Visiting Team: Nov 7-10

Question

Girls hockey team (15-17 yrs) and parents in town Nov 7-10 and looking for some fun and eats.

We’re staying in Southfield but happy to drive.

Looking for a couple good restaurants and a couple of evening activities.

Girls will want to shop but they’re a good group who’d love to experience some of Detroit.

Just started doing some digging, but a few ideas:

Karaoke/Piano Bar - would be great if a lively atmosphere but they are minors.

UMich has football games Thursday and Saturday

Rangers @ Red Wings but they’re already playing hockey.

Eloise Asylum - haunted house and escape room.

Roller Derby - is there still a Sat night event?

Need a couple evening spots and a couple spots for lunch.

Appreciate any input.

Answer

Visiting Detroit with a group of teenage girls and parents can be really fun, as there are plenty of family-friendly dining and activity options. Since you’re staying in Southfield, you’ll have a short drive into Detroit proper, where most of the entertainment and unique eateries are located.

For dining, you’ll want a mix of casual lunch spots and slightly more unique dinner experiences that appeal to teens and adults alike. Here are some suggestions:

Lunch:

Buddy’s Pizza – Detroit-style pizza that’s casual, iconic, and teen-friendly.
Traffic Jam & Snug – eclectic café with sandwiches, baked goods, and ice cream; fun atmosphere.
Slows Bar BQ – if they enjoy barbecue, this is a Detroit classic and casual for a group lunch.

Dinner / Evening Eats:

Andiamo – Italian cuisine near downtown Detroit, a more upscale but still family-friendly option.
The Hudson Café – hearty American breakfast/lunch menu if you want brunch or early dinner, casual and fun vibe.
Pure Detroit Dining & Entertainment areas – consider Detroit’s Greektown for casual Italian, burgers, and pastries; easy walking area with lively atmosphere.

For evening activities, there are a few options suitable for minors as well as adults, keeping in mind that bars or piano bars may not be accessible to the teens:

Haunted / Escape Experiences – Eloise Asylum is a fun haunted house/escape room hybrid that works well for teen groups.
Roller Derby – check the schedule of the Motor City Roller Derby; Saturday night events often run during your timeframe and are exciting for spectators.
Detroit Riverwalk – evening stroll along the river with lights and views, safe and enjoyable for all ages.
Shopping & Entertainment – The Somerset Collection in Troy (a short drive from Southfield) offers upscale shopping and casual eateries; for a Detroit-centered shopping experience, Greektown or Midtown shops can also be fun.
Movies / Entertainment Centers – Emagine Theatre or Dave & Buster’s in Detroit suburbs are lively options for groups with teens.

Other considerations:

Check UMich game schedules – Thursday and Saturday football games may affect traffic if traveling near Ann Arbor; plan extra travel time if attending or driving past game routes.
Detroit Red Wings games – since the girls are hockey fans, you might coordinate viewing at a local sports bar or family-friendly venue if not attending in person.
Transportation – driving from Southfield is convenient, but allow 20–30 minutes to downtown depending on evening traffic.

With this mix, you’ll have some fun, teen-friendly activities, shopping opportunities, and good eats while exploring Detroit.