The Packard Proving Grounds Historic Site — Attraction in Shelby Charter Township

My husband and I got married here in August of 2016. The girls that help run the events and the volunteers are helpful and informative. We especially loved Mary, Stephanie, and Ray. They helped me nearly every step along the way. The grounds are beautiful. The event space is unique and to die for. It was a lot of work to rent out EVERYTHING, but it was so worth it. Getting married at a historic site meant a lot to us, since we have restored our 1891 home. Most historic sites that we had looked at have done "renovations" that were not historically accurate and it totally turned us off. The Packard Proving Grounds really seem to have their wits about them in restoring the buildings historically accurate, and it is SO refreshing. The only issue we had was, upon getting there to finish getting ready, a bus of people pulled up for a tour of the grounds. This was only a couple hours before our ceremony was set to start. Most of them put their hands on my (very expensive) wedding gown, which was hanging in the house. I had to wait for the group to leave the house, so I could get my gown on. This put us very off schedule and I missed getting pictures with my bridesmaids. We ended up having to rush those pictures right after the ceremony, which added stress to an already stressful day. I really try to not let things like this bother me, so that whole issue does not take away from my rating. I would, however, suggest getting to the grounds early to make sure trash is cleaned up outside if there is a wedding the night before. Thankfully, my husband and I had to go pick up his car the day after our wedding. There was a wedding setting up and my husband and I went around outside to pick up our guest's cigarette butts, cigar butts, and a broken glass outside. I would have felt HORRIBLE if that stuff was left from us for the guests of the next wedding to see. Overall, this place is absolutely beautiful. I am STILL obsessed with it. We go to many events here, to this day, just to look around and see what is new. I HIGHLY recommend holding your event here. I would give 10...

Unlike what the other google user says (never used name) the building, grounds and everything with the property has to follow strict guidelines to be considered a historic site. All work is done by licensed contractors with the help of local volunteers and they follow or try to use period material whenever possible. You must realize that things have to be updated to new like fire protection alarms and heat and a/c. All of this costs lots and lots of money and is being done as it can be afforded. The grounds and building are now being used for weddings and parties and this brings in some money but never enough. The state and federal government gives them no money for anything so it is up to the clubs like PPG and MCP and others to help with renovations and upkeep. If anybody would like to help with volunteering or with a gift do not hesitate to contact me or someone from PPG we could always...

We had the pleasure of photographing a wedding at Packard Proving Grounds, and it’s such a special venue. The industrial charm mixed with elegant touches makes it one of the most versatile spaces we’ve worked in. The vintage Packard history adds a unique character to every photo, from the iconic water tower to the retro signage and beautifully restored architecture.

The ceremony took place in the tree-lined courtyard, which created a natural and romantic backdrop, while the reception inside the historic garage was absolutely stunning, with chandeliers, and tons of open space for dining and dancing.

We loved how the venue blends classic Detroit automotive heritage with wedding-day elegance. It’s a standout choice for couples looking for something timeless, bold, and unforgettable.

— Greg + Sharlene Ezzo Studio |...