Established as a township in 1832, Novi is a bustling city on the northwestern outskirts of Metro Detroit. It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in Michigan and centres around a large shopping mall, with recreational green spaces and family-friendly parks among its attractions.
Things to do in Novi
In the heart of Novi is Twelve Oaks Mall, which is one of the largest shopping destinations in the Metro Detroit area. It’s home to more than 180 stores that include Macy’s, JCPenney and Nordstrom, as well as a photography studio known as the Detroit Selfie Museum. Once you’ve built up an appetite, you can feast at the Sedona Taphouse, the Pretzel Peddler or Cafe Bistro.
Travelling with kids? Head to Paradise Park, which is packed with family-friendly attractions that include an 18-hole miniature golf course and ten-pin bowling. You can bounce around on the trampolines, get behind the wheel of the go-karts or challenge yourself on the climbing wall. Also forming part of the complex is a state-of-the-art arcade centre with both new and nostalgic games.
North of Novi is Walled Lake, which has a small beach where you can swim in the summer months. Sprawling south is Lakeshore Park, a large recreational area with a children’s playground and a network of mountain biking trails. You can take advantage of the pump track and skills course or wander amidst the historic homestead ruins.
Getting around Novi
Novi is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Detroit and Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Novi and travel throughout the city. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around.