Imlay City is a small town of roughly 3,600, nestled in the southeast corner of Lapeer County. It is home to Vlasic Pickles and the Eastern Michigan State Fair. With a summer farmer’s market, Merchant Trick or Treat down Main Street, and the Winter Wonderland Parade and Tree Lighting, Imlay City has everything a growing family could want or need…except for, perhaps a Target.
As part of our Hometown Hotspots Series, read on to learn all about Imlay City!
Busker Festival {formerly the Blueberry Festival} – A parade and festival with the twist of street performers, artists, and entertainers.
Eastern Michigan State Fair – Occurring in late July, this is a family favorite. It features 4-H events, midway rides, grandstand entertainment, and every type of fried fair food you can imagine.
Merchant Trick or Treat – Trick or treat at the businesses throughout downtown Imlay City.
Farmers’ Market – Open from mid-May to mid-October and held at the corner of Main Street and Third Street, on Thursdays from 10 am- 4 pm (weather permitting). It features a number of local vendors and farmers with Michigan specialties, gifts, and treats.
Summer Concert Series – A free outdoor concert featuring local musicians.
Winter Playground – A holiday-themed parade, tree lighting, Mr. & Mrs. Claus and a roaming gift-giving reindeer. There are also a number of family-friendly activities offered throughout town by local businesses.
Woods and Water Extravaganza – A weekend event offered each September offering a variety of events, entertainment, and information for the outdoor enthusiats. We also go because of the puppy tent!
Rotary Park – Thee cutest little park made with preschoolers in mind.
Imlay Township Park & Splash Pad – A nice sized park and simple, but super fun splash pad. The best part?? It’s free!
Ruth Huges Memorial Library – A cute library with activities for the whole family, including a storytime on Fridays at 10:30am.
Cedar Lanes – A great place for family bowling fun!
E.B./Bristols Blueberry Farm – Super sweet u-pick blueberries at a no-frills farm, that will not break the bank {$1-2.00/pound}.
Polly Ann Trail – A 34-mile long, non-motorized trail extending north from suburban Detroit to up north of Imlay City. The trail is open year-round, during daylight hours. Walking, hiking, jogging, cycling, horseback riding, and cross country skiing, in winter, are just some of the activities enjoyed by users of all ages.
For Life Health & Fitness – This local fitness center offers a calendar packed with classes led by certified instructors, childcare, and a convenient location.
Imlay City Public Pool – Located in downtown Imlay City. The public pool offers swimming lessons, lifeguard certification, and open swim times.
Lucky’s Steakhouse – A family-friendly steakhouse with great prices and a wonderful menu. And the complimentary bread – is ahmazing!
Pizza Machine – A great local pizza joint with a huge menu and homemade desserts.
Country Smokehouse – So, technically they are located in Almont, but they are so close…they count! What began as a small processing business has now, in the words of the owners, become a ‘Michigan Destination with fresh quality meats, catering, a weekend bbq, creative homemade recipes, and personal friendly service.’
Thimbleberry Gift Shoppe – A cute gift shoppe with home accents and Michigan gifts.
4th Street Antiques – With friendly service and a huge selection of items, this is a must!
Werner’s Hallmark Shop – An old favorite with unique gifts, books, and notions.
