Finding the 5 must visit parks for families in Metro Detroit becomes a top priority once you have a little one on the move. By the time your baby turns one, walks are turning into explorations, benches become climbing challenges, and every open green space feels like an adventure. As a parent, summer days can feel long and busy, but they’re also filled with moments worth remembering. That’s why local parks play such a big role in family life. And why they make such meaningful locations for a 1-year milestone photo session. From shaded paths to wide open fields. These parks offer the perfect mix of play, connection, and beautiful backdrops for capturing this sweet stage.

Here’s my 5 must visit parks for families in Metro Detroit

Dodge Park Splash Pad, Sterling Heights, MI

A great way to keep cool in the summer. The splash pad is small enough that parents can relax while watching their kids play. But big enough to keep kids busy for hours. With seating, shade and plenty of fun, this is a must do activity. Pack a lunch and your sunscreen. When you’re done at the splash pad Dodge Park has plenty of play scapes to burn off any excess energy the kids might have! Enjoy a walk or bike ride through miles of trails. You can even end your adventures at the Nature Center up the road. I almost always see deer on the trails, you can even sit and feed the ducks by the bridge.

Fort Fraser, Fraser, MI

Personally this was a favorite park when my kids were little. I don’t know what it is about this castle like structure, but I loved chasing the kids over obstacles.

George George, Clinton Twp, MI

Now that they’ve added much needed additional parking to this park, I love it even more. The play structures here are top notch. The park is beautiful, with bathrooms, and a covered pavillion you can rent for parties. There’s plenty of space to run, and hours of endless fun. Be warned, it’s a popular spot for homecoming and prom photos, so avoiding those days is best. But it’s a load of fun for the entire family.

Innovation Hills, Rochester Hills, MI

For every kid that wanted to play in a tree house, this park is for you. Take a walk along the river, enjoy a picnic lunch, a nice stroll through the park. I always loved play dates here. It was a great way to tire the family out!

McKinley Barrier Free Park, Fraser, MI

Don’t let this smaller park fool you, it’s a great park for families and kids loving playing on their structures! With a wheelchair accessible parking lot and playground, you can enjoy a full day here. They have accessible restrooms, which if you travel with kids, it beats a port-a-potty any day!

Before you know it, this stage will be over. The wobbly steps will turn into running, the chubby hands will grow, and these slow summer days will become memories. Visiting the best parks for families in Metro Detroit is about more than getting outside. It’s about creating moments worth remembering. A 1-year milestone session captures that in-between season, when your baby is curious, expressive, and full of wonder. Whether it’s giggles in the grass or quiet snuggles on a shaded path. These are the images you’ll treasure long after the season changes.