Things To Do
in Southfield
Southfield, United States is a well-established suburban city just northwest of Detroit. It blends business parks with residential neighborhoods and several green spaces. The city offers a growing dining scene along with convenient shopping corridors and easy access to the broader metro area.
It serves as a practical base for exploring the greater Detroit region, offering a balance of modern amenities and quiet residential streets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in the beautiful Southfield Parks. Enjoy the early morning tranquility as you stroll through the lush greenery and marvel at the vibrant flowers. Grab a coffee from a local café to enjoy while you take in the serene surroundings.
After lunch, head to the Southfield Nature Center for an afternoon of exploration. Engage in a guided nature walk to learn about the local wildlife and ecosystems. Don’t forget to visit the visitor center where you can find informative exhibits about the area's natural history.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring Michigan’s seasonal produce. Try a farm-to-table dining experience that highlights the region's culinary diversity. Conclude the night with a leisurely walk through one of the parks to enjoy the peaceful evening ambiance.
Begin your day with a visit to the Southfield Historical Society where you can delve into the rich history of the area. Explore exhibits that showcase artifacts and photographs from Southfield's past, immersing yourself in its local heritage. Engage with knowledgeable staff who can share fascinating stories and insights.
After a morning of history, grab lunch at a nearby café and savor some local favorites. Spend the afternoon at the Southfield Civic Center, where you can enjoy public art installations and engage in community activities. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Southfield Library for an afternoon of quiet reading or research.
For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant that offers a taste of the area's diverse culinary scene. After your meal, relax at a local bar or lounge known for its craft cocktails and live music. End the night by taking a stroll through the beautifully lit Civic Center Plaza.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍕Meal for two at inexpensive restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🥗Lunch in a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🛒Grocery for one week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Detroit with easy access to urban attractions
- Diverse dining options and strong local parks
- Good public transit links to the metro area and airports
- Safe, well-maintained suburban neighborhoods
- More car-dependent than a dense city center
- Limited nightlife within Southfield itself
- Some services and amenities require short drives to neighboring cities
Places to Visit in Southfield
Visit one of these nice places.
A well-kept urban green space with modern sculpture and city architecture, ideal for daytime photography.
Glass towers and a contemporary skyline backdrop; best captured during golden hour.
Architectural features and landscaped quads offering clean lines and photography opportunities.
Vantage points with reflections and urban silhouettes at dusk.
Food in Southfield
Southfield Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic hot dog topped with chili, onions, and mustard; widely available at diners and sports bars across the Detroit metro area.
Must-Try!
A shareable assortment of hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, and grilled skewers at many Middle Eastern restaurants.
Popular options at Mediterranean and Middle Eastern eateries; great for groups.
Thick, square-cut slices with a crispy, caramelized cheese edge found in many local pizzerias.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat street-style options on weekends.
Nearby neighborhood markets offering fresh produce, ethnic snacks, and street-food stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings and curbside etiquette are appreciated; queuing and patient interaction in stores and on public transit are common.
Maintain a respectful tone in public spaces; loud disturbances are discouraged in residential areas after hours.
Safety
Tipping in Southfield
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, typical restaurant tipping is 15-20% of the bill; round up for counter service or smaller tips if service was limited. Rideshares and delivery should be tipped similarly.
Major credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; keep some cash for markets or small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sometimes humid with the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take advantage of shaded parks and indoor venues during peak heat.
Mild days with vibrant fall foliage. Great for outdoor photos and scenic walks; layering is key.
Cold with occasional snow. Outdoor activities can be chilly but picturesque; indoor attractions are good alternatives.
Milder temperatures with showers and blooming trees. Perfect for parks and nature trails.
Southfield at Night
Hiking in Southfield
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wooded trails and wetlands offering pleasant day hikes within a short drive of Southfield.
A long-distance multi-use trail with relatively flat terrain suitable for day trips from Southfield.
A small but well-maintained nature preserve with educational trails and scenic views a short drive away.
Airports
How to reach Southfield by plane.
Major international airport located to the southwest; about a 25–40 minute drive depending on traffic.
Smaller regional airport in Waterford Township; primarily for general aviation and regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Southfield and its surrounding area are home to a mix of racial, ethnic, and cultural groups, contributing to a vibrant local culture.
A strong presence of professionals working in nearby business parks and institutions, along with family-friendly neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Metro Detroit’s teams and high school programs keep sports culture vibrant in the region.
Close ties to Detroit’s NHL heritage mean hockey is a common spectator and youth sport in the area.
Numerous public and semi-private courses in and around Southfield and Oakland County.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Southfield.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options abound; look for veggie curries, kebabs, salads, and pastas. Ask for no meat broths and request substitutions where needed.