Orchard Lake Village

It’s commonplace to see towns situated along the edges of lakes and rivers, but it’s slightly more unusual to have a town completely encircling a lake. But that’s just one of the things that makes Orchard Lake Village special. Found 27 miles north of Detroit, the village is 40% water with 795-acre Orchard Lake at its center. The village isn’t just in a beautiful location either. It’s in a convenient one. Interstate 696 and the M-10 run through the area, making traveling the 34 miles to the Detroit Metropolitan Airport a breeze, and the SMART Bus system operates routes from the village to downtown Detroit. It’s also close to the retail of Crosswinds Mall and the city of Pontiac.

Many of the homes in Orchard Lake Village are built along the waterfront. These expansive homes often have their own docks and are guaranteed incredible views of the area. “Orchard Lake Village has its own zip code and government, but it’s all about the lake. Orchard Lake is one of the only public lakes in the area,” says Christine Winans, a Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and 20 years' experience in Michigan real estate. “We love water here in Michigan. We have lots of it. And as you get closer to Detroit, waterfront properties will get more expensive. In Orchard Lake Village, houses on the lakefront are highly desired, but not a lot are ever on the market at one time.” There are a variety of architectural designs such as estate homes, colonials and ranch-styles although most older housing has been removed or renovated. The neighborhood also has beautifully landscaped and meticulously kept lawns although there are no sidewalks to speak of. Prices range from $370,00 for a two-bedroom ranch-style residence to $4 million for a six-bedroom multi-story new construction.

Students in the village are part of the West Bloomfield School District. This highly diverse school system has earned an A-plus from Niche and is one of the top 20 districts in Michigan. Children might attend Roosevelt Elementary, West Bloomfield Middle and West Bloomfield High as they journey from kindergarten to graduation. All three schools have received an A-grade from Niche. Roosevelt Elementary operates a magnet program for academically talented students in third through fifth grade. West Bloomfield Middle has some of the best teachers in the state along with a Model United Nations and performing arts programs. West Bloomfield High offers multiple STEAM pathways and dual enrollment with area colleges in addition to providing each student with an iPad or Chromebook for schoolwork.

While the whole area is a recreational paradise, you can find dedicated green spaces as well. Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary covers 50 acres and supports dozens of plant and animal species, including some oak trees that are more than 250 years old. Bought from Cranbrook Schools in 1991, the area is made of rolling hills left behind by glaciers and lush woodland. Tranquil walking trails allow visitors to enjoy gorgeous fall foliage and spring flowers like daffodils.

Orchard Lake Village is home to both a yacht and a country club. The Pontiac Yacht Club is located along Cass Lake and has been sailing since 1934. The family-style club offers courses for adults to learn to sail over eight weeks as well as sailboat races and mini-regattas on Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. The Orchard Lake County Club has been operating since 1926 and provides members with a challenging golf course, racquet courts and a sandy beachfront along Orchard Lake.

There may not be a myriad of dining options in the village, but you can definitely find a wonderful meal. Harbor Steak House began as a small neighborhood bar in 1961 and has evolved into an elegant restaurant. Open seven days a week, the classic and cozy eatery has a prime rib special on Fridays and Saturdays as well as everyday dishes like a French dip or Surf and Turf options.

Close to Detroit, this charming and picturesque town welcomes residents to stunning views, lake activities and a bevy of recreational opportunities.

Written By

K.T. Phillips

Photography Contributed By

JC Knopf

Video By

Jessica Johnson