If you’re looking for fun in metro Detroit and don’t want to break the bank, here are FREE outdoor destinations that all ages will love.
Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve (Southfield)
Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve is one of the coolest places to visit in metro Detroit. Get a Rocky Mountain experience close to home and let the kids climb on rocky terrain, hills and pathways (it’s the most epic spot for hide and seek but be ready to hold your breath). After you play on the rocks, take a stroll through the nature trail (it’s stroller friendly) and make your way to the overlook onto five-acre Carpenter Lake.
Cranbrook House & Gardens (Bloomfield Hills)
Explore the 40 beautiful acres of Cranbrook Gardens in Bloomfield Hills where you can do a free self-guided tour and enjoy an afternoon outdoors! You won’t want to miss their immaculate sunken gardens (the floral designs change every year), the fun red bridge in the Japanese Gardens that’s perfect for photo ops or the outdoor amphitheater where our kids have been known to test out their acting skills. The grounds are open year-round (weather permitting) but offer different views/experiences during the varying seasons.
Detroit Abloom (Detroit)
Detroit Abloom is hidden gem on Detroit’s eastside. The FREE public garden space is beautiful to explore, relax and find inspiration. There is even a nature based play area for kids. If you want to grab a bite, get Yellow Light on your way for coffee and donuts or stop for lunch on the canal at Coriander Kitchen.
Detroit Riverfront
The Detroit Riverfront features 5 1/2 miles of pedestrian friendly space with playgrounds, parks, public art and wonder views of the water, Detroit and Canada! Spend time at Cullen Plaza (playground and vintage carousel – free to ride), Valade Park (sand beach), Milliken State Park (get a picture with an iconic Michigan lighthouse) and take a walk or bike ride (there are rentals at Wheelhouse Detroit) along the Dequindre Cut – a two-mile urban greenway connecting the Detroit Riverfront to another Detroit gem – Eastern Market.
Fox Science Nature Preserve (Ann Arbor)
Step into the West at Fox Science Preserve. The Washtenaw County Park is a former gravel pit and has rocky hills your littles will love to climb. Free and open to the public you’ll want to bring good walking/climbing shoes. Walk the half mile trail to read educational markers and keep an eye out for neighboring horses.
Fairlane Ford House (Dearborn)
Explore Fair Lane’s gardens and grounds free of charge from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. The main house (lived in by Henry Ford and his wife Clara) and powerhouse are closed for restoration, but the grounds are gorgeous and the perfect place for a picnic. Picnic tables are available near the Garage and Powerhouse.
