Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Auburn Hills, MI to Hazel Park, MI

If you're looking for a fun and unpredictable day trip, consider taking a drive from Auburn Hills to Hazel Park in Michigan. While this may be a relatively short distance, there are plenty of interesting places to explore along the way. The trip itself should take approximately 30 minutes, but expect to make several pit stops along the way.

Halfway Point: Troy, MI

Before we dive into the unexpected places along the drive, we must talk about the halfway point - Troy, MI. This city is the third-largest city in Michigan, so it's no surprise that there are several activities for visitors to enjoy. One must-visit place in Troy is the Somerset Collection, a luxurious mall featuring high-end boutiques and department stores. The mall also offers a restaurant named Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina, serving delicious Neapolitan-style pizza.

1. The Great Lakes Crossing Outlets

Located in Auburn Hills, The Great Lakes Crossing Outlets is a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals. The mall is the largest outlet shopping center in Michigan, offering over 185 stores, restaurants, and experiences. The highlight of this mall is the seafood restaurant, Rainforest Cafe. The Rainforest Cafe offers a unique atmosphere making it great for families with children.

2. Meadow Brook Hall

Meadow Brook Hall is a historic mansion that was built in 1929. The mansion is located in Rochester and it's the fourth largest historic home open to the public in the United States. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion which takes them through 88,000 square feet of art, architecture, and history.

3. Cranbrook House and Gardens

If you're a fan of architecture and design, the Cranbrook House and Gardens in Bloomfield Hills is a must-visit location. The house museum was designed by Albert Kahn in 1908 and features 40 rooms. The gardens surrounding the house takes visitors on a tour through art and nature. The Visitors Center at Cranbrook House and Garden also features a small cafe which serves delicious sandwiches and salads.

4. Antique Taco

Located in Birmingham, Antique Taco is a trendy Mexican restaurant that will satisfy any cravings related to Mexican or Tex-Mex cuisine. Antique Taco is unique in the sense that they source their meats from local farms, making their dishes fresh, and delicious. Their most popular dish is their tacos, which comes with a char-cooked corn tortilla filled with refried beans, avocado, and tangy pickled onions.

5. Cass Cafe

Located in Detroit, the Cass Cafe is a unique location that blends art and cuisine to form a beautiful experience for visitors. This cafe exhibits works made by artists from the Detroit art community while also providing an intimate dining atmosphere. The Cass Cafe offers a diverse menu from the Mediterranean to Mexican cuisine and many delicious vegan options.

Conclusion

This day trip takes visitors through plenty of unexpected places. From shopping malls to iconic mansions, there's something for everyone. Visitors can also satisfy their cravings while driving through exceptional Mexican cuisine at Antique Tacos or enjoy the delicious options provided by the Cass Cafe. It's an experience you won't regret, and we're sure you'll be planning your next trip right after your first.