Looking for a hub of business, culture, and convenience near Detroit? Head to Southfield, Michigan! Located just 15 minutes from downtown Detroit, Southfield offers a balance of urban accessibility and suburban ease. With sprawling parks, public art, and a strong commercial district, Southfield makes a great base for business travelers and weekend explorers alike.
Southfield, MI Highlights:
- Stroll through Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve: Discover wooded trails, scenic wetlands, and fishing spots in this peaceful natural area.
- Visit the Park West Gallery: View or purchase works from contemporary masters and up-and-coming artists at this premier art gallery.
- Explore the Southfield City Centre Trail: A walkable urban trail system with public art, landscaped paths, and fitness stations.
- Enjoy live music at Jazz & Blues at the Library: Free monthly concerts that showcase top regional talent in an intimate setting.
- Browse the Southfield Public Library: This architecturally impressive space offers reading nooks, exhibits, and beautiful interiors.
Best Time to Visit Southfield, MI
The best time to visit Southfield is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant for walking trails, outdoor festivals, and day trips into Detroit. Fall offers vibrant foliage, while summer brings music and cultural events to life.
How to Get to Southfield, MI
- If you are traveling by car: Southfield is located along M-10 (Lodge Freeway) and I-696, about 15–20 minutes northwest of downtown Detroit.
- By Air: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is about 30 minutes away and offers national and international flights.
- By Bus: SMART bus routes connect Southfield with Detroit and surrounding suburbs. Rideshare and taxi services are also widely available.
Where to Stay in Southfield, MI
- The Westin Southfield Detroit – Upscale hotel in the city center with spacious rooms and business-class amenities.
- Comfort Suites Southfield – Modern, budget-friendly suites with complimentary breakfast and a great location near major highways.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Southfield – Popular for family or business stays, offering free cooked-to-order breakfast and evening receptions.
Best Things to Do in Southfield, MI
⮕ Park West Gallery
Admire fine art and explore exciting exhibitions on a cultured weekend trip.
Park West Gallery is a large commercial art gallery in Southfield, Michigan, founded by Albert Scaglione in 1969. The gallery occupies 63,000 square feet and is open to the public and for educational visits. The gallery exhibits famous historic artists such as Renoir as well as a number of contemporary artists. The gallery is providing funds for the philanthropic Park West Foundation. Park West Gallery staged its first art auctions In 1993 on cruise ships around the world, currently operating on more than 100 ships and conducting over 5,000 auctions a year, on board of ships as well as in Ritz Carlton hotels.
29469 Northwestern Hwy, Southfield, MI 48034, Phone: 248-354-2343
⮕ Great Lakes Culinary Center
Take a cooking class and savor fresh flavors on a fun, affordable outing.
The Great Lakes Culinary Center is a state-of- the-art test kitchen and venue for events in Southfield, Michigan. The Center, which includes a fully-equipped mega kitchen, was designed to provide space for chefs to come and entertain guests using the latest and best equipment. Food-service professionals—and the rest of the Detroit community— get the opportunity to test the state-of-the-art kitchen equipment, take part in cooking classes or demonstrations, and host big or small private events. The most popular events hosted by the Culinary Center are wedding receptions, birthday and holiday parties, corporate luncheons and team building cooking events.
24101 W Nine Mile Rd, Southfield, MI 48033, Phone: 248-286-3100
⮕ Irene's Myomassology Institute
Relax with a massage and enjoy a peaceful, retirement-friendly wellness experience.
Irene’s Myomassology Institute is a nationally accredited massage school and a student massage clinic. Its primary focus is as a massage school that provides its students with a successful career. After completing half of the program, students are fully trained in basic Swedish massage and are ready to give a quality massage in Irene’s Student Clinic. The prices for the clients are affordable and there are discounts for seniors and veterans. Students can also purchase all necessities needed for opening a massage business at the Essential Massage Supply Store. The school curriculum is based on Irene's innovative techniques and more than 50 years of experience.
26061 Franklin Rd, Southfield, MI 48033, Phone: 248-350-1400
Where to Eat in Southfield, MI
⮕ Shield's Pizza
Grab deep-dish slices and enjoy a casual family dinner with the kids.
Shield’s Pizza is a small chain founded in 1937 known for its square, deep-dish pizzas. What started as Detroit landmark and a favorite gathering spot for families, rich and famous, politicians, athletes and public figures, quickly expanded to offer the same atmosphere and fantastic pizzas all over Michigan. Their Southfield restaurant is lively, very popular eatery and bar that offers not only the famous square pizzas, which you can design yourself, but also a large menu of Italian and American dishes that range from ribs and burgers, to pastas and nachos. There is truly something for everyone. Takeout and online ordering is available.
25101 Telegraph Rd, Southfield, MI 48034, Phone: 248-356-2720
More Places to Eat
- Star Delicatessen – Beloved Jewish deli with massive sandwiches, homemade soups, and a loyal local following.
- Sweet Lorraine’s Café & Bar – Creative New American cuisine served in a casual setting with lots of vegetarian and vegan options.
- Meriwether’s – A longtime Southfield favorite for classic American fare in a cozy, lodge-like atmosphere.
If you are interested in local events:
- Southfield Summer Soulstice (June) – Live music, food trucks, and family-friendly entertainment at City Centre Plaza.
- Southfield Harvest Fest (October) – Fall celebration with hayrides, pumpkin decorating, and seasonal treats.
- Jazz & Blues Concert Series (Year-round) – Monthly library-hosted events featuring acclaimed local jazz and blues musicians.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Southfield, Michigan:
- Detroit (20–25 min) – Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, or catch a Tigers or Lions game downtown.
- Royal Oak (15–20 min) – Lively downtown with restaurants, bars, indie boutiques, and the Detroit Zoo.
- Birmingham (10–15 min) – Upscale shopping, art galleries, and fine dining in a charming walkable district.
- Farmington Hills (10–15 min) – Visit Heritage Park, Holocaust Memorial Center, or dine along Grand River Avenue.
- Dearborn (25–30 min) – Tour The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village for immersive American history experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Southfield located?
- Southfield is a Michigan city in Oakland County and a northern suburb of Detroit.
- What is Southfield’s most famous landmark?
- Southfield’s landmark is the contemporary 2,200,000 square-foot Southfield Town Center office complex.
- What makes Southfield unique for culinary professionals?
- Southfield hosts the Great Lakes Culinary Center, where chefs can test the latest kitchen equipment and organize big and small events.
- What educational and wellness facilities are found in Southfield?
- Irene’s Myomassology Institute is a Swedish massage school and massage parlor located in the city.
At a Glance:
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Pleasant weather, blooming parks, and outdoor recreation. | The Westin Southfield Detroit – Comfortable hotel with easy access to local attractions. | Explore Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve – Enjoy walking trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic surroundings. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for outdoor events and festivals. | Hilton Garden Inn Detroit-Southfield – Convenient accommodations near local attractions. | Attend the Southfield Summer Soulstice festival – Experience music, food, and family-friendly activities. |
| Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and seasonal charm. | SpringHill Suites Detroit Southfield – Spacious rooms conveniently located near Southfield and Southfield Freeway. | Visit Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve – Enjoy scenic hikes amid colorful autumn landscapes. |
| Winter (December-February) – Cold and snowy, ideal for indoor activities and cozy experiences. | Detroit Marriott Southfield – Comfortable accommodations perfect for a winter retreat. | Explore nearby Detroit museums – Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts or the Henry Ford Museum. |
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