15 Things to Do in Novi, Michigan (MI)

Novi, Michigan, is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Located just 30 minutes outside of Detroit, Novi attracts both residents and visitors with its diverse array of attractions, shopping, dining, and family-friendly activities. 

15 Things to Do in Novi, Michigan (MI)

1. Twelve Oaks Mall

Short Description of Activity:
Twelve Oaks Mall is a premier shopping destination in Novi, offering over 180 stores, including high-end brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Wide selection of stores and brands.

• Great dining options.

• Convenient location near major highways.

Cons:

• Can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays.

• Parking can be challenging during peak hours.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Major sales events, such as Black Friday and seasonal sales.

• Special holiday decorations and events.

2. Suburban Collection Showplace

Short Description of Activity:
The Suburban Collection Showplace is Novi’s largest event venue, hosting conferences, trade shows, and expos year-round.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Excellent venue for large-scale events.

• Convenient parking and accessible location.

Cons:

• Can be difficult to navigate during major events.

• Limited dining options within the venue.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Auto shows, home expos, and career fairs.

• Trade shows and conventions throughout the year.

3. BATL Axe Throwing

Short Description of Activity:
BATL Axe Throwing offers a fun and exciting experience where visitors can try their hand at throwing axes in a safe and competitive environment.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Unique, fun activity for groups and families.

• Friendly and knowledgeable staff.

Cons:

• Not suitable for young children.

• Can be expensive for large groups.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Axe throwing tournaments and events.

• Special group packages for corporate outings or parties.

4. Emagine Theatres Novi

Short Description of Activity:
Emagine Theatres is a high-end movie theater offering a premium cinematic experience with reclining seats, gourmet food, and a wide selection of films.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Comfortable reclining seats and premium amenities.

• Variety of food and drink options.

Cons:

• Tickets can be pricey compared to standard theaters.

• Limited showtimes for certain films.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Movie premieres and special screenings.

• Exclusive offers on food and drink during showings.

5. Villa Barr Art Park

Short Description of Activity:
Villa Barr Art Park is a peaceful, creative space combining art and nature, where visitors can enjoy art exhibits, sculptures, and beautiful walking paths.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Beautiful outdoor setting.

• Great for nature lovers and art enthusiasts.

Cons:

• Limited hours of operation.

• Not much for children to do compared to other parks.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Seasonal art installations and sculptures.

• Guided art walks and outdoor exhibitions.

6. Lakeshore Park

Short Description of Activity:
Lakeshore Park is a beautiful natural park that offers various recreational activities, including picnicking, walking trails, and seasonal sports.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Offers a peaceful environment with plenty of green space.

• Great for outdoor activities and family picnics.

Cons:

• Limited amenities like food vendors.

• Can be crowded during peak seasons.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Walking trails and wildlife observation.

• Seasonal events such as outdoor fitness classes and picnics.

7. Sri Venkateswara Temple & Cultural Center

Short Description of Activity:
This beautiful Hindu temple offers a serene environment for visitors to explore, learn about the culture, and take part in spiritual activities.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.

• Educational and cultural experiences.

Cons:

• Not a major tourist attraction; more suited for those interested in cultural experiences.

• Limited English language resources for non-native speakers.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Religious ceremonies and cultural festivals.

• Spiritual workshops and lectures.

8. Novi Town Center

Short Description of Activity:
Novi Town Center is a community-focused shopping center offering a variety of stores, services, and eateries, making it a convenient stop for both locals and visitors.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Easy access to shops, restaurants, and services.

• Less crowded compared to other shopping areas.

Cons:

• Smaller selection of stores compared to larger malls.

• Limited entertainment options.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Local community events and festivals.

• Holiday-themed shopping events.

9. We Rock the Spectrum

Short Description of Activity:
We Rock the Spectrum is a fun and inclusive indoor play center offering sensory-friendly activities for children with autism and other special needs.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Focus on inclusivity and sensory-friendly activities.

• Safe environment for children with special needs.

Cons:

• Best suited for families with children; not much for adults.

• Limited options for older children.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Special events for families with children with special needs.

• Birthday party packages and themed events.

10. Pour on the Shore

Short Description of Activity:
Pour on the Shore is a fun event that celebrates Michigan’s local wines and craft beers, allowing visitors to sample drinks from local wineries and breweries.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Great way to discover local wines and craft beers.

• Beautiful waterfront setting for events.

Cons:

• Limited to adult visitors.

• Can get crowded during peak hours.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Wine and beer tastings from local vendors.

• Live entertainment and local food offerings.

11. The Oddities and Curiosities Expo

Short Description of Activity:
The Oddities and Curiosities Expo is a unique event showcasing strange and unusual items for sale, from antiques to creepy artifacts.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Fascinating for lovers of the unusual and bizarre.

• Great for finding unique items.

Cons:

• Not for everyone; may be off-putting to those who prefer traditional events.

• Limited scope; only appeals to specific interests.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Vendors offering rare and unique collectibles.

• Performances, workshops, and exhibitions related to oddities.

12. Novi Pet Expo

Short Description of Activity:
The Novi Pet Expo is a popular event where pet lovers can learn about various animals, purchase pet products, and meet professionals in the pet care industry.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Fun for families and pet lovers.

• Opportunities to learn about pet care and products.

Cons:

• Can be overwhelming due to the large crowds and noise.

• Limited to pet-related activities.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Pet adoption events and shows.

• Pet product demonstrations and giveaways.

13. Asian Fest Michigan

Short Description of Activity:
Asian Fest Michigan celebrates the rich cultural diversity of Asia with food, music, dance, and traditional performances that showcase the beauty of Asian cultures.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Immersive cultural experience with food, music, and performances.

• Family-friendly atmosphere.

Cons:

• Limited to specific cultural themes.

• Can get crowded during peak event times.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Traditional dance and music performances.

• Authentic Asian food and craft vendors.

14. Motor City Comic Con

Short Description of Activity:
The Motor City Comic Con is a must-visit event for comic book lovers, offering panels, meet-and-greets with celebrities, and a wide selection of comic-related merchandise.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Great for comic book and pop culture fans.

• Opportunities to meet celebrities and creators.

Cons:

• Can be very crowded.

• High ticket prices for some events.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Celebrity panels and autographs.

• Merchandise booths selling rare and exclusive items.

15. Novi BBQ Festival: Ribs & Whiskey

Short Description of Activity:
This delicious festival brings together some of the best barbecue vendors in the region, offering rib tastings, whiskey pairings, and live entertainment.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Great food and drink options, especially for BBQ lovers.

• Fun and lively festival atmosphere.

Cons:

• Can be difficult to find seating during busy times.

• Limited to a few days, making it a seasonal event.

Key Attractions and Events:

• Barbecue cook-offs and tastings.

• Whiskey pairings and live music performances.

FAQs about Things to Do in Novi, Michigan (MI)

Q1: What is Novi, Michigan famous for?

Novi, Michigan, is best known for its bustling shopping scene, especially the 12 Oaks Mall, one of the largest malls in the area. It’s also famous for its excellent schools, beautiful parks, and proximity to the Detroit metropolitan area, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.

Q2: Is Novi, Michigan a nice place to live?

Yes, Novi is considered a great place to live, offering a family-friendly environment with top-rated schools, beautiful parks, and excellent amenities. The city boasts a mix of suburban tranquility and urban conveniences, with easy access to major highways and the Detroit metro area, making it ideal for commuters.

Q3: What does Novi stand for in Michigan?

The name "Novi" is believed to be derived from the Latin word "novus," meaning "new." It is often said to reference the fact that it was once a stop on the stagecoach line from Detroit to Grand Rapids, marking it as a "new" stop on the route.

Q4: Is Novi, Michigan expensive to live?

While Novi offers a higher cost of living compared to some parts of Michigan, it’s considered affordable for its amenities. Housing prices are above the state average, but the city provides excellent schools, parks, and access to shopping and employment, which make it worth the investment.

Q5: What is the cheapest city to live in Michigan?

Cities like Flint and Saginaw tend to be among the most affordable places to live in Michigan. These areas offer lower housing costs compared to cities like Novi, although they may lack some of the amenities and proximity to major metropolitan areas.

Q6: Is Novi, Michigan a wealthy area?

Novi is generally considered an affluent area with a higher-than-average household income and well-maintained neighborhoods. The city’s mix of upscale homes, excellent schools, and thriving businesses make it one of Michigan’s wealthier suburbs.

Q7: Does Novi have a downtown area?

Novi doesn’t have a traditional downtown like some other cities, but it has a well-developed business district with a variety of restaurants, shops, and offices. The city also offers a vibrant community space with outdoor events, parks, and cultural attractions.

Q8: Was there a shooting at the State Fair in Novi, Michigan?

There have been incidents reported at the Michigan State Fair in the past, including shootings, but these are rare and do not define the overall safety of Novi. The community works closely with law enforcement to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors.

Q9: How much is property tax in Novi, Michigan?

Property tax rates in Novi are generally in line with other cities in Michigan. The current rate is approximately 2.4% of the property's assessed value. Residents should check local tax assessments for more detailed information based on their property.

Q10: What is the safest city to live in Michigan?

Michigan has several safe cities, including Troy, Rochester Hills, and Novi. These cities offer low crime rates, strong community policing, and family-friendly environments, making them some of the safest places to live in the state.

Q11: What is the ethnicity of Novi, Michigan?

Novi is a diverse city with a blend of ethnicities. The population includes a mix of Caucasian, African American, Hispanic, and Asian residents, reflecting the area's growing multicultural character and vibrant community spirit.

Q12: What is the nicest city in Michigan to live in?

Many consider cities like Ann Arbor, Novi, and Rochester Hills to be some of the nicest cities to live in Michigan, offering a blend of excellent schools, strong job opportunities, low crime rates, and a high quality of life.

Q13: What is the most famous street in Michigan?

Michigan Avenue in Detroit is perhaps the most famous street in Michigan, historically known for its role in the city’s development and cultural scene. It has been a central hub for business, commerce, and cultural events.

Q14: How do you pronounce Novi?

Novi is pronounced "NOH-vye," with emphasis on the first syllable. It is a common mispronunciation, but the correct way to say it is simple and clear, reflecting its Latin origins.

Q15: Who owns 12 Oaks Mall in Novi, Michigan?

12 Oaks Mall is owned by the Simon Property Group, one of the largest real estate investment trusts in the United States. The group manages several prominent shopping centers, including 12 Oaks, which remains one of the top destinations in Novi.

Best Time to Visit Novi, Michigan

To help you plan your trip, here's a table outlining the best times to visit Novi based on weather conditions and key events:

Unique Gems in Novi, Michigan

Novi’s Hidden Nature Spots

While Novi is known for its urban amenities, it is also home to some hidden gems in nature. The Novi Dog Park offers a peaceful spot for dog lovers to let their pets roam freely, while Walled Lake provides beautiful trails for hiking and biking. These lesser-known locations give visitors the opportunity to enjoy the city's natural beauty in a tranquil setting.

Local Art and Culture

Novi has a growing arts and culture scene. The Novi Public Library Art Gallery showcases local artists, offering an artistic retreat in the heart of the city. The Twelve Oaks Mall is another unique cultural spot, where shopping meets art. With murals and installations throughout the mall, it’s a place where visitors can enjoy both retail therapy and artistic displays.

Historical Sites

For those interested in history, a visit to Mill Race Historical Village is a must. The site features historical buildings from the 19th century, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore Novi's early days. It’s a great place to learn about the city’s evolution from a small village to the dynamic city it is today.

Day Itinerary for Novi, Michigan

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Novi Farmers Market (open during the summer months), where you can browse local produce and artisanal goods. Afterward, head to a local café for breakfast, such as the beloved Java Jungle or Café L’Europe, both known for their fresh coffee and cozy atmospheres.

Late Morning

Spend your late morning exploring Twelve Oaks Mall, one of the largest shopping destinations in Michigan. If you’re in the mood for something more tranquil, Novi Park offers peaceful nature walks and beautiful greenery. Whether you’re looking to shop or relax, both options provide the perfect escape.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, take a leisurely tour of Heritage Park, where you can enjoy a hike or take a boat ride on the pond. The park also features a nature center, making it the perfect spot for families to spend the afternoon together in nature.

Evening

For dinner, head to one of Novi's top-rated restaurants, such as The Big Salad or Novi Chophouse. Afterward, enjoy a movie at The Emagine Theatre Novi, where you can unwind and relax after a day of exploration.

How to Reach Novi, Michigan

By Car

Novi is easily accessible by car from major cities, including Detroit. The city is located just 30 minutes from Detroit, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Major highways such as I-96 and I-275 connect Novi to Detroit and surrounding areas.

By Train

For those traveling from Detroit or nearby regions, Amtrak offers direct train service to Novi. Alternatively, Novi Suburban Transit provides local transport services within the area, making it easy to navigate the city without a car.

By Air

If you're flying into Michigan, the nearest airport is Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), located about 25 miles from Novi. With direct access to major highways, it’s simple to reach Novi from the airport.

Unique Facts About Novi, Michigan

Novi stands out as a great destination for both city lovers and nature seekers. It is an ideal place to explore the vibrant culture, attend events, and enjoy the tranquility of beautiful parks and trails. The city’s blend of modern amenities and scenic landscapes makes it a must-visit spot in Michigan, offering a perfect blend of activities when considering things to do in northern Michigan (MI).

Cultural Aspects

The cultural fabric of Novi is diverse and vibrant. As a melting pot of different backgrounds, the city hosts a variety of cultural events that celebrate its diversity. Throughout the year, you can experience cultural festivals, food fairs, and art shows that showcase the city’s rich traditions. For those seeking a unique getaway, exploring the things to do in Charlevoix, Michigan (MI) offers a delightful change of pace, with scenic views and local charm. Novi is known for being a welcoming community that celebrates its diverse population and traditions.

Notable Events

Novi’s calendar is packed with exciting events that draw visitors from all over. Annual festivals such as the Novi Home Show, Novi’s Summer Concerts, and the Autumn Harvest Festival are local favorites. These events are a great way to experience the community spirit and enjoy some of the best local entertainment.

Location Advantages

Novi's proximity to Detroit makes it an ideal getaway for those seeking a combination of city convenience and natural beauty. Situated near major highways and transit routes, Novi offers easy access to Detroit's metropolitan attractions while maintaining its peaceful suburban charm, much like the diverse things to do in South Haven, Michigan (MI), which blend scenic views with local culture.

Conclusion

Novi, Michigan, offers a unique mix of attractions, outdoor activities, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you're looking to explore its scenic parks, enjoy world-class shopping, or attend lively festivals, Novi has something for everyone. With its close proximity to Detroit, Novi makes for the perfect getaway, offering the best of both urban and natural experiences.

Plan your next trip to Novi and experience all that this wonderful city has to offer!