Things to Do in Royal Oak

Story by Michelle Fusco; Refresh by Ashley Zlatopolsky | Photos by Cafe Muse, Royal Oak Music Theatre

From family fun to nightlife, shopping and restaurants, Royal Oak sizzles with energy and excitement–and it’s only fifteen minutes from downtown Detroit.

Royal Oak Attractions

For many metro Detroiters, a visit to the Detroit Zoo is a rite of passage. Located in Royal Oak, the zoo offers unforgettable experiences like feeding giraffes, watching polar bears dive and exploring world-class habitats home to kangaroos, penguins and more.

Just steps away, the historic Royal Oak Farmers Market has been a cornerstone of the community for more than a century. Open Fridays from May through Thanksgiving and Saturdays year-round, the market features fresh produce, artisan goods, Sunday antique shopping, food truck rallies, craft fairs and seasonal events.

Entertainment options are plentiful as well. Emagine Royal Oak upgrades movie night with a Dolby Atmos EMAX Theatre, oversized screens and heated, power-reclining seats, while nearby Stagecrafters brings award-winning community theater to the historic Baldwin Theatre.

Outdoor spaces round out the experience. Starr Jaycee Park hosts summer concerts, community festivals and winter ice skating, while nearby parks and green spaces provide plenty of room to walk, picnic and soak up Royal Oak’s incredible vibes.

Royal Oak Restaurants

Royal Oak’s ever-evolving restaurant scene is one of its biggest draws, blending longtime local favorites with newer dining destinations. When warm weather arrives, patio dining and people-watching take center stage, turning downtown Royal Oak into a top destination for al fresco meals and casual bar hopping.

Standout spots include Trattoria Da Luigi for classic Italian, Lily’s Seafood for fresh coastal fare, Jim Brady’s Royal Oak for elevated comfort food, and lively favorites like O.W.L. and Mesa Tacos and Tequila for inventive brunch and late-night bites alike.

Throughout the year, the Royal Oak Restaurant Association hosts food-focused events and dining promotions that spotlight the city’s vibrant culinary scene and bring the community together.

Royal Oak Shopping

From indie boutiques to specialty shops, Royal Oak is a go-to destination for an afternoon of retail therapy. Rail & Anchor features a carefully-curated selection of thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts, while Funky 7 Inc. delivers a wall-to-wall lineup of Detroit-themed T-shirts and apparel.

Music lovers can dig through all genres of vinyl at UHF Records, then step into Lost and Found Vintage to browse an impressive collection of vintage clothing and unique finds from eras past.

Royal Oak Bars & Entertainment

Royal Oak delivers nonstop nightlife and entertainment just minutes from downtown Detroit, with live music, comedy clubs, craft cocktails and late-night dancing all in one walkable district.

Laugh it up at Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle, a nationally acclaimed comedy club featuring top stand-up talent for more than 40 years, plus a popular Wednesday open mic night. Catch concerts, comedy and special events at the historic Royal Oak Music Theatre, an intimate, club-style venue with a packed year-round schedule.

Royal Oak’s bar and nightlife scene offers something for every mood. Dance at Fifth Avenue, unwind at O’Toole’s Royal Oak or The Rock on Third, or enjoy Michigan’s best craft beer at HopCat and North End Taproom.

Round out the night at Bowlero Royal Oak with bowling, dining and classic arcade games, then stay close to the action at Hyatt Place Detroit-Royal Oak, the city’s newest hotel located just steps from top restaurants, bars and entertainment venues.

Royal Oak Events

Royal Oak hosts some of metro Detroit’s most iconic events. The legendary Woodward Dream Cruise is the ultimate Motor City experience and one of the world’s largest automotive events. Held on the third Saturday in August, the 16-mile route along Woodward Avenue runs directly through Royal Oak and attracts more than 1.5 million visitors and over 40,000 classic cars.

Over Labor Day weekend, Arts, Beats & Eats fills downtown Royal Oak with national and local music performances, juried art displays, carnival rides and games, and delicious food from top restaurants and vendors. The multi-day festival is one of Michigan’s premier summer events.
EXPERIENCE THE WOODWARD DREAM CRUISE
Woodward Dream Cruise Visitor Guide

Royal Oak Tips and Advice

LGBTQ-Friendly Community

Royal Oak is one of metro Detroit’s most welcoming and inclusive communities, offering LGBTQ-friendly dining, nightlife and entertainment year-round.

Pronto! Royal Oak is a longtime restaurant and bar that’s proudly served the LGBTQ community for decades, offering sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts and a popular Sunday brunch.

Next door, Pronto Video Bar features live entertainment, including Broadway-style cabaret nights, themed performances and special events such as drag queen bingo and guided painting and wine nights. Cafe Muse, an LGBTQ-owned and -operated restaurant, offers a European-inspired menu with fresh, locally sourced ingredients in a cozy, welcoming setting.

Royal Oak also hosts Pride events, inclusive festivals and community celebrations, making it a popular stop for LGBTQ travelers and allies visiting the Detroit area.

Parking in Royal Oak: What You Need to Know

Parking in Royal Oak is easy and convenient, especially in the walkable downtown area.

City parking structures are the best option for dining, nightlife and events, with most offering the first two hours free. Metered street parking and surface lots are free until 11 a.m. Monday through Saturday, free all day Sunday and free on civic holidays.

During major events and busy summer weekends, parking garages can fill up quickly, so arriving early or using structures just outside downtown can save time. Many parking facilities offer accessible parking, and select locations include EV charging stations.

Parking payment is available through kiosks or mobile parking apps. Always check posted signage for current rates and details.

Insider Tips for Getting Around

BYOB: Bring Your Own Bike! Royal Oak is highly walkable and bike-friendly, with shared bike lanes along Washington Avenue and bike racks throughout downtown. No bike? MoGo Detroit Bike Share has multiple stations across Royal Oak that make it easy to explore without a car.

Rideshare services and public transit options provide additional easy access to and from downtown Detroit. From inclusive nightlife and dining to easy parking and car-free transportation options, Royal Oak makes visiting metro Detroit simple, welcoming and fun.

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