Ferndale has often been described as "a microcosm of many different things." The village is the birthplace of the famous Woodward Dream Cruise, is also a popular artists’ hub, and a home of one of the largest LGBTQ communities in the metro area.
“It’s this blue-collar place in the middle of a very important metropolitan area that is staking its ground on being, beyond even queerness, a progressive hub. The degree to which it accomplishes that is a different question,” Emma Maniere, a Grosse Pointe native and an NYU doctoral student studying Ferndale’s queer development, told PrideSource in 2022.
She added, "But it’s a place that stakes its claim to being tolerant, to being diverse, to parading those things as positive values, when that’s not the norm surrounding it.”
The progressivism of Ferndale makes it an attractive destination to visit, whether you're native to Michigan or traveling here from afar. Ferndale is walkable, full of vibrant murals and public art, and parking is free on Sundays—so take your time, wander, shop, snack, and soak it all in.
Visit Detroit has compiled a list of some of the coolest spots in Ferndale for sweets, eats, drinks, and fun. Don't forget to check out the ArtWalk Map.
Things to Do
Ferndale Pride | MAY
Ferndale Pride is the largest free-to-the-public LGBTQAI+ festival in Michigan. Located in the heart of downtown Ferndale, event-goers can expect over 220 vendors including local businesses and community resources. Ferndale Pride hosts three stage areas, showing off Michigan's brightest stars. All ages are welcome. There is a little something for everyone at Ferndale Pride.
In addition to this years main pride event--visit the website for a calendar of other events in the city during Pride Month.
Funky Ferndale Art Fair | SEPTEMBER
A funky show for a funky city. The Funky Ferndale Art Fair features art that shows more than a bit of creativity, that challenges the mind, or simply sparks the imagination. Artwork that does not sit quietly, but invites a reaction. More than 100 artists in a diverse range of art mediums, including painting, sculpture, jewelry, mixed media, fiber, clay, and more, are chosen by jury to participate in the fair annually with the opportunity to showcase (and sell) their work to more than 35,000 visitors.
Painting with a Twist | 200 W. 9 Mile Rd Ferndale, MI 48220
One of the more popular destinations in downtown Ferndale, Painting with a Twist is a birthday, bridal, and any other kind of party place. It is perfect for a fun-filled night out where you can sip, socialize, and create. The mission at Painting with a Twist is simple: To provide a care-free escape while making a difference in people's lives. If you aren't coming in for a party and are just looking for something fun to do--reach out to reserve a table and drop in on any of their fun sessions like "Paint your Pet," or Date Night, or Sunday events that feature beautiful outdoor scenes.
Retail
Rust Belt Market
22801 Woodward Ave, Ferndale, MI 48220
The Rust Belt Market is a collective of 30 independent shops with an event space and bar in the heart of downtown Ferndale. This warehouse marketplace has over 40 boutiques, crafts vendors, vintage resellers & a full bar. The Rust Belt Market is the intersection of creativity and business. In the age of click-and-buy, the Rust Belt Market adds a dose of human connection and inspiration to your weekend day-tripping.
Found Sound
234 W. 9 Mile Rd.Ferndale, MI 48220
A full-service, independent record store, keepin' the dream alive! Found Sound specializes in new & used LPs, 45s, CDs, and any other musical format you could possibly dream of.
Downtown Ferndale Bike Shop
163 W Nine Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220
Downtown Ferndale Bike Shop was started in 2010 by 3rd-generation bike shop owner and track national champion, Jon Hughes. This area only had uptight, corporate run bike-shops and Jon felt like Ferndale deserved a no-nonsense, non-commission shop to get every butt on a bike.
Blumz by JRDesign
522 E. Nine Mile Rd. Ferndale, MI 48220
Blumz by JRDesigns is an award-winning full-service floral, wedding, and event planning company that is dedicated to the fine art of floristry. Co-owners Jerome Raska and Robbin Yelverton are internationally respected educators and presenters who continue to raise the bar in their industry.
Their mission is to bring their customers high-quality floral products, award-winning designs, and unsurpassed service at competitive prices. Our professional wedding and event staff can assist you with almost everything you will need for your big day. This includes florals, specialty linens, rentals, invitations, and more!
Maestros Dog Haus
310 West 9 Mile Road, Ferndale, Michigan 48220,
Maestros Dog Haus sells only 4 & 5 star commercial foods including frozen, freeze-dried and kibble at prices at or below Chewy's. Our featured brands are: Evangers, Fromm, Instinct, Orijen, Primal, Stella & Chewys, Steves, Weruva, and Zignature.
Maestro's Deli produces the most unique grain-free, filler-free, and preservative-free treats for dogs and cats. They also offer custom birthday cakes for your precious pets. As well as a full line of single-ingredient chips, freeze-dried dog treats, Jerkys, grain-free pet treats, and frozen yogurt.
The Rocket Candy Novelties Gifts
200 W Nine Mile Rd A, Ferndale, MI 48220
While spending time in Ferndale, this shop is a must-see. Pick up some tarot cards, toys, cool kitchenware, or a unique gift inspired by your favorite tv show. Rocket also has some of the best new and throwback candy, greeting cards, or adorable household items. Who doesn't need a disco-ball inspired ice bucket, or a planter for succulents shaped like a hot dog? If you're looking for a cool gift to remember your trip to Metro Detroit--Rocket is a great place to find it.
Valentine Distilling
161 Vester Ave.Ferndale, MI 48220
Founded in 2007 and among the nation’s first craft distilleries, Valentine Distilling Company is an American pioneer of small batch, handcrafted spirits. Mayor Pingree Bourbon has been consistently rated among the best in the world. Valentine Vodka has been named “World’s Best” by The World Vodka Awards in London back-to-back in 2016 and 2017. In the tradition of Detroit’s manufacturing leadership, Valentine is dedicated to American ingenuity, quality manufacturing, and small batch distilling using old-world techniques that create superior tasting products.
Eats & Sweets
Western Market
447 W Nine Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220
Western Market is a leading destination for natural, organic, and sustainable food options. As a family-owned natural foods store, we aim to be a catalyst for creating positive change, promoting sustainability, supporting local producers, and providing a hospitable environment to all who enter our store, according to their vision statement. This year, Western Market will once again be hosting a Beer Garden* fundraiser in our parking lot, in concurrence with Ferndale’s Pride celebration.
Cookieplug
23131 Woodward Ave, Ferndale, MI 48220
This national independent cookie chain features some of the "thiccest" cookies in the biz. They bake up fresh stacks daily at every location and are also available for delivery. Try the new viral Dubai-filled cookie with rich chocolate loaded with creamy pistachio filling and crispy kataifi, or famous sugar cookie recipe – Pixie Junkie that features butter, sugar, and loads of sprinkles that make for the perfect warm cookie.
Java Hutt Cafe
165 W. Nine Mile Rd.
Need a quick bite? Java Hutt has made-to-order breakfast and panini sandwiches, and salads. We also offer fresh baked goods, baked right on site. Our trail mix bars are out of this world! Not to mention our homemade cookies, brownies and scones.For the warm summer days, they have a wide variety of coffee and fruit smoothies as well as delicious iced espresso beverages.
Christine's Cuisine
729 E 9 Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220
Christine’s Cuisine has been serving up fresh, home-cooked meals ever since it opened in January 1999, by Chrystyna Hryhorczyk-Adams. This Ferndale fixture with a diverse menu of homestyle Eastern European dishes, plus weekend brunch. Treat your senses to something different with the flavors of Ukraine. Try the Chicken Athena: sautéed, breaded chicken with spinach, feta cheese, tomato & olives served over basmati rice.
Como's
22812 Woodward Ave. Ferndale, MI 48220
A family-owned staple, hearts broke around the metro area when Como's closed in 2017. However, the next year, chefs Zack Sklar and Josh Humphrey re-opened Como's on Woodward and 9 Mile with the vision to renovate and revitalize one of the hottest spots in Metro Detroit. Enjoy Detroit's BEST deep dish pizza with one of over 20 beers on tap, have a private event upstairs in The Loft, or throw a party on the largest outdoor patio in town!
Coeur
330 W Nine Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220
Coeur is a New American restaurant offering a fine dining experience rooted in tradition, yet infused with a creative and light-hearted approach. Forget the formalities. Let’s express our passion through exquisitely prepared cuisine, exceptional wine, and gracious service—all within a cozy, minimalist atmosphere designed to delight. With a shared passion for great food and wine, Chef Jordan Smith and our team create artfully prepared dishes rooted in tradition, using fresh, seasonal ingredients and global flavors. Uncomplicated yet elevated, choose from small plates or entrees, or indulge in the chef’s five-course tasting menu ($89). Enjoy unique wine pairings curated by Coeur’s expert in-house sommelier and dazzling desserts prepared by our renowned pastry chef. Reservations are encouraged, though not required.
Anita's Kitchen
22651 Woodward Ave, Ferndale, MI 48220
A Ferndale favorite, stop by Anita's Kitchen for traditional Lebanese recipes, craft cocktails and beer, raw juices and smoothies as well as fabulous street-side Woodward Avenue patio dining. With over 40 years in Ferndale, Anita's Kitchen is a must-see and taste destination for any visitor to the area.
Inyo Restaurant & Lounge
22871 Woodward Ave, Ferndale, MI 48220
Inyo Sushi is a locally-owned Asian restaurant featuring innovative sushi rolls and traditional stir-fries, teriyakis, tempuras, and lots more. They feature fare for the experienced sushi aficionado, as well as the guest seeking to explore new cuisine. Inyo offers a happy hour, weekend dim sum brunch,and an unforgettable dinner experience. Try the Omakase experience with executive chef Kenny Wee, where he will present you with a surprising selection of fresh seasonal ingredients and a presentation that you won't soon forget.
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