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Best Places To Take Your Holiday Photos In Detroit

By Chase Hunt

The 2016 holiday season is here and it's the time to gather with friends and family and cherish every moment made. Photos in today's world are found at every corner of our personal lives; digital prints, social media and customized memorabilia. Smartphones have become an integrated part of our lives and cameras found on many are nearly powerful as a professional lens. Be inspired and get creative by skipping retailer photo sessions and relive magical memories taken at some of Detroit's most popular locations.

Detroit Zoo
8450 W. 10 Mile Road
Royal Oak, MI 48067
(248) 541-5717
www.detroitzoo.org

The Detroit Zoo has had a successful 2016 much thanks to the penguin exhibit attracting more visitors. Every year, the Detroit Zoo decorates for "Wild Lights" with over five million LED lights strung up on trees, animal sculptures and buildings. It was considered for USA TODAY's 10 Best Reader's Choice travel award for Best Zoo Lights. Holiday entertainment and activities are involved while pictures with Santa Claus and carousel rides are available for purchase. Tickets purchased in advance are $10 and $13 at the door. However, the events sell out and if a showing does, walk-up tickets can be purchased at 7:45 p.m. The special event takes place throughout the greater part of December including Dec. 15-23.

Belle Isle Conservancy
300 River Place Drive, Suite 2800
Detroit, MI
(313) 331-7760
www.belleisleconservancy.org

The Belle Isle Conservancy features several "houses" of conservation and is suited for a day of learning and fun for the whole family. The 982p-acre island comprised of four groups merging dedicated to the park with help from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and houses historical structures along with natural environments that are protected and restored. While admiring nature and history taking a stroll, stop by the Christmas tree for a snapshot with loved ones.

Crossroads Village
6140 Bray Road
Flint, MI 48505
(810) 736-7100
www.geneseecountyparks.org

Each year, Crossroads Village located north of Detroit in Flint holds holiday festivities including a train ride around the area with light displays throughout and activities where grabbing photos are a must. Reindeer are brought in and pictures can be taken alongside the animals in their cozy barn. The entire park is decorated perfect for printable photos throughout. Buildings within the park are lit up and along the walkways and is one of Flint's most popular holiday destinations. The holiday scenery elegantly put together will make any picture with friends or family the highlight of the season.

Related:  Best Photography Classes In Metro Detroit

Holiday Nights In Greenfield Village
The Henry Ford
20900 Oakwood Blvd.
Dearborn, MI 48124
(313) 982-6001
www.thehenryford.org

Located at The Henry Ford, Holiday Nights In Greenfield Village is one of America's premier locations for enjoyment like "stepping into a Christmas card from the past." Candle lit windows, decorated homes along with horse drawn wagons make it an ideal place for the family to dress like the period and use the photos for holiday postcards. Running through much of December, visitors will find Santa and his reindeer and is voted as one of USA TODAY's top 10 places to take grandchildren.

Campus Martius Park
800 Woodward Ave.
Detroit, MI 48226
www.campusmartiuspark.org

While a place for entertainment year round, Campus Martius Park is highlighted during the fall and winter seasons with the annual tree lighting that took place on Nov. 18. The 60 foot tree is made possible through the DTE Energy Foundation where gatherers can soak in the Christmas spirit together. Put on holiday attire and snap photos near the tree or put on ice skates and create a one of a kind memory to put in a frame at the ice rink that is assembled every year. The park is a crossroads for every other activity in Detroit as well so navigating an outing is made simple.

Related: Best Outdoor Art In Detroit

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