Patch Passport: How About a Day Trip to Dearborn?

All summer long, we'll offer up a weekly to another southeast Michigan destination. 

Have you been to Dearborn? Somewhere other than the ? Here's where Dearbornites say are must-stops for visitors to their fair city. This weekend, Aug. 3-5, is Dearborn Homecoming, too!

Two Downtowns?

Dearborn's pretty lucky. While some cities have just one walkable stip of restaurants, bars and shops, we have two.

In East Downtown, you'll find a unique mixture of hip shops, history, and both Polish and Arab American influence in the food and stores. On the west side, a bevy of places to eat, plus Dearborn's bustling nightlife–any night of the week.

Here are some spots you won't want to miss, according to Patch readers:

• / (east): A double-whammy of comics below, and records up top in one building.
• and (west): Best burgers in the state? Locals will say hole-in-the-wall Howell's, but Millers has received national recognition. You decide.
• (west): One of the oldest, biggest locally-owned record stores in Michigan.
• (east): Built in the 1920s, City Hall has astounding architecture and a neat nearby park.
• (east): Home-cooked food with friendly hospitality.
• (west): Good luck finding a seat at lunchtime.
• (west): A large antique mall with constantly changing inventory
• (east): As one Patch reader put it, "Polish with attitude."

The Rest of Dearborn History

You can learn a lot about Dearborn's history at The Henry Ford. But most people think it's just about a Model T ride in Greenfield Village, or a photo op with the Weinermobile.

Here are the lesser known spots and experiences to take in the city's roots:

• : Don't forget to visit the McFadden Ross House and the Commandant's Quarters. Both worth seeing.
• : See where Ford's trucks are built up close!
• Ford Historic Homes District: A beautiful west downtown neighborhood of hundred year old homes, commissioned by Henry Ford himself.
• Springwells Park: Like a city within the city, Springwells residents are among the most proud of their neighborhood of unique homes, also designed by Ford architects.
• Fairlane Estate: Though the actual estate that Henry and Clara Ford called home is currently closed, the grounds are not. See the Rouge waterfall, the former boat launch, and Clara's rose garden.

Arab American Influence

Dearborn is home to the finist Middle Eastern cuisine in the state, and I say this with no hesitation. But there's also the culture, the hookahs, the bakeries–oh, the bakeries!

Here's where our readers say to go for the best Arabic eats and experiences in the city:

• : The first museum in the world devoted to Arab American history, culture and art.
• : A longtime favorite restaurant on Warren Avenue for locals and visitors alike.
• : Ice cream and a variety of Arabic baked goods.
• : Roasted on site–buy it bagged, or sit down for a drink.
• : Fresh produce, unique products, locally owned.

Arts & Culture

Dearborn residents are proud of the eclectic art, culture and performance experiences available in the city. Here's what they say to check out:

• : Catch comedy, dance, theater and music shows all year round.
• : Located inside of The Center, with local, regional and national art of all types.
• : Dearborn's top-rated community theater spot.
• Outdoor art: Including the in east and west downtown, scultures courtesy of the , and (beginning in July) the .

Looking for something else entirely? Check out our Dearborn Patch Business Directory.

Quickest Way from Macomb

• Take I-94 W toward Detroit
• Get off at exit 210A for US-12/Michigan Avenue toward Dearborn
• Turn right onto U.S. 12 W/Michigan Avenue

If you're going on to Dearborn Homecoming:

• From Michigan Avenue, make a U-turn at Hinkel
• Ford Field Park is located at 15801 Michigan Ave.

What did we leave out?

Let potential visitors know where else they should visit by posting a comment on this story.