not go shopping at Michigan's largest outlet shopping center Great Lakes Crossing??

Image from: http://www.detroit-travel-guide.com/detroit-shopping.html

Located in Auburn Hills, just off of I-75 on Baldwin Road, Great Lakes Crossing has over 25 restaurants and stores that cannot be found anywhere else in Michigan! Some of my favorites include the Disney Store Outlet, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, Rainforest Cafe, and Toby Keith's I Love This Bar & Grill! Not only does this mall have awesome restaurants and stores, but it also has a movie theater! One could definitely plan an entire day date at Great Lakes Crossing!

When I visit Great Lakes Crossing, I usually go with my mom. Our regular parking spot is just outside of Bass Pro, which happens to be our FAVORITE store at Great Lakes Crossing! I strongly suggest walking through Bass Pro as a way of entry into the mall because there are so many awesome things to look at in the store, including a huge freshwater aquarium! Bass Pro is also one of my favorite stores to go into during the Christmas holiday because they decorate the rustic-looking store so cozy! Our regular routine when we visit Great Lakes Crossing is to walk through Bass Pro, walk the entire mall, and then end up at Kerby's Koney Island for our usual chicken lemon rice soup and coney dog with fries :)

Image from: http://www.poi-factory.com/node/1918

For those of you unfamiliar with Great Lakes Crossing, this is one awesome shopping center you don't want to miss out on!

Enjoy this beautiful rainy day - it has given all of you a reason to go shopping!

Faith or no Faith...

...This place of worship will take anyone's breath away!

Kirk in the Hills, commonly known as "The Kirk," is a beautiful Gothic designed Presbyterian church built on 40 acres of magnificently landscaped grounds in Bloomfield Hills.

The rich architecture of this 1958 sanctuary is enough to attract a frequent touring crowd. Tours at the Kirk are held weekly and open to the public by way of appointment. To schedule a tour of this European-inspired edifice, click here: Tour the Kirk

My personal interest in this church is the landscape. Of the forty acres owned by the Kirk, nine acres are dedicated to beautiful flowering gardens, natural landscape, and a Columbarium. I take a personal interest in the manicured garden landscape because my aunt is hired to maintain the gardens. A simple leisurely walk through the gardens and courtyards behind the church is medication I think every work-aholic should be prescribed. 

This horticultural extravaganza always reminds me to stop and smell the flowers. 

Reppin' the D!!

Hello Blog Followers!!

My name is Gina!

For my blog theme I decided to concentrate on all the wonderful things to do in the Metro Detroit area. I chose this topic because I feel that Metro Detroit sometimes gets a bad reputation from those who are not familiar with all the awesome things to do and see in the area. I happen to travel a LOT.  I find that when I travel and meet new people, the question that always seems arise is "Where are you from?" When my response is "The Metro Detroit area" I get the expected raised eyebrows and, just because they heard the city name "Detroit," the popular question "Is it safe there?" or "Do you carry a gun with you?" So, I will take this blog time to hopefully excite and inspire those who have a misconception of the Metro Detroit Area and to get them involved with the outstanding attractions!

Hope you enjoy this wild and crazy ride through Metro Detroit!