Discover Livonia, MI: Your Guide to the City’s Best Things to Do

Looking for things to do in Livonia? Well, if you’ve ever found yourself cruising down I-275 or wandering the leafy streets between Detroit and Ann Arbor, you might’ve passed through Livonia, Michigan, the kind of place that feels instantly familiar, even if it’s your first visit. With its tree-lined avenues, bustling community spots, and a knack for mixing old-school charm with just the right dose of modern energy, Livonia is more than a suburb; it’s a destination in its own right.

Maybe you’re a local looking for fresh weekend plans, a visitor passing through, or a family hoping to fill the calendar with memories. No matter who you are, Livonia comes ready with a surprisingly wide selection of things to do. From sprawling parks and family-friendly attractions to hidden dining gems and cultural hubs, this city invites you to slow down, explore, and make it your own for a day, or maybe even longer.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes Livonia such a fun, friendly, and unexpectedly vibrant place to explore.

Embrace the Outdoors: Parks, Trails, and Green Spaces

Livonia wears its green spaces proudly. The city is dotted with parks and trails that make you forget you’re just a stone’s throw from Detroit’s urban sprawl. If the sun is shining, there’s no better way to start your Livonia adventure.

Bicentennial Park is a local favorite. Sprawling fields, shaded picnic areas, and a walking path that loops around the sports fields. In summer, you’ll catch soccer games, families grilling, and kids chasing frisbees. The park’s playscapes are a magnet for families, while the nearby pickleball courts and tennis courts keep things lively long into the evening.

If you’re up for something a little wilder, head to Rotary Park. With its mix of wooded trails and open meadows, it’s perfect for a peaceful hike or a leisurely bike ride. Birdwatchers and nature photographers love the quiet corners here, and the play structures and ball fields mean there’s plenty to keep the younger crowd entertained. Rotary Park also offers sand volleyball courts and tennis courts, making it an ideal spot for hiking, picnics, and family fun.

And if you’re a golfer or just like the idea of hitting a bucket of balls on a sunny afternoon, Fox Creek Golf Course and Whispering Willows offer beautiful fairways and a relaxed, welcoming vibe for players of all skill levels.

Taste the City: Dining for Every Craving

You might not expect a city of Livonia’s size to be a serious food destination, but locals know better. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a relaxed dinner, Livonia’s restaurant scene is full of pleasant surprises.

Craving classic American comfort? Senate Coney Island is a breakfast staple, serving up perfectly greasy hash browns and pancakes that hit just right. For lunch, try Daly Drive-In – a retro spot that feels like a throwback to the golden age of diners, with burgers, fries, and shakes that taste like summer.

If you’re in the mood for pizza, Buddy’s Pizza is a Detroit-area legend for a reason. Their crisp-edged, cheesy squares are the stuff of local lore. Prefer Italian? Luigi’s Trattoria Pizzeria is family-owned, with pizza and pasta dishes that’ll make you want to linger over a second glass of wine.

Don’t sleep on Livonia’s international offerings, either. Sheesh Mediterranean Cuisine plates up shawarma and falafel that draw crowds from well beyond city limits, while Las Palapas Mexican Restaurant serves up flavorful, authentic Mexican dishes from sizzling fajitas to hearty burritos in a lively, welcoming atmosphere perfect for families and friends. And Punjab Indian Cuisine in Livonia is an absolute gem where you can expect flavorful, authentic North Indian dishes served in a casual setting, with generous portions and warm, attentive service.

Shop Local: Boutiques, Markets, and More

There’s something about shopping in a city like Livonia that just feels easy. The big names are here. Laurel Park Place mall has a few from Macy’s to specialty shops, but it’s the smaller, local spots that really give Livonia its character.

Livonia Marketplace is a blend of national retailers and local businesses, with enough variety to cover errands and a little spontaneous browsing. If you’re hunting for something unique, The Town Peddler Craft and Antique Mall is a treasure trove. A favorite for gift-hunters and vintage lovers, it’s packed with handmade crafts, antiques, and the kind of odds and ends you didn’t know you needed until you saw them.

For fresh produce and artisan goods, check out the Livonia Farmers Market (open seasonally) at the Wilson Barn. It’s a community hub where you can stock up on local honey, fresh-baked bread, and Michigan-grown apples while chatting with friendly vendors.

Dive Into Culture: Arts, History, and Community Events

Livonia’s cultural scene is quietly robust. The city takes pride in its history and has created gathering spaces where art, learning, and community spirit blend together. And the Livonia arts offer many things to do in Livonia.

Start with the Greenmead Historical Park. This 95-acre historical village is a living time capsule, with preserved buildings, gardens, occasional special events, and one of the best Livonia attractions. Walking through Greenmead, you can almost hear the echoes of Livonia’s early settlers. It’s a must for history buffs and a surprisingly fun way for families to spend an afternoon.

The Livonia Civic Center Library isn’t just a place to check out books. It’s a modern, light-filled hub with events for all ages, from story times to author talks and tech workshops. For art lovers, the Livonia Arts Commission supports local artists and puts on exhibits, performances, and festivals throughout the year.

If you want to dive right into the city’s communal heart, time your visit for one of Livonia’s festivals. The Livonia Spree, held each June, is a week-long celebration with rides, fireworks, concerts, and carnival food. Ask any local, and they’ll tell you it’s a summer highlight. It’s one of the most fun activities in Livonia!

Family Fun: Entertainment for All Ages

Livonia has families in mind when it comes to things to do in Livonia, with plenty of destinations where kids (and grown-ups) can let loose, play, and make memories. This is where we shine when it comes to family-friendly things to do in Livonia.

Dave & Buster’s is an obvious crowd-pleaser. A little arcade, a little sports bar, a little Livonia nightlife, and a lot of fun whether you’re six or sixty. For something more active, the Livonia Recreation Center dishes up swimming pools, indoor tracks, fitness classes, and more, making it a hub for families year-round.

If you’re looking for something a bit different, try Escape Room Zone. These immersive puzzle rooms are a hit with teens, friends, and anyone who loves a challenge. Or catch a movie at the Phoenix Theatres at Laurel Park, which pairs comfy seats with the latest blockbusters.

Don’t forget about Newburgh Lake on Livonia’s western edge. It’s a favorite for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking in the warmer months. It’s a quick escape into nature that’s never more than a few minutes from the heart of the city.

Make It Yours: Why Livonia Deserves a Spot on Your List

It would be easy to overlook Livonia. At first glance, it’s a city that sits quietly between bigger, busier places. But spend a day here, and you’ll realize Livonia is more than a pit stop. It’s a community that knows how to welcome you in, whether you’re wandering tree-lined parks, tasting your way through local restaurants, or sharing a laugh at a festival. There really is so many things to do in Livonia. It’s why I built this site!

Livonia’s best trait might be its ability to surprise you. It’s the kind of place where you can find your new favorite pizza, stumble across a hidden walking trail, or make a family memory at an old-fashioned carnival, sometimes all in the same afternoon.

So next time you’re mapping out weekend plans or just craving a fresh adventure, don’t pass Livonia by. There are more things to do in Livonia than you’re probably aware of. Come see what the city has to offer. Chances are, you’ll find something here that feels just right, and maybe, a reason to come back again and again.