Trenton, MI

After serving in the War of 1812, Abram Caleb Truax was granted a large area of land along the Detroit River from the U.S. Government in 1816, where he developed the area currently known as downtown Trenton by building a church and a sawmill. The city was originally called Truaxton in 1834. Its name changed to Trenton in 1847 after a type of limestone was mined in a local quarry started by Soloman Sibley. Sibley used the mineral to produce baking soda for his family's company, Arm & Hammer. Prior to that, the city was a hub for steamboat traffic and overnight guests traveling from Monroe to Detroit.

A number of annual events help define life in the city, including the Trenton Summer Festival street art fair, while the Trenton Museum remains a popular destination for those eager to learn more about the area's long and unique history.

Trenton has an abundance of restaurants and nightlife to choose from, whether you prefer a quiet meal with family or a lively night out with friends.

When you don't feel like cooking but still crave a homemade meal, visit Mom's Restaurant on Fort Street. The warm, welcoming environment provides a down home feel, and the staff takes pride in treating you like part of the family. Indulge in comfort food by ordering the veal cutlets with mashed potatoes and brown gravy or a half slab of barbecue spare ribs with your choice of soup or salad and a side of bread and butter. Family owned and operated for over 40 years, the owners and employees hope you enter as guests but leave as friends.

Take a step back in time at Del's Pizzeria & Restaurant on West Jefferson Avenue, where the diner-like setting, wood paneling and vinyl booths provide a classic retro feel. Del's has been family owned and operated for over 40 years and remains a favorite among residents who enjoy authentic Italian food made with the freshest ingredients from local vendors. Create your own pizza, or order one of the classic combinations. If you prefer a more classic dish, try the special deluxe spaghetti served with the signature housemade roll knots. The friendly service and relaxed atmosphere make this a great spot for the whole family.

For a hearty breakfast served in a quiet, laid-back setting, head to George's Family Restaurant on West Road. Popular for its morning dishes, George's also provides lunch and dinner options. Order the Western omelette made with locally grown and produced bell peppers, onions and ham, or try the hot cakes served with two eggs and your choice of ham, bacon or sausage. Stop by for lunch to order the classic club sandwich, or come by for dinner to try the baked meatloaf and chicken fried steak.

If you like watching sports in a family friendly environment, head to Legends 1926 Bar and Grill on West Road. Situated on the second floor of the Kennedy Ice Arena, you can choose between 30 different types of beer as you sit back and watch the kids perfect their ice hockey skills on the rink below, or cheer for your favorite team on one of the 20 flat-screen televisions located throughout the bar. Featuring foosball tables, pinball machines, bubble hockey and darts, you can relax knowing the kids are happy as you unwind after a long week.

Head downriver with your friends for a relaxing night filled with fine cigars and classic martinis at Stix Martini & Cigar Bar on Pennsylvania. Voted the number one cigar bar by Ambassador Magazine, you can enjoy a stogie with a glass of quality scotch served neat or a shaken martini in the private smoking room that features an efficient high-speed ventilation system. Catch up on the latest news or sporting event on one of the televisions while sitting in a plush leather chair as you take comfort in knowing your private stock remains safe in one of the 120 personal humidor lockers made from the highest quality cedar available.

When you feel like letting loose, head to Marlow's Bar on Telegraph Road. Bust a move on the dance floor to today's latest hits spun by a DJ, or come to enjoy live music performed by the area's most popular local bands. The fully stocked bar, terrific drink specials and friendly staff make it easy for you to enjoy a high-energy night out with your closest friends.

Scenic waterfront views make walking or cycling through Trenton a pleasure, with numerous designated bike lanes and walking paths available for those who prefer an outdoor commute. The city's close proximity to Interstates 75, 275 and 94 allow you to travel by car with ease. When you want to save on gas, leave your vehicle at home, and contact a taxi, private car or shuttle service within minutes through the Uber app. If you prefer to take advantage of public transportation, the Detroit Department of Transportation and accompanying SMART ride runs a number of routes throughout the day and night for a wallet-friendly fare.

The city of Trenton provides plenty of metered spaces for those who need to park their vehicles for a few hours. If heading to downtown Detroit, you can choose between a number of public parking structures. The Port Atwater Garage on Beaubien Street charges just $6 for a full day of parking in a secure, well-lit facility.

Scenic nature trails and beautiful waterfront views make Elizabeth Park Marina an ideal place to enjoy cardiovascular exercise without paying fees. Put a leash on your dog and go for a quick jog, or enjoy the beautiful foliage while taking a leisurely walk on one of the designated paths. Revel in the bountiful natural resources Trenton provides as you stop by each exercise station.

Enjoy admission-free family fun at Haas Park on Sibley and Washington Street, where the kids can play make-believe on the jungle gyms or exercise while playing a game of basketball or tennis on one of the designated courts. Strap on your skates, and try to keep up on the Rollerblade court, then head to the baseball diamond to watch a game between friends. Pick fresh items from your garden at the co-op nursery to pack in your picnic for the annual Fourth of July fireworks show as you watch the dog frolic in the lush, open space.

Trenton residents enjoy a cost of living that averages 5 percent less than surrounding Detroit suburbs. A standard one-bedroom apartment goes for $597, while a pint of beer at the local pub typically sets you back about $4. If you commute via public transportation, a one-way ride on the DDOT costs $1.25, or $2 if you choose to travel on the SMART ride. If you prefer to use your own vehicle, you can expect to pay around 3 percent more than the national average for gas.

The city of Trenton has plenty to offer when it comes to shopping, whether you prefer to make a quick trip downriver to visit the mall or spend your hard-earned dollars at a local boutique. For your local chain shops, such as Express and Sunglass Hut, head over to the Southland Shopping Center on Eureka Road.

When you need the perfect formal dress at a budget-friendly price, visit Style U Boutique on West Road. Specializing in gently worn shoes, accessories and gowns, you can find something for any occasion. Try on a little black dress for your next cocktail party, or delight in finding your dream ball gown and the perfect set of heels as you plan your next black-tie gala.

For merchandise ranging from fresh local produce to gardening supplies, plant materials and fairy containers, visit Ruhlig Farms & Gardens farmers market on Telegraph Road during the open season. Get to know the vendors as they help educate you about how to eat better and grow your own organic foods before browsing the selection of seeds and planters to create your own at-home garden. The knowledgeable staff and welcoming environment helps encourage you to adopt a more health-conscious lifestyle.

When you need to pick up a few items or do your weekly grocery shopping, head downriver to Kroger on West Road. The fresh bakery and fully stocked deli provides you with a number of meal options, while the wide selection of dairy goods and snack items help you plan your kids' school lunches. Make sure to bring your recyclables to the convenient, in-store bottle return to take advantage of Michigan's 10 cent per can and bottle refund.