Some times I forget that I don’t have to travel really far from home to enjoy amazing experiences… and do so without spending a ridiculous amount of money.

I’ve been MIA from blogging for the past two weeks due to an episode of Piriformis Syndrome.
That’s when the Piriformis muscle, located in the buttock and which helps rotate the hip and turn the leg and foot outward, spasms and pinches the Sciatic nerve. Needless to say it is very painful and I couldn’t walk for a while. After several steroid shots and lots of stretching, I am finally feeling better. Throughout the time when I was infirm, though, I kept thinking about what my next blog post would be about. Being bedridden made me dream a lot about getting out and about and I remembered a particularly fun outing I had with my husband and his family about a month ago and how that would be a perfect experience to share with all of you!

We ventured out to the historic Eastern Market in Detroit, Michigan.  Now, I’ve lived in Michigan for almost 11 years and have been to Eastern Market a total of 5 times. A shame, really, since it is one of the coolest and funnest experiences one could have when visiting Detroit. We live about 45 minutes away, so there really isn’t a good excuse for not partaking on this more.

Eastern Market is a year-round historic commercial district in Detroit that started as a farmer’s market back in 1841 and grew to include different merchants by the 1850s. Initially it was held at Cadillac Square in the downtown area and was mostly devoted to the sale of hay and wood. As it grew to include more sales items, additional sheds were constructed to accomodate more wholesale, plant and artisanal vendors, and it was relocated to its current location northeast of the city’s downtown (bordered by Gratiot Avenue, Mack Avenue St. Aubin Street and I-75). It is HUGE, as in it is the largest historic public market district in the United States (some 40 acres), with more than 150 foods and specialty businesses operating in it. Nowadays, it is committed to helping Detroit become a healthier, happier and wealthier city.

Heading over there on Saturdays is always a crazy and fun experience since it is basically its busiest day. Farmers tend to bring in their poultry, livestock and fresh produce, and artisans sell their pieces out on the open to large crowds. Musicians and buskers play music in every corner and lots of delicious snacks can be purchased on every street.

 

I particularly love going to the little shops scattered all around the main sheds to find little treasures here and there: jewelry, clothing, home decor. I always end up with cool pieces for my collection. Prices vary, of course, but it is mostly inexpensive and it helps support local businesses.

For example, a little shop was selling a bunch of reclaimed wood and restored furniture, and I found this cute little old school library card catalog drawer, sitting by itself in a little corner.

It was only $4.00 and I can think of a bunch of little projects where I can use this! You’ll probably see it in a post in the future.

Walking around outside and enjoying the beautiful street art is also an immersive experience on its own, particularly knowing the hardships that the city of Detroit has gone through, and how it is slowly rebuilding.

On Tuesdays, the market holds a variety of wellness activities, including Yoga and Zumba classes, as well as cooking classes. I will definitely try one of those out soon!

The Saturday market runs year-round, but from June to September they are also open on Tuesdays and Sundays.

The market is  really dedicating its time to help Detroit get right back up and it shows! Every time I come back here there is something new, something rebuilt and a light and happiness floating around. It makes me feel energized and alive.

So, a 45 minute drive to enjoy an amazing cultural experience is a plus in my book. I vow to keep coming back here more often. If you are ever in the area, drop by! I guarantee you will find something you will enjoy!