Hip in Detroit's 2024 Guide to Shopping Local

Detroit Dye House - Detroit

This holiday season, as you shop for gifts for others or for yourself, we encourage you to check out at least one small business that you haven't visited before. The Metro Detroit area has a plethora of great businesses that make shopping small easy and fun. We're sure you probably already have your favorite shops that you plan to stop by this holiday season, but if you check out a few new ones, you might find the perfect gift that you didn't even know was on your list!

We've curated a list of great shops in Detroit and the surrounding suburbs that will make your holiday shopping more fun and enjoyable. By shopping small, rather than just online or at big box stores, you'll not only find unique gifts, but you'll also help to keep someone's dream of owning their own business alive. 

Although this list might narrow things down a bit when it comes to shopping local, it is quite the long list. So, we've added this key that will help you narrow down which store might carry what you're looking for!

Key: B=Bikes C=Clothing F=Food H=Home Goods J=Jewelry

M=Music Equipment

P=Pet Supplies R=Records  S=Fun Stuff  T=Toys X=Skateboards V=Vintage W=Wellness/Beauty

George Gregory - Detroit

Detroit

Boro C

Busted Bra Shop C

City Bird CHJST

Coup D'état CJ

Detroit Dye House aka Brightly Twisted C

Detroit is the New Black C

Detroit Urban Artifacts VHS

Eldorado General Store HJSW

Flamingo Vintage VCJS

George Gregory C

Good Neighbor CJ

Henry The Hatter C

The Lip Bar W

Mama Coo's Boutique VCH

Metropolis Cycles B

Nest HS

NoJo Kicks C

Old Soul Vintage VCS

Peacock Room CJ

POST HS

Shinola Detroit Store BCJ

SMPLFD C

Third Man Records RCS

Three Thirteen C

Third Wave Music M

Urbanum HJW

Vault of Midnight S

DeVries - 3rd Floor - Eastern Market

Eastern Market

Cyberoptix TieLab C

DETROIT VS EVERYBODY® C

DeVries & Co. FCHST

Germack F

Vintage Eastern Market VCHS

Wabi Sabi 313 VC

Well Done Goods CS

Hamtramck

Book Suey S

Detroit Threads CR

Joy Thrift VC

Rat Queen Vintage VC

Showtime C

Tekla Vintage VCJ

Public Thrift VC

Not Sorry Goods - Ferndale

Ferndale

Bath Savvy W

Beatnix on 9 CJ

Boston Tea Room HJW

Detroit City Skateboards X

Downtown Ferndale Bike Shop B

Elaine B Jewelry J

Found Sound R

Green Daffodil W

Hook and Eye C

John K. King Books North S

Loose Cannon Flagship CS

Margaux & Max VCJ

Maestros Dog Haus P

Modern Natural Baby S

Not Sorry Goods VCJS

Olive's Bloombox S

The Rocket FS

Vogue Vintage VCHJS

Saffron - Downtown Royal Oak

Royal Oak

Blick Art Materials S

Burn Rubber C

Funky 7 Inc CS

Former Vintage VC

hihi ST

Inkcourage CJ

Leah's Closet VCJ

Lost and Found Vintage VCJ

Made in the Mitten S

Michigan Toy Soldier Co. ST

Modern Supply HJW

Noir Leather CJS

Paper Trail Books S

Pitaya Inc CJ

Rail & Anchor HJS

Saffron CJ

Sidetrack Bookshop S

The Detroit Record Company R

The Dirt Label C

Toyology Toys TS

UHF Records R

Vintage Freakazoid VC

ZMC Pharmacy FHJST

Youngbloods - Hazel Park & Pop-Up @ The Rust Belt in Ferndale

Other Cities in Metro-Detroit

Caruso Caruso C

Catching Fireflies HS

Dearborn Music R

Ferne Boutique C

Flipside R

Jody Lynn's Emporium of Doodles S

Leon and Lulu CHST

Redrunn Skate Shop XCS

Refuge Skateboard Shop XCS

Regeneration VC

Reware Vintage VCS

Rock City Music Company MR

Sole Sisters C

South Street Skateshop XC

The Book Beat S

The Roadshow S

Todd Beauty W

Village Vinyl R

YoungBloods C

Downtown Detroit Markets at Cadillac Square

Multiple Small Businesses in One Place

Michigan Central Station - Detroit

Shops at Cadillac Square - Detroit (10 local makers)

The Rust Belt - Ferndale (40 local makers in one spot)

~C&S

Hip in Detroit's Picks for the Weekend - November 29-December 1, 2024

Friday, November 29th - Krampus Ball @ Tangent Gallery: Christmas may be right around the corner, but it's time to celebrate Krampus this Friday night! The Detroit Krampus Ball will feature live music, drag & burlesque performances, kink, and more. Think Theatre Bizarre, but Krampus themed! Costumes are mandatory for this immersive event, get tips on what to wear here. Tickets are $57.10, the event goes from 8:30 PM - 2 AM, and 21+ are welcome.

Saturday, November 30th - Naughty or Nice Pop-Up Holiday Market: The Naughty or Nice Pop-Up Holiday Market is making shopping local easier this Small Business Saturday! Head to the Royal Oak Farmers Market to shop with over 60 local vendors and makers, selling nice and naughty gifts for everyone on your list. Check out the full list of vendors here. There will also be food trucks on site and adult beverages for purchase. Cover is $10 at the door and the market is open from 5 PM - 11 PM. You can also win a pair of tickets to the market here. 

Saturday, November 30th - Frank White and The Warped Tourists @ Small's: Sing along to your favorite pop punk tunes with The Warped Tourists this Saturday night at Small's! Frank White will also be playing along with No Vision and Phyrxian Sun. Cover is $15 and doors open at 7 PM. 

Saturday, November 30th - Esham @ Harpo's: Head over to the east side this Saturday night for a show at Harpo's, that we're sure will be a good time! The lineup includes Esham, The Amino Acids, Wiccans, and The Hatchetman Project. Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door. Get yours here. Doors open at 6 PM and 18+ are welcome. 

~C

Win Tickets to the Naughty or Nice Pop-Up Holiday Market

What: Naughty or Nice Pop-Up Holiday Market @ Royal Oak Farmers Market on Saturday, November 30th, 2024

Tickets are $10 at the door! Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #PopUp

~C

The Downtown Detroit Markets Are Open and the Tree is Lit

The most magical time of the year is here, and the Downtown Detroit Markets are officially open! Nestled next to the holiday tree in Campus Martius Park, these markets are the perfect spot to shop local, connect with the community, and soak in the festive vibes. Running now through January 5, 2025, the markets feature 17 pop-up vendors, each bringing something unique to Detroit’s holiday season.

Meet the Vendors
Here’s the full lineup of this year’s amazing businesses:

• 27th Letter Books – A community-oriented bookstore highlighting underrepresented voices.
• Asher & Arnold – A children’s gift store focused on holistic family wellness.
• Bags to Butterflies – Sustainable handbags handcrafted by formerly incarcerated women.
• Big Mitten Linocuts – Award-winning prints inspired by Michigan’s natural beauty.
• The Brave Wimp Society – Handmade pop art wearables celebrating diversity and inclusivity.
• Conscious Living Brand – Unique crystal jewelry and creations.
• Detroit Streetwear – High-end apparel celebrating Detroit’s history and future.
• Jetta’s Gourmet Popcorn – Gourmet popcorn and snacks for every occasion.
• FOLK – A Corktown café offering curated gifts and high-quality foods and beverages.
• For the Love of Cheesecake – Specialty cheesecake company known for unique flavors.
• Kiloh & Co. – Detroit sports-themed apparel for female fans.
• Preva Body – Organic skincare products crafted with plant-based ingredients.
• Scentana Candle Co. – Clean-burning, non-toxic candles with a minimalist aesthetic.
• Speedcult – Metal art fabrication company creating Detroit-inspired décor.
• Waffle Cabin – Belgian dessert waffles with delicious toppings.
• Whimsy & Wine – Detroit- and Michigan-themed wood décor and gifts.
• Yarn Nerds – Hand-dyed yarn and crafting accessories for knitting enthusiasts.

Warm Up at Cadillac Lodge
After shopping, step into the Cadillac Lodge for a cozy holiday retreat. This heated, family-friendly tent offers up-north vibes with comfy leather sofas, blankets, games, and festive décor. Enjoy seasonal treats, appetizers, and hot cocktails from their delicious menu.

Hours to Know
The markets and lodge are open:

Wednesday & Thursday: 11 AM – 8 PM
Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM
Sunday: 11 AM – 7 PM
Closed Monday and Tuesday (with special hours on select holidays).

Make sure to stop by and experience the magic for yourself. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, grabbing a snack, or just enjoying the festive atmosphere, the Downtown Detroit Markets and Cadillac Lodge are here to make your holidays unforgettable! 

~S

Elephant & Co.: Detroit Style Pizza & Self-Serve Craft Beer

Beer lovers and pizza lovers do not want to sleep on one of Cass Corridor's newest additions, Elephant & Co.! Located behind the Masonic Temple on Charlotte, Elephant & Co. features Detroit style pizza and self-serve craft beer. Yes, you read that right, self serve beer! The place is owned by the fine folks that are also behind Eastern Market Brewing Co. and Ferndale Project, so during your visit you can try dozens of beers from these two great breweries, and there is even seltzer and wine available too. For the non-drinkers, there are N/A beers available as well as cans of a Detroit staple, Faygo. When it comes to serving yourself, the cashier will give you a wristband that you tap on the beer tap, and then pour yourself a sample, a full glass, or somewhere inbetween. The taps will keep track of how much you poured and add it to your bill at the end of your visit. 

If you're not in the mood to drink, the food alone is well worth the visit! We know, there are a lot of great pizza places around nowadays, especially when it comes to Detroit style. But, this one is definitely in our top 5, probably even in our top 3! For our first visit, Sadie went with the Fungi, vegan style. When it comes to vegan cheese, it can be hit or miss, but since it was our first visit, she gave it a try and it was amazing! Christie went with the OG, Spicy Pepperoni, and it was one of the best pizzas she ever had. There are also great salads on the menu as well as cheese bread and shareables to start things off.

Elephant & Co. is open Monday - Saturday from 10:30 AM - 10:30 PM and Sunday from 10:30 AM - 9 PM. The dining room is huge and there's a great patio for when nice weather returns. Plus, if you're looking for a place to host a party, they have a private event space too. Don't have time to dine in? Carryout is available, with a wide variety of canned beer to go along with your pizza. 

We highly suggest checking out Elephant & Co. the next time you're in the mood for a great meal or a fun place to grab drinks with friends!

Head over to our socials to see our reel from Elephant & Co.!

~C

Win Tickets to See Real Friends @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: Real Friends w/ Can't Swim, Slow Joy, and Carly Cosgrove

What: Playing St. Andrew's Hall on Saturday, November 30th, 2024

Tickets are $41.25 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #friends

~C

Win Tickets to See Steel Panther @ The Fillmore Detroit

Who: Steel Panther w/ Stone Horses

What: Playing The Fillmore Detroit on Friday, November 29th, 2024

Tickets start at $41.25 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #panther

~C

Hip in Detroit's Picks for the Weekend - November 22-24

Friday, November 22nd - A Deer A Horse w/ Big Life @ Outer Limits Lounge: Big Life will be opening up for A Deer A Horse from NYC this Friday night at Outer Limits Lounge. Also on the bill is Love Fool. Cover to see these 3 great bands live is only $10. Doors open at 8 PM and 21+ are welcome. 

Friday & Saturday, November 22nd & 23rd - Planes, Trains & Automobiles @ Redford Theatre: Kick off the holiday season by watching one of the best (and one of the only) Thanksgiving movies! Planes, Trains & Automobiles will be showing at the historic Redford Theatre this Friday and Saturday night. Each night, the showtime is 8 PM and tickets are $7. Doors open at 7 PM, so make sure to get there early for the organ overture and to get some delicious treats from the concession stand. The theatre has already started decorating for the holidays too! So this will really get you in the spirit! 

Friday, November 22nd - Detroit Tree Lighting @ Campus Martius: The official Detroit Tree Lighting ceremony will take place on Friday November 22nd from 4 PM - 9 PM. Downtown will be full of people and holiday cheer as festivities draw them to Campus Martius. There will be live performance from Alex Sampson, Southern Avenue and Thornetta Davis, professional ice skaters, food trucks, and more. Plus, don't forget to stop by the shops at Cadillac Square to kick off your holiday shopping or to buy something nice for yourself from local businesses. 

Winter @ The Station: This weekend, the public is invited back to Michigan Central for Winter at The Station! This new event will take place every weekend until the end of the year and will feature shopping, art, live performances, and more. On Fridays, tickets are $10 to get in, while on Saturdays admission is free, however you must request free tickets. Get your tickets here. 

~C

Win Tickets to See Neal Francis with Smushie @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: Neal Francis with Smushie

What: Playing St. Andrew's Hall on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024

Tickets are $35.25 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Neal

~C

Win Tickets to See Echosmith @ The Shelter

Who: Echosmith w/ Lisa Heller and Jackie Evancho

What: Playing The Shelter on Thursday, November 21st, 2024

Tickets are $37.99 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #echo

~C

Win Tickets to See Brother Elsey @ The Shelter

Who: Brother Elsey w/ Leo Bautista and Scotty

What: Playing The Shelter on Saturday, November 16, 2024

Tickets are $35.25 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Brother

~C

Win Tickets to See Modest Mouse @ The Fillmore Detroit

Who: Modest Mouse w/ Black Heart Procession

What: Playing The Fillmore Detroit on Saturday, November 16, 2024

Tickets start at $54.50 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Mouse

~C

Street Beet in Detroit Expands Hours for More Vegan Deliciousness

If you're a fan of fresh, flavorful vegan eats, you're going to love the latest news from Street Beet in Detroit. This popular spot has just expanded its hours, giving you even more opportunities to enjoy their mouth-watering vegan creations!

Located at 4626 3rd Avenue in Detroit, Street Beet has become a go-to for anyone craving inventive plant-based dishes with bold flavors. Known for their creative takes on comfort food, everything on their menu is 100% vegan, proving that plant-based meals can be both hearty and delicious.

The big news? Street Beet has extended its hours, making it even easier for you to grab a satisfying vegan meal at the time that works best for you. Here's the new schedule:

• Monday: Closed
• Tuesday: Closed
• Wednesday: Closed
• Thursday: 11 AM – 10 PM
• Friday: 11 AM – 11 PM
• Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM
• Sunday: 11 AM – 4 PM

With these extended hours, you now have more chances to swing by and enjoy fan favorites like the Crunchwrap and the Chicken Caesar Wrap, both of which are absolute must-tries. But honestly, everything they make is amazing. Whether you're vegan or not, you'll leave satisfied, and you might just find yourself craving their dishes again and again.

Support local, eat well, and enjoy the expanded hours at Street Beet—you won’t regret it!

~S

Win Tickets to See Fit for an Autopsy @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: Fit for an Autopsy w/ Bodysnatcher, Distant, Sylosis, and Judiciary

What: Playing St. Andrew's Hall on Thursday, November 14, 2024

Tickets are $38.50 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Autopsy

~C

Youngbloods Clothing and Barbershop: Your Go-To Destination for Style and Grooming in Hazel Park, MI

If you’re looking for a place that combines great fashion with top-notch grooming, look no further than Youngbloods Clothing & Barbershop in Hazel Park, MI. This local favorite brings together masculine style and expert barber services, offering everything you need to refresh your look.

Located at 24918 John R Rd, Youngbloods offers a carefully curated collection of clothing and accessories that cater to modern, masculine styles. From casual everyday wear to statement pieces for special occasions, there’s something for everyone who wants to elevate their wardrobe. Whether you’re shopping for new additions to your closet or seeking out unique accessories, Youngbloods has you covered.

But it’s not just about clothes. Youngbloods is also home to some of the best barbers in the business. While you browse their collection, you can also get a fresh haircut or beard trim, making it a one-stop spot for both style and grooming. The skilled barbers take time to understand your personal preferences, ensuring you leave looking and feeling your best.

Even better, Youngbloods is expanding its reach this season! They’ve just announced that they’ll be popping up at the Rust Belt Market throughout the holiday season. This means you can now shop their unique clothing and accessories at two locations: their original Hazel Park spot and the Rust Belt Market pop-up. So whether you’re in the neighborhood or near the pop-up, it’s easier than ever to get your hands on their cool collection.

If you’re ready to update your wardrobe and get a sharp haircut, be sure to stop by Youngbloods Clothing and Barbershop in Hazel Park. Booking an appointment is easy through their online booking link.

Support local, and visit today!

~S

Win Tickets to See The Sparklemuffin Tour Suki Waterhouse with Special Guest Bully at ROMT

Who: AEG Presents The Sparklemuffin Tour Suki Waterhouse with Special Guest Bully

What: Performing at The Royal Oak Music Theatre on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

Tickets are $37.50+ in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Sparklemuffin

~S

Win Tickets to See Animals As Leaders @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: Animals As Leaders w/ Plini

What: Performing Live at St. Andrew's Hall on Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Tickets are $48 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Animals

~C

Rock Out and Level Up: Don’t Miss GIG – The Ultimate Celebration of Michigan Music, November 8-10!

🎶 This weekend, get ready to dive into Michigan’s music and art scene at GIG - The Art of Michigan Music 2024! From Friday, November 8th through Sunday, November 10th at Art 634 in Jackson, GIG will be packed with live performances, stunning art, food, and exclusive sessions with Michigan’s music community leaders. 

Here’s your guide to making the most of this event!

Friday: Grand Opening and Live Performances

Start the weekend with Friday Night Meet the Artists! Wander through an incredible art exhibit featuring concert photography, album art, and posters that capture the spirit of Michigan’s music scene. Meet the artists behind the visuals, grab your exclusive GIG swag bag, and enjoy a night of live music from Jon Torrence, Wilson Thicket, Jennifer Westwood and Dylan Dunbar, and Myron Elkins. Food and drinks will be flowing to kick things off right!

Saturday: Learn, Connect, and Rock

Saturday’s lineup is all about leveling up with unique sessions for artists and fans alike. Highlights include Sadie Quagliotto from Hip in Detroit leading a session on Social Media and Branding—a must-attend for anyone looking to amplify their online presence. Other sessions cover essentials like booking, grants, and launching your LLC, all led by Michigan music pros.

Then, take it easy at the Saturday Mixer, where you can hang out with fellow music lovers, artists, and industry insiders. As the evening rolls in, gear up for the Michigan Mixtape concert featuring Ladyship Warship, Carbon Decoy, The Blueflowers, and Nathan Walton and the Remedy. It’s all Michigan, all night!

Sunday: Music Market

Wrap up the weekend with a stop at the Sunday Music Market! Hunt for vinyl records, exclusive merch, and meet local bands as you browse through unique Michigan-made goods. It’s a fantastic way to take a piece of GIG home with you and support local artists.

Tickets & Extra Perks

Tickets for GIG - The Art of Michigan Music are on sale now, and this lineup is too good to miss.

Whether you’re an artist, music lover, or just looking for an exciting weekend, GIG is your backstage pass to Michigan’s best in music and art. Grab your tickets and come celebrate!

~S

Win Tickets to See Michigander @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: Michigander w/ Cece Coakley

What: Performing Live at St. Andrew's Hall on Friday, November 8th, 2024

Tickets are $27.50 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Michigander

~C

Win Tickets to See Knocked Loose and The Black Dahlia Murder @ GLC Live in Grand Rapids

Who: Knocked Loose w/ The Black Dahlia Murder, Drain, and Militarie Gun

What: Playing GLC Live at 20 Monroe Street in Grand Rapids on Thursday, November 7th, 2024

Tickets start at $64 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Loose

~C

Win Tickets to See Elle King @ The Fillmore Detroit

Who: Elle King

What: Baby Daddy's Weekend Tour @ The Fillmore Detroit on Friday, November 22nd, 2024, 2024

Tickets start at $45 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Elle

~C

Hip in Detroit's Picks for the Weekend - November 1-3

Friday, November 1st - Bill Kozy's Rising Force @ Lager House: Bill Kozy's Rising Force will hit the stage at the Lager House in Corktown Friday night! Joining them are Last Call in Jonestown, Supreme Mystic, Saber Tooth Gary, and Painted Graves. Cover is $15. Doors open at 7 PM and the show starts at 8 PM. All ages are welcome, but those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent. 

Friday, November 1st - Dia de los Muertos @ Flamingo Vintage: Head to Flamingo Vintage Friday night for a Dia de Muertos celebration! There will be live music from Pepper & The Heavy Boys and Macho, plus the store is having a 20% off sale too! Cover is $5, doors open at 7 PM, and Macho kicks things off at 8 PM. 

Saturday, November 2nd - Punk'n Halloween II @ The Lex: If you're not quite done with Halloween yet, head to The Lexington Bar this Saturday night for Punk'n Halloween II. This Halloween cover show will feature music from Green Day, KISS featuring Danzig, and Royal Blood. There will also be food available from Bo Bo's. Cover is $10, costumes are encouraged, and the fun starts at 7 PM. 

Saturday, November 2nd - SUMPP EP Release Show @ Lager House: SUMPP is releasing a new EP and they want to celebrate with you Saturday night! The show is happening at the Lager House and SUMPP will be joined by their friends Flagman, Act Casual, Stick Boovy, and Legitimate Threat. Doors open at 7 PM and tickets are $12. Get yours here. For set times, click the link above. 

Sunday, November 3rd - All Things Detroit Holiday Market: Kick off your holiday shopping this weekend at Eastern Market for the All Things Detroit Holiday Shopping Experience & Food Truck Rally! The event will feature over 200 small businesses offering unique gifts and delectable food trucks serving up delicious bites. Plus there will be live music to get you in the holiday spirit, photo ops with Santa for the little ones, and a local art exhibit. Admission is $5, but kids 6 and under get in for free. The event goes from noon - 5 PM. 

~C

Win Tickets to See Drive-By Truckers @ St. Andrew's Hall

Who: Drive-By Truckers

What: Southern Rock Opera Revisited Tour @ St. Andrew's Hall on Tuesday, November 5th, 2024

Tickets are $53 in advance and they can be purchased here.

Or you can enter to win a pair!

How? Email your full name to hipindetroit@gmail.com with the subject line #Truckers

~C