Located in the geographic center of Oakland County, approximately 35 miles north of Detroit, Waterford is a quintessential Michigan waterside community that boasts 34 named lakes. In addition to water recreation, Waterford also has ample restaurants and entertainment for residents and visitors alike.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best restaurants, shopping, and entertainment Waterford has to offer.
Eats, Drinks & Treats
4th Tavern Lake House
4710 Cooley Lake Rd. Waterford Twp. MI
A restaurant and bar with views of Lake Crescent and a cozy, lake house aesthetic offering standard bar fare with large portions for a reasonable price. Come for a weekday lunch date to check out their 9 for $9 specials!
Custard Corner
3005 Pontiac Lake Rd. Waterford Twp. MI
Operating since 1976, Custard Corner is a local favorite offering up any frozen concoction you can dream of. Whether your treat of choice is a classic cone, slushie, flurry, or sundae, you can find it all here.
Fork n’ Pint on Cass Lake
4000 Cass Elizabeth Rd. Waterford, MI | (248) 791-3256
Winner of multiple Oakland Press Best of the Best awards in 2022, Fork n’ Pint is a must visit if you’re in the Waterford area. With a friendly atmosphere, solid american fare, and great wine selections we have no doubt you’ll be leaving happy.
Heroes BBQ and Brew
998 West Huron Waterford, MI | (248) 683-9900
A local eatery and bar known for their BBQ, including fall-of-the-bone baby back ribs. Not in the mood for BBQ? Heroes also serves up Mexican favorites, seafood, burgers, and delicious pastas.
La Marsa Waterford
4176 Pontiac Lake Rd. Waterford, MI | (248) 674-3100
La Marsa’s Waterford location continues the La Marsa tradition of serving authentic, healthy Mediterranean food all across southeast Michigan.
Plaza Garibaldi
2675 Dixie Hwy. Waterford Twp. MI | (248) 481-4091
A quaint, highly rated and truly authentic Mexican bar and grill whose slogan is “welcome amigos a su casa.” You’ll always find friendly service and reasonable prices here.
Pops Family Restaurant
3330 Highland Rd. Waterford Twp. MI | (248) 977-1987
A family restaurant offering up classic diner fare. Pops serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a clean and welcoming environment.
So Thai Restaurant
2553 Elizabeth Lake Rd. Waterford Twp. MI | (248) 682-6350
Voted one of the best Thai restaurants in Metro Detroit, So Thai specializes in authentic Thai cuisine in a relaxing environment.
Shopping & Entertainment
The Bait Shop
2574 Airport Rd. Waterford, MI | (248) 599-7788
A full service bait and tackle shop offering the latest and greatest fishing gear with a focus on locally made products.
Cass Lake Boat Rentals
4250 Parkway St. Waterford Twp. MI | (248) 800-9614
Offering boat rentals, Cass Lake Boat Rentals has frequently maintained watercraft and kayaks to ensure all renters are able to have a fun, safe time out on the lake.
Fenton Home Furnishings
5321 Dixie Hwy. Waterford, MI | (248) 623-6831
Offering designer Amish handcrafted furniture for all your home decorating and furnishing needs.
My New Favorite Thing
4755 Dixie Hwy. Waterford, MI | (248) 802-7384
Your Waterford destination for unique home decor, greeting cards, gifts, and treats. My New Favorite Thing also offers craft and cooking classes.
Escape Room Zone
1490 N. Oakland Blvd. Waterford, MI
Looking for a fun experience for a birthday party or team building event? The Escape Room Zone offers a fun escape room experience right in the heart of the Waterford area.
One Night Stans Comedy Club
4761 Highland Rd. Waterford Twp. MI | (248) 875-6524
A 300 seat comedy club with two full service bars and lounge. Check out their website for upcoming shows.
Yenna’s Healing Home Apothecary
4180 Dixie Hwy. Waterford Twp. MI | (248) 618-3684
Apothecary of tools to aid in spiritual journeys and create healing spaces.
For a list of parks, check out the Waterford Parks and Rec website here.
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