Centrally located to Midwesterners and those residing in the Great Lakes region, Michigan is known for its natural beauty. The Wolverine State is populated but not overcrowded, with classic autumn colors in its abundant foliage and a ton of fun things to do in Troy.
Troy, Michigan, is the largest city in Oakland County and is located on the northern metropolitan side of Detroit. Its diverse population of 87,000 includes employees of small businesses and Fortune 500 companies alike.
If you want to get the most bang for your buck, you might consider your options in a more modest location like Troy. There are plenty of things to do in Troy, Michigan, along with places to eat and places to stay.
Looking for a suburban oasis that's close to all the best Detroit has to offer? Look no further than the Embassy Suites by Hilton Detroit Troy Auburn Hills! This all-suite hotel offers spacious and comfortable accommodations, complete with free local area shuttle service. You'll be close to the Detroit Zoo, the luxury shopping of the Somerset Collection, and just a short drive from the casinos and sports venues of Detroit city centre.
Sonesta Simply Suites Detroit Troy offers spacious suites complete with a fully equipped kitchenette - perfect for extended stays. The hotel is Conveniently located 6.4 km from downtown Troy and within a 5-minute drive of the shopping at the Somerset Collection. The suites include a dining area and the kitchenette is equipped with a microwave and refrigerator.
Looking for a place to stay in Troy that's convenient to all the best attractions Detroit has to offer? Look no further than Drury Inn & Suites Detroit Troy! Just off Interstate 75 and less than 16.1 km from the Detroit Zoo, the hotel is the perfect starting point for any trip to the Motor City. And we make your travels even easier with complimentary amenities like a hot breakfast each morning and free WiFi throughout the property. After a day of exploring, unwind in the indoor pool or hot tub.
Best Things to Do in Troy, Michigan
These Troy, Michigan, things to do will vary in appeal based on whether you’re alone, with a partner, or have kids in the mix.
See what we have to say about each, and then decide which things to do in Troy make the most sense for your trip.
1. Troy Museum and Historic Village
Visiting history buffs will enjoy the offerings of this miniature town, consisting of 11 buildings, a gazebo, and a public green area. Built from historic structures salvaged from the area, the village incorporates original architecture and recreations. This creates a more authentic experience of what Troy would have looked like in the 1800s.
An old schoolhouse, church, and blacksmith help make up the village, with period collections of historical items to peruse. A local cafe serves refreshments and beverages for a break in your stroll. Visit in December to see the area decorated for the holidays. Marvel at the twinkling lights and other seasonal decorations.
There are programs for all ages here, including hands-on activities for children as young as preschool. Come by for a self-guided tour, or attend one of the official presentations for more information on the facilities.
Much is on offer here, like tea time, game nights, and a walking community. More hands-on activities include wood and metalworking demonstrations, blacksmithing classes, and other workshops. Check out the local Family History Concierge for more info about the area. The City of Troy works to preserve its heritage engagingly in conjunction with the Troy Historical Society. This feature is fun for any visitor seeking to learn about Troy or refresh themselves on American history.
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2. The Bhartiya Temple
This religious site is a fascinating, inspiring local interest and welcoming tourist location for everyone. An active hub for the Detroit metro’s Hindu population, Bhartiya Temple offers Pujas and other spiritual events.
Learn about Hindu culture and enjoy the stunning architecture the Temple offers. The white marble deities are stunning. The Prayer Room is a big draw, as are the expansive outdoor grounds surrounding the building.
Guests can enjoy traditional Indian food in the cafeteria or a celebration for Diwali on October 24th. The Temple is a local nucleus for all festivals around Hindu holidays.
The Temple’s emphasis on family and community reflects in its range of programming. Many of these events are currently offered online or via live stream due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hindu or not, those seeking peace, harmony, and spiritual connection will appreciate what the Bhartiya Temple has to offer. In keeping with their faith, locals are gracious to newcomers, regardless of religious inclination.
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3. Somerset Collection
Troy is known to Michiganders as a hotspot for enthusiastic shoppers, and the Somerset Collection is no exception. Consistently ranked on “Best Of” shopping lists for the region as well as nationally, this high-end mall is a favorite of locals as well as tourists.
Since its opening in 1969, the Somerset Collection mall on West Big Beaver Road has been a popular staple of Troy. The location consists of more than 180 boutiques and specialty stores. This includes Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Zara, and 12 awesome restaurants and eateries.
There’re sculptures scattered throughout the corridors and a lovely gazebo garden area. This provides a chic and aesthetically pleasing retail experience for guests.
Due to its high-end inhabitants, this might not be the best destination for the thrifty-minded traveler searching for a steal. For those looking to spend some cash on luxury items, Somerset Collection will entertain you for the better part of the day.
Window shoppers can get their steps in without breaking the bank, thrilled at the gaudy displays and designer items available. Somerset Collection also offers special events. Enjoy themed presentations, yoga classes, live music, art displays, parades, and holiday programs to complement your shopping trip.
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4. Stage Nature Center
For the traveler who wants to immerse themselves in the outdoors, look no further! This area of nature preserves spans 100 acres and 2 miles of trails where hikers often see deer and wild turkey. Free and open to the public, visitors of all ages can enjoy Stage’s offerings 365 days a year, from dawn to dusk.
The Michigan Native Garden displays 75 local plant species. These attract gorgeous birds, bees, and butterflies to pollinate them. There is also a Monarch Waystation, with food for monarch butterflies as they migrate.
The nature center also offers nature programs. Enjoy photo walks, Owl Prowls, toddler activities, hikes, hands-on outdoor exploration, and enrichment nature classes for school-age children.
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5. Troy Family Aquatic Center
Mainly kid-focused, but enjoyable for any age, the city of Troy’s own aquatic center is a fantastic activity for the warmer months. It’s known for being a safe and clean area for local kids to spend their time, but out-of-town visitors can also get a day pass for aquatic fun!
Enjoy the multiple waterslides, jacuzzi, ninja course, and public pools. Aesthetically pleasing features include water spouts and decorative tree and rock waterfall structures. Then, take a break from swimming to grab a snack and a drink at Harvey’s Hut.
Lounge chairs are available for adults to relax while kids splash around. The aquatic center is fenced in to allow for parents’ peace of mind with little ones.
Visitors may also want to check out other nearby amenities. There’re picnic shelters, a dog park, tennis and volleyball courts, a baseball diamond, and walking trails adjacent to the Aquatic Center.
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6. St. Julian Winery
Looking for a more “grown-up person” experience? Head to the St. Julian Winery tasting room and pour yourself a glass from Michigan’s most-awarded vineyard! Originally founded in Canada in 1921, the winery underwent several iterations of distillery and name changes – including “Motor City Wine Co.” – before making its permanent home in Michigan as St. Julian.
This local favorite of oenophiles prides itself on using 100% Michigan-grown grapes to select dry to dessert wines. Not a fan? St. Julian also offers hard ciders, spirits, sparkling beverages, and seasonal selections.
Aside from daily tastings, the winery offers distillery tours, demonstrations, food truck rallies, and other events open to the public. Headquartered in PawPaw, there are a string of affiliate locations. They are in Frankenmuth, Dundee, Rockford, Union Pier, and Troy, Michigan. Each facility offers a tasting room as well as a retail store, also available for perusal online in case you want to shop and ship a souvenir home.
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7. Rising Phoenix Archery
Whether you’re an archery ace or so much of a beginner with bows you quiver at the sight of them (sorry, I’ll stop), Rising Phoenix will make you comfortable “loosing” arrows in no time! Take advantage of their open range, or sign up for a lesson from professional staff.
Seminars, “Teen Nite,” and holiday offerings are some of the events at this facility. Make sure to check their hours, as most of the action happens after 5:00 pm. Public open range hours extend longer throughout the weekend.
8. AirTime Trampoline and Game Park
Bringing the kids and wanting to treat them to something special? With 30,000 square feet of entertainment, no one in your traveling group will be disappointed in this venue. AirTime Trampoline and Game Park is designed to be a hotbed of nothing but tons of fun, so be prepared for a high-energy experience from start to finish!
AirTime features open jump areas, as well as separate mosh pits, dodgeball & basketball courts, and even a designated space for those under 6 to go ape. Court monitors patrol the area to ensure safe play, so adults can chill out while the kids have a good time. Check the facility’s online news bulletin for updates on “attractions-in-progress” as well as special events.
WithWith staff supervision and attention to cleanliness, AirTime makes a good destination for wintertime or rainy-day family fun. Note outside food isn’t allowed, so you might want to figure in the additional cost of feeding your brood while visiting. And make sure to fill out their waiver online to save time when you arrive – the sooner play can start, the better!
9. The Dinner Detective
Looking for something unique about Troy nightlife? Crave some drama? Looking for interactive entertainment? Try a murder mystery dinner theatre! The Dinner Detective boasts itself as being America’s largest murder-mystery show, and its host of awards support that claim.
You’ll want to budget a few hours to enjoy this experience. Professional comedy theatre, a terrific four-course meal, and surprising plot twists will make for an enjoyable evening with your partner or a friend. Check the website for tickets and showtimes.
10. Summer Concert Series
The City of Troy presents “Summer Sensation,” a series of open-air concerts, in Boulan Park. The night concerts go from 6:30-8:30 pm on select Thursdays during the summer months.
The city is still finalizing its 2023 lineup, though to give you an idea of what you can expect, the 2021 series featured a mix of jazz, soul, and Broadway show tunes. Bring a lawn chair, enjoy a bite to eat from the on-site food trucks, and kick back for a musical performance that will add a magic touch to any summer evening.
11. Firefighters Park
Parents can head to Firefighters Park and its vast playground filled with top play equipment for an outdoor break with little ones. Featuring a yellow fire-truck-shaped climbing structure, kids will love the mix of open-air play and woodsy exploration.
Across the 96 acres, you’ll find baseball and soccer fields, disc golf courses, volleyball courts, and areas for shore fishing. The Rouge River that runs along the north and east sides of the park gives visitors a glimpse of natural Michigan beauty at its finest.
Relaxing and family-friendly, Firefighters Park is a charming destination. You and the kids can spend an afternoon here or stop off for playtime between other local points of interest.
Best Places to Eat in Troy, Michigan
After you find things to do in Troy, Michigan, you’ll need an excellent place to eat. These are my two favorites.
Seasons 52
We loved the food and atmosphere at Seasons 52 on Crooks Rd. The entrees are a little pricey, but the food justified the price. They have a fresh American menu that changes based on what’s seasonal. There’s also an excellent selection of 52 international wines – one for every week of the year!
Their flatbread appetizer is impressive and longer than you’d expect. If you’re a fan of lobster bisque, I dare you to find one better nearby. You also can’t go wrong with their Chilean sea bass or steaks!
El Guanaco
El Guanaco on Livemois Rd is one of the area’s best places for Mexican/Latin food. They even have an extensive breakfast menu so that you can eat there any time of the day. I first tried them thinking they were all Mexican, but I’ve been impressed with their El Salvadorian fare, like pupusas and spicy cabbage slaw.
Their pork is an absolute pleasure, no matter which dish you order. Be sure not to miss their fried plantains. Everything has so much flavor, and they serve a wider variety of vegetables, in some words, than you’d find in many Mexican restaurants.
Best Places to Stay in Troy, Michigan
These are the three best places to stay for the night in Troy.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Detroit-Troy, MI
You can find Home2 Suites by Hilton just off I-75. It’s luckily within walking distance of Noodles and Company and Potbelly Sandwich Shop if you’re hungry.
Home2 Suites has a fun, bright, and modern feel. They provide free hot breakfasts, free wifi, an indoor heated pool, a fitness center, and a business center. You can choose from a king-bedroom or studio suite with two queen beds, starting at around $120 a night. They also have pet-friendly rooms.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Detroit Troy Auburn Hills
Embassy Suites is also just off of I-75. The hotel has its restaurant, the Riparian Grille, so you don’t have to go far if you’re hungry. The hotel also offers a complimentary made-to-order breakfast.
You’ll enjoy free wifi, a heated indoor pool, a fitness center, and room service. Rooms include one king bed or two double beds, starting at around $290 a night. They also have pet-friendly rooms in case your pet is joining you on your adventures.
Courtyard by Marriot Detroit Troy
Courtyard by Marriot is also off I-75. The Bistro inside the hotel offers breakfast and dinner, a bar, and Starbucks coffee beverages. It’s within walking distance of Mon Jin Lau if you enjoy Asian fusion food.
They have free high-speed internet, a fitness center, and a lovely indoor heated pool. Rooms are modern and stylish and start at around $140. You can choose from rooms with a king bed, sofa bed, or two queen beds.
Planning Your Trip to Troy
If you’re looking for things to do in Troy, Michigan, this weekend or some other time, there are plenty of options. Start making your list today and book your room at Booking.com while prices are still low!
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