More to Dundee than meets the eye

Oftentimes, the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the words Dundee, Mich. is Cabela’s, the behemoth retail outlet for all things outdoors, visible from U.S. Route 23. Located just 17 miles from the Ohio – Michigan border, this small town has realized significant growth since 2000 thanks to the influx of visitors to Cabela’s and the restaurants and hotels that serve them. However, there's much more to Dundee than meets the eye.

Ford Park

Ford Park East and West

Located in the historic district of Dundee is Ford Park East and West. The park extends from both sides of the River Raisin and M-50. Amenities include a scenic riverwalk connecting the two parks, blooming perennials, three picnic shelters, fishing access, and a canoe and boat launch area. Free parking is available on the west side of the park behind Swan Creek Candle Company.

Day lilies line the Riverwalk at Ford Park.

River Raisin Canoe Livery

Rent a kayak or a canoe and spend the day paddling down the River Raisin. Half-day and full-day trips are offered daily through Labor Day and on weekends only through October. Reservations are recommended. Call 734-529-9029 or visit raisinrivercanoelivery.com.

Relax on the banks of the River Raisin.

Dundee Farmers Market

If you happen to miss all the Saturday farmers markets in the area, don’t despair. You still have a chance to catch the Sunday market in historic downtown Dundee right in the triangle of Riley and Park Place. 

The market, which features locally grown produce, herbs and plants, homemade soaps and candles, honey and handcrafted items, is held every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. through mid-October. On Sept. 17, the market will also include a Vintage/Antiques Street Market with antiques, vintage, and re-purposed items.

Dundee Farmers Market

River’s Edge Pizza Pub and Grille

A good choice for lunch or dinner is River’s Edge Pizza Pub and Grille located at 135 Riley St. The family-friendly restaurant is popular with visitors and locals alike and features hand tossed pizzas, slow-roasted ribs and pulled pork, mouth-watering burgers and pasta. 

River's Edge Pizza

Try a burger with fried jalapeños and cheddar, a Sicilian specialty pizza loaded with veggies and sans the sauce, or the summer special flatbread with basil pesto, mozzarella, fresh tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze. A second restaurant is located at the Carrington Golf Club in Monroe County.

Swan Creek Candle Outlet

Swan Creek Candle Outlet

While in downtown, visit the Swan Creek Candle Outlet. The company’s flagship location was established in 1997 and is located at 129 Riley St. in three restored historic buildings. There you will find over 5,000 square feet of candles, candle -related accessories, antiques and coffee.

Michcato is the wine of the summer.

   

St. Julian Winery Tasting Room

Sample award-winning wines at the St. Julian Winery Tasting Room, located at 700 Freedom Ct. in Dundee. At nearly 100 years old, St. Julian Winery, headquartered in Paw Paw Michigan, is Michigan’s oldest winery offering reds, whites, pinks, sparkling and dessert wines, plus ciders and spirits.

Shop the large selection of wine-related gifts.

While sampling, peruse the large assortment of wine-related and food items in the gift shop. Hours are Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tasting is $7 per person and includes six samples of your choice and a complimentary logo glass to take home. 

Diego enjoyed wading in the River Raisin.