Things to do in Utica
Story by Marissa Russo
Occupying 1.7 square miles of metro Detroit, the small but happening city of Utica provides the amenities of a big city within its quaint borders of Macomb County.
From a sports venue to trendy restaurants to outdoor adventures, we are sure you will not go longing for things to do!
Parks & Trails
Enjoy the great outdoors through the many walking trails and parks located throughout the city of Utica! Canoe the Clinton River or bring the family out to the park for a scenic adventure.
Explore the trails or canoe the Clinton River utilizing the canoe launch at Heritage Park (south of M-59 west of Van Dyke). Clinton River Canoe and Kayak is a great local resource if you are looking for equipment rentals and a more guided experience.
Memorial Park is located near Utica’s downtown area and gives you an opportunity to ride your bike to and from the City through the Clinton River Trail System. The park also features the large iconic clock tower, many benches, and walking paths. Memorial Park is the Friday night summer spot as the Utica Summer Concert Series ‘Weekend Unwind’ features local favorite bands. Bring your cooler, lawn chairs, and favorite people to this free event!
Clinton River Canoe and Kayak, @sustainable.qt
7171 Auburn Road
Located within walking distance of downtown Utica, Jimmy John's Field is home to four teams that play in the United Shore Professional Baseball League.
Beginning in May with opening day all the way through September, you can come cheer on the Birmingham Bloomfield Beavers, Eastside Diamond Hoppers, Utica Unicorns, and Westside Woolly Mammoths as all four teams compete at Jimmy John’s Field every weekend!
Everyone is guaranteed to have fun at Jimmy Johns Field.
Dave & Busters
45511 Park Avenue
It is all fun and games at Dave & Busters in Utica! The massive arcade will keep you entertained for hours. Enjoy classics like Pop-A-Shot, Pac-Man, and Skee-Ball, or escape through their virtual reality games. You can also enjoy a few rounds of billiards while watching the Detroit Lions on game days on Dave & Busters 40-foot TV wall with stadium-quality sound.
The Reptarium
45559 Van Dyke Avenue
Located in Utica, an interactive reptile zoo known as ‘The Reptarium’ gives you an opportunity to meet a variety of reptiles through a hands-on experience.
The zoo houses some of the world's rarest reptiles (including a two-headed snake) and other animals in naturalistic enclosures and offers opportunities for the public to learn about these creatures hands-on.
The Reptarium also invites you to visit their fish spa, animal feedings and meet animal ambassdor "Brillo," a six-banded armadillo, and "Drogo," a two-toed sloth. The Reptarium is home to many more animal ambassadors to discover during your next visit.
More info can be found online.
Argentine Tango
7758 Auburn Road
Argentine Tango Detroit is metro Detroit’s best-kept secret destination for tango and Latin lessons, parties, and events.
Through many popular dance styles including salsa, club-style Latin, ballroom, hip hop, and swing, you can tango with talented and experienced dance instructors almost every day of the week!
Notable Eats
Host
7759 Auburn Road
Experience a fresh menu by rotating resident chefs at Host in downtown Utica. This trendy restaurant provides unique experiences for even their regulars as they feature different chefs with new and exciting menus.
You can find the chef's schedule and make reservations online.
@host_utica
Vino & Vibes
7740 Auburn Road
Vino & Vibes is a wine bar located in downtown Utica offering a menu of small plates paired with an international selection of wine, beers, and cocktails.
Create your own cheese and charcuterie board to indulge in with friends, followed with a beverage from the coffee bar and dessert. The menu features an array of options to enhance your dining experience.
Muldoon’s
7636 Auburn Road
Experience the Utica nightlife with weekly entertainment at Muldoons Tavern in Utica. Their extensive menu has something for everyone, and their patio is definitely something to experience during the summer months!
Tivoli’s Wood Brick-Oven Pizzeria
45257 Van Dyke Avenue
With more than 30 years in business, Tivoli’s wood-fired brick oven pizza has stood the test of time! Lorenzo Evola, owner of Tivoli's Pizzeria, takes everyday pizza and turns it into a culinary work of art. Enjoy several different styles of pie made with fresh ingredients.
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