Things to do in Royal Oak

Royal Oak, Michigan, packs a lot into a compact city. Downtown is the main draw, with a lively mix of restaurants, bars, and shops.

Royal Oak, Michigan, packs a lot into a compact city. Downtown is the main draw, with a lively mix of restaurants, bars, and shops. But the city also has plenty of green space, from neighborhood parks to the sprawling Detroit Zoo. For a night out or a family afternoon, Royal Oak has options.

The Detroit Zoo is a top attraction, featuring the popular Arctic Ring of Life and Polk Penguin Conservation Center. For a more low-key outing, Starr Jaycee Park has a playground and train ride. Downtown, you'll find a dense cluster of dining and entertainment. Catch a show at the Royal Oak Music Theatre or laugh at Mark Ridley's Comedy Castle. Emagine Royal Oak provides a modern movie experience. Food ranges from retro burgers at Redcoat Tavern to sweet treats at Astoria Pastry Shop. The Royal Oak Farmers Market is a good spot for local goods.

Frequently asked questions about Royal Oak

What are the best outdoor things to do in Royal Oak?

Royal Oak has several parks, including Starr Jaycee Park with its playground and train ride, plus Memorial Park and Whittier Park for sports and picnics. The Royal Oak Farmers Market is a great outdoor stop. And of course, the Detroit Zoo offers outdoor animal habitats and walking paths.

Is the Detroit Zoo good for a family visit?

Yes, the Detroit Zoo is designed for families. Kids will enjoy the polar bear and penguin exhibits, and the mini-railroad is a fun ride. There are also picnic areas. It's an easy way to spend a few hours with children.

Where can I get a good meal in Royal Oak?

The downtown area is packed with choices. Redcoat Tavern has been serving burgers since 1972. For something different, try KouZina Greek Street Food or Kyoto Japanese Steakhouse. If you're out late, O.W.L. is a diner with creative comfort food. Astoria Pastry Shop is good for dessert.

Are there any free things to do in Royal Oak?

Several parks are open to the public, including Memorial Park and Red Run Park. The Royal Oak Public Library is an indoor option. The Royal Oak Farmers Market is open to browse without a fee. Walking around downtown and window-shopping is also an option.

Things to do in Royal Oak

Ice Cream ShopPhoto of Ray's Ice Cream — Ice Cream Shop

Ray's Ice Cream

Old-fashioned establishment creating sundaes, milkshakes & more with a variety of ice cream flavors.

Royal Oak, MI|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Sign of the Beefcarver — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Sign of the Beefcarver

Old-fashioned, cafeteria-style standby with hand-carved roast beef & other nostalgic American bites.

Royal Oak, MI|5
Irish PubPhoto of Duggan's Irish Pub — Irish Pubvia Google Maps

Duggan's Irish Pub

Celtic-themed institution with happy hour & an expansive menu of pub grub, from burgers to BBQ.

Royal Oak, MI|4
RestaurantPhoto of Detroit Eatery — Restaurant

Detroit Eatery

Modest counter-serve spot offering international eats including curry, pizza & Mediterranean plates.

Royal Oak, MI|5
Pet StorePhoto of Pet Supplies Plus Royal Oak — Pet Storevia Google Maps

Pet Supplies Plus Royal Oak

Chain carrying natural & U.S.-made pet supplies, plus services such as grooming & adoption.

Royal Oak, MI|5
Farmers' MarketPhoto of Royal Oak Farmers Market — Farmers' Market

Royal Oak Farmers Market

Royal Oak, MI|5
RestaurantPhoto of Olga's Kitchen — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Olga's Kitchen

Chain with a Mediterranean-accented menu of flatbread sandwiches & salads in a sleek, bright space.

Royal Oak, MI|4
Seafood RestaurantPhoto of Kruse & Muer on Woodward — Seafood Restaurant

Kruse & Muer on Woodward

Branch of a local chain dishing seafood, American fare & signature hot bread in a striking space.

Royal Oak, MI|4
Bar & GrillPhoto of Bar Louie — Bar & Grillvia Google Maps

Bar Louie

Upbeat grill chain with American grub, martinis & microbrews, plus happy-hour deals.

Royal Oak, MI|4
Coffee ShopPhoto of Atomic Coffee — Coffee Shop

Atomic Coffee

Popular coffee shop featuring espresso drinks, pastries & sandwiches in a bright, modern interior.

Royal Oak, MI|4
GymPhoto of LA Fitness — Gymvia Google Maps

LA Fitness

Royal Oak, MI|3
Italian RestaurantPhoto of Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina — Italian Restaurant

Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina

Contemporary Italian eatery providing Neapolitan, wood-fired pizzas, plus small plates & gelato.

Royal Oak, MI|4
RestaurantPhoto of ROYAL OAK MASALA — Restaurantvia Google Maps

ROYAL OAK MASALA

Royal Oak, MI|5
Seafood RestaurantPhoto of Tom's Oyster Bar — Seafood Restaurant

Tom's Oyster Bar

Charming surf 'n' turf stop with check tablecloths & a wood bar is best known for its clam chowder.

Royal Oak, MI|4
Seafood RestaurantPhoto of Lily's Seafood Grill & Brewery — Seafood Restaurantvia Google Maps

Lily's Seafood Grill & Brewery

Cozy seafood spot brews its own beers & sodas plus hosts a weekly all-you-can-eat fish fry.

Royal Oak, MI|5
BarPhoto of Fifth Avenue — Bar

Fifth Avenue

Bi-level sports bar with a sidewalk patio, long beer list, pub fare menu & live music on weekends.

Royal Oak, MI|4
ZooPhoto of Arctic Ring of Life - Polar Bear & Sea Otter — Zoo

Arctic Ring of Life - Polar Bear & Sea Otter

One of North America's largest polar bear habitats, this site features an underwater viewing tunnel.

Royal Oak, MI|5
Asian Fusion RestaurantPhoto of Edo Ramen restaurant — Asian Fusion Restaurantvia Google Maps

Edo Ramen restaurant

Simple Asian fusion restaurant with red interior decor whipping up Japanese ramen & Hawaiian poke.

Royal Oak, MI|4
American RestaurantPhoto of Avenue — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Avenue

Relaxed, family-owned restaurant supplying generous portions of classic American comfort fare.

Royal Oak, MI|4
Thai RestaurantPhoto of Saab Sis Thai — Thai Restaurantvia Google Maps

Saab Sis Thai

Royal Oak, MI|5