Community Corner

Top 5 Hidden Treasures in Shelby Township and Utica

From a canoe trip down the "mighty Clinton River" to bowl of Erma's vanilla custard, here are five of the attractions we treasure in Shelby Township and Utica.

Little Italy

Spread throughout Shelby Township and Utica are some of the best Italian restaurants in the county, including, but not limited to:

  • Tivoli's Wood Brick Oven Pizzeria, authentic, thin-crust Italian pizza
  • Da Francesco's, must-try cannolis 
  • Nonna's Italian Kitchen, homemade bread, soups, meat sauces and pastas

The "Mighty Clinton River"

Did you know the Clinton River is home to Class II and III rapids? Although canoe and kayak trips along the Clinton River are growing in popularity, this attraction remains a little-known secret. Start your trip at Heritage Park in Utica, fish from River Bends Park or just walk the riverfront in historic Downtown Utica.

Shelby Township Heritage Trail

Residents and visitors alike can enjoy their own little slice of American history thanks to the efforts of the Shelby Township Historical Committee. From the original township hall built in 1948, to the former Packard Proving Grounds, a self-guided 21 mile tour of historic sites throughout Shelby Township and Utica is available online.

Find out what's happening in Shelby-Uticawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Stony Creek Metro Park

Stony Creek Metropark 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. Offering sports for every season, park-goers can enjoy everything from sledding and disc golf, to paddleboarding, swimming and an 18-hole golf course. The park is also host to dozens of family events throughout the warmer months – including the annual fireworks display.

Erma’s Original Frozen Custard

A summer tradition for many families, the small roadside stand served its first bowl of custard in 1942 and has become a local legend in the 70 years since. Located at 6451 Auburn Rd. in Shelby Township, Erma's opens for business each year in the spring.

Find out what's happening in Shelby-Uticawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

What are your Shelby-Utica treasures?

This list may be called the "top five" hidden treasures in Shelby Township and Utica, but that's only because we had to give ourselves a limit. We could have easily listed 50 treasures and would love to provide a larger list. Here's where you can help. Share your favorite hidden treasures, regardless of the season, in the comments below.


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