By Layla McMurtrie on Fri, Sep 27, 2024 at 6:00 am
The air is crisp, the leaves are starting to change, and fall has officially arrived in Detroit. With the new season comes a shift in energy, inviting everyone to embrace cozy vibes with fresh fashion, seasonal treats, and fun activities.
If you’re looking to build the ultimate fall bucket list, metro Detroit is packed with events and experiences that make this time of year extra lit.
Here are the best ways to soak up the season in and around Detroit.
Fall means football in Detroit, and for sports lovers, there’s no better way to experience the season than catching a Detroit Lions game at Ford Field. You don’t even have to be in the stands, just tailgating on the outskirts of the stadium before kickoff is enough. Nothing beats the energy of cheering for your home team, especially since the Lions have been heating up.
As the weather cools down for fall, metro Detroit’s drinking scene heats up with seasonal flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a Michigan-made beer or a craft cocktail with an autumn twist, there are plenty of spots to try. Visit Griffin Claw Brewing Co., Grand Trunk Pub, and Atwater Brewery to taste some of the best fall-inspired beers around.
Autumn is harvest time, which means Eastern Market is a must-visit in the fall for fresh seasonal produce and pumpkins, plus fall flowers and locally made goods.
No need to leave the city for the fall essentials — Beacon Park’s Cider in the City brings all the autumn vibes downtown. Enjoy fresh cider, doughnuts, and pumpkin decorating every weekend in October.
The most basic bitch drink is in season and metro Detroit’s coffee shops have got it. Hot or iced — a pumpkin spice latte is the perfect pick-me-up on a cool fall day.
Taking over the Dequindre Cut from Oct. 5-6, Detroit Harvest Fest offers family-friendly fun, live music, and a huge food truck rally. With activities like pumpkin decorating and hayrides, it’s a great way to celebrate fall with the whole family while supporting local vendors.
Detroit comes alive on Halloween every year with parties happening nearly everywhere. Whether you’re going for spooky or sexy, there are plenty of hip spots to show off your costume and vibe out with friends. Partying the night away on Halloween is a must.
No fall is complete without a visit to a cider mill, and we have plenty surrounding Detroit. Head out to Yates, Blake’s, or another spot for the classic experience of sipping fresh cider, devouring cinnamon-sugar doughnuts, and picking out a pumpkin. Pro tip: Go early in the season to beat the weekend crowds and enjoy the fall vibes in peace.
This annual event offers a fun environment for kids to trick-or-treat among spooky, but not too scary, zoo exhibits. With plenty of activities, festive decorations, and of course, candy, it’s a perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit with the little ones.
You don’t have to fly to Munich to experience Oktoberfest — Detroit bars bring the Bavarian festival to you. Brown Iron Brewhouse and HopCat are just some of the many great spots to enjoy traditional German food, pints of beer, and a lively Oktoberfest energy in metro Detroit this year.
Detroit’s nightlife embraces Halloween with spooky pop-up bars that make the season extra uniquely fun. Spots like Nightmare on Bagley and Black Lagoon serve up creepy cocktails and over-the-top décor to get you in the Halloween spirit. These spots are perfect for a one-of-a-kind evening out with friends.
This annual festival returns to Eastern Market on Oct. 19 this year with over 700 craft brews from more than 80 Michigan breweries. With live music, food vendors, and plenty of fall flavors on tap, it’s a must for anyone who enjoys sipping local brews.
Cool, crisp fall evenings are perfect for a cozy backyard bonfire. Invite friends and family for a night under the stars with warm blankets, s’mores, and maybe a pumpkin beer or two. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season without leaving home.
You don’t have to drive far to enjoy great wine this fall. Detroit Vineyards offers tastings of local wines, while a short trip to places like Michigan By The Bottle Tasting Room in Shelby Township gives you even more options, many with autumnal notes of spice and fruit.
For some fashion lovers, the summer heat is not ideal. The cooler fall weather allows stylish Detroiters to layer up with all the best clothing items. Plus, you can take the cozy sweaters, leather jackets, and stylish boots out of the closet.
When you need an escape from the city, fall is the perfect time to explore Michigan’s small towns or take a trip to the Upper Peninsula. Head to Frankenmuth for Bavarian charm or up north to see fall colors at places like Pictured Rocks. There are tons of spots just a short or long drive from Detroit that make for great weekend road trips.
Red, gold, and orange leaves light up Michigan parks and trails in the fall. A scenic drive or simple walk in Belle Isle is all you need to get a beautiful look. Plus, the colorful foliage makes for great photo ops.
For those who love a good scare, metro Detroit’s haunted houses don’t disappoint. Erebus in Pontiac and Eloise Asylum in Westland are some of the largest spooky attractions offering terrifying experiences with scare actors, elaborate sets, and heart-pounding moments.
There are tons of beautiful trails in and around Detroit for a nice brisk walk. Fall is the perfect time for outdoor adventures in weather that isn’t too hot, but also not too cold. The feeling doesn’t last long in Michigan, so get a good hike in while you can.
One of the best parts of fall is Halloween, and the holiday is not the same if you don’t dress up. It’s the time to put your creativity to the test and make sure your costume skills are on point for the day and through the night. Maybe even think of something Detroit-inspired to rep the 313.
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