Skip to main content
Pier Park park in Grosse Pointe, MI
Photo: Michael J Lambie
View of Pier Park in Grosse Pointe, MI
Photo: Andy Frantz
View of Pier Park in Grosse Pointe, MI
Photo: Heidi Beitler

Pier Park

4.5(44 reviews)FreePark
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children will enjoy walking the pier and watching boats while school-age kids and teens can try their hand at fishing or exploring the shoreline. Toddlers can visit but require close supervision near the water.

About

Pier Park offers families a beautiful lakefront escape where kids can explore the long pier extending into Lake St. Clair, watch boats pass by, and enjoy open green spaces perfect for running and playing. The scenic waterfront setting makes this an ideal spot for a low-key family outing that combines fresh air, nature observation, and the chance to try fishing together.

Highlights

  • Long fishing pier extending into Lake St. Clair with great opportunities for family fishing
  • Stunning sunset views over the water
  • Boat-watching from the pier as vessels pass by
  • Open green spaces for running, kicking a ball, or flying kites
  • Peaceful waterfront walking paths

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Bring fishing gear and a fishing license if your kids want to try catching perch or bass from the pier,it's one of the main attractions here
  2. 2.Pack a picnic and claim a spot on the grassy areas with lake views; there are benches along the pier for rest breaks
  3. 3.Visit during golden hour (an hour before sunset) for spectacular views and cooler temperatures in summer
  4. 4.Bring binoculars for boat-watching and bird-spotting,kids love identifying the different vessels on Lake St. Clair
  5. 5.The pier can be windy and exposed, so bring jackets even on warm days

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon/early evening on weekdays to avoid peak crowds. Summer evenings are magical for sunset viewing, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures perfect for longer walks without the summer heat.

What to Know

The park is free to visit with street parking available along Lake Shore Road. There are no food vendors on-site, so pack snacks and water, especially for longer visits.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round from 8 AM to 9 PM daily. Spring through fall are the most popular seasons, with summer offering the warmest weather for extended pier walks. Winter visits are possible but the pier can be icy and very cold due to wind off the lake.

Nearby Eats

Head to The Hill Seafood & Chop House (about 2 miles away) for family-friendly dining with a kids menu, or stop at Mack Daddy's Gourmet Meatballs & More for casual, kid-approved comfort food just a short drive down Lake Shore Road.

More Activities Near Grosse Pointe

Park

Windmill Pointe Park

4.7Free

Windmill Pointe Park is a beautiful lakefront gem on Lake St. Clair that offers families the perfect blend of beach fun, playground activities, and scenic waterfront views. With its well-maintained facilities, sandy beach access, and spacious picnic areas, it's an ideal spot for families looking to spend quality time outdoors while the kids burn off energy in a safe, picturesque setting.

Park

Neff Park

4.6Free

Neff Park is a classic neighborhood gem that offers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With well-maintained playground equipment, multiple baseball fields, tennis courts, and plenty of open green space for running around, it's a versatile spot where kids can burn energy while parents relax on the benches or join in the fun.

Park

Matthew C. Patterson Park

4.5Free

Matthew C. Patterson Park is a gorgeous lakefront gem where families can enjoy playground fun, waterfront picnics, and breathtaking Lake St. Clair views all in one visit. The well-maintained grounds offer plenty of space for kids to run, explore nature along the walking paths, and enjoy classic park play equipment while parents relax in one of the most scenic spots in Grosse Pointe.

Restaurant

The Helm at the Boll Life Center

5.0$$

The Helm at the Boll Life Center offers families a rare opportunity to enjoy waterfront dining right on Lake St. Clair's scenic shores. With a dedicated kids menu, spacious outdoor seating area, and stunning water views that keep children entertained, it's an ideal spot for a relaxed family meal where parents can enjoy quality food while kids watch boats pass by.