South of Ann Arbor, the town of Milan is shaped by its railroad roots
The town of Milan’s unique positioning in two Michigan counties is perhaps the best glimpse into what makes this small town different. Located about 30 miles southwest of Detroit in Monroe and Washtenaw counties, Milan has a population of just over 6,000 people. Milan was founded in 1831, and that rich history is evident throughout the town by the many historic buildings and homes. The Milan Downtown Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features over 100 buildings dating back to the 19th century. Some of the most notable historic buildings in Milan include the Milan City Hall, the Milan Public Library and the Milan Depot, which was built in 1885. The depot served as a passenger and freight station for the Michigan Central Railroad. Today, the depot is a museum that tells the story of Milan's railroad history.
Today, Milan is home to many businesses, including manufacturing, retail and service industries. Milan is also a popular destination for tourists, who are drawn to the city's historic downtown area and its proximity to Ann Arbor and Detroit.
Historic neighborhoods feature well-kept midcentury bungalows
In addition to its historic buildings, Milan is also home to a number of beautiful historic homes. Many of these homes are located in historic neighborhoods, like the Milan Avenue Neighborhood and the Washington Street Neighborhood. The main architectural style of houses is ranch-style bungalows, which are characterized by their low-slung profile and open floor plan. Many of the ranch-style bungalows in Milan were built in the 1950s and 1960s. The median home price in Milan is $250,000, while the price can range from $150,000 to $500,000. These homes are typically well-maintained and have been updated over the years.
Milan schools offer gifted programs and college prep courses
The Milan Area Schools district serves Milan and includes several schools that Niche ranked highly, including Paddock Elementary School, Milan Middle School and Milan High School. Paddock received an A+ rating, receiving acknowledgment for its programs and services, including a gifted and talented program, a special education program and an English language learner program. Milan Middle School also has a gifted and talented program, a special education program and an athletics program. Milan High School offers advanced placement courses and college credit courses.
Staying active with local parks, golf and community festivals
Outside of school, Milan residents have the Milan Nature Park to help with organic education and a little fun. In addition to beautiful green areas, the park features several playground slides, one complete with a ladder right into the mouth of a friendly blue dinosaur. Many more recreational and entertainment options exist for Milan residents, including the Milan Farmers Market, biking the Milan trail, hitting the green at the Milan Golf Club or attending a performance of the Milan Players theater group. Yealy events include Milan Days, which is a week-long celebration that features a variety of events like a parade, carnival and fireworks show. There’s also the Christmas Parade and Milan Summer Festival, which is a free event that features live music, food vendors and children's activities.
Popular restaurants and a lavender farm offer local flavor
Some of the most popular restaurants in Milan include Peppers Mexican Grill and The Owl. Peppers Mexican Grill is known for its authentic Mexican food and its lively atmosphere, while the Owl is a gastropub that serves elevated comfort food and craft cocktails. But for an authentic slice of Milan, stop by Lavender Lane and learn the endless number of ways one Michigan family is using the Lavender Farm to provide organically grown, high-quality lavender self-care products like lotions and soaps and even cookies. With more than 6 acres of lavender. Lavender Lane is doing its part to keep Milan calm and peaceful.
Ten miles to the nearest hospital
The nearest hospital to Milan is ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital, which is located about 10 miles away. There is no public transportation available between Milan and ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital, but there are a number of taxi companies and ride-sharing services that operate in the area.
![Kelly Anderson]()
Written By
Kelly Anderson
![Gregory Hayes]()
Photography Contributed By
Gregory Hayes
