Fraser, MI

Michigan's state legislature first incorporated the village of Fraser in 1894. However, the area, named for Detroit-area lawyer Alexander J. Frazer, did not experience enough growth to receive recognition as a city until the 1950s. Frazer moved to the area in 1857 after learning of its commercial prospects in relation to a new train depot, which made Fraser's location a crossroads and hub for commerce. On November 7, 1956, the city of Fraser was officially established and subsequently adopted by electors on December 26 of the same year.

Annual events such as Run Drugs Out of Town include a 5k and 10k community run/walk to help keep the city drug-free, while the Fraser Historical Commission works to preserve city's past, including historical sites like the Hemme Barn and the Baumgartner House.

The city of Fraser has plenty to choose from, no matter what your palate craves. Serving up traditional American dishes, Liz's Ham Cafe provides a classic diner atmosphere, complete with Formica tables and plastic-covered menus. Stop in early to try the famous ham breakfast, which includes three pieces of grilled ham topped with a fresh slice of pineapple served over a heaping portion of hash browns, three eggs cooked to order and two pieces of toast on your choice of bread. Great prices, a friendly staff and plenty of lunch and dinner specials will keep you coming back.

For authentic Mexican food served in a casual setting, try El Charro Restaurante Mexicano. Since 1971, owners of this establishment have taken pride in creating dishes straight from their personal family recipes. Start your meal with the avocado cheese crisp appetizer before ordering the signature "unique style soft shell taco" plate consisting of three tacos filled with ground beef, lettuce, yellow cheese and tomatoes, with a side of rice and beans. Finish off with some traditional deep-fried ice cream covered in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon for a true taste of Mexico.

For a half-pound burger cooked to perfection, head to Abby Lane Gourmet Burgers. Don't let the small, strip-mall location fool you; this mom-and-pop shop will cook you an unforgettable meal that's far from ordinary. Order the lamb burger and ask for a side of house-made garlic sauce and sweet potato fries. If you want beef, try the 'shroom burger (topped with mushrooms, caramelized onions and Swiss cheese), and pair it with a side of crisp, fresh onion rings. Dip your rings in the Düsseldorf mustard sauce to add some unique flavor to your dish. Nightlife near Fraser can be anything you want it to be, with numerous attractions to choose from.

Shooter's Bar & Grill provides tons of fun for people of all ages. Whether you want to catch the game on TV or shoot a round of pool, this place has you covered. Several HD televisions and a full projector screen let you kick back with a cold brew as you cheer your favorite team to victory, while the pool tables gear you up for a friendly game among friends. Located across from Fraser Hockeyland, you can often find budding players fresh off a tournament picking songs to play from the Internet-powered jukebox or a group of college kids engaging in a game of beer pong. The friendly crowd and terrific drink specials make this a popular spot.

When you feel like dancing to your favorite jams in a modern club, check out Club54. With 6,000 square feet of space to get your groove on, you'll find the exciting lighting, cool decor and extremely lively crowd mesmerizing. Order a cocktail on special before hitting the dance floor as the DJ spins today's most popular hits; just don't plan on sitting down.

For a night filled with live music and your favorite, nationally-known bands, Freedom Hill Amphitheater has the tickets you want. Smaller than other major venues in Michigan, you will always have the best seat in the house at this outdoor arena, whether sitting in the front row or up the hill on the lawn.

Fraser's close proximity to Interstates 94, 96 and 75 make getting around by car simple. If you prefer to save on gas, you can hire a taxi, private car or airport shuttle in minutes through the Uber app on your smartphone. If you like to be outdoors, you can walk or bike to nearby areas thanks to numerous bicycle-friendly roads and walking paths.

Public transportation via bus through SMART Ride provides cost-effective rates for various routes throughout the day and night. Fraser also remains involved in the Community Partnership Program by providing curb-to-curb service to disabled and senior citizens, charging $1 for transport within a 10-mile radius of the city.

If you plan to travel to downtown Detroit, you'll find plenty of public garages to park your car, whether you need just a few hours or an entire day. You can be sure your car stays safe and secure at Premiere Garage on Woodward Avenue. The underground structure, run by the city of Detroit, charges $5 for up to two hours and $15 for the whole day.

For outdoor fun any time of year, the city of Fraser has numerous parks to enjoy.

Come conquer the unique wooden play structure at Steffens Park for a day of fun for the whole family. Known as Fort Fraser, the expansive play space connects through a series of bridges and towers fit for children and adults alike, where a game of hide-and-seek can take up half the day. The rest of the park has picnic pavilions and baseball and soccer fields for the more athletically inclined and numerous trails to walk the dog or go for a jog.

For a more exercise-centric experience, strap on your walking or running shoes for a trip to Harrington Trails. Breathe in the fresh air as you admire the lush foliage during the warmer months or the snowy landscape during the winter months. Both parks provide free admission and remain open all year.

Compared to the rest of Detroit, the cost of living in Fraser averages about the same or even less, with a typical one-bedroom apartment going for $566 per month and a pint of beer setting you back $4. The price of gas runs 3 percent higher than the national average and a one-way ride on the SMART bus costs $2.

When planning a day of shopping, you can take your pick between a one-stop mall trip or some leisurely boutique browsing.

The Macomb Mall features over 900,000 square feet of entertainment, food and shopping with trusted stores like Kohl's, Old Navy and Sears. Pick up a new pair of shoes from Shoe Carnival before finding your favorite team jersey at Dick's Sporting Goods. Make a day of it by grabbing a bite to eat at Charley's Grilled Subs.

For everything from gently worn clothes and shoes or trendy accessories to bridal or formal wear and home decor, The Clothes Exchange has it all. The large, open space and friendly staff add to its appeal, where you'll find something new each time you visit.

When you want fresh fruit, vegetables and locally sourced items such as breads, milk and free-range eggs, visit Joe Randazzo's Fruit and Vegetables farmers market any time of the year. The indoor location also serves as a whole foods grocery store if you're looking to improve your eating habits by adopting a healthier lifestyle.

For more standard grocery items, head to the local Meijer. You can shop for your weekly needs, while also filling any prescriptions at the in-store pharmacy and picking up regular household appliances and home decor. Meijer stays open 24 hours a day, 364 days a year, with wallet-friendly prices that suit your budget.