The Rust Belt Market

What a great place! Could have spent my life savings here. So many diverse shops that there is literally something for all tastes and no junk. Leather shop, candles, jewelry, collectibles, hand made artisan pieces, prints, photography the list goes on and on. Great place to shop if you are looking for something unique for a gift or for yourself. Friendly and helpful merchants with great products to sell. I live about an hour away but plan on returning, especially closer to Christmas for hard to shop for people. Highly recommend shopping here.

The whole place is beautiful and very cool. The vibes at the bar are great too. The drinks taste great & you can bring your dogs here :)

YeeHaw! This place rocks. Looking to spend a afternoon of shopping fun? Well the Rust Belt is far better than spending the day at the mall by a long shot. Looking for something out of the box, something unusual, a statement present? You're likely to find it here. All sorts of shops, tons of variety. Skate boards? Got 'em. Jewelry? That too. Handmade art? Yep. A fermented bat in a bottle? Oh yea. Shall i keep going on? I could but my fingers would get tired faster than you would reading my repetitive banter. Needless to say this is a entertaining way to spend a afternoon. Oh, and hey, are you interested in hosting an event or a wedding. A wedding? Yes sir! With a full bar, dance floor space, sound system, and unique styling your not going to find at any banquet hall, the Rust Belt has you covered.

Wedding venue review for 06/24/2023 wedding Rust Belt Market was amazing! Our wedding day was the best day of our lives, and it wouldn’t have been the same at any other location. The space: Truly one of a kind! Unique. Quirky. Lively. The space is so beautiful and fun, you don’t really need much in terms of decor. We had a 9 piece band fit on the stage and the buffet tables in the back didn’t feel cramped or crowded. We highly recommend getting the Green Room for your wedding party. You won’t regret having that separate space to store items and escape for a moment of peace. The farm tables and chairs are absolutely stunning and comfortable. Throw some greenery on the tables and you’re set! The one note I will make is that this is a small venue. We had just over 120 people and were comfortable. However, to fit the headcount maximum of 170 people, tables would need to set 4 on each side, rather than 3, which would have been a tight squeeze. Staff: Julie was so easy to work with, helping us customize every detail to perfection. She was accessible, accommodating, professional, and kind. The bartenders were friendly, professional, and fun. They ran a tight ship and we didn’t hear any complaints of waiting in long lines for drinks, food, or restrooms. Cost: The cost to rent the space was reasonable, especially considering it included the use of the farm tables and chairs. So beautiful. But the real highlight in terms of price was the bar package! The standard package had more and higher quality options than many of the premium bar options at other locations. And for a very reasonable fee, we were able to upgrade our package and extend the bar time an extra hour. To keep costs low for your wedding, all you have to do is work with RBM’s preferred vendor list to find the option that fits you. Timeline: We had our ceremony and reception on-site and it was great! Because we chose to set up the decor ourselves, we did opt for the extra time earlier in the day for setup. Depending on your setup or whether you choose the have your ceremony on site or not, your timeline might be a little tight. It’s workable, you just need to have a good day-of run-of-show. I have no idea why more people don’t have the cocktail hour before the ceremony. Genius! By the time we had the ceremony, everyone was relaxed and having a blast. We opted to have all photos taken ahead of time so we were able to spend the cocktail hour greeting our guests, which also saved us time during the reception because we didn’t have to walk around to each table. If you want a more traditional timeline, then you will want to opt to have your ceremony off-site. (Don’t do it! This timeline was a blast!) Parking: This was our least favorite part about the venue location. There is not close parking to the venue. There is a busy lot right near RBM but still a walk for less mobile guests. We told our guests to park in The Dot parking garage nearby because it was the cheapest parking option in terms of hourly rate. We asked our guests a head of time if they would need assistance getting to the venue and made special accommodations specifically for those folks. You can opt to work with a local valet service, but be prepared to add that expense into your budget. However, I’m not letting this deter the well-deserved 5 star review, because this is typical for a high trafficked or urban venue location. Personal note: RBM was not only gorgeous and fun, but it aligned with our values. It was very important to us to support local small business, preferably women-owned, minority-owned, LGBTQ+ owned, or veteran-owned. This venue allowed us to work with many individual vendors, rather than being a one-stop shop. If having the freedom to choose who you want to support on your big day it’s important to you, then RBM is the place to be. They do have a preferred vendor list, but each vendor on that was clearly chosen with care. Also, having guests shop the on-site artisans during cocktail hour? How cool! So much better than your traditional cocktail hour.

This is a great place to stop in and support artists and small businesses. Lots of unique goodies and wares to peruse. Many of the folks working here are very friendly and happy to help with any questions you may have. My only wish is that it was slightly larger to be able to host more fantastic vendors! Don't be fooled though... there are so many unique stalls to shop here already! Don't pass it up!

My buddy had a wedding night here last week. The bathrooms were very clean, they pour their liquor hard and the food was really tasty. Awesome job by the staff! Had a blast that. Parking is a little goofy but if you drive around the lot a few times you can usually find someone who’s leaving and hop in the spot they vacate.

i went to the rust belt during their holiday market and got these vampire teeth stained glass from the vendor unearthly concoctions. I loved their unique stained glass and ended up getting stained glass earrings too! I hope to see them at the holiday market this year too!

Forget-Me-Nots? More like "Forget-Me-Cats"! Seriously, some of the best plant selections I've seen. Will definitely be back to add some greenery to my life.

Mimidae is one of my favorite vendors. Their cocktail mixes are phenomenal. The flavors are unique and so tasty. I always buy 3 of the shrubs flavors. I like to drink a shot every day. I do not mix them with anything, I love the flavor. It is flavored vinegars. I look on the events page to see where they will be located and go there to restock. They have trio packages to sample the different flavors I recommend starting there to find your favorite. The Rustbucket doesn't open until noon on Friday but I saw them pull up as I was leaving and the vendor was gracious enough to allow me to make my purchase. Excellent customer service . The price is great value. I always get 3 shrubs flavors in the 16oz size for $50

Always a fun walk through. An eclectic group of artists focused on celebrating Detroit, Michigan and Surrounding areas. A few collectors shops along side plants chachkis and art.

Very fun activity, new to area, cool things nice people. Kids loved it will be back this weekend

This has to be a plant lovers paradise. The Rust belt feels like an indoor market with lots of different vibes. They're vendors selling clothes, plants, candles, lotions, journals, jewelry the list goes on. It never feels truly crowded and everyone working always have a great attitude. In addition there's a full fledge bar to grab a drink. They allow you to walk around with it as explore the many shops this place has to offer. It's nice time if you ever have some down time and are in Ferndale.

This a great place to walk around and enjoy lots of fun art and oddities. You can get everything from a cocktail to clothing, art, or plants. A cool laid back artsy vibe where everyone is friendly. Prices range from vendor to vendor.

I love Bon Bon Bon! They're a nice treat. The service at the Rust Belt Market is pretty good. They have a great selection of their products. It's a tiny store though. I think 2 customers can fit in at a time. Nevertheless, their chocolate is one of my favorites!

Such a fun space to roam around whether you're looking to buy certain treasures or just looking for a fun new place to checkout that's a bit more unique than other areas around! I wish they had rotating vendors to make going back frequently more enticing but I imagine the vendors add products to their shops through out the week to changes things up little by little

Rust Belt is the BEST place to find unique gifts in Ferndale. So many eclectic shops in the perfect location in Ferndale. Even better is an on-site bar setting you up with great drinks you can walk around with. You can even bring your well behaved fur baby! Drop by while you are in Ferndale and enjoy some fun, unique shopping.

My favorite place of all time! Love to visit and show friends this amazing place. Great vendors with lots of beautiful art and plants that I just want to take home everything in here. Love coming here just to stroll or shop for gifts. 1000% recommend stopping in if you haven't yet

When you have time to talk, eat, drink and be merry this is the place for you, family, associate's and friends. Sure to leave with a little extra..

This place is straight up COOL! I enjoy walking around and doing a little shopping at this small business conglomerate. There is such a variety of stores from candles, jewelry, plants, clothing attire, Detroit swag....you name it, they might have it. This is a retail venue for unique items that are not available in the large commercial stores. That's one of the things I find most appealing about this place. I also enjoy spending some time and talking with the local vendors and learning about their business. I truly respect entrepreneurs who take an idea and run with it! That's why I wholeheartedly support small business endeavors. In addition to the stores, there is also a small bar located to the back of the store, where you can order a drink or two. If you have plans to host an event/party in the future, this venue also offers rental space for such needs. Today, they were setting up for a wedding event after hours. If you haven't made your way to the Rust Belt just yet...you are definitely missing out! They have specific days and times they are open.

I love to stroll through this market downtown Ferndale on the weekends but have only bought a couple of things over the years because it is pretty pricey. There are many different vendors, sometimes rotating and a bar inside too. They have some very unique finds, great for finding gifts!

I swear I've reviewed this place before. I guess Yelp forgot. LOL. Anyway, I came here Sunday while out and about and wanted to do some shopping since I was parked right behind the place and love going here. I've been here a few times over the years, and always love shopping since the collection of items they have from vendors is super cool and nice. Very unique and most items are generally affordable. Walking in, its kind of a circle setup with very original vendor items. Plants, candles, soaps, iron wall hanging stuff, Detroit T-shirts, etc. The variety and originality is 100% spot on. I didn't buy anything here today, but there was plenty I loved when walking around. Not cheap but not terribly expensive depending on your budget. Most stuff's under $50 depending what you want to get. Loads of stuff to choose from. They also have a sitting area with a cool looking red couch and a coffee bar when you enter the building. Even with Covid, I love hanging out here and taking a break from walking around downtown Ferndale. If you can't find something to buy here, I definitely want to revoke your shopping card. Please support local business and go spend $$ here!

A cute little market that gives farmers market vibes. Has a ton of small shops inside that sell weird and unique gifts. From clothing to candles to tentacles to plants- the rust belt market has it. Every time I go in I see something I haven't seen before. They also have a bar in the back if you wanted to order drinks while shopping or waiting for your significant other to shop. Definitely worth checking out if you're in the area

New to the area and have been eyeing Rust Belt Market since I got here and this place did not disappoint. Artisan booths filled with really cool stuff that is going to make me broke. I picked up a silver ring and a lamp made out of local repurposed materials. I didn't have enough arms to pick up a plant but will definitely be back very soon!

I spotted the Rust Belt Market sign while getting brunch with some friends we were staying with. They recommended checking it out afterwards and I'm so glad they took us! The Rust Belt Market is an indoor facility with lots of different local artisans and vendors. Sort of like an upscale, hipster flea market with zero junk. Lots of handmade gifts, plants, cards, collectible items, etc. They even do weddings here and our friends said that around the holidays it has even more vendors. I loved walking around and seeing all the little shops - it is a great one-stop shop for anyone looking for a special gift. My boyfriend and I ended up buying some really cool coasters depicting iconic buildings and features in Detroit, including Michigan Central Depot, Belle Isle Conservatory, and The Joe. There is even a bar inside the market and I saw people wandering around with a pint of beer. I absolutely loved this place and will be back again next time I'm in the area.

Love rust belt and the tiny bit of culture it fosters. There seems to be something for everyone. If you don't believe me - go take a look.

We had a great time perusing this market. I was worried that it might be a bit boutique-y, but it was mostly handmade products from local artists. I joked that it felt like the Truman Show set up each booth with my personal interests; plants, high quality prints and paintings, sculptures, oddities, secondhand and handmade textiles, etc. Highly recommend taking a lap or 4.

I love Rust Belt! I never go anywhere else when looking for gifts; there is something for everyone here and all the vendors are local. It's recently been expanded and has a beautiful event space as well as a bar on-site. You can drink while you shop! With this as a local shopping option, nestled in downtown Ferndale, I'm never going to a mall ever. Again.

I keep my eyes out for interesting places to go whenever I come to see family in the Detroit area, and Rust Belt Market has been on my radar for a while. My aunt was happy to take me to this unique spot when I came to visit this week-end! Like a cross between an art fair and a flea market, with a definite whiff of hipster, this place is open only on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Everything being sold is handmade with some dashes of vintage. There's also a bar if you need to hydrate after all that tough shopping, haha. Big focus on Michigan and Detroit themed stuff, but you can also find personal care products, jewelry, clothing, home decor, candles, games, vinyl records, and oddities like animal skulls. Some of the vendors were happy to chat (shout-out to the folks at Bear Care and Armageddon Beach Party); some left us alone. Prices were about what I expected for a place like this: some people were underpricing themselves, some overpricing. The only real problem: it took us a looong time to find parking in this area on a Friday night :( Still, worth checking out if you are interested in local goods.

Rust Belt Market - how I love thee!!!!!!! I have been coming here for years & years & it never fails to disappoint! The space itself is so freaking adorable to begin with. It's like one large circle with little cubbyholes of vendors along both sides of the walk way, with a large open space that they use sometimes for events or for more vendors. They have a constantly rotating selection of small businesses and local vendors that you can shop from - there's tons of art, tchotchkes, plants, apparel, board games, cards, and so much more. All the stores there are so unique and offer such unique products, and it's both simultaneously lowkey & highkey the best place to go to get your friends & families presents! Every time I come here, I find goodies for myself and for so many others because there's truly something for everyone. Not to mention, there's a bar so you can drink & shop at the same time!

Nice place to stop in and see once. A lot of Detroit t-shirts and Detroit themed items, as well as oils, crystals, etc. A lot of the shops seemed repetitive in what they were selling. There is a bar in the far back for coffee and cocktails. It's great to shop local and to try a market like this, so definitely stop by and see if you find something you may like!

Stopped here on a Saturday night while waiting for a dinner reservation, too bad it's only open until 7 saturdays so we only had 30 mins. There was a wedding going on- the space was really cute, though I think it would be odd to have people there shopping during your wedding, but like I said it closes to the public at 7 so other people wouldn't be there too late. Anyways the place is really cool! Can't wait to come back. Love the local businesses. There is a wide variety of offerings. Lots of cool jewelry, awesome oddities collection, so many cool prints and wall art. Love the coasters. Detroit t shirts and sweatshirts. Looking forward to returning to buy things for my new house, and seems like a great place to buy gifts!

Stopped in Rust Belt Market over the weekend for their Ditch the Mall Shop Small Event. They had extended hours for the holiday weekend and were open until 9 pm when I stopped in on Saturday which was awesome. I have passed The Rust Belt Market so many times and have always wanted to check them out but they usually weren't open because they're only open Friday and Saturday until 7 and until 6 on Sunday. Looks like they have extended hours through the holiday season until dec 24th and added 20 additional vendors for the holiday season so I can't wait to stop in again. They had around 40 vendors, a dj, and food trucks for the event this weekend which was fun. They're basically a crafter's artist market and reminds me of some of the things you would see at Eastern Market. They had unique gifts like chocolates, nuts, and cheeses, succulents and potted plants, artist-made jewelry, Detroit t-shirts, hoodies, and coffee mugs, hand-made cards and prints, vintage coats and dresses, art work and home decor and much more. Rusted Belt Market also has a full bar in the back that serves beer, cocktails, and coffee so you can even grab a cocktail while you are walking around shopping. They also had a cute cozy sofa nook area near the bar to sit while you enjoy your drink and take a shopping break. The Loaded Die also is a vendor in Rusted Belt Market and rents out boardgames and hosts game nights at bars/breweries all over the metro Detroit area. They hosted a game night at Rusted Belt Market once a week but not sure if they still do. The one time I had previously stopped into Rusted Belt Market, I checked out the Loaded Die's game night and it was pretty cool. Rusted Belt also rents out spaces for events like weddings too. Had a lot of fun shopping through here! Great unique finds and a fun outing as well! Can't wait to stop in again!

Cute spot to get a drink and walk around, see some local flavor, get Detroit memorabilia. I like the area it's in too, if you're looking to bop around.

If you are looking for a hip place to buy some cool art or just want to enjoy a nice artisan market the Rust Belt Market is the place. From hand crafted soaps to one of a kind jewelry you can find practically something for the special someone during the holiday gift giving season!

Was hoping to find some unique and creative arts & crafts here, but was really disappointed. This craft mall is boring and stagnant. The booths that are there do little to offer anything remotely resembling fine arts and crafts or the sought after antiques and collectibles we all want. Don't waste your time shopping here. There are so many cities outside of the Detroit area that will give you the cool vintage vibe you're looking for. Detroit is washed up and boring. Go beyond the city to find all the cool stuff you really want!

We headed over to pick up some last minute gifts and support our local artists, just before Christmas. It wasn't long before we realized that we should have been coming here all along, through the year, as we need gifts for ourselves, friends or family members. This place is a hidden gem! There is so much to see and so much to buy to support our local artists. Don't miss this venue. It's fun to walk around and there is something for everyone on your list at all price points; creative, fun and practical gifts for everyone. There was only one downside to our visit and that is the only reason I didn't give them 5 stars...one artist apparently thought it was a good idea to hang a sign in her booth that read something like, "No photos, get your own ideas". That was a turnoff to us, assuring that not only would we not take any photos of this artist's works but in addition, we would never purchase anything from them. Other than that, we love the place and will be back to make many more purchases from other vendors, all year long, not just at the holidays. Parking is great, location is perfect and after shopping, lots of great places in Ferndale to have lunch! Highly recommend!

I enjoyed browsing and buying at the Rust Belt Market. It was a fun way to waste a bit of time on a Saturday afternoon. It was a great place to pick up some unusual "Detroit" themed items to mail to friends who live out of town. I'll be back.

This place is very cool! We were in Ferndale today to check out the town (an Ann Arbor friend and I) and we went here. It's almost like an artisan market except indoors. Some of my favorite booths were near the entrance of the Market, there's a Detroit almost "touristy" booth that sells t-shirts, magnets, etc. I like the "Bitch, I'm from Detroit" ones, haha. Others said "be nice to Detroit", etc. Also some good coffee and cake booths if you are hungry.

I finally made to The Rust Belt Market! Right on the corner of 9 Mile and Woodward in Ferndale. The Rust Belt Market is a wonderful group of local artisans selling their wares. Are you looking for a unique gift? This is the place to come. Many Detroit themed items, I have to go back for the cozy red Onesie. Cool coasters to accessorize your bar cart, tees and warm hoodies too. I love the jewelry! You can definitely find a cool piece to add to any outfit! I bought a wonderful necklace for a Christmas gift. Fly K9 has lovely handmade coats for your favorite Pup. Looking for something more! Amazing lamps and Bluetooth speakers. Sorry I didn't get pics of theses but trust me they are fabulous and would make a special gift for someone special or even yourself! There are oddities and quirky items too! The wonderfully talented folks from Speed Cult are there with amazing steel pieces. All this wonderfulness and there is a Bar! You can enjoy your cocktail at the bar or seated on a cozy sofa or you can walk around and shop! Bonus!

I like the idea of this market, but I never come out with anything purchased. The iron shop is really expensive and...the shop that sells photos is cool, but never photos that interest me. I feel like the t-shirts at the shops there are costly and the softer t-shirts from Funky 7 in Royal Oak is better quality.

After reading so many good things about this place, I finally found a friend to join me on a Saturday morning!! So many different vendors! All unique and totally local. Jewlery, coasters, organic cotton baby clothes, art, coffee, candles...the list of what is being created and sold here is endless! I love that an abandoned Old Navy store could be turned into something SO cool! Everyone was super nice and there is so much to see. Most vendors take credit cards, but if not, there is an on-site ATM. I got so many gift ideas for the holidays! If you are close by, you will be very happy you stopped in!

Such an awesome collection of stores! Parking is available at the back of the store but you must pay prior at the pay stations (didn't realize this until I saw the stations while walking back to the car. The Rust Belt has such a great variety of items you can get for yourself or a loved one. Shoot even if you're looking for a white elephant gift. There's also a bar so you can grab a drink before, during or after you look around. Found some really cool gifts for family and will definitely be back!

Super cute indoor market!!!! Love this place so many local Michigan vendors! Such a variety too! Love the beautiful plants for sale. Lots of different vendors, metal works, clothing, home goods, etc. Would love to come to a wedding or event here the pictures make it look amazing all transferred over!

I don't want to completely tear this place apart because I think it's a really great concept and every town should have a market peddling local goods, but...I just wish I could curate this place so badly. It's mostly kitsch trash that wasn't funny or cute when it first became a thing circa 2010 (think Portlandia's "Put a Bird On It" sketch). If you own a "boss bitch" mug, you might enjoy the try-hard tchotchkes here. It's especially disappointing because Michigan has quite a few talented small businesses that I'd love to see being sold here (ex: Dear Golden vintage clothing of Ann Arbor and John Pegg's Kerosene Fragrances out of Port Huron). I hope they shake things up eventually.

I really want to love this place more. I have brought out-of-towners here on multiple occasions. Because, that's what it best for: showing your guests what crafty things local artists have been up to. This place is full of eye candy that is not particularly tempting to buy. And that's just the problem. Well, that and the fact that it's only open for a few hours on Friday, Sat and Sunday. So basically it's closed 80% of the time. Rust Belt is at the heart of Ferndale, it's Detroit DIY and crafty stuff - some upcycled and vintage items. It leans 90's and 00's with it's steampunk vibe and it's artwork reminescent of early Photoshop experiments. Think along the lines of Etsy: Metal cut into the logos of GM, Ford, etc. A custom knitted cape in a mix of clashing colors An ornate wood carved box A onesie that says "I have people in Detroit" An aquarium terrarium Art made out of hex nuts The list goes on. Would you justify spending $30-$100+ bucks on this? Some of it is pretty, but none of it is jumping into your bag. I've lost count of how many times I've looked but not bought a thing. So I have two suggestions for Rust Belt: 1. Please encourage your vendors to make things for the locals. Not just cute gifts. Because I'd love to buy local, but tchotchke's are not on my shopping list or anyone else's here. 2. Better hours.

So fun and such an array of talented artist. I liked all the plant places too. Great for small plants. Bought a couple of things and will probably go back soon. What a great place for unique gifts.

A varied market of small local businesses. Jewelry, Coffee, Clothing, Art for your walls... There's just so much here in such a small place. I love shopping here for gifts for people I love. There's always something new and interesting, and I generally enjoy walking around appreciating the small museum of current local art.

This is my favorite place in Ferndale. Every time I visit there are new shops to discover and so many oddities to pick up. I absolutely love the bar/coffee shop to hang out and have a craft beer, cocktail or cold brew coffee to take a break from shopping.

I walk by here all the time and have been meaning to stop in. I was glad to have the opportunity today! I loved all the independent shops and vendors and just the overall ambiance of the place. I was looking for someone who could make an industrial looking table with barnwood and metal and found someone who could! Also I noticed the middle area had chairs and tables setup and one of the vendors told me people rent the space for parties. They were setting up for a wedding when I was walking around. There's also a corner bar inside which offers coffee and drinks!

My 3rd ever Yelp review!!! Because I save them for the special! (Quality over quantity) Thank you Heather for making my experience super special. It's obvious that you not only take pride in your craft/art, but you truly care about your customers. I live in San Diego and it's hard to see what options are available remotely. She took photos, sent me texts, made sure I was happy with my decisions & satisfied with my choices. She even took the time to talk on the phone with me as I opened my package. It's great to know that good quality people are still out there! Thank you for assisting in restoring my faith in humanity! Great karma all around!! Cheers!

Original, unique, creative, artistic . Great place to shop for gifts! Also an event space for rental.

What a neat place for local goods! I always enjoy finding spots like this when I'm traveling and looking for souvenirs. One thing that sets this place apart is that you can shop as you'd like. You don't get bugged by anyone, but you can easily strike great conversation with the artists if you want. You'll find all of the unique knick knacks you're looking for. The only downside is that it's a large and conveniently located building, but only open Friday-Sunday. It would be nice to stop in on any day if possible.

This market is everything hipster/indie in the best way! There are over 50 independent vendors represented with a huge variety of handmade goods. From local made Detroit goods to vintage finds, there are lots to find!

Super cute marketplace featuring many handmade and unique items from local vendors/small businesses. You can find TONS of "Detroit" stuff including t-shirts, bumper stickers, hoodies, coasters, postcards, etc. Other storefronts offer "create your own succulent plants", a CBD oil store, vintage toys/video games, jewelry, and prints from photographers in the area. I thought I would spend a lot more time here but it only took about 25 minutes to circle the entire market. They have a coffee and a full bar as well.

Oh, God of Trendy, I have spied thy temple, and it is here. Surrounded was I, by the hippest of the hip as they purchased jewelry in one small shop within, or a poster, or a candle. I did inhale their cool and was transformed. Oh, oh, where have I seen such wonders before? Could it be the old fashioned headshops from the 60s where stoners could purchase all manner of stonerwear? Why yes, that is indeed the precursor of this cool corner market. Seriously, there's stuff for gamers, some oddity shops, jewelry, photo and art, and even a private area that may reserved for parties. Nice, convenient, and a little pricey but not ridiculous. Ferndale is the perfect place for this. If you come, be prepared to bathe in trendiness .

THIS PLACE IS SO COOL! And possibly really weird as well. I came here after a huge lunch with my sister because it was pretty much across the street. It's a huge indoor open market of home-made crafts and intriguing items. They say they are like an in-person Etsy. Or its just a very interesting flea market. They have different vendors come through on and off throughout the weeks. Open rain/shine, hot/cold. Thank goodness. Most of everything consisted of jewelry (some of which was amazing), pocketwatches filled with random stuff from Detroit (Precious Hardware). A lot of vintage designs that are probably newly created. Some clothing (mostly scarves, wraps, really super cool ties, and t-shirts). Some really cool local artwork, hand-crafted furniture, greeting cards. Detroit Surf Co. is there with paddle boards and surf gear. Didn't even know this existed! You can buy some tea here and sometimes they will have random things like cooking oils and spices, smelly soaps. The coolest attraction I came across though by far was the stuff created out of the closet from Painted Lady Trashions. There is some crazy stuff going on on her shelves and in her jars! Actual specimens collected from around the world and jarred. Holy hell. Baby heads. I have never been more creeped out and intrigued in my life. If you go to the market, definitely pay a visit to this corner. Before you leave there is a kiosk for fresh micro-roasted coffee from HenriettaHaus Roasters and snacks of pie, cake, scones, etc.

What an excellent space nestled conveniently in the heart of Ferndale. Living in New York for the past two years, I'm used to flea markets and vintage store fronts, but the Rust Belt Market does an excellent job of curating and collaborating with local artists to give a fair share of the floor space, showcasing local art, treats, and even live music. The owners were very hands-on, and the exhibitors were very support of one another. The shops have a little bit of everything -- from vintage clothing and antique costume jewelry to Detroit-centric prints and handmade soaps. The prices range, and seemed quite fair. I can't wait til my next jaunt home, when I'll hopefully have more time to scope out each vendor. Highly recommend it for locals and visitors.