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
A free, self‑guided monthly arts and culture event where neighbors can browse pop‑up galleries, enjoy food, and support local makers—perfect for Historic Eastside residents to explore local creative energy.
Residents can celebrate National Farmers Market Week with giveaways, DJs, garden bed giveaways and water fun—a fun market event that brings community, fresh food, and family activities right nearby.
A free, community‑rooted celebration with 30+ local food vendors, live music and kids’ activities—great for Historic Eastside families to connect with local food culture and neighbors.
This arts‑and‑music stroll across the nearby South Side neighborhood offers live music, art exhibits and food—ideal for Eastside residents looking to explore adjacent community creativity.
A community gallery event bringing residents together to view and discuss local art—right in Ypsilanti’s heart, making it accessible for Eastside art lovers.
A hands‑on community art event creating natural‑pigment watercolors from river‑collected materials—an enriching outdoor experience for families just downriver from Historic Eastside.
Stories, updates, and things to know in Historic Eastside
Local characteristics and demographics for Historic Eastside
