2013 Dream Cruise Guide: Royal Oak

Where to watch

Royal Oak has the longest stretch of viewing opportunities along Woodward of any city participating in the Dream Cruise, from 10 Mile Road all the way up to 14 Mile Road.

The Royal Oak police will tell you Woodward at 13 Mile Road is the epicenter of the Dream Cruise and where the biggest crowds are.

The grassy medians might look like a great place to watch the cruising action, but Royal Oak Police Chief Corrigan O'Donohue pointed out they must remain clear for law enforcement vehicles and ambulances if they need to maneuver around traffic.

Cruisegoers can set up chairs and blankets between the sidewalk and curb, but sidewalks must remain clear. 

Families with small children may consider watching near at Woodward and Normandy where a Family Fun Zone will be set up at Pioneer Park for small children to race around.

For convenience, the city provides portable restrooms all along the Woodward corridor.

Where to park

Parking for the Dream Cruise is difficult. Most people park on residential streets and walk to Woodward. Be sure to observe any "No Stopping or Standing" signs and never obstruct fire hydrants, driveways or sidewalks. The Dream Cruise is not an excuse to break the rules.

There many metered parking spaces and three parking structures located in downtown Royal Oak, which is within walking distance (0.6 miles) of Woodward.

There are parking meters that accept credit and debit cards. There are also parking structures are located at Fourth and Center Street, Sixth and Lafayette and 11 Mile Road and Center Street near the Royal Oak Post Office.

If you plan to use coin meters, bring plenty of change. Royal Oak parking enforcement officers are notoriously good at their jobs. If you do get a parking ticket, you may pay the fine before leaving town by using the drop box at the  and avoid paying late fees.

The final option is to simply enjoy the Dream Cruise from the comfort of your own car, classic or not. Any vehicle may drive down Woodward, but only classic cars should drive in the two curb lanes closet to the sidewalk to give spectators the best views.

See a map of downtown parking.

There will also be $10 parking with shuttle bus service at four locations.  Check the Woodward Dream Cruise website for more information.

Events in Royal Oak

• Cruise in Shoes 5K, race begins at 7:30 a.m. at Shrine Catholic High School
• 104.3 WOMC at Duggan's Irish Pub, 31501 Woodward Ave.
• 104.3 WOMC Photo Pit Stop at CVS Pharmacy, 30900 Woodward Ave
• 104.3 WOMC broadcast at Normandy Plaza (Woodward at Normandy)
• Classic Car Show at Northwood Shopping Center (Woodward at 13 Mile Road)
• Classic Car Show, 104.3 WOMC broadcast, Kola's Food Court and automotive vendors at Memorial Park (Woodward at 13 Mile Road)
• 104.3 WOMC and Kroger's Family Fun Zone at Pioneer Park (Parkway Drive at  Normandy Road, west of Woodward)