Last Updated: 26/01/2024.
Macomb is a city located in southeast Michigan, about 25 miles north of Detroit. With a population of around 50,000, it’s a medium-sized city with plenty of attractions and activities for visitors.
From historical sites to outdoor recreation, Macomb has something for everyone. Here are my top recommendations for the best things to do in Macomb, Michigan.
1. Freedom Hill County Park and Amphitheatre
Freedom Hill County Park is a beautiful outdoor recreational spot spanning 485 acres. The park contains wooded areas, fields, ponds, and over 4 miles of paved trails perfect for walking, running, biking, and rollerblading.
Freedom Hill County Park is a must-visit during any trip to Macomb. The park contains several miles of paved pathways that wind through beautiful natural scenery. I like to go for long walks or bike rides along the trails, which provide a peaceful retreat right in the middle of town.
The pond areas are great for wildlife viewing – look for ducks, geese, turtles, and more. Don’t miss the concert schedule at the amphitheater during summer – Freedom Hill attracts popular music acts from all genres.
Pack a blanket and picnic dinner or snacks and enjoy the show. With so much natural beauty and recreation available, Freedom Hill Park is one of my favorite places to spend a relaxing day outdoors in Macomb.
2. Macomb Corn Maze
Looking for a fun fall activity in Macomb? Make your way through the towering stalks of corn at Macomb Corn Maze! This huge maze will challenge your sense of direction with its countless twists and turns.
Spanning over 24 acres, the Macomb Corn Maze claims to be one of the world’s largest corn mazes. The maze design changes annually and includes over 3 miles of trails. In addition to the massive maze, Macomb Corn Maze has tractor-pulled hayrides, pumpkin patches, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
I recommend giving yourself at least 60 to 90 minutes to fully explore the entire maze. Getting lost is part of the fun. I like to bring a family member or friend so we can wander through the maze together.
After you’ve made it through the corn maze, hop on one of the tractor-pulled hayrides for a scenic tour of the farm. Kids will love playing in the child-sized corn maze and picking pumpkins to take home.
With its corn mazes, hayrides, pumpkin patches and more, Macomb Corn Maze is a beloved local tradition for autumn fun.
3. Macomb Orchard Trail
Stretching 16 miles across northern Macomb County, the Macomb Orchard Trail is a popular place for walking, running, and cycling. The paved rail-trail path travels through scenic areas with forests, fields, wetlands, and lakes.
For an easy and picturesque outdoor excursion, take a walk, bike ride or jog on the Macomb Orchard Trail. This 16-mile paved path stretches across Macomb County along the route of a former railroad.
I like to access the trail from the trailhead parking area in Shelby Township. As you travel down the path, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful nature including forests, meadows, and lakes.
The mostly flat terrain makes it a nice walk or bike ride for all skill levels. Since it’s paved, the trail stays in good condition even after rains.
Bring your camera too – you’re likely to spot interesting birds and wildlife along the way. The Macomb Orchard Trail is one of my go-to places when I want to connect with nature without venturing too far from home.
4. Green Acres Nature Park
Encompassing 690 acres, Green Acres Nature Park provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and more. Visitors will find wooded trails, wetlands, streams, as well as picnic shelters. Canoe and kayak launches allow access to the Clinton River.
For beautiful scenery and recreation, I enjoy spending time at Green Acres Nature Park located about 20 minutes southeast of Macomb. The park spans 690 acres of diverse landscapes.
Walking the trails takes me through woodlands, meadows, wetland areas, and streams. The park has an extensive trail network – be sure to use a map for navigation. I like to bring my kayak and spend time paddling downstream along the Clinton River.
Fishing is also popular in the Clinton River and in Hartwig Lake located within the park. Picnic shelters are available if you want to enjoy lunch alfresco.
With its mix of land and water-based recreation amid lovely scenery, Green Acres Nature Park is perfect for appreciating the outdoors.
5. Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill
Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill is a beloved fall attraction offering apple picking, fresh donuts, cider, and more. Kids will love the playground and farm animals too.
When autumn arrives, Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill is one of my favorite places to visit. This family-owned farm founded in 1946 provides old-fashioned fall fun just 10 minutes north of Macomb.
I like to go apple picking in the orchard – kids will love selecting apples right off the tree. Don’t miss out on the fresh cider and warm donuts too.
There are picnic tables set up on the grounds where you can enjoy your treats. I also enjoy strolling through the barnyard to see the farm animals including pigs, chickens, goats, and more.
With its u-pick apples, bakery, playground, and animal barn, Blake’s offers a perfect fall-themed outing for families.
6. Stony Creek Metropark
Stony Creek Metropark encompasses 4,461 acres with wooded hills, lakes, beaches, golf courses, and trails galore. Outdoor recreation options include boating, swimming, disc golf, and more.
Located just east of Macomb, Stony Creek Metropark is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The park contains seven lakes, two beaches, three 18-hole golf courses, and miles of hiking and biking trails.
I like to spend time walking and jogging along the scenic wooded trails to take in the park’s natural beauty. When the weather is warm, the beaches provide swimming and sunbathing areas with pretty views of Stony Lake and Lake Minnie.
Anglers can cast their lines from the fishing pier or boat launches. With its mix of land and water recreation amid gorgeous nature, Stony Creek Metropark is a perfect day trip destination from Macomb.
7. Macomb Heritage Days
Taking place in mid-September, Macomb Heritage Days celebrates the city’s history, businesses, and community groups. Highlights include a classic car show, live entertainment, craft vendors, food trucks, and a parade.
One of my favorite local events is Macomb Heritage Days. For over 50 years, the city has thrown a huge party spotlighting Macomb’s heritage and close-knit community.
Downtown Macomb closes to traffic so the streets fill up with food trucks, vendors, live music stages, and family activities. There are also classic car displays, a carnival midway, and fireworks.
A highlight is the Heritage Days parade winding through the heart of downtown. With tasty food, live entertainment, kids’ activities, and displays of civic pride, Macomb Heritage Days is an excellent free event. Don’t miss it in September!
Macomb is full of fun and interesting attractions to enjoy during your visit. From exploring massive corn mazes to strolling through beautiful nature parks, Macomb offers engaging activities for all interests.
With its diversity of family-friendly recreation, natural scenery, and community spirit, Macomb is a great destination for your next Michigan adventure.
