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Royal Oak is a city of about 58,000 people in Oakland County, Michigan, just north of Detroit along Woodward Avenue. It takes its name from a large oak tree noted by territorial governor Lewis Cass in 1819, and it grew from a farming village into one of metro Detroit's most popular suburbs for dining and nightlife.
Downtown Royal Oak is compact and walkable, packed with restaurants, bars, shops, the historic Royal Oak Music Theatre and the long-running Comedy Castle. The Royal Oak Farmers Market has operated since the 1920s, and the Art Deco National Shrine of the Little Flower Basilica, with its carved stone tower, is a striking landmark on Woodward.
The city's biggest attraction is the Detroit Zoo, which sits within Royal Oak and draws visitors from across the region, especially to its Polk Penguin Conservation Center. Each August the Woodward Dream Cruise fills the avenue with classic cars, and quiet green spaces such as Tenhave Woods offer a break from the bustle.
A large zoo in Royal Oak, opened in 1928 and one of the first in the country to use open, barless exhibits. See polar bears in the Arctic Ring of Life, giraffes, lions, a butterfly garden and much more on wide paths. Plan at least half a day and wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds are big.
A large penguin habitat inside the Detroit Zoo, opened in 2016, where several species swim in a deep chilled pool. Visitors walk through underwater viewing tunnels to watch the birds dive overhead, and the building is designed to feel like an Antarctic landscape. Go early to avoid the busiest times.
A Catholic church on Woodward Avenue built in the 1930s in Art Deco style, with a tall limestone Charity Crucifixion Tower covered in carvings. Inside, the octagonal sanctuary is rich in sculpture and color. It was named a minor basilica in 2015. Visitors are welcome outside service times.
A former movie palace from the late 1920s in downtown Royal Oak, now a mid-size concert venue hosting rock, indie, hip hop and comedy acts. The intimate room means good views from most spots. Buy tickets ahead for popular shows and arrive early to eat at one of the many restaurants nearby.
One of the longest-running comedy clubs in the Detroit area, located in downtown Royal Oak and known for launching the careers of well-known comics. Shows feature national headliners and local talent most nights of the week. Reserve seats in advance for weekend shows and expect a drink minimum.
A covered market hall near downtown that has hosted farmers since the 1920s. On Saturdays vendors sell produce, baked goods, flowers, meat and local specialties, and on Sundays it becomes an antiques and collectibles market. Arrive in the morning for the best choice and easy parking.
The lively center of the city around Main Street and Washington Avenue, with dozens of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, boutiques and a cinema. Patios fill up on summer evenings, and the area is easy to explore on foot. Use the public parking garages, as street parking is limited on weekends.
Held each August, this huge gathering of classic and custom cars rolls along Woodward Avenue through Royal Oak and neighboring cities. Spectators line the road with lawn chairs to watch muscle cars, hot rods and vintage models cruise past. Arrive early to claim a good spot and bring sun protection.
A small nature preserve in Royal Oak with mature hardwood forest, wetlands and a network of short walking trails maintained with help from local volunteers. It is a peaceful place for birding and spring wildflowers close to the city. Paths can be muddy after rain, so wear sturdy shoes.
A small museum run by volunteers of the Royal Oak Historical Society, with photos, artifacts and exhibits on the city's growth from a farming village into a busy Detroit suburb, including the story of Woodward Avenue. Opening hours are limited, so check before visiting. Admission is free or by donation.
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