Rosa Parks - Detroit, MI

Historically, the Rosa Parks neighborhood bridged both the Jewish and African American communities, giving both groups a place to live peacefully side by side.

In 1967, one of the most significant events in Southeastern Michigan history took place when the Detroit Race Riots erupted. The Rosa Parks neighborhood was one of the locations, but has since been rejuvenated by people dedicated to the area's renaissance.

The original Motown Records headquarters resides along the area's West Grand Boulevard. Hitsville U.S.A., as it came to be known, featured top artists of its time including The Supremes, The Four Tops, Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. In modern days, the spot houses the Motown Museum, a complex dedicated to the record label's legacy and performing artists. Exhibits include personally-donated Michael Jackson memorabilia, artist costumes, photographs and records.

Many nearby restaurants present flavorful dining options in the Rosa Parks area of Detroit. Just down the street in the New Center neighborhood, City Wings on Grand Boulevard brings Southern flavors north with 18 varieties of hot wings, red beans and rice, turkey chili and chicken tortilla soup. Check out their grilled chicken sandwich or grilled chicken breast dinner. Their sweet potato pie also makes a tasty treat for dessert.

Across from the Fisher Theater, Cuisine presents an impeccable fine-dining experience for those attending a show. The restaurant awaits patrons in a charming historic house setting and serves contemporary French-American dishes, including favorites such as the fall-off-the-bone pork shoulder. Order à la carte items and progressive menu options recommended by the chef. Expect to pay a bit more at the end of the meal, but quality ingredients and a tasteful fine-dining atmosphere make it worth the extra expense.

Fu Lin, a carry-out only establishment on Rosa Parks Boulevard, dishes up affordable Chinese food in generous portions. People who live and work in the area recommend stopping in for the fried rice, almond chicken and egg rolls.

Regardless of your personality, Detroit's upscale lounges, high-energy dance clubs and relaxed dive bars please anyone exploring nightlife opportunities. A popular nightclub on Woodward, Bleu Detroit, has DJs spinning electronic and hip-hop if you want to dance. Prepare to pay a cover charge.

Most people travel the Rosa Parks neighborhood by personal car, truck or public transportation via bus. The area proves walkable and bikeable for those seeking fresh air and exercise. Area residents and visitors who do not own their own set of wheels can head to Wheelhouse Detroit, a bicycle rental and service shop along the Detroit RiverWalk.

Uber provides a reliable transportation throughout the area as well for those seeking an alternative.??The neighborhood’s convenient location connects it to Interstate 94, Interstate 96, M-10 and Interstate 75, major arteries that connect downtown to the large Metro Detroit area. Local, affordable parking options abound, so do not worry about breaking the bank.

At the corner of Rosa Parks and Clairmount, Gordon Park features new wooden benches, a pergola, a small stage and flowers decorated in colorfully painted tires to attract visitors to this environmentally friendly green space. The park was once an area eyesore, but thanks to the work of caring local businesses, students and activists, Gordon has transformed into a favorite picnic spot for families and locals.

The nearby Boston Edison neighborhood houses the beautiful, verdant Voigt Park, which locals often frequent as this space provides the perfect park to take a leisurely stroll through, weather permitting. Many families utilize the expansive green space to play soccer or baseball, and for a space to get to know and socialize with neighbors.

Just a few miles away sits the beloved Belle Isle Park, a true Detroit gem, situated near the Detroit River. Belle Isle attracts people from throughout the region and features a family-friendly aquarium, beach front picnic options, boating, peaceful cycling trails and fishing docks as just a few of the activities available. The golf course also remains popular among local residents.

With a one-bedroom rental averaging around $553 a month, Rosa Parks residents can enjoy an affordable urban environment near the heart of downtown. The adult one-way bus fare costs $1.50 per trip, while the neighborhood’s average gas price falls 11 percent lower than the national average. Patrons can expect to spend approximately $4 for a cold pint at a local watering hole.

Right on the other side of the M-10 expressway, the New Center neighborhood presents the best local shopping area option.

The Detroit Gallery of Contemporary Crafts retails unique items from clothing and hats, to jewelry and home goods. Its offerings make the perfect gifts out of creations from Detroit area artists.

The oldest family-owned retail shop in Detroit, Dittrich Furs opened their doors in the late-19th century. The rich-in-history business sells only the finest pelts, scarves, hats and coats, which keep anyone warm through the bitter cold Detroit winter.

A source for discount groceries, Save-A-Lot services the area with food staples and needed pantry items, including produce, meats, baked goods and prepared foods. Approximately 4 miles away, the world-famous Eastern Market attracts thousands each weekend for its renowned market, which features over 250 independent vendors selling locally grown flowers, plants, fruits and veggies, specialty baked goods and meats. The six-city block open-air market opens year-round for residents of the Metro Detroit area to enjoy.