You know that song… “There’s no place like home for the holidays”? Well to me, that lyric couldn’t be truer. I absolutely love being in Detroit around Christmastime. The city becomes a magical place filled with holiday tradition and plenty of twinkling lights. So if you’re from the Detroit-area or plan to visit during the holidays I hope this list helps guide your activities when you’re in my home sweet home. 10 things to do in Metro Detroit for the holidays:

1. Big Bright Light Show
Buildings in downtown Rochester are covered in glimmering holiday lights, creating a gorgeous Christmas wonderland. Bring popcorn and a thermos of hot cocoa and drive through to enjoy the lights or park and stop by Sanders as you adventure around Main Street and enjoy the view. Don’t forget to stop at Royal Park Hotel to check out their life-size gingerbread house.


2. Ice Skate at Campus Martius

Right in the heart of downtown Detroit you’ll find the Rink at Campus Martius Park. I suggest going at an off-time (i.e. not a weekend), so you don’t have to wait in long lines to skate.

3. Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo

The front half of the zoo is illuminated in more than five million LED lights, including animal sculptures, illuminated trees and more. A family-friendly favorite!

Stroll throughout the ground of the Ford House. Thousands of glimmering lights brighten up the path along with glowing luminaries and fire pots to warm up at. Carolers get you into the holiday spirit and you can warm your spirits along the trail with hot cocoa, popcorn and more. Come in from the cold and enjoy the house decked out for Christmas with gorgeous decorated trees that include Eleanor Ford’s custom-made vintage ornaments that I am absolutely obsessed with!

5. Wayne County Lightfest
Westland is home to the Midwest’s largest and longest drive-through light show, with four miles of more than 47 holiday light displays. A gorgeous event for the entire family, don’t forget the cocoa and popcorn to enjoy the ride! Read my thoughts on the lightfest here.

6. Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village
Take a lantern-lit journey back in time with the sound of carolers in the distance and the scent of roasting chestnuts. You will find horse-drawn wagons, Model T rides and even Santa himself with live reindeer, it’s no wonder this has becomes one of Michigan’s favorite ways to spend the holidays.

7. Lights along Lake Shore Drive
Grosse Pointe Shores and Grosse Pointe Farms is home to some of the most gorgeous homes at Christmas time. It’s definitely a sight you don’t want to miss.

8. Crossroads Village
Christmas at Crossroads Village offers live entertainment, costumed villagers, model trains (for the Sheldon Coopers of the world), holiday music and more. It’s fun for the whole family.

9. Holiday Walk at Meadowbrook Hall
The manor is transformed into a magical Christmas wonderland.

10 . Take a Carriage Ride
If you’re looking for a magical way to explore the streets of Detroit, a Christmas carriage ride may be perfect for you. Hop on a private carriage ride with your significant other or family, and see the city in a whole new way.

*Note: the only things I have not done on the list is are the Holiday Walk at Meadowbrook Hall, Crossroads Village and Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village