Looking for one of the best FREE places to spend a summer day with kids in Metro Detroit? Add Dodge Park in Sterling Heights to your family’s summer bucket list.
This 51-acre community park is one of Macomb County’s most popular family destinations, offering everything from an exciting splash pad and multiple playgrounds to weekly farmers markets, live music, scenic walking paths, and special community events. Whether you’re planning a quick afternoon outing or an entire day of adventure, Dodge Park has something for toddlers, big kids, and adults alike.
Cool Off at the Dodge Park Splash Pad
On hot summer days, the Dodge Park Splash Pad is the park’s biggest attraction.
Kids can run through interactive water sprays, splash features, and fountains while parents relax nearby. It’s the perfect way to beat the heat without spending the day at a water park.
2026 Dodge Park Splash Pad Information
Season: May 28 – September 2, 2026
Hours
- Monday: 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Admission
- FREE for Sterling Heights residents (with valid ID)
- $5 per person for non-residents
The splash pad is conveniently located near the playgrounds and plenty of open green space, making it easy to spend several hours enjoying everything the park has to offer.
Two Playgrounds for Kids of All Ages
One of the best features of Dodge Park is that there are multiple playgrounds to explore, making it easy for siblings of different ages to find something they’ll enjoy.
Kids can climb, slide, swing, and burn off energy while parents appreciate the nearby benches, shaded areas, and paved walking paths connecting the park’s many attractions.
Bring bikes, scooters, or strollers and enjoy cruising the paved trails that wind throughout the park.
Visit the Dodge Park Farmers Market
One of the highlights of summer in Sterling Heights is the Dodge Park Farmers Market, held every Thursday from June through September.
2026 Farmers Market
Thursdays | 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Families can shop for:
- Fresh Michigan produce
- Homemade baked goods
- Local honey and specialty foods
- Handmade gifts and artisan products
- Delicious food trucks
- Sweet treats and refreshing lemonade
Please Note: There will be no Thursday market on July 23 due to Sterlingfest festivities.
Enjoy FREE Music in the Park
While you’re visiting the Thursday farmers market, stick around for Music in the Park at the Dodge Park Amphitheater.
Live performances create a fun, family-friendly atmosphere where kids can dance on the lawn while parents relax with dinner from one of the food vendors. It’s an easy (and affordable) way to enjoy a summer evening together.
Experience Sterlingfest at Dodge Park
One of the biggest highlights of summer at Dodge Park is Sterlingfest, Sterling Heights’ signature community festival. Held annually at the park, this beloved event draws thousands of visitors for three days of family-friendly entertainment, live music, local food, carnival rides, and community celebration.
Sterlingfest 2026
Dates: July 23–25, 2026
Throughout the weekend, families can enjoy:
- Carnival rides and midway games
- Live concerts and entertainment
- A variety of local food vendors and festival favorites
- An artisan marketplace featuring local makers and businesses
- Children’s activities and interactive family entertainment
- Community exhibits and special attractions
- A spectacular fireworks finale on Saturday evening
Sterlingfest is one of Macomb County’s most anticipated summer traditions and offers something for every age, making it an excellent time to experience everything Dodge Park has to offer.
Please Note: The Dodge Park Farmers Market will not be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, due to Sterlingfest festivities.
Explore Nature Along the Clinton River
Dodge Park is more than just playgrounds and water fun.
Take a stroll along the scenic pathways that follow the Clinton River, where families can spot ducks, enjoy peaceful river views, and take a break from the excitement. It’s a great place for an after-dinner walk, a stroller ride, or simply letting kids enjoy the outdoors.
Little Extras Families Love
There are plenty of small touches that make Dodge Park an easy place to spend the day, including:
- A Little Free Library for young readers
- Wide paved paths for bikes, scooters, and strollers
- Plenty of green space for picnics and games
- Duck watching along the Clinton River
- Benches and shaded seating throughout the park
Make It a Full Day in Sterling Heights
Dodge Park sits directly across from the Sterling Heights City Center, making it easy to continue your adventure after the park.
Nearby you’ll find:
It’s one of the easiest places in Metro Detroit to combine outdoor play, learning, and recreation into one family-friendly outing.
Dodge Park // 40620 Utica Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313
