Patch Passport: Where to Eat, Shop and Hang Out in Shelby, Utica

Need to get out of town but can't afford a "real" vacation?

Stay in town — or at least, stay in Metro Detroit. Here is a daytrip guide to the Shelby and Utica area for our new summer series, Patch Passport. Have you been there? Share your favorite things to do in the comments below.

Explore downtown Utica

Since Shelby Township doesn't have much of a downtown area, visitors can hit the cute and historic downtown Utica district.

I suggest taking the scenic route down Cass Avenue, rather than Van Dyke, so you can check out well-kept Victorian-style homes that line the street.

Once you get to Auburn Road, make a left and take your pick from great sports bars, restaurants, women's boutiques and hair salons.

If you're looking for some fun boutique shopping, you'll want to check out, which features adorable children and women's clothing and accesories and , where you'll find just that.

Lunch Anyone?

Here are some munch spots in Utica you won't want to miss, according to Patch readers:

• (Great BBQ)
• (Authentic thin crush Italian Pizza)
• (Best Burgers in town)
• (Outdoor patio features bonfire pit)
• (Just ask any local about the custard)

Clinton River

• Canoe down the Clinton River begining at Heritage Park in Utica.
• Visit 128 acres of protected natural land at
• : Go fishing on the Clinton River, which runs through the park, visit the hike and bike trail or stop in to the . 
• on the border of Shelby and Rochester: In the fall, there is no better place to witness the beauty of the Clinton River while treating yourself to a hot donought and fresh cider. 

Seek the Creek: Stony Creek Metro Park

• Looking for some outdoor adventure? spans between Rochester and Shelby Township. The nearly 5,000 acre park is centered around a lake and a six-mile hike and bike trail.
• Visitors can hit the green on Stony Creek's 18-hole course.
• Paddleboarding anyone? Standup paddleboards are now available to rent at Eastwood Beach.
• World's largest inflatable water slide. Enough said. Just check out the .

Best Dinner Spots in Shelby

All that ourdoor activity would make anyone hungry. I would suggest heading to Shelby Township for dinner since there is such a wide variety of really good restaurants. Readers suggested these spots:

• (Great wine list and live music)
• (Likely to spot Dino Ciccarelli hanging with former NHL stars)
• (For great carryout) 
• (Real deal Mexican food)
• (Hibachi grill and great Sushi)