McNichols-Evergreen: Detroit’s Northwest Hidden Gem

Detroit’s McNichols-Evergreen is one of Northwest Detroit’s best-kept secrets.

Located in the 48219 zip code, the area known as McNichols is simply “Six Mile” to Detroit locals, whereas the other half of its namesake, Evergreen, spans the north side of the region stretching out near the nearby Redford border.

Right at the point where these two roads meet, you get McNichols-Evergreen, a peaceful community best known for its neighborly energy, sturdy brick bungalows, and endless amenities. 

Mornings on Six Mile bring plenty in the way of conversation and coffee thanks to the area’s beloved Motor City Java House on Grand River, and on weekend afternoons, you can follow that up with a classic film at the historic Redford Theatre, an early 20th-century movie palace on Lahser, known for its powerful pipe organ, themed movie nights, and twinkling star lights.

Gardens, Parks, Eats, and the Spirit of the Block

Right around the corner from the Redford Theater, you’ll find Sweet Potato Sensations, a delicious sweet potato-centered local bakery that is family-owned and operated.

Sweet Potato Sensations keeps this stretch of McNichols-Evergreen smelling incredible and brings a comforting warmth to the area.

Swing by to grab a hot piping slice of sweet potato pie, then head east on McNichols and enjoy the many lush side-lot gardens filling up lots that were once abandoned.

And if the art scene is more your thing, head on over to Lahser and Grand River to check out the Artist Village murals – vibrant, eye-catching community canvases that celebrate the resilience of Detroiters.

Looking to spend time outdoors?

Look no further than O’Hair Park, one of Detroit’s largest parks and the McNichols-Evergreen areas main outdoor recreation anchor. 

It’s also the place where you’ll find a retiree everyone refers to as “Coach” (real name, Mr. Lewis), passing out ice cream cones on warm days and educating neighborhood youth on the art of basketball. 

As for foodies, small carryout restaurants are a staple of McNichols-Evergreen, bringing quick-eat Detroit favorites like chicken wings, and fried fish, corned-beef on rye, and endless soul food options. 

Nighttime is the Best Time in McNichols-Evergreen

McNichols-Evergreen residents love magic hour.

The after-work energy here is second to none here thanks to the hum of the nearby Southfield Freeway, the scent of people grilling, Motown music drifting out from rolled-down car windows, and the overall sense of neighborhood camaraderie that is hard to come by in so many other Detroit neighborhoods.

Whether you’re catching a double feature at the Redford or ending the night at Sweet Potato Sensations, enjoying a piece of pie before they sell out…you’ll never be without something enjoyable to do here come those after-sunset prime-time hours

Local Tip

Detroiters value respect above all else, and McNichols-Evergreen residents aren’t any different.

If you’re not from here and are just passing through, make sure you park legally, shop and dine locally, layer up in the event of a lake-effect chill, and treat others the way you’d want to be treated.

Do that, and McNichols–Evergreen will welcome you with open arms.