I always call Livonia the biggest little town in the world. With around 100,000 people, it still manages to have a small town feel. Whether a quick run to the grocery store or a night out at our local watering hole, we always see people we know. My husband and I were both raised in Livonia and we have decided to raise our family here. Our children will actually go to the same elementary, middle, and high school as my husband. When buying our family home a few years ago, we looked at other communities, but there truly was no place like home.
3 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
Livonia has a plethora of chain and family-owned restaurants. Any type of cuisine you can think of, we’ve got it!
Bates | 33406 Five Mile Rd, Livonia, 734-427-3464
Grab a seat at the counter for an old school diner feel, or take a sack of sliders to go—either way, you can’t go wrong. Call ahead your order of cheeseburgers and fries, but don’t forget your chocolate malt! If the phone is busy or keeps ringing and ringing, try back. You won’t be disappointed.
Senate Coney Island | 34359 Plymouth Rd, Livonia, 734-422-5075
For breakfast, lunch, or dinner, George and his crew at Senate have you covered. Family-friendly, affordable, and delicious. Senate has something for everyone. Some of our family favorites are Chicken Lemon Rice Soup, Chicken Greek Salad, Chili Cheese Fries, and Rice Pudding.
Las Palapas | 33308 Plymouth Rd, Livonia, 734-762-7003
If you don’t feel like going all the way down to Mexicantown, check out Las Palapas. Huge portions, fresh food, and, of course, killer margaritas make this a great stop if you want some delicious Mexican food. Word of advice, don’t ask for the “Biggest Margarita” they have unless you have an Uber.
3 FAVORITE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Rotary Park | 32184 Six Mile Rd, Livonia
With over two miles of hiking trails, a barrier-free playground, picnic pavilions, and tennis courts, there is something here for everyone!
Harry Tatigian Park and Nature Preserve | 34501 Curtis, Livonia
Trails for biking and walking along with several hidden fairy doors and gnome homes for you to find on your next hike.
Greenmead Historical Park | 20501 Newburgh, Livonia
A 95-acre farm site that gives visitors a close look at what farm life was like in the 19th century. Greenmead also holds several events throughout the year.
FAVORITE CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Motorcity Irish Fest | Greenmead Historical Park, 20501 Newburgh Road, Livonia
Irish music, dancing, food, and plenty of activities for the whole family. Due to the pandemic, Motorcity Irish Fest is being postponed until next year, but be sure to check it out.
Highland Games | Greenmead Historical Park, 20501 Newburgh Road, Livonia
Presented by the St. Andrew’s Historical Society of Detroit, the Highland Games offer a glimpse of Scottish culture right here in Livonia. Scottish music, dancing, heavy athletic competitions, and, of course, kilts make this a must if you are visiting Livonia in August. Unfortunately because of the pandemic, the games are postponed until 2021.
FAVORITE PLACE FOR SWEET TREATS
Han-d-dip Dairy Barn | 32624 Five Mile Road, Livonia
Flurries, shakes, and slushes along with dozens of other cool treats are all available at the Han-d-dip! Make sure to ask what is in “The Graveyard” for discounted treats that were mistakes but are still delicious.
FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP
Anastasia’s and Katie’s Coffee Shop | 19215 Merriman Rd, Livonia, 248-957-8019
Part of MI Work Matters, Anastasia’s and Katie’s Coffee Shop helps people with disabilities get on-the-job training and a paycheck all while providing delicious drinks, breakfast, and lunch to the community. Anastasia’s and Katies is offering curbside pickup during the pandemic.
FAVORITE DATE NIGHT
One Under Craft Beer and Eats | 35780 Five Mile Rd, Livonia, 734-464-5555
Come for dinner and stay for the live music. A great spot for craft beer, music, and dancing. Large outdoor patio. Try and catch a Livonia favorite, The Killer Flamingos, as they play your favorite songs from the 90’s and 2000’s.
FAVORITE GROCERY STORE
Joe’s Produce and Gourmet Market | 33152 Seven Mile Road, Livonia 248-477-4333
Fresh fruits and vegetables, delicious bakery items, and an expansive deli and cheese selection make Joe’s a great place to shop for groceries, especially specialty items. Don’t forget to visit Joe’s Meat and Seafood and Joe’s Art of Bread in the same plaza. Joe’s is offering curbside pick up during the pandemic.
FAVORITE PLACE FOR AN ADULT BEVERAGE
Supernatural Brewery | 36685 Plymouth Rd, Livonia, 734-469-2251
A unique spot for craft beer and delicious eats in Livonia. With around a dozen rotating beers on tap and tasty food, Supernatural is a great place to go for a refreshing drink to beat the summer heat. Check out their “Pub Club” for discounts if you are a regular. They are also invested in making a difference in our community by donating to the Healthcare Heroes program which provides meals to local healthcare workers.
BONUS TIPS TO LIVONIA
- Livonia is centrally located to many freeways such as 96, 275, M-14, and 696.
- Livonia is 36 square miles and it is laid out on a grid so it is really easy to navigate.
- With excellent schools, police and fire services, Livonia is a great place for families.
- A wide variety of neighborhoods make Livonia a great suburb for many different families.
- Livonia has several public and private pools in the community which are great ways to beat the summer heat.
