Michigan is a state of contrasts when it comes to wealth. From revitalizing urban centers to struggling rural towns, the economic landscape varies widely. Amid this diversity, you might assume Michigan’s richest community is a well-known suburb like Bloomfield Hills or a lakefront enclave in the Grosse Pointes. But the answer may surprise you: the richest town in Michigan is actually the small city of Orchard Lake Village. This quiet Metro Detroit suburb, tucked amid several lakes in Oakland County, boasts an eye-popping median household income that far outpaces the rest of the state. In an era of growing wealth disparity, understanding where wealth is concentrated – even in an unassuming lakeside village – is eye-opening for locals and newcomers alike.…

1176 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Michigan is a place where history and local lore intertwine amid city streets, dense forests, and deep blue waters. As a real estate insider in Metro Detroit who’s trekked from old Victorian mansions to Upper Peninsula ghost towns, I’ve learned that nearly every corner of the Great Lakes State has its own myth or mystery. In this article, we’ll journey through haunted locations, legendary cryptid creatures, ancient Indigenous myths, and mind-boggling unexplained phenomena that have become beloved Michigan folklore. Settle in for a conversational tour of these tales – equal parts spooky, fascinating, and uniquely Michigan – told with the warm, knowledgeable tone of a friendly neighbor (who just happens to know a lot of local legends).

Each section below…

2980 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

All aboard for family fun! Metro Detroit is full of unique train activities for kids that will delight young and old alike. Whether your child is obsessed with locomotives or you’re just searching for new things to do with kids in Metro Detroit, this list has you covered. From restaurants with model trains chugging overhead to historical depots and rideable mini railroads, here are 15 cool train-themed attractions (listed alphabetically) that promise an unforgettable outing. Grab your conductor’s hat and let’s explore!

Bagger Dave's Burger Tavern, Facebook

Bagger Dave’s – Berkley

2972 Coolidge Hwy, Berkley, MI 48072
Admission: No entry fee – it’s a restaurant (menu prices vary)
Website: Bagger Dave’s

Bagger Dave’s is a beloved local burger…

1008 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

When the weather demands indoor fun in Metro Detroit, there's an abundance of vibrant and engaging options for families to explore. For both long-standing residents and those contemplating a move to Metro Detroit, the region offers a diverse range of indoor entertainment venues. From exhilarating go-kart races and captivating glow-in-the-dark golf to energetic trampoline parks and tactical laser tag battles, these amusement centers cater to various tastes and ages. Additionally, the assortment of arcades ensures that every family member finds their favorite game. These indoor havens are ideal for days when outdoor activities are off the table, providing endless entertainment and ensuring that fun is always just around the corner in Metro Detroit.

…

1607 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Detroit’s streets are alive with color and creativity, and 2025 might just be the best time yet to explore the city’s vibrant mural scene. In fact, Detroit was recently ranked the No. 4 Best City for Street Art in the U.S., a testament to how far its public art movement has come. Over the past decade, artists and community programs have splashed the town with 700+ murals, turning building walls into bold statements of Detroit pride. From bustling markets to quiet neighborhood corners, nearly every turn reveals something beautiful and thought-provoking.

Why 2025? Detroit’s mural movement is in full bloom. New works are still popping up (even in elevated places like the People Mover stations!), and established pieces have become beloved landmarks. As a…

2326 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Michigan has long been a golfer’s paradise, and now it’s official: eight different golf courses in the state have earned spots on Golf Digest’s 2025-2026 list of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses. That impressive tally solidifies what locals have known for years – from the Metro Detroit area to the far reaches of “Up North,” Michigan’s public golf offerings rank among the nation’s best. These aren’t just good courses for Michigan; they’re world-class courses, period, open to anyone with a tee time.

Despite a shorter playing season than warmer states, the Great Lakes State shines in national rankings thanks to its diverse landscapes and passionate golf culture. Northwest Michigan, in particular, has emerged as one of America’s great golf…

9174 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Selling your home is all about timing – and in Birmingham, Michigan, summer offers an unparalleled window of opportunity. While every season has its pros and cons, summer stands out as the ideal season to list your Birmingham property. Picture tree-lined streets in full bloom, bustling downtown sidewalks, and buyers eager to settle in before fall. In this article, we’ll explore why summer in Birmingham gives sellers a unique advantage, how it compares to spring, fall, and winter markets, and what The Perna Team does to capitalize on the summer surge. By the end, you’ll see why listing in summer can mean higher prices, faster sales, and happier sellers – and how to make the most of this golden season.

City Government of Birmingham, MI, Facebook

The…

1311 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Detroit’s Eastern Market will transform into a bibliophile’s paradise this summer as the Detroit Festival of Books returns for its eighth year. On Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the historic market’s Shed 5 will overflow with the buzz of book lovers, families, and curious locals. This all-ages festival – the largest book event in Michigan – is much more than a book sale. It’s a free community celebration of literature, art, and Detroit spirit, where you can stroll past stalls of endless reading treasures, chat with local authors and vendors, and even enjoy live entertainment, all without an entry fee. The festival is a goodwill effort “to help generate a deeper love and appreciation of books” in the city, and it shows in every chapter of…

10765 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

The curtain is rising on a blockbuster upgrade in Troy, Michigan. MJR Troy Cinema, already a favorite for local families and film buffs, is unveiling a brand-new IMAX auditorium outfitted with luxury recliner seating and state-of-the-art technology. This exciting development marks the opening of Metro Detroit’s largest IMAX auditorium – complete with plush, zero-gravity recliners and even private “VIP” pods. It’s the kind of news that has parents, kids, and movie aficionados across Oakland County buzzing with anticipation. In a city known for its top-notch schools, vibrant neighborhoods, and family-friendly amenities, the arrival of a premium IMAX experience adds yet another jewel to Troy’s entertainment crown.

MJR Troy Grand Cinema, Facebook

…

3262 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post

Get ready for a Michigan summer filled with music, food, art, and community spirit! Metro Detroit comes alive in the summer of 2025 with festivals nearly every weekend – from lively cultural celebrations to family-friendly fairs and everything in between. This ultimate guide breaks down 31 amazing summer festivals across Metro Detroit, organized by month. Whether you’re a long-time local or a new resident, you’ll find events that showcase the best of our region’s food, music, and hometown fun. Grab your calendar and let’s make this a summer to remember in Metro Detroit!

Motor City Irish Fest, Facebook

June 2025

Motor City Irish Fest

Date: June 6–8, 2025
Greenmead Historical Park | 20501 Newburgh Rd, Livonia, MI 48152
Admission: $10–$15 per day…

2917 Views, 0 Comments

Read Full Post