How to make the most out of Oxford, Michigan’s New Social District 

Updated

Oxford, Michigan, invested in a new social district over the past few years. The main street got a complete rebuild and facelift in 2020, and the Social District was put in place shortly after that in the following spring. It’s an excellent way for you to enjoy the atmosphere of this historic Michigan downtown.

downtown Social District Oxford Michigan Mural
Oxford Michigan Mural

What is a Social District?

The short answer is to carry an open container around (within limits). The longer and slightly more accurate explanation: In 2020, the State of Michigan enacted the Michigan Public Act 124 of 2020, which allows local governments to designate social districts with common areas where you can purchase alcoholic beverages inside licensed establishments and take your drink with you outside into the designated areas. You can then take your beverage in the allowed container to other establishments or into public places within the boundaries of the social district. 

Oxford: You Belong Here Mural in The Patio Social District
Oxford: You Belong Here

Where is Oxford, Michigan’s Social District?

The Social District is in the heart of downtown Oxford and spans several blocks. It features a variety of businesses that offer food, drinks, and entertainment. The district is a pedestrian-friendly space, with plenty of outdoor seating, games, and areas for people to walk around and explore. 

More specifically, Oxford has two Social Districts, the East District and the West District. This distinction is necessary since Social Districts, by law, are not allowed to cross highways. Highway M24 runs through the middle of downtown. The two districts combined constitute the Oxford Social District. East and West Burdick Street also divide the district further into quadrants. You are allowed to cross the sections of Burdick Street. At least two participating businesses sell beverages in each of the four quadrants. The sidewalks surrounding the buildings are the boundaries. Centennial Park and the parking lots are not part of the Social District. The Social District in downtown Oxford is open from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. Oxford

Sign for entering the Downtown Oxford Social District

What Can You Do in the Oxford Social District?

The Social District in downtown Oxford, Michigan, offers a variety of things to do (besides wander around with an open drink, that is.)

south end of The Patio in Oxford

Food and Drink

Several breweries and restaurants have set up shop in the area, each with unique offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a cold beer, a glass of wine, or a delicious meal, you will find something that hits the spot. You can dine in or take your food and drink out the door to one of the outdoor seating areas. If you are looking for lighter fare, check out the coffee shops and bakeries. Some restaurants offer outdoor seating, and there are options in Washington Square on the West side and The Patio on the East side with public seating.

Music

Besides the food and drink options, the Oxford Social District offers entertainment options. There are live music performances at different times throughout the year. Some are inside the individual businesses, and there are summer concerts on Thursday nights in Centennial Park. Check out the restaurants and breweries to see what they offer for entertainment.

Games at The Patio in Oxford
Connect four after a couple of drinks at Gravel Capital gets … progressively harder.

Games

The Social District supplies many outdoor games and activities for all ages, and don’t miss Mr. Zeros Arcade and Quarter Café. Grab your quarters (and your Social District drinks and food) and find some old-school fun at the arcade or opt for some games provided by the Social District at Washington Square or The Patio, such as Toss Across, Connect Four, Cornhole, and more. 

Shopping

No downtown is complete without shopping opportunities. Downtown Oxford has many places to shop and bring home a souvenir. There are clothing stores, a saddlery shop, and several unique gift shops that sell local handmade products, such as Modern Marketplace and Caveman and Pip.   You will indeed find something for yourself or a gift for someone else. Be sure to check with the shopping storefronts before carrying in your beverages. They may restrict them in their stores.

Artist block signature for murals in Oxford Michigan

While visiting, you will notice the outstanding murals in Oxford’s Social District. A former Oxford High School student painted the murals. What a great way to support local artists and for artists to support their local community.

Other Things to do in and around the Social District.

The Social District is also close to other places listed in our Best things to Do in Oxford post. The Polly Ann Trail is just a couple of blocks away from the north end of the district. The North Oakland Historical Museum is situated right in the center of downtown on the northwest corner of M24 and Burdick Street.

Stop By and Give it a try. You won’t Regret it.

The Social District in downtown Oxford, Michigan, is a great place to spend an evening with friends or family, enjoying the lively atmosphere and all downtown Oxford offers. Overall, the Social District is a great place to gather and enjoy the company of others while supporting small businesses. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out yet, we highly recommend it!