Hike the Brew Trail with the Siren of Stout

I’ve been known to tell people where to go and how to get there over at my Instagram and TikTok pages and this article is no exception! I have traveled all over the world for great new beer and adventure…Dubai, China, and Ohio, but I must confess that we have the best beers right here in Michigan. You know I am not being biased because plenty of famed magazines, respected beer connoisseurs (like myself), and popular beer festivals have rated many Michigan beers the “best in the country” over and over again.

So now you ask me, “Barb, how do I find these great Michigan beers?”

I got you.

The Detroit Brew Trail

This pass was created by VisitDetroit. The folks that know everything about Detroit and beyond. So it makes sense that they want to share their beer connections with all of us. This year, there are over 30 breweries on the trail…13 in Oakland County, 4 in Macomb County, and 14 in Wayne County.

Let me tell you how it works. First, grab your pass at Detroit Brew Trail. Next, run to the nearest brewery on the list. Once you get there, check in on the pass and use the discounts, if available. There are some spectacular deals, like 50% off your first two beers or BOGO Free beers! Once you check-in, you will start to earn points for Detroit Beer Trail swag, like stickers, bottle openers, or t-shirts.

If your favorite brewery is not on the trail, the next time you’re in that brewery, let them know so they can sign up or tag them on The Detroit Brew Trail Instagram! IT’S COMPLETELY FREE TO JOIN!

While you’re out and about in Detroit, download the Explore Detroit Pass. It’s filled with fun things to do. This pass will not only show you very cool attractions but offers at least 20% off a ton of establishments around town. Have you been to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History yet? How about Detroit Dye House? Or even DNR Outdoor Adventure Center? All of these phenomenal places are on the Explore Detroit Pass. Spend a beautiful day with the family and then stop by a new brewery and have a relaxing repast.

Need an idea of what to do on a day trip in Metro Detroit? Below is my itinerary…a day of what I do when I’m hanging with the family in Detroit and beyond.

Photos: Portrait by Darrel Ellis

Detroit Institute of Arts

I am an Affiliate member so we try to go as much as possible. The good thing is since it is free for Wayne, Macomb, and Oakland County residents, we can just check out a single exhibit and not feel like we need to spend the entire day.

Detroit Historical Museum

This place holds so much history that one visit is never enough. That’s why being a member is such a great deal. There is so much to read and see and my daughter is always excited to talk on the “old-time phone”…a landline phone I had when I was a child.

Jump on the Q Line Headed South

My daughter LOVES riding the street car…so we park so that we can ride!

Photos: My daughter looking at a piece from the Van Gogh Exhibit, the Q Line, Detroit Historical Museum

Lunch

Saucy Brew Works for coffee, wings and pizza (and maybe a beer).

Back On the Q-Line Headed South

Campus Martius

No matter the weather, this area is always full of fun. From Monroe Street Midway to ice skating, to the Holiday Markets in Cadillac Square to the sandy beach and Adirondack chairs during the warmer months. There are a tons of restaurants, new and old, to grab a quick bite, a hot drink or a cool dessert.

Photos: Saucy Brew Works, The Siren of Stout Family with Santa At Monroe Street Midway, Campus Martius Beach in the Summer

Get On The Q-Line Headed North

Back to the car to head home.

Dinner – Lily’s Seafood and Brewery Royal Oak

Their food is SO delicious and their beer is stellar. What’s even more amazing is their welcoming atmosphere. You feel relaxed and at home. I was able to meet the brewer, Marlon Morton, and his mom and dad and they are super welcoming folks. I always get the crab cake sandwich and the calamari appetizer because I love it so. Their beers change often but always get the Pilsner. Always.

Head home and end the day.

This video below is another day out with my daughter in Detroit. Check It Out!

Photos: Lily’s Brewery and Seafood Grill and Q Line