FREE Outdoor Destinations in & around Farmington and Farmington Hills, Michigan
Riley Park
Head to Riley Park in downtown Farmington for a fun-filled day. The kids will have a blast playing Connect 4 or Cornhole and staying active! Bring your own food from home or explore and dine at one of the many great restaurants in the area. Whether you’re looking to relax or play, Riley Park is the perfect spot for a family outing.
Hours: 24/7
Riley Park
33113 Grand River Ave
Farmington, MI 48335
Farmers Market
Experience the Farmers Market in downtown Farmington every Saturday. Families will find a lot to enjoy with plenty of free activities for children. Kids can also burn off energy and have a blast running around in Riley Park, which is conveniently adjacent to the market. This weekly event not only supports local farmers and artisans but also provides a fun, engaging outing for all ages. Get information on kid-specific activities here.
Market Hours:
Saturday 9am-2pm
Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market
33113 Grand River Ave
Farmington, MI 48335
Founder’s Fishing Pier
This activity is free for those with a fishing license. Enjoy catch-and-release fishing at the pond in Founders Sports Park. Bring your fishing gear and treat the kids to a fun day! The park offers bathrooms and concession stands throughout. To reach the pier, use the west entrance off of 8 Mile. Fishing license information can be found here.
Park Hours: 8am-10pm
Founders Fishing Pier
35500 W. Eight Mile Road
Farmington Hills, MI 48335
Shiawassee Park
Your kids will have a blast at the (fenced-in!) playground at Shiawassee Park, where kids can play to their heart’s content. Watch them show off their sports skills on the baseball diamonds or in the open areas. Pack a delicious picnic and cross the bridge for a relaxing time by the water, where you can enjoy watching the ducks splash and play. Pro tip: Bring water shoes and a towel, as the allure of the water can sometimes be irresistible to the little ones!
Park Hours: Dawn-10pm
Shiawassee Park
32515 Shiawassee Rd.
Farmington, MI 48336
Heritage Park
Looking for the perfect spot to spend a summer day outdoors? Heritage Park in Farmington Hills has it all—splashing, playing, and exploring! The Splash Pad features multiple fountains and sprayers, making it a free and refreshing way for kids to cool off. Right next to it, the playground offers plenty of space for climbing, sliding, and running around—perfect for burning off energy before or after a picnic.
Be sure to take a walk along the Nature Discovery Trail, a peaceful, kid-friendly path that encourages curiosity and outdoor learning. Pack your own snacks or stop by the Snack Shack for a quick treat, and you’ve got everything you need for a fun-filled day outside.
Park Hours: 8am–Dusk
Heritage Park
24915 Farmington Rd.
Farmington Hills, MI 48336
Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve
Just minutes from Farmington Hills, Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve in Southfield is a hidden gem for families. Nicknamed “the Rock Park” by kids, it features large rocks for climbing, peaceful hiking trails, a native plant garden, and a quiet lake for fishing. Recent upgrades like restrooms, a drinking fountain, and a picnic shelter make it easy to spend a relaxing day outdoors. Whether you’re exploring, fishing, or just soaking in the scenery, it’s a perfect nearby escape.
Park Hours: Daily, 8am–8pm
Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve
27101 W 10 Mile Rd
Southfield, MI 48033
Outdoor Track at The Hawk
Looking to get some exercise this summer? Head over to the track at The Hawk Community Center! It’s a great way to stay active while your kids have fun running around and playing in the middle of the track. You can walk or jog while keeping an eye on them. Plus, the bathroom facilities are open seasonally, ensuring convenience during your visit. It’s a perfect spot for family fitness and fun!
Hours*:
Monday-Thursday 5:30am-10pm
Friday 5:30am-9pm
Saturday 7am-7pm
Sunday 8am-6pm
*when not being used by a program or group that has rented them
The Hawk Community Center
29995 W 12 Mile Rd
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
