A local guide from the family at Tillema Auto, because the waiting room isn’t your only option.
At Tillema Auto, we’ve been a Byron Center auto service shop since 1995. Over those years, we’ve noticed something. A lot of our customers drop off their car, sit in our waiting room, and stay until we’re done. That’s totally fine by us. But we also want you to know it isn’t your only option.
Our shop sits in the center of Byron Center, right on 84th Street. So when you bring your car in for service, you’ve got an hour or two to enjoy one of the friendliest neighborhoods in West Michigan. Here are a few spots we love.
Take a walk on Kent Trails
Kent Trails is a paved, multi-use path that stretches from Grand Rapids down to Byron Center. The southern trailhead is right next door to us, so you can actually see the trail entrance from inside our waiting area. Because the trail follows old railroad lines, it stays mostly flat. So it’s easy on the knees and great for all ages. Slip your shoes on, take a quiet walk, and we’ll have your car ready by the time you finish.
Eat next door at Alebird
Alebird sits inside the historic Hotel Byron, a building that has been part of 84th Street since 1902. It’s right next door to us too, sitting just beside the Kent Trails entrance, so you can also see it from our waiting area. The food is locally loved, the space is warm and welcoming. If you’ve never tried it, your service appointment is the perfect excuse.
Stop in at Byron Family Restaurant
Byron Family Restaurant is also within walking distance of our shop. It’s a classic small-town spot, which makes it a great option if your service appointment happens to line up with breakfast or lunch, and you’d rather not have to catch a ride.
Grab breakfast at Anna’s House
Anna’s House is a Michigan-based breakfast and brunch chain. The Byron Center location is a short drive from us so you’ll want to plan for a ride, but the scratch-made comfort food is worth it. Plus, it’s open every day from 6 AM to 3 PM, which lines up well with most service appointments.
Pick up dinner at Byron Center Meats
Byron Center Meats is a fourth-generation, family-owned butcher shop. They’ve been in town since 1946 and they’re USDA-inspected. They also carry a full line of meats, including beef, pork, poultry, seafood, and lamb. So if you’ve been meaning to plan the week’s dinners, your service appointment is a great chance to swing by. They’re a short walk from our shop as well, and open most days from 7 AM to 6 PM.
Cool off at Houseman’s
Houseman’s is technically two businesses sharing the same block of 84th Street. First, there’s Houseman’s Ice Cream for a treat. Then there’s Houseman’s Barber Shop if you’re due for a cut. Both are within walking distance from our shop and a Byron Center staple. While we’re working on your car, you can knock out two errands in one stop.
Spend a few hours at Tanger Outlets
Tanger Outlets Grand Rapids is on 84th Street SW too, though it’s a short drive from us rather than a walk. So if your service appointment runs a little longer or you’ve got a ride lined up, it’s an easy way to spend the time. There’s a wide range of stores, so you will definitely find something to bring home.
Why we love Byron Center
Here’s the thing about running a Byron Center auto service shop since 1995. You get to know your neighborhood. Over time, you learn which spots feel like home and which ones your customers come back raving about. We’re proud to be part of a community with so much to offer right outside our door.
So next time you bring your car in for service, don’t feel like you have to sit in the lobby. Stretch your legs, grab a bite, pick up dinner, or treat yourself to ice cream. We’ll have your keys ready when you get back.
Got a question, or ready to schedule your next service appointment? Reach out through our website any time. We’d love to hear from you. And if you’re in the neighborhood, feel free to swing by. We’d love to say hi!
–The Tillema family