If you live in the Detroit area, you know that every summer on the third Saturday in August, classic cars and 50’/60’s era nostalgia take over a 16 mile stretch of Woodward Avenue.   I’m obviously talking about the Woodward Dream Cruise.  Going on its 15th year, the Dream Cruise happens next Saturday (8/15) and is sure to draw a crowd as always.  If you live near Woodward, you’ve probably been getting a preview of what’s to come.  Participants get so pumped to show off their cars that they start cruising weeks ahead of time.

You can learn more about the history of the Dream Cruise here, but I’ll give you a few tips if you plan on attending.

-       Cost to attend is free, but bring money for parking, merch, and refreshments.

-       Parking is by far the most stressful part of the entire afternoon.  Thankfully a list of parking lots is available for out-of-towners.  If you live in or around Woodward want to check things out, I recommend walking or riding your bike.

-       If you’re a classic car enthusiast or just want some interesting photos, don’t forget to bring your camera.  Between the hot rods and the people watching, you’re sure to get some great shots.

-       Bring comfy shoes – there’s lots of walking to do. 

-       Planning to stick around for a while? Bring some lawn chairs and a cooler.  (Remember that the event is alcohol-free.)

Air pollution and noise pollution from thousands of cars isn’t exactly your thing? You could opt to attend the Green Cruise this weekend instead.  Put on by the Sierra Club, this Saturday’s anti-Dream Cruise features bikes rides, bike decoration, a parade to celebrate green transit, and lots of other fun filled eco-friendly activities.  It’ll all be going down in Ferndale from 8AM to 3PM.   Be sure to stop by the Arts and Scraps table.  They’re one of my favorite organizations that lets kids (young and old) create new art out of recycled scraps of paper, cd cases, industrial materials, and any other random item you can think of.

Looking to avoid the entire Woodward-related spectacle both weekends?  Start by NOT going near Woodward period. Seriously, avoid it like the plague.  You’ll get stuck going 5 miles per hour and want to pull your hair out.  Instead, take side streets and ONLY cross Woodward at major mile roads.  If you commute to work or live in the area – map out an alternate route for yourself beforehand to avoid traffic.  If you can walk or take your bike instead of driving, even better.  If you want to stay away from the whole thing, take your own cruise up north or west Michigan – you can’t beat it this time of year!