Best Ways To Spend New Year's Day In Metro Detroit

Start the year off right. Spend the first day of 2016 doing something fun with friends or family. There's a number of places to go and things to see in the Detroit area. There's something for every type of person: foodies can pop into a homestyle breakfast spot, while those with a love of all things historical can step into the past at a museum filled with unique artifacts. Active individuals will look forward to an afternoon spent ice skating, and cultural mavens will appreciate an evening at the theatre. No matter what you're into, the following events and attractions are certain to get 2016 off to a promising start.

Henry Ford Museum
20900 Oakwood Blvd.
Dearborn, MI 48124
(313) 982-6001
www.thehenryford.org

The Henry Ford Museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. With rare artifacts and historically accurate displays that can't be seen elsewhere, this museum turns a daytime visit into a remarkable experience. In addition to the permanent exhibits such as pristine cars and trains, there's always an evolving collection of artifacts guaranteed to engage both first-time and regular visitors alike. Previous exhibitions included everything from a Rock & Roll retrospective to renown architectural structures recreated using Legos.

The Rink At Campus Martius Park
800 Woodward Ave.
Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 963-9393
www.campusmartiuspark.org

Make the new year a memorable one by gliding into 2016 in a pair of ice skates. The festive decorations in the heart of downtown keep the holiday spirit alive well into the new year. Lace up some skates and hit the ice surrounded by a magnificently decorated tree, while festive music plays in the background. Ice skate rental is available, or bring your own and pay a nominal admission fee.

Related: Best Ice Skating In Metro Detroit

The Big, Bright Light Show
308 1/2 Main St.
Rochester, MI 48307
(248) 656-0060
www.facebook.com/BigBrightLightShow

If it's taking a while to recover from the night before, why not spend the day at home and say hello to the new year at night. Grab a gang of friends or family and stroll along the sidewalks of Main Street under a canopy of twinkling lights. Over one million bulbs will light up downtown Rochester from 5 p.m. until midnight. More than 300 specialty shops, boutiques and eateries can be found in the area. This enchanted evening is the perfect time to reconnect and discuss plans for the upcoming year. Sip on some hot chocolate and nibble on roasted snacks while taking in the glimmering scene. The festival of lights will certainly become a memorable experience and may very well become a New Years Day tradition.

The Original Pancake House
33703 Woodward Ave.
Birmingham, MI 48009
(248) 642-5775
www.originalpancakehouse.com

The Original Pancake House is the place breakfast dreams are made of. One bite and you'll get why the line wraps around the building. This breakfast hot spot is a must when you really don't feel like cooking, which most definitely includes New Years Day. Order a strong cup of coffee, fresh-squeezed orange juice and a stack of blueberry pancakes, and you'll have the recipe for a great start to 2016. Head over for brunch on New Years because doors won't open until 9 a.m. on that day. Not that you'd want to go earlier than that.

Shen Yun
Detroit Opera House
1526 Broadway St.
Detroit, MI 48226
(844) 647-4697
www.shenyunperformingarts.org

Experience an invigorating theatrical show that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Shen Yun invites audiences to watch unparalleled performers on stage at the Detroit Opera House. The high-energy movements and invigorating music depicts the ancient past of Chinese civilization. Watch as the cast takes the crowd on a cultural journey, complete with colorful costumes and artistically-rendered set designs. The performances mix precise movement with emotion in a compelling way that will definitely leave an impact.

Related: How To Get Involved In Detroit's Theatre Community

After receiving a BA in Photography from Savannah College of Art & Design, Nicole Wrona began working with a diverse range of musicians. In addition, she is a freelance writer for numerous publications. Her work can be found at www.metalleaves.com and Examiner.com.