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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.

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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

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DinerPhoto of Oak Diner — Dinervia Google Maps

Oak Diner

Tiny, no-frills American restaurant dishing up classic fare like burgers & omelets.

Royal Oak, MI|5
Breakfast RestaurantPhoto of First Watch — Breakfast Restaurantvia Google Maps

First Watch

Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.

Royal Oak, MI|4
RestaurantPhoto of HopCat — Restaurant

HopCat

Woodwork-filled brew pub with a massive beer list offering creative pub fare & brunch items.

Royal Oak, MI|4
Dessert ShopPhoto of Le Crepe — Dessert Shop

Le Crepe

Cozy French bistro with a charming European vibe presents 50+ sweet & savory crêpes plus cocktails.

Royal Oak, MI|5
Bowling AlleyPhoto of Bowlero Lanes & Lounge — Bowling AlleyOur original photo

Bowlero Lanes & Lounge

Royal Oak, MI|4
Family RestaurantPhoto of Fourth Street Restaurant — Family Restaurantvia Google Maps

Fourth Street Restaurant

Royal Oak, MI|4
RestaurantPhoto of Pronto! Diner — Restaurant

Pronto! Diner

Funky cafe offers an ample list of sandwiches & homemade soups with jumbo cookies for dessert.

Royal Oak, MI|4
Grocery StorePhoto of Woodward Corner Market — Grocery Storevia Google Maps

Woodward Corner Market

Royal Oak, MI|5
Breakfast RestaurantPhoto of Café Muse — Breakfast Restaurantvia Google Maps

Café Muse

Bright, cozy European-style eatery offers locally focused comfort food & beer amid local art.

Royal Oak, MI|4
Hamburger RestaurantPhoto of Little Brothers Burgers — Hamburger Restaurantvia Google Maps

Little Brothers Burgers

Compact counter-service joint with limited seating supplying burgers, sliders, fries & shakes.

Royal Oak, MI|5
Event VenuePhoto of Michigan Lottery Arts Beats & Eats — Event Venuevia Google Maps

Michigan Lottery Arts Beats & Eats

Royal Oak, MI|4
Grocery StorePhoto of Woodward Corners by Beaumont — Grocery Storevia Google Maps

Woodward Corners by Beaumont

Royal Oak, MI|5
GastropubPhoto of Royal Oak Taphouse — Gastropubvia Google Maps

Royal Oak Taphouse

American grill offering a wide-ranging menu, lots of craft beer & weekday happy hour in comfy digs.

Royal Oak, MI|4
RestaurantPhoto of JINYA Ramen Bar - Royal Oak — Restaurantvia Google Maps

JINYA Ramen Bar - Royal Oak

Royal Oak, MI|4
Pastry ShopPhoto of Astoria Pastry Shop — Pastry Shopvia Google Maps

Astoria Pastry Shop

Warm, venerable stop serving an array of sweet & savory pastries, plus cakes, tortes & chocolates.

Royal Oak, MI|4
RestaurantPhoto of Blind Owl Royal Oak — Restaurant

Blind Owl Royal Oak

Royal Oak, MI|5
Bar & GrillPhoto of Mt Chalet II — Bar & Grillvia Google Maps

Mt Chalet II

Longtime neighborhood hangout with a woodsy cabin feel offering a full bar, pub food & TV sports.

Royal Oak, MI|4
RestaurantPhoto of Young's Chinese Food Carryout — Restaurantvia Google Maps

Young's Chinese Food Carryout

No-frills Chinese restaurant providing classics such as General Tso's chicken for take-out.

Royal Oak, MI|4
ParkPhoto of Starr Jaycee Park — Park

Starr Jaycee Park

Outdoor activity area with sports fields, a playground & picnic shelter, plus a train ride for kids.

Royal Oak, MI|5
American RestaurantPhoto of Nicky Ds Coney Island — American Restaurantvia Google Maps

Nicky Ds Coney Island

This vintage, neon-lit joint with booth & counter seating features Coney dogs & Greek diner fare.

Royal Oak, MI|4