Must see Transformation from Gas Station to Metamora General Store

Metamora General Store in Metamora, Michigan, is worth the 1.3-mile side trip from M24. It was a gas station in years past, but it’s been transformed into a cozy, one-of-a-kind venue. Stop by for a sweet baked good, coffee, or afternoon pizza. While you’re there, shop for the perfect gift (for you or someone you love) and pick up a six-pack of brews for later. This store has it all.

The original gas station was from the 1920’s according to the General Store’s Website. For photos of the original building, follow the links to a couple of newspaper articles: article 1 and article 2.

Metamora General Store has an old-time gas station feel but is clean, tasteful, and inviting. Outdoor seating on two sides of the building invites you to grab something satisfying from the inside and sit for a while. Even though the road passes by the wide sidewalk, it is quiet enough to have a normal conversation. The road isn’t busy, and Metamora’s only stoplight keeps traffic slow and quiet. The atmosphere is peaceful and welcoming. On any evening (at least in the more comfortable Michigan months), folks are scattered around the building enjoying a drink and conversation.

Metamora General Store maintains a small convenience store tucked inside a stylish, quirky gift shop. And a coffee shop and pizza counter. Oh, and the wine by the glass. There are so many things that you would think something would suffer, yet it doesn’t.

Locals will tell you the General Store kept the convenience store to serve the local community while adding a chic gift shop and a more relaxed dining alternative to the legendary White Horse Inn restaurant across the street.

It’s a flawless execution, a blend of gifts and food that perfectly fits this hidden gem. The staff is friendly and helpful, which is the icing on the cake – or the whipped cream on the mocha.

If traveling on M24 between Oxford and Lapeer, take a short side trip into Metamora on Dryden Road and check out Metamora General Store in Metamora, Michigan. You won’t regret it. While you are there, make a day of it! Continue shopping at Roadside Attractions; go for a hike at Seven Ponds Nature Center or Sutherland Nature Sanctuary; stop for a bite to eat at the White Horse Inn, Lake Inn, or Champane’s Grill.

Metamora is close to Oxford, Michigan, which has many other things to do and places to eat.