Take Me Home
Three must-see Metro Detroit spots for any visitor to the Mitten State.
I’ve been thinking a lot about my home state of Michigan lately. This is the season for Friday night bonfires, college football Saturdays and Sundays at the cider mill.
Living abroad makes the topic of home complicated. For me, home is where I live now, even if it changes every three years or so. The idea of roots has also changed for me. My roots can be found in my values, my family and the experiences that shaped who I was by the time I set out on my own. These are the things that make me, me. But my roots have never held me in one place—instead, they’re what I draw on to feel connected to wherever I am living. To not get lost in my surroundings even as I acclimate. They’re flexible and adaptable—they just need a bit of earth to plant in.
So this week’s edition features three Metro Detroit spots worth a drop in, should you find yourself in the Mitten. In between all the coney dogs, pan pizza and gyros you absolutely must try, visit these establishments for a bit of Midwestern style and hospitality.
And by the way, it’s called pop.
1. Beach House Day Spa, Birmingham
A good facial is one of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon. And sharing a spa day with someone special makes it even better. I visited Beach House Day Spa, which was opened in 2013 by massage therapist and manicurist Lauren MacVean, with my mom for a little mother-daughter bonding time and it was perfect. The setting is light, airy and relaxing enough to make you feel like you’re on vacation, even during Michigan’s famously long and snowy winters. They carry some of my go-to skincare brands like iS Clinical and Odacité, which are guaranteed to give you your best glow.
2. Lost and Found Vintage, Royal Oak
One of the first vintage stores I ever fell in love with was Lost and Found, which first opened in 2003 and now encompasses a 3,500-square-foot store and annex. I remember the first time I pulled up to this shop and began digging through the racks of concert t-shirts and retro dresses spanning the early 1900s to 1980s. Last time I was there I left with a wool cape so heavy it has broken multiple hangers but that I’ll keep forever. Their collection of treasures cannot be beaten and their friendly staff is always happy to assist you in your hunt.
3. Detroit Foundation Hotel, Downtown Detroit
The Detroit hotel scene has come a long way. One of the first boutique hotels to make a mark was the Detroit Foundation Hotel, which opened in 2017. A part of the Aparium Hotel Group, it’s also home to The Apparatus Room, a restaurant offering up delicious food with a Midwestern twist like cherry-braised short ribs and their Rock & Rye cocktail. My husband and I marked our fifth wedding anniversary in their dining room and later stayed in the hotel for a friend’s wedding. We loved the modern but comfortable accommodations located close to several of Detroit’s major attractions.
Something to think about …
Founded in 2012 by fashion editor and stylist Karen Buscemi, Detroit Garment Group works to support Michigan’s fashion industry through educational and mentorship programs. They help new and experienced professionals find opportunities for growth and success both at home in Michigan and beyond.
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