Things To Do
in Hazel Park
Hazel Park is a small, residential city in Oakland County just northeast of Detroit, Michigan, offering a laid-back suburban vibe with quick access to urban amenities. The area blends tree-lined streets, local parks, and family-owned eateries with convenient links to nearby Ferndale, Royal Oak, and downtown Detroit. It functions as a comfortable base for exploring Southeast Michigan while still maintaining a distinct neighborhood feel.
The community is known for its approachable pace, access to parks, and a growing selection of bars and casual dining in the surrounding towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Hazel Park, start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café that serves fresh coffee and pastries. Enjoy the cozy ambiance as you mingle with friendly locals gearing up for their day. After breakfast, take a stroll around the nearby parks to soak in the fresh air and sunshine.
In the afternoon, head to the Hazel Park Historical Museum to learn about the rich history of this charming community. The interactive exhibits will engage you and provide a deeper understanding of the area. After your museum visit, grab lunch at a nearby diner known for its classic American fare.
As the sun sets, find a local restaurant that offers a variety of cuisines for a delightful dinner. Try to indulge in some regional specialties while enjoying the ambiance created by lively conversations around you. Wrap up your evening with a walk in the park, admiring the stars that dot the clear night sky.
Start your day early and make your way to the Detroit Zoo, just a short drive from Hazel Park. Spend the morning exploring the various animal exhibits, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the wild. Don’t forget to visit the zoo’s famous penguin exhibit for a truly memorable experience.
After a morning filled with wildlife adventures, enjoy lunch at the zoo’s café which offers a variety of kid-friendly meals. Continue your exploration by visiting the Arctic Ring of Life where you can observe polar bears swim and play. Take your time, strolling through the lush grounds and absorbing the atmosphere.
Return to Hazel Park for an evening of relaxation; consider stopping by a local bar for a craft beverage. Alternatively, check if there are any community events or live music performances happening where you can mingle and unwind. End your day with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,100-1,400 per month |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🛒Groceries for 1 week | $60-100 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Detroit's cultural and dining scene
- Strong dining, coffee, and craft-beer options in nearby towns
- Walkable neighborhoods and pleasant residential areas
- Limited nightlife within Hazel Park itself
- Rush-hour traffic on major corridors nearby
- Summer humidity can be high and summer road work may occur
Places to Visit in Hazel Park
Visit one of these nice places.
Charmingly understated streets with historic storefronts, trees lining the sidewalks, and subtle signage—great for daytime architectural shots.
Open green space with memorials and seasonal landscaping ideal for portrait and sunset photography.
Wetlands and woodlands with boardwalks and wildlife—excellent for nature photography and tranquil landscape shots.
Vibrant urban photography with a mix of modern storefronts, street art, and lively evenings.
Colorful murals and storefronts along the 9 Mile corridor – great for bold, contemporary cityscape photography.
Food in Hazel Park
Hazel Park Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Detroit-area classic hot dog topped with a chili-like meat sauce, onions, and mustard. Look for it at classic diners and fast-casual spots across the metro area.
Must-Try!
Rectangular, thick-crust pizza with a crispy caramelized cheese edge, typically topped with pepperoni and a robust sauce. Find it at pizzerias around Detroit and the suburbs.
Savory dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese or sautéed onions; commonly served at local Polish or Eastern European eateries in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, prepared foods, and small-batch treats within easy reach of Hazel Park.
Iconic city market offering a wide range of fresh produce, street-food stalls, and specialty foods a short drive from Hazel Park.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or handshake is typical in casual settings. Be punctual for conversations and appointments; politeness and small talk are appreciated.
Evenings in residential areas appreciate consideration of neighbors. Keep noise at reasonable levels, especially late at night.
Tipping practices are expected for dine-in and bar service, and polite acknowledgement of service is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Hazel Park
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, standard tipping is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. For bar service, $1-2 per drink is common. Tipping taxi or rideshare drivers 10-15% is customary depending on service.
Most places accept cards and contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Cash is widely accepted, but card-based payments are the norm in many venues and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with humidity; thunderstorms possible in the afternoon. Outdoor activities are best early morning or late evening; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Mild to cool days with beautiful fall foliage; ideal for walks and photography along tree-lined streets. Nights can be chilly as autumn progresses.
Cold with potential snowfall and icy conditions. Plan for indoor activities and layer up for outdoor explorations.
Variable weather with rainy periods and budding greenery. Great for park visits and early-year festivals when the weather cooperates.
Hazel Park at Night
Hiking in Hazel Park
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Woodland and wetland trails with wildlife viewing opportunities in Madison Heights, suitable for easy hikes.
A paved trail offering pleasant river views and access to several parks; good for day trips within the metro area.
A well-maintained rail-trail with scenic forest and creek views, ideal for longer hikes or bike trips outside Hazel Park.
Airports
How to reach Hazel Park by plane.
A major international hub about 25-30 miles south, offering numerous domestic and international flights and convenient ground transportation to Hazel Park.
A smaller regional airport in Pontiac/Waterford area for general aviation and limited commercial service; useful for quick trips or private flights.
A smaller city-operated airport in Detroit offering general aviation access and a closer urban location for certain flights and private planes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The area features a mix of White, Black, Hispanic/Latino, and Asian residents, contributing to a variety of cultural influences and cuisines.
A combination of long-time residents and students from nearby colleges enriches the community dynamic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common autumn activity with local high school and college games in the region.
Community leagues and nearby professional teams in the Detroit area fuel local interest.
City parks and nearby stadiums offer local leagues and recreational play.
Michigan’s hockey culture is strong, with games and ice rinks popular through winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hazel Park.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots in the area offer vegetarian-friendly options; look for veggie burgers, grain bowls, salads, and Mediterranean dishes. When dining out, ask about meat-free sauces, and consider places with plant-based sides or dedicated vegetarian menus.