When you imagine Detroit, the phrase “state park” might not immediately come to mind. It’s difficult to imagine that a city as large and bustling as Detroit could house a natural area that draws in hundreds of visitors each year — but there’s a stunning state park located smack dab in the middle of the Motor City, and you simply have to check it out for yourself.

William Milliken G. State Park & Harbor is nestled peacefully away along the shores of the Detroit River. It can be accessed at 1900 Atwater Street.

Google Maps

Featuring a large natural area and a beautiful harbor, Milliken State Park is the first state park in Michigan to be situated in an urban setting.

Flickr/A Healthier Michigan

With 31 acres of gorgeous land to explore, there’s something at Milliken State Park to excite visitors of all ages and athletic abilities.

Facebook/Milliken State Park & Harbor

The park’s development began in 2004 and was completed in 2009. Since its opening, Milliken has drawn in nature enthusiasts from Detroit and beyond.

Flickr/A Healthier Michigan

Take a leisurely walk through the park’s greenery and marvel at the unique beauty of its restoration wetlands, which are designed to attract migratory birds.

Yelp/Tracie M.

If you prefer to hit the water, you’re in luck: you can set sail on your boat from the harbor at Milliken State Park and enjoy an afternoon on the Detroit River.

TripAdvisor/George M.

Of course, no waterfront state park is complete without opportunities for fishing, and Milliken has you covered. Bring your fishing poles and a few friends — this is the perfect spot to toss in your line.

Flickr/USFWSmidwest

With plenty of space for visitors to roam, the park is an ideal area for a family picnic. Curl up under a tree with a good book or stare out at the water with your sweetheart.

Flickr/Joy VanBuhler

Of course, Milliken State Park isn’t the only wonderful attraction along the Detroit River. Take a jog or bike ride along the paved pathways of the International Riverfront and appreciate fabulous views of the city skyline.

Filckr/Brian Ambrozy Whether you’re frequent visitor or a first-time explorer, there’s no doubt that a visit to Milliken State Park will provide just the natural escape you’ve been craving.

Flickr/Joy VanBuhler

For more information about the park, click here. Have you spent a day at Milliken State Park and Harbor? Tell us about your favorite activities in the comment section below.

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Flickr/A Healthier Michigan

Facebook/Milliken State Park & Harbor

Flickr/A Healthier Michigan

Yelp/Tracie M.

TripAdvisor/George M.

Flickr/USFWSmidwest

Flickr/Joy VanBuhler

Filckr/Brian Ambrozy

Whether you’re frequent visitor or a first-time explorer, there’s no doubt that a visit to Milliken State Park will provide just the natural escape you’ve been craving.

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