Royal Oak, Michigan, is a city with a vibrant lifestyle. The town provides many activities for people of all ages to do. Whether you are a resident of Royal Oak or simply visiting the city, you can enjoy different types of activities and things to do. In this article, we’ll explore a list of the top things to do in Royal Oak, Michigan.
Featured Image: Downtown Royal Oak – Lrgjr72, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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About Royal Oak, Michigan
Royal Oak is a vibrant and famous city in Oakland County. It’s an inner-ring suburb of Detroit, approximately 22.5km north of Downtown Detroit.
There is a bit of history behind how this city got its name. Back in the day, the town had a large oak tree where King Charles II of England, Ireland, and Scotland hid to escape his enemies. The King named the city after this oak tree. The present-day city is highly developed, with many exciting places and things to do.
Top Things To Do In Royal Oak
Royal Oak, Michigan, boasts a variety of exciting attractions. Visit the Detroit Zoo, home to over 2,400 animals worldwide—sample craft beers at Royal Oak Brewery, known for its flavorful concoctions. Browse local art at the Royal Oak Art Fair, held annually in July. Finally, end your day with a laugh at Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, a popular comedy venue.
Here are some exciting places to visit in Royal Oak, Michigan.
Visit The Detroit Zoo
The Detroit Zoo is one of the best places to visit, especially when traveling with children.
You can see a wide variety of animals ranging from arctic species to jungle animals. The zoo has different opening hours based on the season you visit. The zoo sprawls across an area of over 125 acres. It houses 1,500 mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish, and invertebrates of various species.
Take A Stroll Through The Farmers Market
The Royal Oak Farmers Market is where you can find a lot of fresh produce, especially seasonal-based ones.
Located at 316 E 11 Mile Road, two blocks east of Main Street, this market has existed since 1927. It’s the best place to buy local fresh produce, as it sells products that Michigan farmers grow themselves.
Tour The Royal Oak Music Theatre
The Royal Oak Music Theatre is the perfect place to be if you want to witness world-class musical compositions and theatrical performances.
You can experience excellent performances by Lady Gaga, Fleet Foxes, Wiz Khalifa, Elvis Costello, Amy Schumer, and many more popular artists.
Catch A Movie At Emagine Royal Oak
Emagine Royal Oak consists of a Dolby Atmos EMAX Theatre where movie buffs can gain a complete Vegas-style experience. You can enjoy watching movies in comfortable seats.
The theater also hosts many prominent promotional events, including specific sporting events.
Experience Fine Art At The Habatat Galleries
The Habatat Galleries is the best place to experience art in Royal Oak. If you are an art lover, you must go there to witness the best of glass arts in the region. They lay claim to being America’s first and largest contemporary glass art gallery, which was founded in 1971.
This considerable art space has a vast collection of exhibits, including dozens of sculptures and several pieces of glass artwork. You can even buy some of these fantastic art pieces if you wish.
Test Your Abilities At The Room Breakout Escape Room
The Room Breakout Escape Room is the perfect low-cost option to have fun in Royal Oak. It’s a puzzle-based locked-room game where you will be locked inside a room under supervision.
Inside the room, you are required to solve riddles, find clues, and complete various tasks to be able to escape from it.
Go Skating At The Modern Skate & Surf
Modern Skate & Surf is where you should be if you love skating and are looking for options in Royal Oak.
Established in 1976, it’s a shop with different skating gear and parks, where you can give skating a go. You may book other sessions based on your skating abilities. Memberships are also open for subscriptions.
Visit the National Shrine of the Little Flower
Visit the National Shrine of the Little Flower for a spiritual and historical experience. Marvel at its stunning architecture, recognized as a National Historic Site. Attend a mass, explore the beautiful gardens, or simply reflect peacefully. The shrine honors Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, known for her “Little Way” of spiritual childhood. This site is a must-visit for both religious visitors and history enthusiasts.
The National Shrine of the Little Flower was constructed in two stages in 1931 and 1936. This iconic architectural structure is situated at the intersection of 12 Mile Rd and the famous Woodward Avenue in metro Detroit.
Outdoor Adventures In Royal Oak, Michigan
You can do many different outdoor activities in Royal Oak, Michigan. Following are some of the best places to visit if you love adventure and outdoor activities.
- Red Oaks Nature Center: An excellent outdoor center with indoor ponds with colorful fish and turtles.
- IRC at TG3: An area with complete gym facilities to stay fit and active.
- Detroit Axe – Ferndale: An area with board games and outdoor seating.
- That’s Wassup Stand-Up Paddle Boarding: A place to enjoy the sun setting while paddleboarding on Walled Lake.
- Booth Park: The perfect place to enjoy a picnic with friends and loved ones.
- Rising Phoenix Archery: An indoor area dedicated for archery.
If you are an adventure lover or enjoy outdoor activities, you must also learn to be safe and equipped with all the necessary outdoor gear. Flashlights are a must-have if you are on an adventure trip or participating in any outdoor activity. Ensure you read the latest flashlight reviews to help you choose the most suitable flashlight based on your adventure.
FAQs About Royal Oak
What makes Royal Oak a unique destination in Michigan?
Royal Oak’s blend of historical sites, cultural venues, and outdoor activities makes it a standout destination for travelers seeking variety.
Can you recommend family-friendly activities in Royal Oak?
Yes, families will love visiting the Detroit Zoo, engaging with nature at the Red Oaks Nature Center, and exploring the Royal Oak Farmers Market.
Are there any cultural attractions in Royal Oak?
Indeed, the Royal Oak Music Theatre and the Habatat Galleries offer rich cultural experiences, showcasing music, comedy, and contemporary art.
Is Royal Oak A Good Place To Travel?
Royal Oak is an excellent travel destination, offering everything from sightseeing tours to gastronomic adventures, galleries, and outdoor parks.
What Are The Best Things To Do In Royal Oak?
Some top things to do in the Royal Oak area are visiting the Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak Music Theatre, Emagine Royal Oak, The Habatat Galleries, and The Room Breakout Escape Room.
Is Royal Oak A Suburb Of Detroit?
Royal Oak is a city in Oakland County in an inner-ring suburb of Detroit. It is located approximately 22.5km north of downtown Detroit.
Final Thoughts About Things To Do In Royal Oak
Royal Oak is a traveler’s paradise with many activities and places to go. Whether you love outdoor activities or want fun, this city has everything. The Detroit Zoo is famous for families with young children, while the Royal Oak Music Theatre is for solo travelers, couples, or families with older children.
There are also various activities to do, ranging from skating to challenging your brain at The Room Breakout Escape Room. Ensure you try out these exciting activities while in Royal Oak. If you have been there before, let us know what activities you enjoyed most.
