Nick Gilbert Way at Hudson’s Detroit is a brand-new pedestrian plaza in downtown Detroit that connects Woodward Avenue to Farmer Street, filled with festive holiday attractions and local vendors. Opened on November 6, 2025, the plaza features a giant illuminated teddy bear (a nostalgic nod to Hudson’s old Santa Bear tradition) and a season of free holiday programming through January 4, 2026. Visitors can shop at pop-up carts for unique gifts, sip Parisian hot chocolate from a vintage truck, drop letters to Santa with Mrs. Claus, and soak in twinkling lights and whimsical displays, all steps from Campus Martius Park in the heart of Detroit.
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WXYZ-TV Channel 7, Facebook
A New Plaza Revives Downtown Holiday Magic
Nick Gilbert Way isn’t just another walkway, it’s the new gathering spot for winter fun on Woodward Avenue. This pedestrian plaza stretches between the two gleaming Hudson’s Detroit buildings, linking bustling Woodward Ave. to Farmer Street. For metro Detroiters, it’s a welcome dose of holiday spirit and community in a spot that sat empty for years after the old Hudson’s department store was demolished. Now, with Hudson’s Detroit rising as a major development at 1208 Woodward Ave., the addition of Nick Gilbert Way gives families and downtown explorers a pedestrian-friendly oasis decked out in seasonal cheer.
Why does this plaza matter? In short, it brings back a taste of the classic downtown Detroit holiday magic that many locals remember, but with a fresh twist. Between the giant Christmas tree and ice rink at Campus Martius Park and the sparkling lights of Nick Gilbert Way, Woodward Avenue is aglow again. Lifelong Detroiters are seeing new traditions take root on the very block where Hudson’s once captivated generations of shoppers each December. This blend of old nostalgia and new energy makes Nick Gilbert Way a must-visit destination for anyone looking to get into the Detroit holiday spirit.
Holiday Attractions at Nick Gilbert Way
Visitors line up at the Un Deux Trois coffee truck under a canopy of holiday lights on Nick Gilbert Way. The plaza officially launched with a two-day public celebration on November 6–7, 2025, and it will keep the festive momentum going through January 4, 2026. During this holiday season, Nick Gilbert Way transforms into a winter wonderland filled with activities, shopping, and photo-worthy displays.
Here’s what you can expect when you visit:
- Giant Illuminated Bear: An enormous, light-adorned teddy bear sits playfully between the buildings, a show-stopping centerpiece that harkens back to Hudson’s famed Santa Bear tradition. This modern take on the classic Hudson’s bear is both a fun selfie spot and a link to the past. You can even take home a piece of the nostalgia: The Bear at Hudson’s, a collectible plush toy created in memory of Nick Gilbert, is sold on-site as a keepsake (with proceeds supporting NFX and The Gilly Project, two charitable causes in Nick’s name).
- Festive Window Displays: Strolling along Woodward, you’ll notice vintage-style holiday window displays at Hudson’s, just like in downtown days of old. This year, the Detroit Historical Society and local brands like ALO Yoga and Tecovas helped create charming storefront scenes. General Motors even contributed a flashy holiday car display at the entrance, adding to the eye candy.
- “Santa’s Magic Mailbox”: Kids (and kids-at-heart) will love the red Letters to Santa mailbox stationed in the plaza. On select days, Mrs. Claus and Santa’s elves are on hand to help children write letters and send their Christmas wishes off to the North Pole. It’s an adorable, free activity, complete with cheerful photo-ops, that brings a personal touch to the experience.
- Un Deux Trois Coffee Truck: Craving something warm? A French-inspired café truck called Un Deux Trois (run by the local Café Sous Terre team) is parked on Nick Gilbert Way, serving up hot espresso, Parisian-style hot chocolate, and fresh pastries. The aroma of gourmet coffee mingling with crisp winter air is sure to draw you in.
- Treats: Donuts & Roasted Nuts: Follow your nose to the carts offering warm mini donuts and roasted nuts, which make the plaza smell like a holiday market. Catering teams from Forte Belanger and Woodward Farms prepare these treats on-site, so you can munch on cinnamon-sugared donuts or toasted almonds as you explore. It’s the perfect hand-warmer on a chilly afternoon!
- Local Gift Carts: Scattered throughout the plaza are vendor kiosks and carts featuring Detroit-based artisans and shops. You’ll find handmade goods and gifts from local favorites like POST Detroit and Halie & Co., ranging from holiday ornaments and puzzles to Detroit-themed postcards. One cart even offers mini bouquets of festive greenery from Telly’s Greenhouse to take home. It’s a great opportunity to support small businesses while checking off your gift list.
- “Lucia” Ballerina Music Box: One of the most enchanting installations on Nick Gilbert Way is “Lucia,” a larger-than-life ballerina doll in a vintage music box. Created by artists Anne Lagacé and Gonzalo Soldi, Lucia twirls and dances like a classic department store window display brought to life. Children are captivated by this interactive ballerina, and parents will appreciate the old-world whimsy it adds to the plaza.
- Live Entertainment & Characters: Throughout the season, expect live music performances and pop-up entertainment, especially on weekends. Carolers or local musicians might be playing your favorite holiday tunes as you wander. And don’t be surprised if you run into costumed characters, from nutcrackers to maybe even Buddy the Elf, adding an element of fun. On special days, Mrs. Claus and her elves roam Nick Gilbert Way to spread cheer and pose for family photos, delighting younger visitors.
All of these experiences are woven together with twinkling lights, seasonal décor, and the backdrop of Detroit’s skyline. Everywhere you look, something festive catches the eye, whether it’s strings of lights overhead, a decorated evergreen, or families snapping selfies in front of the big teddy bear. The entire plaza is designed for memory-making, inviting Detroiters to slow down and savor the season in a city setting that feels both new and nostalgically familiar.
Festive Hudson’s kiosks on Nick Gilbert Way offer holiday keepsakes, including “The Bear” plush (left) and local gifts from POST Detroit (right). The return of an official Hudson’s bear has been a huge hit. Not only is the gigantic illuminated bear drawing crowds for photos, but the limited-edition plush bears sold at the plaza are becoming this year’s hot item. (Many Detroit families haven’t seen a Hudson’s holiday bear in decades, more on that in a moment.) Shoppers can also pick up branded souvenirs like Hudson’s holiday keychains and postcards, adding to the collectible fun. And in the spirit of giving, a portion of every bear sale supports neurofibromatosis research and community projects in Nick Gilbert’s memory, so your cute purchase also makes a difference.
For the full story behind the giant bear and the keepsake plush, read our feature on Hudson’s teddy.
A Nod to Hudson’s Santa Bear Tradition
Why a giant teddy bear, you ask? For longtime Metro Detroiters, the very sight of a Hudson’s holiday bear brings back a flood of nostalgia. The old J.L. Hudson’s Department Store (which occupied this downtown site for most of the 20th century) was famous for its Santa Bear tradition. Starting in 1985, Hudson’s released a new collectible Christmas teddy bear each year, often dressed in a themed outfit, and it continued annually for 22 years. People would line up at Hudson’s to get that year’s Santa Bear, and many families accumulated collections spanning decades. Even after the downtown Hudson’s store closed, the tradition lived on through the department store’s successors (Marshall Field’s and Macy’s) until 2007. Those plush Santa Bears became beloved holiday decorations in Detroit homes, the kind of keepsakes that parents now share with their kids, reminiscing about trips to Hudson’s “Toyland” and visits with Santa.
Nick Gilbert Way’s giant illuminated bear is a heartfelt homage to that Santa Bear legacy. Bedrock (the developer of Hudson’s Detroit) understood the emotional connection Detroit has with Hudson’s holiday past. By installing a supersized glowing teddy bear and offering a new Bear at Hudson’s plush for sale, they’ve effectively revived a piece of Detroit’s holiday heritage for a new generation. The nostalgia factor is huge, you’ll see plenty of parents explaining to their kids that “Grandma used to collect these bears every Christmas,” or showing old family photos with Santa Bears from the ’80s and ’90s. In a city that cherishes its traditions, this nod to the Santa Bear of yesteryear strikes the perfect balance between honoring the past and creating something new.
What’s especially touching is that the bear at Nick Gilbert Way isn’t just a throwback, it’s also tied to the plaza’s namesake, Nick Gilbert. Nick himself was known for wearing whimsical bow ties (the Cleveland Cavaliers even had a Bow Tie Night in his honor), and much like a beloved teddy bear, Nick brought warmth and joy to those around him despite the challenges he faced. The Bear at Hudson’s thus serves as a dual symbol: a tribute to Detroit’s classic Santa Bears and to Nick’s optimistic spirit.
The Story Behind the Name “Nick Gilbert Way”
Nick Gilbert Way is more than just a generic name, it’s a heartfelt dedication to a young man who left an indelible mark on Detroit. Nick “Gilly” Gilbert was the son of Dan and Jennifer Gilbert, and he tragically passed away in May 2023 at the age of 26 after a lifelong battle with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). NF1 is a genetic condition that causes tumors to grow on nerves, and Nick was diagnosed as a toddler. Throughout his life, he endured numerous treatments and challenges, yet those who knew him often speak of his unfailing positivity and courage.
Many Detroiters came to know Nick as a sort of good-luck ambassador for the city’s basketball team, he famously represented his dad’s Cleveland Cavaliers at NBA Draft Lotteries, sporting signature bow ties and a charismatic grin. His catchphrase from one lottery appearance, “What’s not to like?” became a symbol of hope during the Cavs’ rebuilding years. But beyond sports, Nick’s personal story galvanized the Gilbert family’s philanthropic efforts to fight NF1. Dan and Jennifer Gilbert founded NF Forward (now rebranded as NFX), a nonprofit dedicated to funding research for a cure. Over the years, their annual “beNeFit” gala raised tens of millions for NF research, and they even established the Nick Gilbert Neurofibromatosis Research Institute in Detroit, the first of its kind in the world.
By naming the plaza Nick Gilbert Way, Bedrock and the Gilbert family chose to honor Nick in a very public, permanent way. The location is deeply meaningful: the Hudson’s site represents Dan Gilbert’s massive investment in Detroit’s revival, and now Nick’s name is literally part of that landscape, symbolizing how his spirit is woven into the city’s future. A plaque or sign at the plaza entrance likely shares Nick’s story with visitors, explaining that the space is dedicated to his memory and optimism. It’s a touching reminder that this glittering gathering place exists not just to boost downtown business, but to celebrate community, resilience, and giving back, values that Nick embodied.
Handled with care and respect, the plaza’s name also brings awareness to NF1 without making it the focus. Casual visitors might simply note that it’s an unusual name and learn a bit about Nick’s journey. Those familiar with the Gilberts will recognize the homage immediately. In either case, Nick Gilbert Way humanizes the development, turning what could have been a generic corporate plaza into something personal and inspiring. It encourages everyone who walks through to reflect on the impact one individual can have on a community. As Jennifer Gilbert said, Nick taught us about living with purpose and optimism, and indeed, strolling down Nick Gilbert Way, surrounded by joyful activities and people coming together, you feel the essence of that lesson in the air.
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Adobe Detroit, Facebook
Plan Your Visit: Hours, Directions & Tips
Planning a trip to Nick Gilbert Way this holiday season is easy and definitely worth the venture downtown. Here’s what you need to know before you go:
Dates & Hours: The plaza’s holiday programming runs from November 6, 2025 through January 4, 2026. During this period, the attractions and vendor carts are typically open Thursday–Friday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Saturdays from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and Sundays from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. (Think of it like an open-air holiday market that’s busiest on weekends and evenings.) Do note that Monday through Wednesday the plaza installations are still up to view, but the pop-ups and special activities generally aren’t operating on those weekdays. As Christmas and New Year’s approach, hours will extend, starting December 15, expect some additional open days or later evening hours. It’s always smart to check Hudson’s Detroit’s official site or social pages for any special event dates or weather closures, but in general, Thursdays through Sundays are the times to go.
One bonus: Admission is completely free. There’s no ticket needed to enter Nick Gilbert Way or enjoy the ambiance and entertainment. You’ll only spend money if you decide to buy food, drinks, or gifts from the vendors. This makes it a very accessible outing for families, you can simply wander in after work or post-dinner downtown and take in the sights without opening your wallet. (Of course, odds are you’ll be tempted by a hot cocoa or a cute ornament once you’re there!)
Getting There by Transit: Located right in the center of downtown, Nick Gilbert Way is easily reachable by Detroit’s transit options. If you’re taking the QLINE streetcar, hop off at the Campus Martius station, which is the closest stop. From Campus Martius, the plaza is just a short walk north along Woodward Avenue – you’ll pass the tree and skating rink, cross over Gratiot or State Street, and see the Hudson’s buildings and plaza on your left. It’s literally a minute or two on foot. Coming from Midtown on QLINE, this is super convenient (and remember, as of 2025, QLINE rides are free as well, making it even easier to justify leaving the car at home).
For those using the Detroit People Mover, the nearest station is Cadillac Center (near Farmers Market/Cadillac Square, by the One Campus Martius building). Rides on the elevated People Mover are also free through the end of 2025, which is great news for holiday explorers. From Cadillac Center station, exit and walk about two blocks north (toward Grand Circus Park) along Library Street or Monroe Street to reach Woodward. Nick Gilbert Way cuts through the block just behind that station, so you’ll find it between Grand River Ave. and Gratiot Ave. Essentially, once you’re on Woodward near that block, you can’t miss the big teddy bear and lights drawing you in. Pro tip: Another People Mover stop, Broadway Station, is also very close, it lets you out by Grand River & Broadway, right near the north end of the Hudson’s site. Either way, you’ve got options, and you might even incorporate the People Mover as part of the fun (kids love the quick loop ride, and you get a cool elevated view of downtown decorated for the holidays).
Driving & Parking: If you prefer to drive, there are plenty of parking facilities around Campus Martius and Woodward, though be prepared for typical downtown traffic during peak times (especially weekends and when there are events or a Lions game, etc.). Two of the most convenient garages for Nick Gilbert Way are the One Campus Martius Garage (1188 Farmer St.) and the Z Garage (1234 Library St.), both just a short walk from the plaza. The One Campus Martius Garage is basically right behind the Hudson’s site (entry via Farmer Street), so it’ll put you steps away from the action. The Z Garage, on the other hand, is a couple blocks northeast but has the added perk of those famous murals and lighted elevators, plus you could stroll through the Belt alley on your way, which is always lit up nicely in winter. Standard downtown parking rates will apply (around $10–$20 depending on day/time). Street parking on Woodward in that immediate area is scarce and often restricted, so a garage or lot is your best bet. Another option is the Greektown Garage (1001 Brush St.)
Safety & Accessibility: Nick Gilbert Way is well-lit, pedestrian-only, and patrolled by downtown security ambassadors, so it feels safe and welcoming, even into the evening hours. There is ample open space to maneuver strollers or wheelchairs, and ramps at the plaza entrances (since it’s all newly constructed with accessibility in mind). The atmosphere is family-friendly and inclusive, expect a mix of downtown office workers, suburban families with kids, city residents, and visitors all mingling. Public restrooms aren’t directly on the plaza, but nearby spots like inside Campus Martius Park or surrounding businesses (or the Hudson’s building if open) can be used in a pinch. The plaza is outdoors, so bundle up according to the weather. If you need to warm up, you can pop into the adjacent Hudson’s building lobby or a cafe nearby on Woodward to take the chill off.
In short, visiting Nick Gilbert Way is as simple as showing up. It’s centrally located downtown Detroit, easy to find, and doesn’t require tickets or a tour guide. Whether you’re already downtown for work or another event, or making a special trip, the plaza is designed to entice you to stay and explore.
If You Go: Nick Gilbert Way at Hudson’s Detroit
- Location: 1208 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, MI 48226. (Look for the entrance on Woodward between Grand River Ave. and Gratiot Ave. – the plaza runs through to Farmer Street behind the Hudson’s buildings.)
- Holiday Season Hours (2025): Open Thurs–Fri 4:00–8:00 PM; Sat 12:00–8:00 PM; Sun 12:00–6:00 PM. Extended hours start Dec 15. Closed Mon–Wed except for window viewing. Holiday programming ends after Jan 4, 2026.
- Cost: Free admission. It costs nothing to walk around and enjoy the displays and entertainment. Bring money for optional purchases like food, drinks, or souvenirs (e.g. donuts, hot cocoa, the Hudson’s bear plush, etc.).
- Transit: Take the QLINE to Campus Martius (closest stop), or the People Mover to Cadillac Center station, both drop you within a block of the plaza. (Bonus: The People Mover is fare-free through 2025.) Several DDOT and SMART bus routes also serve the Woodward/Campus Martius area.
- Parking: Nearest garages include One Campus Martius Garage (1188 Farmer) and Z Garage (1234 Library). Metered street parking is limited. Consider rideshare on busy days.
- What to Expect: A giant illuminated teddy bear centerpiece; holiday light displays and decorated windows; letters-to-Santa mailbox (with occasional visits from Mrs. Claus); live music/carolers (select times); vendor carts selling Detroit-themed gifts (POST Detroit, etc.) and greenery from Telly’s; food stalls with mini donuts, roasted nuts, and hot drinks (don’t miss the Un Deux Trois coffee truck for hot chocolate!); plus “Lucia” the ballerina and other kid-friendly sights. Cameras encouraged, there are endless photo ops for families and friends., a bit further but workable if you plan to hit Campus Martius or Greektown as well. And of course, rideshare or the SMART/DDOT bus system can get you there without parking worries, multiple bus routes stop at Campus Martius or Grand Circus, just a block or two away.
More Than a Plaza: The Bigger Picture
Nick Gilbert Way is the first big public debut of the larger Hudson’s Detroit redevelopment project, and it signals that this long-awaited development is coming alive. For context, the Hudson’s site project is a mixed-use mega development spearheaded by Dan Gilbert’s Bedrock Real Estate. It sits on the hallowed ground of the old J.L. Hudson’s Department Store, right at the center of downtown, and aims to be a game-changer for Woodward Avenue. The project includes a completed 12-story building (which houses office space, retail, and event facilities) and an under-construction 45-story high-rise tower that will feature luxury residences, the five-star Detroit EDITION Hotel, and more retail and dining when finished. When the skyscraper is completed (expected by 2027), it will be one of the tallest in Detroit, dramatically altering the skyline that for years was marked by an empty lot where Hudson’s once stood.
Nick Gilbert Way is physically nestled between those two new Hudson’s buildings, essentially tying the whole development together as a cohesive site. Instead of just erecting towers and leaving a cold gap at street level, Bedrock created this inviting public plaza to ensure the development is porous and community-friendly. It’s meant to be a year-round space for people to gather, not only during the holidays but for events in all seasons, think summer concerts, art installations, food festivals, farmers’ markets, and so on. In the winter, of course, it shines as “Hudson’s for the Holidays,” but come spring and summer, we can likely expect different programming to keep Detroiters coming back.
This strategy of incorporating a public plaza aligns with downtown Detroit’s broader revitalization efforts. The city has seen success activating public spaces like Campus Martius, Capitol Park, and Spirit Plaza in recent years. Nick Gilbert Way extends that network of walkable, engaging spaces a block north, encouraging foot traffic and linking Woodward to the growing Farmer Street/Library Street corridor behind it. In essence, it helps knit together the downtown grid in a pedestrian-centric way. As the adjacent buildings fill up with tenants (notably, General Motors has announced plans to relocate its headquarters into the Hudson’s tower in 2025, a huge corporate win for Detroit), this plaza will serve as a front yard and a community hub for workers, residents, and visitors alike. It’s an example of urban planning that prioritizes street life and social interaction, key ingredients in keeping downtown momentum going.
Bedrock’s investment here is not just in steel and glass, but in creating experiences that draw people in. By naming the plaza after Nick Gilbert and infusing it with Detroit-centric touches, they’re also grounding the development in local identity and heart. That bodes well for its long-term success. A sterile office complex can feel off-putting, but add a warm public plaza with local flair and it becomes part of the neighborhood’s fabric. As the Hudson’s site moves into its next phases (rooftop lounges, observation decks, new shops and eateries in the coming years), Nick Gilbert Way will likely remain the interactive soul of the project, the place where Detroiters meet up, families play, and memories are made.
Looking at the big picture, the opening of Nick Gilbert Way is a milestone in downtown’s continuing renaissance. It shows how far we’ve come from the days when the Hudson’s crater was a symbol of decline. Now, on that very spot, we have lights, music, laughter, and community again. It’s a full-circle moment that blends Detroit’s rich history with its creative future. And it’s also a sign of confidence: confidence that investing in public spaces and a little holiday magic can pay off by bringing people together. For a real estate project, having that soul is invaluable, it makes the difference between just another development and a true downtown destination.
Midtown to Metro Detroit: A Real Estate Perspective, From a real estate point of view, amenities like Nick Gilbert Way add significant appeal to downtown living. In recent years, we’ve seen more buyers interested in owning a piece of Detroit’s core, whether it’s a loft in a historic building or a condo in a new high-rise. Having family-friendly attractions and public art right outside your door is a huge draw. Young professionals, empty nesters, even suburban families considering a pied-à-terre are keeping an eye on downtown’s growth. A lively plaza can boost the desirability (and value) of nearby properties, as it signals a vibrant neighborhood. Developments along the Woodward corridor, stretching from Downtown through Midtown and New Center, are especially hot as transit improves and new shops and restaurants open. The QLINE and People Mover connectivity enhance this corridor effect, and the Hudson’s project is a key puzzle piece in between. Real estate experts note that as Bedrock and others invest in these types of mixed-use spaces, it creates ripple effects in surrounding districts like Greektown, Capitol Park, and Brush Park, where more housing opportunities are popping up to meet demand.
For those of us who have watched Detroit’s ups and downs over decades, seeing a lively scene like Nick Gilbert Way is incredibly heartening. It reinforces the sense that downtown is truly back, and not just for big events or workdays, but as a everyday place to enjoy life. It’s easy to imagine future holiday traditions starting here: maybe you’ll grab a bear for your child each Christmas, just as your parents once did at Hudson’s; or you’ll meet friends for an annual hot cocoa night under the lights. These small rituals build over time, weaving the new plaza into Detroit’s cultural tapestry.
As we approach the heart of the holiday season (today’s date is November 10, 2025, and the city’s Christmas tree lighting is just around the corner), Nick Gilbert Way is poised to be a focal point of festivities downtown. The timing couldn’t be better: shoppers are coming in for Downtown Detroit Markets, skaters are hitting the Campus Martius rink, and office workers are looking for some after-work cheer on dark evenings. The plaza helps connect all these experiences into one walkable circuit. You can easily spend an afternoon or evening bouncing between Campus Martius Park (with its tree, skating and rink-side concessions) and Nick Gilbert Way (with its bear, treats and shopping), maybe even hop on the People Mover for a loop to enjoy the skyline. It creates a fuller destination experience that keeps people downtown longer.
From a lifetime Detroiter’s perspective, this is exactly the kind of activation we love to see. It shows pride in our history, acknowledging Hudson’s and Nick Gilbert, while also showcasing creativity and entrepreneurship (via the local vendors and artists). And importantly, it’s something that welcomes everyone. Detroit’s revival is for naught if it’s not inclusive. But here you have an event that suburban families, city residents, tourists, and workers can all equally enjoy at no cost. In that sense, Nick Gilbert Way embodies the community spirit of Detroit: resilient, optimistic, and a little whimsical.
So, bundle up the kids or text your friends, and head downtown to experience Nick Gilbert Way for yourself. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect Detroit-themed gift, snapping a selfie with the giant bear, or simply soaking up the holiday atmosphere, you’ll find a warm welcome on this new plaza. It’s one more reason to be proud of our city and excited for its future. And who knows, you might just start a new holiday tradition of your own in the process. What’s not to like?
For a broader look at the Hudson’s Detroit development and what’s coming next, explore our skyline piece.
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RAW Detroit, Facebook
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Nick Gilbert Way
What is Nick Gilbert Way and where is it located?
Nick Gilbert Way is a new pedestrian plaza in Downtown Detroit that connects Woodward Avenue to Farmer Street, right on the site of the Hudson’s Detroit development. It’s nestled between the two new Hudson’s buildings (the office mid-rise and the upcoming tower) on Woodward, about half a block north of Campus Martius Park. In short, it’s a public space filled with seasonal decorations, vendors, and installations – easily visible if you’re walking along Woodward near Grand River Avenue/Gratiot Avenue.
Why is it called “Nick Gilbert Way”? Who is Nick Gilbert?
The plaza is named in honor of Nick “Gilly” Gilbert, the late son of Detroit billionaire Dan Gilbert (the developer behind the project). Nick passed away in 2023 at age 26 after battling neurofibromatosis (NF1), a genetic nervous system disorder. He was beloved for his positivity (remember his famous bow ties at NBA draft lotteries?) and for inspiring the Gilberts’ charitable work toward an NF cure. Naming the plaza after Nick is a tribute to his legacy and optimism, it literally carves his name into the heart of downtown.
What are the dates and hours of the holiday events on Nick Gilbert Way?
The holiday programming at Nick Gilbert Way runs from November 6, 2025 through January 4, 2026. Regular hours are 4 PM–8 PM on Thursdays and Fridays, 12 PM–8 PM on Saturdays, and 12 PM–6 PM on Sundays during that period. Starting December 15, hours extend (expect some Mondays-Wednesdays or later evenings to open up as Christmas nears). Outside of these times, you can still walk through the plaza and see the decor, but the vendor carts and special activities will be closed on non-event days. Always good to double-check if there are special events or extended hours on particular weeks, but those listed are the core hours.
Do I need tickets or is there an entry fee to visit Nick Gilbert Way?
No tickets needed, it’s completely free to enter and enjoy Nick Gilbert Way. The plaza is a public space, open to everyone. You can wander in, listen to music, marvel at the displays, and soak up the atmosphere without paying a dime. The only costs would be optional things you choose to buy (like a cup of coffee, donuts, or a souvenir). This makes it a budget-friendly outing for families or anyone looking for free things to do in downtown Detroit during the holidays.
What kind of things are there to do at Nick Gilbert Way?
Quite a lot! Nick Gilbert Way is designed as a mini winter festival. You can take photos with the giant illuminated Hudson’s bear, check out the holiday window displays along Woodward, shop for gifts at the local vendor carts (featuring Detroit-based artisans), drop a wish list in the Letters to Santa mailbox, watch the life-size ballerina “Lucia” twirl in her music box, and enjoy treats like fresh donuts, roasted almonds, and gourmet hot chocolate from the Un Deux Trois coffee truck. There’s often live music or Christmas carolers adding to the ambiance. It’s basically a one-block holiday market and entertainment zone, suitable for all ages.
Is Nick Gilbert Way family-friendly? Can I bring kids?
Absolutely! In fact, Nick Gilbert Way is tailor-made for families and kids. There are plenty of interactive elements children will love, from meeting Mrs. Claus and elves and dropping a letter in Santa’s mailbox, to watching the giant teddy bear and ballerina, to devouring mini donuts. The environment is safe (no cars, lots of security and other families around) and festive. Strollers can navigate the plaza easily. Kids might also get a kick out of riding the QLINE or People Mover to get there (making it an adventure). And since it’s free, it’s easy to swing by even with a big family group. Expect to see lots of strollers and toddlers in tow, especially on weekend afternoons. The whole idea is to create a family-friendly downtown holiday destination, and they’ve succeeded in that.
How do I get to Nick Gilbert Way using the QLINE or People Mover?
If you’re taking the QLINE streetcar, get off at Campus Martius station, that’s the closest stop (basically the end of the line heading south). From there, walk a minute north on Woodward and you’re at the plaza. If you’re using the Detroit People Mover, hop off at Cadillac Center station, which is by Cadillac Square and Library Street, the plaza is a short walk west/northwest from there (toward Woodward). Both transit options are very convenient: the QLINE runs along Woodward from Midtown, and the People Mover loops around downtown (plus the People Mover is free through 2025, so that’s a nice perk). Many bus routes also converge near Campus Martius. Once you’re in the Campus Martius/Cadillac Square area, just look for the big Hudson’s building or ask a friendly passerby. Nick Gilbert Way is in between the new Hudson’s structures, so it’s hard to miss once you’re on the right block.
Where should I park if I’m driving to Nick Gilbert Way?
Downtown Detroit has plenty of parking garages and some street parking. The two most convenient parking garages for Nick Gilbert Way are likely the One Campus Martius Garage (1188 Farmer St.) and the "Z" Garage (1234 Library St.). One Campus Martius Garage is directly behind the Hudson’s site (very short walk). The Z Garage is a couple blocks away but not far, and it’s a popular, safe garage with reasonable rates. Other nearby options include the Library Street Garage and Greektown Garage – within a 5-10 minute walk. Street parking on Woodward by Hudson’s isn’t available (there’s a bus lane and such), but you might find metered spots on adjacent streets like Washington Blvd or Farmer Street if you’re lucky. However, during peak holiday times, those fill up fast. Using a parking app or going straight to a garage is usually the less stressful choice. Expect to pay around $10-$15 in the evenings for garage parking. If you’re already downtown for work or another event, you might just leave your car where it is and walk or use the People Mover over to Hudson’s.
What’s the deal with the giant bear? Is there a story behind it?
The giant bear at Nick Gilbert Way is both a fun attraction and a tribute. It’s an illuminated teddy bear sculpture that pays homage to the old Hudson’s “Santa Bear” tradition from the 1980s-2000s. Back then, Hudson’s released a new holiday teddy bear each Christmas, and it became a beloved local tradition, people still have those collectible bears! So this new big bear is a way to revive that nostalgia in a modern way. At night it lights up beautifully and makes for great photos. The bear also connects to Nick Gilbert, the plaza sells a plush toy called “The Bear at Hudson’s” which is a modern reimagining of the Santa Bear. Part of the proceeds from sales of that plush go to charity (supporting NF research through NFX and community work via the Gilly Project, in Nick’s honor). So, the bear isn’t just random decoration; it’s a symbol of Detroit holiday memories and giving back.
Can I buy the Hudson’s bear or other merchandise there?
Yes! There’s a dedicated cart/kiosk on Nick Gilbert Way that sells The Bear at Hudson’s plush toy (so you can take home your own teddy bear souvenir). They also have some other Hudson’s-themed merchandise like ornaments, keychains, postcards, and puzzles, little keepsakes that are unique to the Hudson’s holiday experience. Additionally, the vendor carts feature items from local shops (like POST Detroit and Halie & Co.), so you might find handcrafted jewelry, art prints, candles, or apparel with a Detroit flair. If you’re looking for gifts, it’s a nice spot to pick up something you won’t find at the mall. Prices for the bear plush, if you’re curious, are likely in the range of what a fundraising collectible would be (a portion goes to charity), but it’s a quality memento. Since the plaza is part of Bedrock’s Decked Out Detroit initiative, you might also find information on other holiday events or a guide to downtown in one of the kiosks.
Is Nick Gilbert Way part of Decked Out Detroit or other downtown holiday events?
Yes, in a way. Decked Out Detroit is the umbrella of downtown holiday activities and shopping that Bedrock and the Downtown Detroit Partnership have run in recent years. It typically includes things like the Cadillac Square holiday markets, Campus Martius festivities, etc. Nick Gilbert Way’s holiday activation can be seen as a new extension of that, it’s all contributing to making downtown a hub of holiday cheer. So while it might not be branded separately as “Decked Out Detroit” on-site, it’s certainly part of the overall downtown holiday experience. If you’re doing a tour of downtown holiday spots, you’d include Campus Martius (tree and skating), Capitol Park (holiday market and menorah), Cadillac Square (market vendors and beers in the lodge), and now Nick Gilbert Way as a cluster of attractions. They complement each other: for example, you could shop the small business market huts in Cadillac Square then walk one block to Nick Gilbert Way to see the bear and grab a donut. It’s all walkable and coordinated to some extent. Essentially, Nick Gilbert Way is Bedrock’s newest contribution to making downtown Detroit “decked out” for the holidays, and it’s a pretty great addition at that.
Planning a family day around Campus Martius and Woodward? Here’s our kid-friendly downtown guide.
Nick Gilbert Way at Hudson’s Detroit has quickly become a shining star in downtown’s lineup of attractions. It demonstrates how creative placemaking, even on a single city block, can have an outsized impact on community vibrancy. For anyone looking to enjoy holiday events in Detroit, this new plaza should be high on your list. And if you find yourself enchanted by the downtown energy and considering making a more permanent move to be part of it, know that Detroit’s real estate scene is evolving as fast as its skyline. Local experts (like The Perna Team, a leading Metro Detroit real estate group) note that interest in homes and condos near the Woodward corridor is rising as amenities like Nick Gilbert Way arrive. It’s easy to see why, who wouldn’t want a front-row seat to the city’s rejuvenation? Whether you’re in the market for a downtown loft or just visiting for an afternoon of fun, Nick Gilbert Way offers a warm, welcoming taste of what Detroit is all about: community, creativity, and a touch of magic. Enjoy the season on Nick Gilbert Way, and happy holidays from the heart of the Motor City!
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