Things To Do
in Auburn Hills

Auburn Hills, Michigan, is a vibrant city known for its rich automotive history and dynamic community. It is home to the famous Detroit Pistons basketball team and various cultural attractions, including the Palace of Auburn Hills. The city offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, with numerous parks and recreational areas.

As a suburban hub of the Detroit metropolitan area, Auburn Hills provides a unique mix of commerce, entertainment, and residential charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Auburn Hills
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then head to the Detroit Zoo for an exciting morning exploring the animal exhibits.

afternoon
:

Visit the Great Lakes Crossing Outlets for shopping and lunch. Explore the unique stores and grab a bite at one of the many eateries.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, followed by catching a live game at the Auburn Hills arena.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hike at the nearby Bald Mountain Recreation Area, enjoying the beautiful trails and scenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Chrysler Group LLC headquarters for a tour and learn about the automotive industry in Auburn Hills.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a local steakhouse, followed by a nightcap at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$8
🍕Pizza Slice$3
Coffee$4
🍽️Dinner for Two$50
🚌Bus Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences.
  • Access to beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Variety of dining and shopping options.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Weather can be extreme in winter.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in Auburn Hills

Visit one of these nice places.

Bald Mountain Recreation Area

This expansive natural area offers stunning landscapes and wildlife, perfect for capturing beautiful outdoor shots.

The Palace of Auburn Hills

An iconic venue that is great for architectural photography, especially during events.

Great Lakes Crossing Outlets

A vibrant shopping destination with colorful architecture and lively atmosphere, ideal for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Auburn Hills

Auburn Hills offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its cultural diversity and local flavors. You can indulge in everything from classic American fare to international cuisines.

Auburn Hills Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coney Dog

A Michigan classic, this hot dog is topped with a savory meat sauce, onions, and mustard.

Must-Try!

Detroit-Style Pizza

Rectangular in shape, this pizza has a thick crust and is topped with cheese and tomato sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Auburn Hills Farmers Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, artisan goods, and street food vendors, perfect for a weekend visit.

Climate Guide

Weather

Auburn Hills experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and humid, with temperatures averaging 80°F (27°C). Winters can be cold and snowy, with average temperatures around 25°F (-4°C). Spring and fall bring mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, accompanied by a friendly smile.

Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in conversations to ensure comfort and privacy.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated in both social and professional settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Auburn Hills is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, visitors should remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep personal belongings secure. Familiarize yourself with emergency contacts and local laws for a worry-free visit.

Tipping in Auburn Hills

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, and mobile payment apps are increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many visitors to parks and lakes; enjoy outdoor concerts and events.

Fall

Experience stunning fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography, along with local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures bring snow, ideal for winter sports. Be prepared for icy roads and bundled-up events.

Nightlife Guide

Auburn Hills at Night

Auburn Hills has a lively nightlife scene with various options for entertainment. You can find bars, lounges, and clubs offering live music, karaoke, and dance floors. The area is also home to several breweries and wine bars, providing a relaxed atmosphere for socializing. Special events and performances often take place at local venues, ensuring there's always something to enjoy after dark.

Hiking in Auburn Hills

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Paint Creek Trail

A scenic 8-mile trail perfect for hiking and biking, offering beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

Orion Oaks County Park

This park features several trails that wind through forests and wetlands, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Auburn Hills by plane.

Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)

Located about 35 miles from Auburn Hills, it is the primary airport serving the region, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Auburn Hills is moderately walkable, with many amenities accessible by foot, especially in the downtown area. Sidewalks are available in most neighborhoods, and parks provide green spaces for leisurely strolls. However, some areas may require a vehicle for longer distances between attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A significant portion of the population comprises young professionals attracted to the city for job opportunities in the automotive and tech industries.

Families

Auburn Hills is a family-friendly city, with many residents living in suburban neighborhoods that offer good schools and parks.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

The Detroit Pistons, an NBA team, play their home games in Auburn Hills, drawing fans from across the region.

Football

American football is popular in the area, with local high school teams and college football games attracting dedicated fans.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Auburn Hills can be busy, especially during rush hours when commuters travel to and from Detroit. Public transportation options are available, including buses that connect to nearby cities and suburbs. For ease of travel, having a personal vehicle is often recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Auburn Hills.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegan Options

Many local restaurants offer vegan menus, including salads and plant-based dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diners with specialized menus and ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Auburn Hills is robust, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Major facilities include the Ascension Providence Hospital and various urgent care centers, ensuring quality medical assistance when needed.

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