Ferndale offers different ways to shape your stay. Downtown Ferndale centers on the intersection of Woodward and Nine; the city also features public art, local history and parks. When choosing a hotel, it helps to first decide what you want to focus on: shopping and entertainment, local history or outdoor activities. That way, you can choose experiences that suit your stay rather than trying to turn the different themes into a set itinerary for the day.
Downtown, art and independent shops
Downtown Ferndale centers on the intersection of Woodward and Nine. The area is considered a popular local and regional destination for shopping and entertainment. Its features include public art, intimate pedestrian alleys, pocket parks, inviting streetscapes and pleasantly wide sidewalks. Pedestrian signals stop traffic at the push of a button. You can pair this focus with shopping and entertainment; art and small open spaces also offer a different perspective on the city center. Ferndale Public Art includes a map for an art walk. If public art is an important part of your trip, the map offers a practical starting point.
Rust Belt Market offers a distinct focus for a visit: it is home to more than 30 independently operated small businesses. If you enjoy discovering several small businesses in one place, you can make the market a specific stop. This focus on independently operated businesses differs from Downtown’s broader shopping and entertainment offerings.
Discover Ferndale’s local history
The Ferndale Historical Society operates the Ferndale Historical Museum in Ferndale, Michigan. The museum explores important places and events from Ferndale’s past. The Historical Society and museum also offer research, genealogical services and other services related to the city. These serve two distinct interests: learning about Ferndale’s history and researching family connections. If you plan to visit the museum, check its current visiting hours beforehand.
Parks for different kinds of activities
Ferndale’s parks include walking and hiking trails. The city also has a dog park with areas for both large and small dogs, as well as a skate park. These options offer different focuses: walking and hiking trails provide activities on foot, while the dog park is a dedicated destination for dog owners. The skate park is another distinct option. If you’re traveling with a dog, you can consider adding the dog park to your plans; if trails are important to you, the parks offer an option for that too.
Ferndale Pride as an event to plan around
Ferndale Pride is a free, public LGBTQAI+ festival in the heart of Downtown Ferndale. If you’re planning your trip around the festival, check the specific event date before arranging your accommodation. This lets you plan your stay around the event and distinguish it from a visit focused on Downtown, local history or parks.
Explore other destinations: Southfield, Birmingham, Wixom, Bloomfield Hills, Novi, Walled Lake, Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills.
For the broader travel overview: Oakland.
