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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Rochester Hills' best

Parks

Green space that offers a genuine escape from the suburban sprawl instead of just another manicured lawn.

Based on 505 Opinions
+502
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Updated May 2026
01
Innovation Hills image 1
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Large park blends modern playgrounds with peaceful ponds and boardwalk trails. Families enjoy the tree-shaped centerpiece and safe, clean spaces. Joggers and kids find fun and relaxation in lively and quiet areas alike.

A large park with clean, safe spaces offers fun for all ages. It features an amazing playground and areas that appeal to families and kids alike.

People are saying

"I paid $1.50 an hour for parking at the park."

"This park is awesome and really Kid Friendly with lots of room to play."

"It's a peaceful retreat tucked away from the city's hustle."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1.50 per hour, and payment is required online.

2

The park has wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking.

3

Families with small children must cross four lanes of traffic with no light.

02
Lake Norcentra Park image 1

Park offers scenic river views and a quiet environment perfect for relaxation. A colorful mural adds vibrant art near the university, enhancing the clean, scenic setting. Ideal for peaceful walks and enjoying nature close to campus.

Scenic views overlook the river and a small lake in a quiet environment. The park stays clean and sits right next to the university.

People are saying

"It's a nice scenic park located on the bank of the river."

Good to know

1

The park features walking trails along the river and around the lake.

2

Picnic areas are available throughout the park for visitors.

3

Restrooms are located near the main entrance of the park.

03
Borden Park image 1

Park shines with well-maintained sports courts for basketball, tennis, and roller hockey. Families enjoy the clean playground and open lawn perfect for community events. Plenty of benches and modern amenities create a welcoming spot for both sports lovers and relaxation seekers.

Cleanliness and well-maintained sports facilities stand out here. The park offers courts and fields for basketball, baseball, tennis, pickleball, soccer, and roller hockey, plus a playground and open lawn for events like fireworks shows.

People are saying

"It's a great place for fun activities, especially the playground."

"There was plenty of parking available, even on a busy day."

"I found the parks here to be clean and well maintained."

Good to know

1

Parking at Borden Park can be challenging during busy events.

2

Restroom facilities may be limited during tournaments.

3

Pickleball courts are reserved for leagues Monday to Thursday from 6-8 pm.

04
Yates Park image 1

Scenic water views and a walking trail create a calming atmosphere. Benches and picnic tables offer spots to relax, while the nearby cider mill adds a family-friendly touch. Kayak launches and a bridge connect to another park, making it great for outdoor fun.

A tranquil setting surrounds the gently flowing river, inviting visitors to relax or launch kayaks. Trails connect across a bridge to another park, and parking is available but limited.

People are saying

"I loved the awesome cider and doughnuts."

"I found the parks peaceful and immersed in nature."

"I loved the cider and donuts here."

Good to know

1

Ample parking spaces are provided, but the facility is small.

2

The park is located directly across from the cider mill.

3

Visitors can enjoy donuts and cider from the nearby cider mill.

05
Holland Ponds image 1
City park

Dirt and grass trails circle a pond, perfect for a quiet nature walk with wildlife viewing. Signs of beaver activity add charm, while bug repellent is a must due to many insect species. The park stays uncrowded, offering a peaceful escape.

Multiple species of bugs live here, so bug repellent is necessary. The park also attracts some unusual visitors.

People are saying

"I saw birds, turtles, and frogs in the parks."

Good to know

1

Bug repellent is recommended due to various insects in the park.

2

The trails are not suitable for biking or wheelchairs.

3

Holland Ponds offers nice walking paths and wildlife viewing.

06
Thelma Spencer Park image 1

Sprawling green spaces and manicured lawns create a peaceful vibe. Well-maintained sports fields and a clean beach with lifeguards offer fun and safety. Families enjoy the playground near the lake and paddle boat rentals for a lively day out.

Serene and well maintained, this park offers a paved path around the lake and a playground near the swimming area. It features a clean beach, good fishing spots, and amenities that suit families and kids.

People are saying

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a fun playground and beach."

"It's a great spot for picnics with shaded tables and grills."

"The parks have great playgrounds and water areas for kids."

Good to know

1

The park has a no life jacket policy to protect the lake's ecosystem.

2

Entry to the park requires a fee for non-members or non-residents.

3

The swimming area has lifeguards on duty during open hours.

07
Chief Gene Shepherd Park Splash Pad image 1

Splash pad offers water fun for kids alongside a playground with varied equipment. Courts for tennis, volleyball, horseshoes, and bocci ball provide diverse sports options. Peaceful paths connect to natural spots and a cider mill, enhancing the outdoor experience.

A splash pad offers water fun for kids with a nearby playground full of equipment. The park includes tennis courts, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, bocci ball courts, and a pavilion, plus a bike and hike path connecting to a cider mill.

People are saying

"The splash pad at this park is awesome for kids."

"It's a kid-friendly splash pad that everyone enjoys."

Good to know

1

The splash pad is for kids only.

2

Toddler time at the splash pad is from 10-11am on Tuesday and Thursday.

3

Restrooms are clean and well stocked, located in a building.

08
Avondale Park image 1

Park features multiple sports courts like basketball and pickleball, plus large fields for soccer and baseball. Paths and picnic spots weave through lush greenery, perfect for families and nature lovers. Atmosphere shifts from quiet to lively during community events.

Big fields support soccer and baseball, while courts include pickleball, tennis, and basketball. A small playground suits younger kids, and a pavilion plus porta potty add convenience.

People are saying

"This park has great courts for tennis and pickleball."

Good to know

1

Parking is now charged due to the park's popularity; be prepared to pay.

2

Only Porta toilets are available as the main bathrooms have been under construction for over a year.

3

Several playground slides are broken and not repaired, posing safety risks.

09
Spencer Park and Beach image 1

Spacious beach and playground swings offer fun for all ages. Clean trails and courts invite active days with tennis and volleyball. Lifeguards and picnic spots keep the vibe safe and relaxed for families.

Clean trails and a well maintained recreation area offer hiking, tennis courts, and a volleyball court. The playground features multiple swings including accessible and saucer swings, with easy access from parking to the beach and play areas.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be nice and clean."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with a fun play area."

"The parks here are always clean and well maintained."

Good to know

1

Kids are not allowed to wear life vests at the beach.

2

Flotation devices for children are not permitted.

3

Dogs are not allowed at the beach.

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Rochester Hills, Michigan

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