Looking for a blend of nature, history, and family fun in Southeast Michigan? Visit Rochester Hills! Nestled north of Detroit, this city offers scenic parks, rich automotive history, charming shopping districts, and great dining. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors or soaking up local culture, Rochester Hills has something for all ages.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Rochester Hills is from late spring to early fall (May to October). Enjoy mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and festivals.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Rochester Hills is located along M-59 and I-75, about 45 minutes north of downtown Detroit.
- By Plane: Fly into Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), about 50 minutes away by car.
- By Bus: SMART buses serve the Rochester Hills area and connect to surrounding communities.
Where to Stay
- Royal Park Hotel – Elegant boutique hotel within walking distance to downtown Rochester’s shops and restaurants.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rochester Hills – Comfortable option with modern amenities and free breakfast.
- Red Roof Inn Detroit – Auburn Hills/Rochester Hills – Budget-friendly stay just minutes from major attractions and shopping.
Top Attractions
⮕ For families: Make Sweet Memories with the Kids at Yates Cider Mill
Savor fresh cider and walk along scenic trails during a fun fall trip.
Yates Cider Mill in Rochester Hills, Michigan has its origin in the historic Yates Grist Mill built in 1863. To power the mill with water, the Yates Dam was built. The Yates Mill was converted to Yates Cider Mill in 1876 by installing a cider press in the existing water powered mechanism. As a result, the mill started producing apple cider. The mill was used by local farmers, orchard owners and landowners who brought their apples to the Mill to make them into cider. Today, the mill is not only a tourist attraction but it is still making cider. The mill is still being powered by the original 26-inch turbine installed in 1894. It is the original turbine from 1894 that is still in use today at the Mill. A 58-inch culvert brings the water to power the turbine located underground from the dam across the street to the Mill.
1990 E Avon Rd, Rochester, MI 48307, Phone: 248-651-8300
⮕ For foodies: Shop Farm-Fresh Finds and Gourmet Goods at Fresh Thyme
Shop for organic produce and discover affordable grocery finds on an easy outing.
Fresh Thyme is a chain of upscale grocery stores all over the country that offer an old-world vibe, fresh local produce, home-made prepared eats, wine and much more. Fresh Thyme is a natural food marketplace that offers organic and natural foods, organic or food with no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. They also have diverse offerings for customers following one of the specialized diets such as vegan, paleo, keto, vegetarian or wheat- and gluten-free. Fresh Thyme’s is a mission to improve the way the communities eat. Their Rochester Hills store is a huge farmer’s market offering fresh produce, a butcher’s shop, beer and wine and freshly squeezed juices.
2025 S Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307, Phone: 248-537-7042
For Couples and Singles
⮕ For golfers: Tee Off on Scenic Fairways at Blackheath Golf Club
Play a scenic round and enjoy a peaceful retirement outing or weekend escape.
Opened in 1998, Blackheath Golf Club was designed and built by Kevin Aldrich. The course sits on 128 acres and it offers a good game of golf for both men and ladies of all skill levels. Playing to par of 71, the course offers challenging bunkering, four sets of tees and rolling greens that provide a challenging but fair round of golf. Blackheath has earned quite a reputation since its opening. In 1998 it was chosen to host the US Amateur Sectional qualifier. Crain's Detroit Business rated Blackheath as one of the top five ‘must-play’ in Michigan. Blackheath was also awarded three and half stars by Golf Digest.
3311 Rochester Rd, Rochester, MI 48306, Phone: 248-601-8000
Where to Eat
⮕ For a casual meal: Grab a Slice and Relax at Papa Romano's Pizza
Grab a slice and enjoy a cheap, tasty meal with the kids.
Papa Romano’s Pizza and Mr. Pita is a local chain of Italian restaurants focused on offering round and square, deep dish or thin crust, pizzas made of fresh ingredients daily, hand-stretched and oven-baked, with tomato sauce made according to the old family recipe, with a great range of crust and topping options, grilled subs, wings, salads and much more. Customers’ favorite is, naturally, ‘make your own pizza’. Papa Romano’s focus on timely delivery and take out and their Rochester Hills location is a popular place for catering for a party, or just dinner.
2960 S Rochester Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307, Phone: 248-853-0808
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Meadow Brook Hall – Historic estate and former Dodge family mansion, offering tours and seasonal events.
- Paint Creek Trail – Scenic rail-trail perfect for biking, jogging, or walking through beautiful landscapes.
- Innovation Hills Park – A modern park with boardwalk trails, nature play areas, and serene views.
- Great Lakes Crossing Outlets – Nearby shopping destination with outlet stores, restaurants, and family attractions like SEA LIFE Aquarium.
More Places to Eat
- Kruse & Muer on Main – Local favorite known for seafood, wood-fired pizza, and cozy ambiance downtown.
- The Meeting House – Elevated comfort food and craft cocktails in a stylish setting.
- Chapman’s Mill Restaurant – American eats and rotating craft beer in a casual, welcoming environment.
If you are interested in local events:
- Rochester Hills Festival of the Hills (June) – Fireworks, live music, food vendors, and family activities at Borden Park.
- Art & Apples Festival (September) – Juried art fair with live entertainment, food, and crafts in Rochester Municipal Park.
- Big Bright Light Show (November–December) – Stunning holiday lights illuminating downtown Rochester nightly.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Rochester Hills, Michigan:
- Detroit Zoo (25–30 min) – Explore wildlife exhibits, interactive experiences, and lush landscaped paths in Royal Oak.
- Downtown Birmingham (25 min) – Chic shopping, fine dining, and art galleries in a walkable urban setting.
- Auburn Hills (10–15 min) – Visit SEA LIFE Aquarium, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, or shop at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets.
- Troy (20 min) – Enjoy upscale malls like Somerset Collection or visit Troy Historic Village for a taste of pioneer history.
- Stony Creek Metropark (20–25 min) – Hike, kayak, swim, or picnic in one of Southeast Michigan’s most scenic parks.
- Addison Oaks County Park (25 min) – Enjoy trails, paddleboats, and peaceful lake views in a natural woodland setting.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Rochester Hills located?
- Rochester Hills is a city in Oakland County, Michigan, located in the outskirts of the Metro Detroit area.
- What historical sites can visitors explore in Rochester Hills?
- The Rochester Hills Museum, located at Van Hoosen Farm, is a great place to start exploring the city.
- Meadow Brook Hall is one of the finest examples of Tudor-revival architecture in America.
- What are some unique attractions in Rochester Hills?
- Yates Cider Mill, built in 1863, still produces apple cider using the original water-powered turbine.
- Where can visitors shop for fresh local produce in Rochester Hills?
- Fresh Thyme is an upscale farmers' market and food store offering fresh produce, juices, meats, wine, and beer.
- What golf opportunities are available in Rochester Hills?
- Blackheath Golf Club was designed and built by Kevin Aldrich on 128 acres.
Unique Attractions
At a Glance:
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities. | Royal Park Hotel – Upscale accommodations with charming riverfront views. | Visit Meadow Brook Hall – Explore the historic mansion and beautiful gardens. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm weather perfect for outdoor festivals and nature trails. | Hyatt Place Detroit/Rochester – Comfortable stay with easy access to downtown. | Explore Paint Creek Trail – Walk, bike, or jog through scenic natural landscapes. |
| Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, stunning foliage, and seasonal events. | Hampton Inn Detroit/Rochester – Convenient accommodations near major attractions. | Attend the Rochester Hills Art & Apples Festival – Enjoy art, food, and live entertainment. |
| Winter (December-February) – Cold, snowy weather perfect for cozy and festive experiences. | Concorde Inn Rochester Hills – Budget-friendly option with comfortable amenities. | Experience The Big, Bright Light Show – Enjoy dazzling holiday lights in downtown Rochester. |
Plan Your Trip