Nestled between the shining lights and hustle of the city to the south and the plentiful orchards and farm land to the north is Shelby Township, a place I have called home for eight years now. Shelby Twp is a great suburbia. Plenty of restaurants, shopping, and recreation while still being a pleasant place to live, work, and explore.
I love that we are never far from much living in Shelby Twp. There’s a Target within three miles north and south, new retail and restaurants are opening all the time, and the municipality itself never rests with art shows, a weekly farmer’s market, new community centers, and a state-of-the-art new library coming soon as well. There’s certainly something for everyone in Shelby Twp.
3 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
Da Francesco’s | 49521 Van Dyke, Shelby Twp, 586-731-7544
A Shelby Twp staple, this family-owned Italian restaurant has grown from a small strip mall restaurant to a new beautiful building that is busy every day of the week (except Mondays when they’re closed!). For a warm, friendly atmosphere with a flare of elegance and delicious food, Da Francesco’s isn’t one to miss.
Mexican Village | 47350 Van Dyke, Shelby Twp, 586-254-2290
Authentic and yummy Mexican food, great atmosphere, and fabulous margaritas. Need I say more?
Osaka | 45323 Market St, Shelby Twp, 586-566-9572
Have fun with the family during an interactive Hibachi dinner or have a quaint date night over sushi and sake.
3 FAVORITE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Stoney Creek Metro Park | 4300 Main Park Rd, Shelby Twp, 586-781-4242
I would be remiss to not mention one of the best parts of Shelby Twp: the amazing Stoney Creek Metro Park! Stoney Creek has everything—hiking/biking trails, beaches, playgrounds, boat rentals, food stands, camping, event rental facilities, golf, and more! Pack up the family and explore for the day!
River Bends Park | 5700 22 Mile Rd, Shelby Twp, 586-731-0300
River Bends Park offers great hiking, an archery range, disc golf course, baseball fields, and, our favorite, the Burgess Shadbush Nature Center with great animal educational experiences for your children.
Chief Gene Shepherd Park | 2452 23 Mile Rd, Shelby Twp, 586-731-0300
With a splash pad, playground, great hiking trails, bocce ball, and horseshoes, this is a great little park! Bonus tip: this is less than a mile from Yates Cider Mill so pick up a cider donut sundae and come enjoy it at the park!
FAVORITE CULTURAL ACTIVITY
Packard Proving Grounds | 49965 Van Dyke, Shelby Twp, 586.739.4800
The former home of the Packard Motor Car Company, this unique factory and business offices were built in Tudor revival style in the early 1900s. Now, this location, through preservation efforts, hosts facility tours, a variety of community programs, serves as a wedding venue, and is home to the Shelby Twp Farmer’s Market.
FAVORITE PLACE FOR SWEET TREATS
Militello’s Bakery | 52950 Van Dyke, Shelby Twp, 586-254-9700
A family-owned Italian bakery, Militello’s has been serving the community for around 40 years. From beautiful wedding cakes to amazing paczkis and everything in between, they are sure to have just what your sweet tooth is craving!
FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP
Just Love Coffee Cafe | 49453 Van Dyke Ave, Shelby Twp, 586-580-3904
Not only does this quaint coffee shop serve up delicious beverages and amazing foods (all cooked on waffle irons) but this company also makes giving back and community part of it’s operational fabric.
FAVORITE DATE NIGHT
Detroit Fish House | 51195 Schoenherr, Shelby Twp, 586-739-5400
If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic evening, then this your place. Top it off with a movie at Emagine less than a mile away.
FAVORITE GROCERY STORE
Vince & Joe’s Gourmet Market | 55178 Van Dyke Rd, Shelby Twp, 586-786-9230
Vince & Joe’s is just a fun place to shop. With fresh produce, amazing meat and seafood, homemade pastas and sauces, and a delectable bakery, you’ll find what you’re looking for and more. As an added bonus, if you’re looking for local products such as Blake’s Farms items, you’ll hit the jackpot in this store.
FAVORITE PLACE FOR AN ADULT BEVERAGE
Vast Kitchen & Bar | 52969 Van Dyke, Shelby Twp, 586-991-6104
Vast has a great bar atmosphere with craft cocktails and often has live entertainment. Try one of their appetizers or shareables to help get your night started.
BONUS TIPS TO SHELBY TWP
- Jimmy John’s Field is great for a family outing or date night! Make sure to take your appetite because there is a plethora of local eats available all around the ball park.
- Shelby Twp is constantly growing with new retail and restaurant development never ceasing. Be sure to always check out what’s new!
