William G. Milliken State Park

Michigan's First Urban State Park

Nestled along the Detroit River just east of downtown, the William G. Milliken State Park spans 31 acres of green refuge amid the urban landscape. As Michigan's first urban state park, it's a breath of fresh air offering both recreational fun and educational experiences for city dwellers and visitors alike.

The park began life as Tri-Centennial State Park and Harbor before being renamed in 2009 to honor Governor William G. Milliken. It offers a green space for those wanting a break from the urban environment while still staying within city limits.

Harbor and Lighthouse

One of the park's standout features is its harbor, opened in 2004, complete with a 52-slip marina for boaters to dock and explore. The 63-foot lighthouse at the harbor entrance is modeled after the Tawas Point Light and helps guide maritime traffic along the Detroit River.

If you're arriving by boat, you'll appreciate the clean facilities, including showers and restrooms. The marina welcomes both regular slip owners and travelers just passing through, making it an ideal pit stop while exploring Detroit's waterways.

Wetlands Restoration

The park's second phase, completed in 2009, brought a fascinating wetlands restoration area that does double duty - it creates wildlife habitat while showing visitors how nature filters water before it returns to the Detroit River.

The interpretive signs scattered throughout this section explain the ecological processes taking place in the wetlands. These restored wetlands recreate what the riverbank might have looked like before urban development, and they've become home to various birds and small critters that add life to the park.

Recreational Pathways

The Detroit Riverwalk meanders through the park, well-suited for a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or rollerblading session with the river as your backdrop. The path doesn't end at the park boundaries either - it connects to other Detroit hotspots via the Riverwalk and the Dequindre Cut Greenway.

The seven-mile stretch of Riverwalk offers views of Detroit's skyline on one side and Canada on the other. If you forgot your binoculars, don't worry - public ones are available at various points for a closer look at the Canadian shore or passing boats.

Amenities and Features

When you're ready to take a break, head to one of the covered picnic pavilions or try your luck at the fishing platforms along the shoreline. Take note of the memorial dedicated to Peter Stroh, whose advocacy helped ensure public access to this beautiful waterfront.

For the best views in the park, climb up to the upper berm area where panoramic vistas of the river await. This area is thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind, featuring walkways with handrails and lush greenery. It's a prime spot for wildlife watching, picnicking, or catching a sunrise over the Detroit skyline.

You'll discover clean restrooms across the park (with water bottle filling stations - a nice touch!), plenty of benches for when your feet need a rest, and grassy areas fantastic for spreading out a blanket. During summer, the carousel adds a touch of whimsy, and the Riverfront Cafe offers refreshments when hunger strikes.

Family-Friendly Features

If you're visiting with kids, you'll appreciate the play areas scattered throughout where little ones can burn off energy safely. The water features that pop up during warmer months are particularly popular with children looking to cool off while having fun.

Dog owners, your four-legged friends are welcome too! The park is dog-friendly, with waste bags available so you can clean up after your pup. The Riverwalk makes for an excellent dog-walking route with scenic views to enjoy along the way.

Ecological Importance

Beyond just being pretty, the restored wetlands serve a crucial ecological purpose. These habitats mirror what existed before settlement and provide essential stopover points for migratory birds. The park's commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in how these natural areas are maintained and protected.

Keep your eyes peeled while exploring - you might spot various bird species, and some visitors have even reported seeing grouse and other wildlife hiding in the meadow grasses on the hill area.

Nearby Attractions

The park's location makes it a great launching pad for Detroit adventures. You can rent bikes or scooters to explore the full length of the Riverwalk, or check out the Outdoor Adventure Center nearby for more educational experiences.

Milliken State Park combines natural spaces with urban accessibility and historical elements, allowing visitors to experience both nature and the city's maritime heritage in one location.