Whimsy in the City: Rochester Edition
Story by Liz McGuffin | Photos by @withwonderandwhimsy
Metro Detroit is a mix of vibrant cities and charming small towns, with a neighborhood for every niche.
In our new Whimsy in the City series, we’re spotlighting quaint cafes and romantic restaurants, quirky shops and specialty boutiques, and galleries, gardens, and attractions. I’m Liz of the local lifestyle blog With Wonder and Whimsy, and I’ll be your guide to the region’s most aesthetic and fanciful finds. In this series, we’ll be highlighting a different city and its special gems. For our second installment, we’re exploring downtown Rochester and the gorgeous gardens and grounds at Meadow Brook Estate.
See + Do
Downtown Rochester is a family-friendly destination known for its shops, parks, and holiday festivals and events. It's one of Metro Detroit's most walkable shopping districts and features a wide array of independent boutiques. Enjoy special summer events like the Farmers’ Market, Sidewalk Sales, and Movies in the Moonlight. Check out Dance on Main Ballroom Studio for private lessons, Zumba classes, and dance parties. See what's on at Meadow Brook Theater, 'Michigan's Answer to Broadway.' Or spend a weekend afternoon at Meadow Brook Hall to tour the historic house museum, explore the gardens, and enjoy a romantic picnic on the grounds.
Eat
The line out the door at Give Thanks Bakery is your first clue that their fresh-baked pastries and breads are something special. Grab a coffee and croissant for while you walk around downtown and a loaf of rosemary olive bread (sliced fresh!) for later.
For lunch, book a reservation for afternoon tea at Tonia's Victorian Rose. This charmingly decorated house-turned-tearoom offers a selection of teas, sandwich towers, salads, and sweets.
Dinner presents a host of dining options, and Kruse and Muer Restaurants offers a variety of experiences right on Main Street. Families will enjoy Kruse & Muer on Main for a nice evening out. Those looking for a romantic meal or business dinner might try Rochester Chop House. And for a night out with friends, share a spread of oyster platters, small plates, and steamed mussels over cocktails at Kabin Kruser's Oyster Bar.
For a night cap, take your pick of a cafe au lait or a Cosmopolitan at Saint 1881 Coffee & Cocktail Bar. This chic little spot in a converted historic church is the perfect last stop for a date night downtown.
Shop
I've said it already, and I'll say it again: Rochester is a shopper's paradise. From women's apparel, to wedding gifts, to one-of-a-kind antiques, Rochester is where you go for those most special and unique pieces. Pop into the posh Talulah Belle to shop Julie Vos jewelry, stylish serving ware, and gifts for her. Wine enthusiasts should stop into Cose di Lusso for bottle recommendations and to browse their curated selection.
No shopping trip to Rochester is complete without a final stop at The Cheese Lady, housed in a beautiful old Victorian home. The shop is fully equipped to help you build a complete picnic: with everything from 150+ artisan cheeses and serving boards, to crackers and charcuterie, to condiments and beverages to-go. Once you've assembled the perfect picnic, enjoy at an area park or on the grounds of Meadow Brook Estate.
Downtown Rochester offers historic small town charm and family-friendly fun. Come see why Rochester is considered one of Michigan's best places to live and visit!
