“Reviving Black Eden. Restoring Community. Reclaiming Our Legacy.”
Honoring Our Past. Building Our Future.
Idlewild, once called Black Eden, is one of the oldest African-American resort communities in the United States. Our mission is to preserve its legacy, protect its land, and strengthen the community that has kept this place alive for generations.
We bring together residents, returning families, and new visitors to:
Restore historic and natural spaces
Support local and Black-owned businesses
Create immersive Afro-Tourism experiences
Build a model for Black community preservation and economic renewal
FEATURED PROGRAMS + Initiatives
Restoring Idlewild’s historic landmarks.
Idlewild Community Chamber
(Now Accepting Members)
Summers at ICA
Detroit to Idlewild
Why Black Eden Still Matters Today
Idlewild is more than a place—it’s a living story of Black joy, resistance, creativity, and ownership. For decades, it was a refuge where Black people could gather freely, own land, and celebrate culture.
Today, many of its buildings, lakeshores, and gathering spaces need restoration or there is a need to create the opportunity.
Our work ensures that Idlewild remains:
A home for residents
A Historic destination for Black travelers
A model for Black community preservation and economic renewal
🌱 Welcome to Idlewild —
A Community Rooted in Legacy & Love
A Warm Welcome for New Residents, Businesses & Nonprofits
Whether you are new to Idlewild, recently opened a business, or launched a nonprofit in our community, we want you to feel embraced, supported, and connected from the very beginning. As part of our Idlewild Community Coalition, we offer a special Welcome Gift that reflects the spirit of Black Eden—filled with local resources, cultural history, and tools to help you thrive here.
A “Welcome to Idlewild: Black Eden” guide
Community contacts and resource list
Highlights of local businesses, historic sites, and cultural landmarks
Upcoming events and volunteer opportunities
A small token of appreciation that reflects the history and spirit of Idlewild
Our Welcome Gift may include:
It’s our way of saying:
"You belong here. Your presence strengthens Idlewild’s story."
Join the Movement to Revive Idlewild
Donate: Fuel restoration projects, camps, and community programs.
Visit: Experience Black Eden for yourself through events, retreats, and cultural tours.
Partner: Foundations, businesses, and organizations can support heritage, tourism, and economic development.