Riverside features extensive green spaces, including Riverside Park, providing ample outdoor areas for relaxation and recreation. The neighborhood benefits from a strong bicycling infrastructure that supports convenient travel throughout the area. Nearby supermarkets and a variety of restaurants and cafes offer excellent dining and shopping options within close proximity. Many buildings date back to before the 1960s, adding a charming, historic atmosphere to residential streets. Housing types include lofts, duplexes, and more spacious units, offering choices for diverse preferences. Proximity to highways and available parking makes driving accessible, while multiple bus lines connect the neighborhood to surrounding locations.
Riverside offers a variety of experiences for those who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and spending time in green spaces. Although the atmosphere is not the liveliest in this part of Ypsilanti, the vibe is still quite dynamic around its main streets, and places to go out at night are well-distributed throughout the neighborhood. On the other hand, most locations in the neighborhood have fairly good access to public green spaces, including Riverside Park and University Park, since there are about 20 of them nearby for residents to relax in.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
A beloved green space in the heart of Historic Eastside, Parkridge Park features walking paths, basketball courts, and picnic spots, serving as a hub for neighborhood gatherings, annual community events, and summer recreation, and it's adjacent to the Parkridge Community Center on Harriet Street.
Located at 550 Perry Street, Perry Early Learning Center introduces local children to education in a nurturing environment, with strong ties to neighborhood families and partnerships that support childhood development right within Historic Eastside.
Situated on E Michigan Avenue, Chubby’s Coney Island is a longtime local favorite where residents gather for classic Coney dogs and hearty breakfasts, giving Historic Eastside a down-to-earth spot to grab comfort food and connect with neighbors.
Serving as a practical shopping stop for Historic Eastside locals, the Family Dollar provides everyday necessities, groceries, and household items, making life in the neighborhood even more convenient for residents and families.
Historic Eastside residents can quickly access the Border-to-Border Trail, a multi-use path that runs along the Huron River, inviting locals to bike, jog, or stroll through nature while staying connected to the wider Ypsilanti and Washtenaw County trail network.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This nearby history presentation explores Michigan’s role in World War II and the Roosevelt administration, including connections to Willow Run and local aviation history. It is an engaging evening option for Historic Eastside residents interested in Ypsilanti’s wartime industrial heritage and regional stories.
View event details →Residents can enjoy a free live concert by the United States Air Force Band’s jazz ensemble, featuring big-band favorites, newer compositions, and patriotic selections. Pease Auditorium is a short trip from Historic Eastside, making this a convenient, high-quality evening of music without traveling to Ann Arbor or Detroit.
View event details →This seasonal museum event combines aviation history, a Vietnam-era Huey display, and holiday lights in an unusual family-friendly setting. For Historic Eastside households, it offers a memorable local outing that blends hands-on history with festive atmosphere and supports a Ypsilanti-area cultural institution.
View event details →The Riverside Arts Center’s indoor fair features handmade art, vintage goods, and self-care products from local makers. Its downtown Ypsilanti location is especially convenient for Historic Eastside residents who want to shop locally, support artists, and combine the visit with nearby restaurants and small businesses.
View event details →More than 40 Ypsilanti-based makers, small businesses, and nonprofit groups gather for this free holiday market, with live entertainment and local food options. The Freighthouse is close to Historic Eastside and provides an easy way to support neighborhood entrepreneurs while finding distinctive gifts in a festive community atmosphere.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Historic Eastside
Local characteristics and demographics for Historic Eastside
