When I first moved to Michigan at 17, a lot of my social time was spent in Wyandotte drinking coffee and being hipsters at The Grind (now closed). “The Dotte” is largely a residential town with a bustling strip on the riverfront. A lot of businesses are located on the very walkable Biddle Avenue, so even without a particular destination in mind, it’s easy to head to Biddle and spend hours eating, drinking, and shopping.
From my home in Southgate, Wyandotte is just a pleasant bike ride away. On summer days, my family and I often ride our bikes to Biddle for some fro-yo, then head down to the waterfront to eat treats by the river. After family time is done, it’s also a popular destination for nights out with multiple fun bars and a summer biergarten.
3 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
Coastal Thai | 140 Sycamore St, 734-282-3885
Ask for The Erica: shrimp pad thai, medium spice, no peanuts—hits the spot every time! Oh, and specify what the order is, because they have no idea who I am.
Gregorio’s Italian Restaurant | 2356 Biddle Ave, 734-283-3354
Gregorio’s is currently takeout only, but it is across the street from the gorgeous Bishop Park. Grab your order to go and find a table at the park with a view!
Portofino Restaurant & Banquet | 3455 Biddle Ave, 734-281-6700
This is one of two waterfront restaurants accessible from the street OR the river with their own boat docks. Portofino also offers river cruises for special events.
3 FAVORITE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Bishop Park | Along the Detroit River on Van Alstyne from Elm St to Vinewood
The Detroit area loves its river walks, and this one is no exception. The beautiful waterfront park features multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, a kayak launch, a fishing pier, and some of the greatest views downriver.
BASF Waterfront Park | Along the Detroit River just south of Eureka Rd
This park has the same view as Bishop Park, but without the playgrounds. It makes for a quiet, romantic stroll. The park also has sand volleyball courts, a kayak/canoe launch, several scenic lookouts, and a picturesque gazebo.
Wyandotte Shores Golf Course | 3625 Biddle Ave, 734-324-7270
This 9-hole course borders BASF Waterfront Park and shares its awesome view.
FAVORITE CULTURAL ACTIVITY
Wyandotte Street Art Fair | 734-324-4502
This an annual Downriver staple. Due to COVID-19, the fair was cancelled in 2020, but hopefully we will see a return in 2021. The art fair features block after block of Michigan-made art and other merch, plus food, drinks, and live entertainment throughout the weekend.
FAVORITE PLACE FOR SWEET TREATS
Vinewood Mexican Bakery | 988 Vinewood St, 313-610-4274
Mmm…pasteles. Grab your tray for some traditional Mexican sweets and don’t leave without a serving of the Tres Leches cake!
FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP
Sugarr Donuts | 1752 Eureka Rd, 734-258-8386
The coffee is great…especially with a side of Cannoli Cream donut.
FAVORITE DATE NIGHT
Silver Ballroom Pizzeria & Pinball Lounge | 3037 Biddle Ave, 734-309-7160
For me, this place is all-in-one fun! Delicious pizza, lots of beer, and arcade games?! What more could a girl want?
FAVORITE PLACE FOR AN ADULT BEVERAGE
Whiskey’s on the Water | 2903 Biddle Ave, 734-720-9738
It’s hard not to gush about this bar and restaurant. They pour a great selection of beer and of course, whiskey, plus a pretty impressive food menu. They have adorable outside seating under a large pergola, and during this COVID summer they created a parking lot biergarten with full service and live music!
BONUS TIPS TO WYANDOTTE
- Shopping for her: La Vie En Rose Boutique (1638 Eureka Rd, 734-281-6900). This mom-owned small boutique features clothing, jewelry, and gifts that are always perfect.
- Bobcat Bonnie’s (118 Sycamore St, 734-530-1806). If you’ve enjoyed the Detroit or Ferndale locations, the Wyandotte location will be no exception. They also host regular trivia nights!
- The Wyandotte Street Art Fair is a popular tradition, but one COVID-cautious way to support local artists is to visit River’s Edge Gallery (3024 Biddle Ave, 734-246-9880).
- Get your wine on: Wyandotte is home to both Modern Craft Wine, where you can taste and purchase Michigan-made vino from their own wineries, and Wine Dotte Bistro, an adorable restaurant and wine bar.
- Fun fact: Wyandotte was home to Lucille Ball as a toddler!
