Growing up in Rochester Hills continues to form who I am as an adult, in the way I work, interact, and treat others. If you are from here, you know that it can get a little boring sometimes, but there is always something amazing going on to excite us. I am very aware of how privileged I was to live in such a nice town, and I want to take some time to look back on a few of the "best" spots and happenings that everyone who has grown up here has heard of, and probably visited multiple times.
Downtown Rochester Lights
Every winter, lights go up on every inch of the buildings making up downtown Rochester. Everyone looks forward to the night they turn on, knowing they will be sparkling till the new year. There really is something about walking through them, no matter how many times you see them.
Arts & Apples
Every year at the end of summer and beginning of fall, there is an art fair in the Rochester park that virtually everyone goes to. Full of unique crafts, art, and food, it is a staple of Rochester & Rochester Hills.
Lipuma's Coney Island
A little dive-type restaurant in the heart of downtown overlooking the paint creek, nobody can help themselves when they go here. Their hot dogs and fries are nothing less than famous, as you only need to look at the walls to see the celebrity customers who have eaten there.
The Paint Creek Trail
A trail that runs through the center of Rochester. Its paths go beyond city lines, but it still feels decidedly Rochester. On any given day you will find crowds of people running, biking, or walking their dogs on this beautiful path.
Rochester Adams High School
The Oldest, and arguably best high school in the area. Of course, I am biased having attended. But, I believe I speak for most when I say highlanders are the best.
Yates Cider Mill
One of the oldest cider mills in the area. If you are from here, you know that the line full of students and families, will usually be far outside the door anytime between September and November.
Stoney Creek Schoolhouse
Everyone remembers going on field trips to the oldest school house, where you had to dress up as students from the time, and see what it was like to live in that time.
Rochester Brunch House
This restaurant has become quite a staple in the lives of those who hail from here. With it's cinnamon roll pancakes and other delicious creations, there is usually a lengthy wait to get a table unless you go early.
The Village
The outdoor mall down the street from Adams High School. Most know that what it lacks in interesting stores, it makes up for in countless options for lunch during school, or dinner and snacks after.
Dutton Road
The notoriously bumpy and rough dirt road that everyone consistently tries to avoid in the winter and spring if they want to keep their car clean.
Knapps Doughnuts
A staple in the lives of many Rochester Hills children, Knapp's doughnuts are some of the best you can find. At least that is my opinion.
Dessert Oasis Coffee Roasters
One of the best coffee shops in the city, it is packed every weekend with young people and musicians wishing to play. Their decor, coffee, and dessert are what make it a truly amazing time. They've even opened another one in Detroit.
Rochester Municipal Park
Every kid who has lived here remembers going to the park to play on one of the three play-sets located around, or went to swim in the paint creek river. It is always a fun place to be.
