Livonia, Michigan

With its roots dating back to fruit orchards in the 1800’s, Livonia is now a vibrant city with a population of roughly 100,000 and a large industrial base that helps keep the tax rate low.  It offers great neighborhoods in which to live, coupled with unparalleled access to Ann Arbor, Detroit, and the Northern suburbs.  Expressways running north-south and east-west make it a convenient commute in any direction.

Among its many honors, Livonia has recently been recognized by the FBI as one of the safest cities in America.  It is host to three great higher educational facilities--Madonna University, Schoolcraft College, and University of Phoenix.  The city also operates three public libraries and is home to the award-winning St. Mary’s Mercy Hospital.
  
Municipal parks encompass nearly 1,800 acres in Livonia and boast three golf courses, two indoor ice arenas, and a myriad of playgrounds, baseball diamonds, tennis courts, and soccer fields.  In 2002, a state-of-the-art recreational community center was built for the citizens.  It features two pools, four gyms, a gymnastics center, a climbing wall, and a fitness center.  Outside highlights include an in-lined skate rink, skateboard park, and sand volleyball courts.

Shopping, dining, and entertainment options are abundant, including Laurel Park Mall, an upscale retail center that includes restaurants and theaters.  A second 20-theater movie venue is located just down the road. 
     
Embracing its history, Livonia maintains Greenmead, a 103-acre farm/museum, featuring buildings dating back to the 1850’s and The Wilson Barn, a historic barn that hosts a weekly farmers market in the summer, antique car shows, a fall festival, and performances by the city’s own symphony.

Each year Livonia celebrates its birthday with a festival at Ford Field.  The “Spree” is a nonstop family carnival with everything from rides to live music to pie eating contests   that culminates with a spectacular display of fireworks.

Slide Show of Livonia (PDF)