20 Free Things to Do in Detroit, Michigan

Posted on February 24, 2020 by

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With the weather starting to get nicer (hello sunshine), I have found myself heading to Detroit and hanging out around the city. No matter what season it is Detroit is filled with plenty of things to do, including FREE things to do. That’s right, I said it you can actually adventure around the Motor City and see a lot of things for free or for a small fee. There is something new to do every weekend in Detroit, so why not start exploring. If you need a place to start here are 20 free things to do in Detroit.
1. Explore the DIA (Detroit Institute of Arts). Residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties can get in for free. 
2. Visit MOCAD (Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit). Here you will see the best in edgy contemporary art.
3. Hang out at Campus Martius. Located in the heart of Detroit there is always something going on. From ice skating in the winter to a grassy lawn and sandy “beach” in the summer, there is sure to be something to do.
4. Visit Comerica Park, and have your picture taken with the giant tiger out front.
5. Explore the Z Lot. The Z Lot is a parking garage that has a ton of painted murals, perfect for any photo opt!
6. See The Belt. Once you’ve walked around the Z Lot, visit The Belt located next to the lot.
7. Walk the Riverfront, and don’t forget to wave hello to our friends across the river in Windsor.
8. Stop by the Spirit of Detroit and get your picture taken.
9. Visit the GM Renaissance Center. 
10. Take a stroll through Hart Plaza. During the warmer months, you will find concerts and festivals. 
11. Have your picture taken while fist-bumping Joe Louis’ arm in downtown Detroit.
12. Hang out in Greektown. At night you can expect to see street performers, live music, and more.
13. Explore the Detroit Public Library and get lost in the stacks among all the history.
14. Wander around Eastern Market. Saturdays the market really comes alive with local vendors, but any day of the week you can find eye-catching murals that make great picture opportunities. 
15. Bike around the Dequindre Cut, a two-mile, urban recreational path.
16. Go see the historic Pewabic Pottery. Located in Detroit’s Jefferson Corridor.
17. Make a stop at Belle Isle State Park. With a Michigan Recreation Passport, you can enjoy Belle Isle and everything it has to over. Don’t forget to explore the aquarium, nature center, bike the trails and more.
18. Visit the Guardian Building, one of Detroit’s most historic landmarks.
19. Check out the Heidelberg Project.
20. Take a ride through Detroit on the People Mover. (It may not be free, but it is low cost.)

20 Ways to Get Frugal in 2020

Posted on February 23, 2020 by

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While standing in line at the grocery store the other day, I overheard a woman talking about finances, and how it costs too much to be healthy. It was really sad to hear and it is something I know all too well. Personally, I have made a lot of changes in my own life that help me save money. Some are simple and make a little impact, while others make a bigger impact on my wallet. Something that I really want to do more of is travel, therefore it was time for me to get frugal. Cutting back in certain areas will give you some extra breathing room, especially if you are living paycheck to paycheck. Figuring out finances can be hard, that’s why I am sharing 20 ways to get frugal in 2020!
1. Meal planning. Plan out your meals for the week, so you know what items you need to put on your grocery list. Select meals that allow you to use some of the same ingredients to prevent waste.
2. Create a grocery list. Do not stray from the list, and never shop without the list.
3. Avoid pre-packaged foods. Yes, they’re convenient, but they so much more money than if you were to package the same food yourself.
4. Eat leftovers, seriously I know it sucks sometimes but it is a money-saving hack.
5. Don’t buy bottled water. If you prefer the taste of filtered water buy a Brita pitcher or faucet. 
6. Shop your pantry. Before you head out shopping, see if you have in your pantry and use up what is there first. 
7. Meal prep. Take one or two days a week and meal prep for the entire week. Typically I meal prep on Sunday and Wednesday, I don’t like a refrigerator stacked with food for the week – I honestly will let it go to waste before I eat it. Be sure to cut up fruits and vegetables to make them easily accessible. 
8. Pack your own lunch. Buying lunch every single day can get expensive, even if you’re making a simple PB&J sandwich with a bag of chips it’s a whole lot cheaper than eating out. Someone at my work spends an average of $10 EVERY day at lunch. That is $50 a week and $2,600 every single year – on eating out for lunch alone!
9. Buy generic. Often times store brands are just as good (or even better), than name brands. I actually prefer most Kroger brands over name brand items.
10. Negotiate bills. My parent’s neighbors actually change their cable company every year based on who is running the best deals. 
11. Cancel cable. Some of you may be thinking that this is crazy, while others are thinking it’s no big deal. Cable is expensive and could put an extra $100 in your pocket each month. 
12. Grab some vinegar. Not only is vinegar cheap, but it makes a great cleaning agent when diluted with water. In fact, I love using it on my windows, floors as well as to clean the shower. This simple trick has allowed me to cut down on over $100 in cleaning supplies a year.
13. Unplug items. Did you know, if you have items plugged in (even if you are not using them) they’re sucking energy? Me neither. I started unplugged items and have seen a slight change in my electricity bill. 
14. Programmable thermostat. This alone can save you a lot of money. During the day while I am gone the temperature in the house goes down to 64 degrees and when I get home it goes back up to 69 degrees. This little dip makes a huge difference. 
14. Find free local activities. Did you know some museums have free days? Museums can get pricey, so why not wait until they have free days?
15. Shop at the Dollar Tree for cards and wrapping paper. I must admit, when my mum told me she does this I thought she was absolutely nuts. Hallmark cards are EXPENSIVE at the Dollar Tree you can get sweet, funny and everything in between 2 for $1! Can you believe that! The Dollar Tree also has great wrapping supplies as well year-round. 
16. Outlet shop. Outlet stores offer last season goods at a lower price. I love shopping at TJ Maxx, Marshalls, J Crew Factory, The Loft and more.
17. Stop shopping on Amazon. Amazon offers mindless shopping, you don’t need that Prime membership it’s just extra money out of your pocket that you could be using elsewhere.
18. Chose alternate stores.  Do not buy things like gift bags, wrapping paper and card at stores like Target or Hallmark.  Instead, explore Dollar Stores like Dollar Tree.  Dollar Tree is the home base for frugal hacks and one of my favorite places to buy these items.
19. Staycation. I know taking vacations are a lot of fun, and it’s hard to watch others go on lavish trips when your bank account tells you that you can basically vacation in your backyard. An alternative to this is a staycation. Explore your city as tourist, or take some day trips to save money. Detroit has a lot of fancy boutique style hotels that I cannot wait to have an overnight stay in!
20. Pay cash. This is by far my favorite frugal hack. Not only will you spend less, but you will actually pay attention to what things cost!

Where to Stay in Chicago: Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

Posted on February 20, 2020 by

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Recently I had the opportunity to attend the Chicago Auto Show and stay at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place while I was in Chicago, Illinois. Staying just steps away from McCormick Place made it easy to check out the Chicago Auto Show and head back to my room as needed. The Hyatt Regency McCormick Place is located within walking distance of Soldier Field, the Bean, and the Museum Campus. Views from the upper floors of the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place are absolutely stunning and feature a view of Lake Michigan and the downtown Chicago skyline.

Rooms at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

Relax in one of 1,258 guest rooms, including 51 suites. Each room at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place in Chicago features a generously-sized workstation as well as Jet Pack technology hubs, so you can easily connect all of your gadgets.

Dining at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

Chicago is best known for its pizza and hot dogs, however at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place you will not find these simple meals. In fact, you will find an exciting culinary scene feature bold restaurants and bars.

Arc Bar
At the Arc Bar, you will find thousands of glowing Edison bulbs providing you with a vintage experience with a modern edge. Here you will find a dinner and snack menu, as well as a variety of handcrafted cocktails

Third Star
At Third Star, you will discover a variety of international cuisines during breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Sixes & Eights
Get ready for an eclectic culinary experience at Sixes & Eights. Here you will find bold flavors of Southeast Asian street food. Order from an a la carte menu, build your own rice, pho or ramen bowl.

Market
Need something quick and easy, Market is your place. Grab a cup of freshly brewed coffee, fresh fruit, pastries, sandwiches and more.

Amenities

Free internet access: Stay up to date while you\’re away with free internet access.

Fitness center: Looking to stick to your fitness routine while you\’re away from home? The Hyatt Regency McCormick Place has you covered with a 24-hour gym. Featuring a variety of cardio and strength-training equipment, including two brand new Peloton bikes, free weights, and yoga mats.

Pool: There is a heated indoor pool with a sauna as well as an outdoor sundeck.

Laundry: Spills happen, keep your clothing clean with the hotel\’s laundry service. 

Concierge: Ready to answer all your questions, and help you.

Business services: Take care of business at the FedEx Office Print and Ship Center, conveniently located on the second floor of the South Tower. The business services center offers signage to print presentations, lamination and more.

Meeting facilities: Keep your team meetings going even while you\’re away

Restaurants on-site: There are four dining outlets, including the Arc Bar
Direct connection to McCormick Place

Pro Tip: If you\’re planning a trip to Chicago and looking for somewhere to stay with clean, quiet and spacious rooms, then the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place is perfect for you.

Chicago Auto Show’s First Look for Charity Gala

Posted on February 10, 2020 by

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The 2020 Chicago Auto Show First Look for Charity Gala raised more than 2.8 million dollars. The money will be shared amongst eighteen area charities.

What is the First Look for Charity Gala?
The Chicago Auto Show\’s First Look for Charity Gala is a black-tie benefit, which is held the evening before the Chicago Auto Show opens to the public for its 10-day run. The First Look for Charity Gala is not only filled with all the fabulous auto show cars, but there is also wine, beer, sparkling beverages, plenty of delicious food, and of course live entertainment. Those who attend the event are part of the premier viewing of the Chicago Auto Show. Tickets to this amazing fundraiser are $275 each. Purchasers can elect to have their proceeds equally benefit all participating charities, or anyone charity of their choosing.

2020 First Look Charity Gala 
This year the Chicago Auto Show\’s First Look Charity Gala raised $2,812,016. Over the past 29 years, the Chicago Auto Show\’s First Look Charity Gala has raised more than $56 million.

2020 Beneficiaries Included
The 100 Club of Chicago
Advocate Health Care
The ALS Association Greater Chicago Chapter
Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago.
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Joliet
Clearbrook
Franciscan Community Benefit Services
Habitat for Humanity
JDRF
Susan G. Komen Chicago
The Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
Lydia Home & Safe Families for Children
Misericordia
New Star
Special Olympics Illinois
Turning Pointe Autism Foundation
The Jesse White Tumbling Team.

The 2020 Chicago Auto Show runs from February 8-17 and is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on the final day, Monday, February. 17, Presidents Day.

2020 Chicago Auto Show Highlights

Posted on February 9, 2020 by

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For as long as I can remember, Detroit has been the first major auto show of the year. However this year the North American International Auto Show in Detroit will be taking place in June. That means Chicago is the first major auto show of the calendar year. Thanks to Nissan I had the opportunity to head to the Windy City to check out the Chicago Auto Show.

This is the 112th year of the Chicago Auto Show, and the Windy City is bringing more than just new cars to McCormick Place. Nissan revealed Brian Murphy’s 1-Million-Mile 2007 Nissan Frontier, which has faced Chicago roads for the past 13-years and only has some minor paint bubbling around the rear wheel wells, proving Nissan vehicles offer longevity and toughness.

While you’re drooling over the latest vehicles (hello Ford GT Liquid Carbon Edition), stop by Subaru for some puppy time. That’s right, Subaru Loves Pets and has an area where you can actually interact with some adorable pups that are looking for their furever home. Take a race down Germany roads with the Kia Stinger Race simulator, or head over to Jeep for an offroading experience. The Chicago Auto Show runs from February 8-17, so be sure to grab your tickets and visit the show while it is in town.

Chicago Auto Show Special-themed Days + Discounts 

Monday, February 10: Sports Team Pride Day  
This sports-themed event kicks off the first full public week of the show. Sports fans who visit the show will be able to participate in special sports activations led by Windy City favorites including the Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Wolves, Chicago Dogs and Windy City Bulls. As an added incentive, sports fans who wear their favorite Illinois team jersey to the show will receive a discounted access at just $8. 
Tuesday, February  11: Women’s Day 
There will be a series of events geared towards the female demographic including panel discussions, workshops and networking opportunities throughout the day. Women will be offered a discounted ticket at $8.
Wednesday, February 12 – Friday, Feb. 14: A Safe Haven Food Drive 
The show partners with A Safe Haven to host an annual food drive. Fans who bring three cans of food will receive a $5 discount off the full adult admission.
Friday, February 14: Hispanic Heritage Day 
The Chicago Auto Show will continue to partner with Telemundo Chicago to host Hispanic Heritage Day featuring a live TV broadcast as well as fun-filled activities – such as lucha libres and mariachis – throughout the evening.

Friday, February 14: Chicago Friday Night Flights — Craft Beer Sampling Night  
The Chicago Auto Show is bringing back “Chicago Friday Night Flights,” a craft beer sampling event on Friday, Feb. 14 from 6-9 p.m. The event will feature a dozen local breweries to sample their latest brews. Attendees will receive access to the auto show along with their tasting pass. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $30, or $40 at the door.
Sunday, February 16: Miles Per Hour 
The show’s final weekend is heating up with a new indoor run called Miles Per Hour, sponsored by Honda. We’ve partnered with the Chicago Area Runners Association on the run where participants will cover as much distance as possible within a one-hour timeframe. A 2.4-mile loop includes the wide aisles of the auto show!
Monday, February 17: Family Day (Presidents Day)
Family Day returns to the 2020 Chicago Auto Show on Presidents Day. Many children have the day off of school, so it’s a great opportunity to shake off those winter blues and come down to the show. Plus, it’s the last chance to see the nation’s largest auto show.

Chicago Auto Show visitors will be among the first to see the newest vehicles that made their debut during the Chicago Auto Show Media Preview.
2020 Chicago Auto Show Reveals:
2020 Honda Civic Type R
2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave
2020 Jeep Special Edition Wrangler and Gladiator Premium High Altitude
2020 Jeep Wrangler JPP 20 Limited Edition 
2020 Kia Cadenza
2020 Nissan Frontier

2021 Chicago Auto Show Reveals:
2021 Chevrolet Equinox
2021 Chrysler Pacifica
2020 Durango SRT Black and Redline Stripe 
2020 Ford GT Liquid Carbon
2021 Genesis GV80
2021 Jaguar F-TYPE
2021 Toyota 4 Runner
2021 Toyota Highlander
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
2021 Toyota Sequoia
2021 Toyota Tacoma

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