Kensington Metropark

Get your yard and garden ready for the season with native flowers, grasses, trees and shrubs. Sun or shade, sand or clay- we’ll have choices for every yard. Plus, all plants for sale are Michigan native genotypes, which means they are more likely to thrive in our area and will be more beneficial to local wildlife. These plants come to us from the Wildtype Native Plant Nursery, which has an agreement with the Metroparks to gather seed throughout our various parks. You could actually be planting Kensington Metropark wildflowers in your own yard. Be sure to join in on one of the guided wildflower walks to learn about the importance of native plant species and to get ideas for your own garden. Come early, these beauties sell out fast!

Fun on the Farm is a children’s program series that focuses on different animals and aspects of farming. This week, children will meet the stars of our goat herd, from the silly to stubborn, but none of them gruff! Ages 2 - 6, no preregistration required.

Ever wanted to feed the pigs? Help farm staff to feed the pigs, goats, cows, and more. Young farmers will learn what each animal eats and why. Space is limited and fills up fast! Ages 6 - 15. Please preregister, (248) 684-8632

Fun on the Farm is a children’s program series that focuses on different animals and aspects of farming. This week, children will get to ride pedal tractors and enjoy a tractor-drawn hayride. Ages 2 - 6, no preregistration required.

For this month’s adventure, we’ll read “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister. We’ll have child-friendly indoor fishing, search for fish outside near the Kingfisher lagoon, and even make our own rainbow fish to take home. The Little Critters Nature Hour presents a new nature program every month geared towards young children and their families. Ages 3-5. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917.

Not sure what to buy for Father’s Day? Forget the mall and bring the kids out to Kensington Metropark. Each child will get to craft a one-of-a-kind nature-themed gift dads are sure to love. No preregistration needed, just drop in to the Nature Center to get ready for dad’s special day. Fun for kids of all ages.

This program is for teens and adults, and skill areas offered include Blacksmithing, Woodworking, Bead Working, Fiber Arts, Pioneer Life Skills, Open Fire Cooking on the open hearth, camp fire, Dutch oven and brick oven. You will complete a project to take home during the class. Located at the Kensington Living History Village, parking available at the Farm Center. Ages 14 and up. Please preregister at http://www.chiefpontiacprograms.org/Skills_Experience.html. Time: Saturday 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 1 - 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Ever wanted to feed the pigs? Help farm staff to feed the pigs, goats, cows, and more. Young farmers will learn what each animal eats and why. Space is limited and fills up fast! Ages 6 - 15. Please preregister, (248) 684-8632

This program is for teens and adults, and skill areas offered include Blacksmithing, Woodworking, Bead Working, Fiber Arts, Pioneer Life Skills, Open Fire Cooking on the open hearth, camp fire, Dutch oven and brick oven. You will complete a project to take home during the class. Located at the Kensington Living History Village, parking available at the Farm Center. Ages 14 and up. Please preregister at http://www.chiefpontiacprograms.org/Skills_Experience.html. Time: Saturday 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.; 1 - 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Dads get a free ride today when they take their children on the hayride, as a thank you to those that work very hard and still have time to come with their kids for a fun afternoon at the farm.

Come enjoy an afternoon on the water and learn the basic skills and safety of one of the fastest growing paddle sports. We’ll cover the basic techniques of forward stroke, reverse stroke, and turning on the stand-up paddleboard. Safety and self-rescue will be emphasized. All equipment is provided and included in program price. Meet at Kensington Metropark Maple Beach and come dressed for the water. Ages 10-16.

Come enjoy an evening out on the water and learn the basic skills and safety of one of the fastest growing paddle sports. We’ll cover the basic techniques of forward stroke, reverse stroke, and turning on the stand-up paddleboard. Safety and self-rescue will be emphasized. All equipment is provided and included in program price. Meet at Kensington Metropark Maple Beach and come dressed for the water. Ages 17 and older.

Come learn about bat basics and debunk myths such as: Do bats drink blood? Will bats get stuck in your hair? Find out about how bats benefit humans in many meaningful ways and what you can do to help bats in your area during the presentation inside the Kensington Metropark Nature Center. Then head out with us for a short hike to see these amazing flying acrobats in action. Please dress for the weather—we will be outdoors rain or shine. Ages 6 and older. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

Enjoy a fun-filled weekend of farm-themed activities for the whole family. Tour the farm and view traditional demonstrations and games, listen to folk music, and visit with the food and craft vendors of our Festival Market. The Kensington Living History Village will be open, showcasing early pioneer skills. Make sure to take a horse-drawn hayride around the Farm’s wooded trails (Standard public hayride rates apply).

Enjoy a fun-filled weekend of farm-themed activities for the whole family. Tour the farm and view traditional demonstrations and games, listen to folk music, and visit with the food and craft vendors of our Festival Market. The Kensington Living History Village will be open, showcasing early pioneer skills. Make sure to take a horse-drawn hayride around the Farm’s wooded trails (Standard public hayride rates apply).

Fun on the Farm is a children’s program series that focuses on different animals and aspects of farming. This week, children will enjoy visiting our draft horses and learning how they get dressed for work. Ages 2 - 6, no preregistration required.

Celebrate summer with your little ones at this Nature Hour. We’ll hear the story of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle and learn about butterfly life cycles. We’ll search for some caterpillars outside, go on a butterfly scavenger hunt, and make a butterfly to take home. The Little Critters Nature Hour presents a new nature program every month geared towards young children and their families. Ages 3-5. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

This program is for teens and adults, and skill areas offered include Blacksmithing, Woodworking, Bead Working, Fiber Arts, Pioneer Life Skills, Open Fire Cooking on the open hearth, camp fire, Dutch oven and brick oven. You will complete a project to take home during the class. Located at the Kensington Living History Village, parking available at the Farm Center. Ages 14 and up. Please preregister at http://www.chiefpontiacprograms.org/Skills_Experience.html.

Fun on the Farm is a children’s program series that focuses on different animals and aspects of farming. This week, children will visit our pig pen and learn why pigs love to root in the mud. Ages 2 - 6, no preregistration required.

Bring your canoe or kayak for a guided tour of Kensington Metropark’s Kent Lake. We’ll start out at the West Boat Launch and paddle out to visit the American lotus, North America’s largest wildflower. Then we’ll take in the islands to view a little of Kensington’s history, including the remnants that are still visible from the water of a former vacation spot.  We’re sure to spot a variety of wildlife, such as waterfowl, fish and possibly an eagle or two.  A U.S. Coast Guard Approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is required and must be properly worn. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

As the historical encampment sets up, stop in to do your early bird shopping with the sutlers and skip the admission fee. Items available for purchase vary based on merchants, but typically include iron and tin ware, candles, clothing, trinkets, toys, woodcrafts, and leather goods of historical style. Fun for all ages.

Experience the sights and sounds of history during this Kensington Metropark tradition.  Visit with historically-dressed reenactors portraying civilian and military life of the Colonial era.  Be entertained with music and dramatizations, witness the firing of muskets and canons, and shop the booths of merchants where you may purchase hand crafted items made like they were in the 18th century. The annual Saturday afternoon battle is a must-see! See the brochure for the full schedule of events including military maneuvers and live music. Fun for all ages. Time: Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Experience the sights and sounds of history during this Kensington Metropark tradition.  Visit with historically-dressed reenactors portraying civilian and military life of the Colonial era.  Be entertained with music and dramatizations, witness the firing of muskets and canons, and shop the booths of merchants where you may purchase hand crafted items made like they were in the 18th century. The annual Saturday afternoon battle is a must-see! See the brochure for the full schedule of events including military maneuvers and live music. Fun for all ages. Time: Saturday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Fun on the Farm is a children’s program series that focuses on different animals and aspects of farming. This week, children will meet the stars of our goat herd, from silly to stubborn, but none of them gruff. Ages 2 - 6, no preregistration required.

This program is for teens and adults, and skill areas offered include Blacksmithing, Woodworking, Bead Working, Fiber Arts, Pioneer Life Skills, Open fire cooking on the open hearth, camp fire, Dutch oven and brick oven. You will complete a project to take home during the class. Located at the Kensington Living History Village, parking available at the Farm Center. Ages 14 and up. Please preregister at http://www.chiefpontiacprograms.org/Skills_Experience.html. This program is for teens and adults, and skill areas offered include Blacksmithing, Woodworking, Bead Working, Fiber Arts, Pioneer Life Skills, Open fire cooking on the open hearth, camp fire, Dutch oven and brick oven. You will complete a project to take home during the class. Located at the Kensington Living History Village, parking available at the Farm Center. Ages 14 and up. Please preregister at http://www.chiefpontiacprograms.org/Skills_Experience.html.

This program is for teens and adults, and skill areas offered include Blacksmithing, Woodworking, Bead Working, Fiber Arts, Pioneer Life Skills, Open fire cooking on the open hearth, camp fire, Dutch oven and brick oven. You will complete a project to take home during the class. Located at the Kensington Living History Village, parking available at the Farm Center. Ages 14 and up. Please preregister at http://www.chiefpontiacprograms.org/Skills_Experience.html. This program is for teens and adults, and skill areas offered include Blacksmithing, Woodworking, Bead Working, Fiber Arts, Pioneer Life Skills, Open fire cooking on the open hearth, camp fire, Dutch oven and brick oven. You will complete a project to take home during the class. Located at the Kensington Living History Village, parking available at the Farm Center. Ages 14 and up. Please preregister at http://www.chiefpontiacprograms.org/Skills_Experience.html.

August 21st is National Senior Citizen Day. Seniors come out to the farm and enjoy a relaxing hayride through the woods and along the river. Wheelchair lift available with advanced notice.

Wake up with the birds! Birding is a worldwide recreational activity enjoyed by millions. Start a new hobby or hone your birding skills. For beginners, an indoor program covering binocular use and basic bird identification will be offered at 8:30. More advanced birders can join the group at 9:00 at the Kensington Metropark Nature Center for the outdoor walk. Bring your own binoculars and favorite morning beverage. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow and hot beverages may be purchased at the Nature Center. Please dress for the weather—we will be outdoors rain or shine. Ages 12 and older. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

Fun on the Farm is a children’s program series that focuses on different animals and aspects of farming. This week, children will enjoy visiting our draft horses and learning how they get dressed for work. Ages 2 - 6, no preregistration required.

Ever wanted to feed the pigs? Help farm staff to feed the pigs, goats, cows, and more. Young farmers will learn what each animal eats and why. Space is limited and fills up fast! Ages 6 - 15. Please preregister, (248) 684-8632

Grandma and Grandpa get a free ride when they take their grandkids on the hayride today, as a thank you to those that work very hard and still have time to bring their family for a fun afternoon at the farm. Wheelchair lift available with advanced notice..

Fun on the Farm is a children’s program series that focuses on different animals and aspects of farming. This week, children will meet our flock of chickens and check for eggs too. Ages 2 - 6, no preregistration required.

Come learn about bat basics and debunk myths such as: Do bats drink blood? Will bats get stuck in your hair? Find out about how bats benefit humans in many meaningful ways and what you can do to help bats in your area during the presentation inside the Kensington Metropark Nature Center. Then head out with us for a short hike to see these amazing flying acrobats in action. Please dress for the weather—we will be outdoors rain or shine. Ages 6 and older. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

Did you know that an apple blossom is Michigan’s state flower? We’ll read a story about how apple trees grow and how they can be made into some tasty fall treats. Sample some delicious Michigan-grown apples and use a cider press to make apple cider. We’ll even make some apple-themed art. The Little Critters Nature Hour presents a new nature program every month geared towards young children and their families. Ages 3-5. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

Did you know that an apple blossom is Michigan’s state flower? We’ll read a story about how apple trees grow and how they can be made into some tasty fall treats. Sample some delicious Michigan-grown apples and use a cider press to make apple cider. We’ll even make some apple-themed art. The Little Critters Nature Hour presents a new nature program every month geared towards young children and their families. Ages 3-5. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

This program is for teens and adults, and skill areas offered include Blacksmithing, Woodworking, Bead Working, Fiber Arts, Pioneer Life Skills, Open Fire Cooking on the open hearth, camp fire, Dutch oven and brick oven. You will complete a project to take home during the class. Located at the Kensington Living History Village, parking available at the Farm Center. Ages 14 and up. Please preregister at http://www.chiefpontiacprograms.org/Skills_Experience.html.

Ever wanted to feed the pigs? Help farm staff to feed the pigs, goats, cows, and more. Young farmers will learn what each animal eats and why. Space is limited and fills up fast! Ages 6 - 15. Please preregister, (248) 684-8632

This program is for teens and adults, and skill areas offered include Blacksmithing, Woodworking, Bead Working, Fiber Arts, Pioneer Life Skills, Open Fire Cooking on the open hearth, camp fire, Dutch oven and brick oven. You will complete a project to take home during the class. Located at the Kensington Living History Village, parking available at the Farm Center. Ages 14 and up. Please preregister at http://www.chiefpontiacprograms.org/Skills_Experience.html.

Fun on the Farm is a children’s program series that focuses on different animals and aspects of farming. This week, children will get to ride pedal tractors and enjoy a tractor-drawn hayride. Ages 2 - 6, no preregistration required.

Whooo is hiding in the woods? Owls, of course! We’ll begin our program indoors with an introduction to the owl species that are common here in Southeastern Michigan. Look at real mounts and listen to owl calls to familiarize yourself with the species you may encounter. We’ll also discuss life strategies and use some hands-on demonstrations to highlight the incredible adaptations of our feathered friends. Following this crash course in all things owl, embark on a guided moonlit stroll to search for owls and other nocturnal creatures. Please dress for the weather—we will be outdoors rain or shine. Ages 8 and older. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

Wake up with the birds! Birding is a worldwide recreational activity enjoyed by millions. Start a new hobby or hone your birding skills. For beginners, an indoor program covering binocular use and basic bird identification will be offered at 8:30. More advanced birders can join the group at 9:00 at the Kensington Metropark Nature Center for the outdoor walk. Bring your own binoculars and favorite morning beverage. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow and hot beverages may be purchased at the Nature Center. Please dress for the weather—we will be outdoors rain or shine. Ages 12 and older. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

Enjoy a fun-filled weekend of harvest-themed activities for the whole family. Tour the farm and view traditional demonstrations, visit with the food and craft vendors of our Festival Market, and be entertained by Rosco the Clown. The Kensington Living History Village will be open, showcasing early pioneer skills. Make sure to take a horse-drawn hayride to and from the pumpkin patch to pick out the perfect pumpkins for you and your family. Pumpkins and gourds are priced per size. Standard public hayride rates apply.

Have a blast with fall color!  Each registered participant will get a t-shirt and a chance to get doused in non-toxic color powder. Walk anytime between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to find the five color blast stops along a 1.25 mile route. Refreshments available for purchase before and after the walk. Preregister by September 24 to get your choice of T-shirt size. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

Enjoy a fun-filled weekend of harvest-themed activities for the whole family. Tour the farm and view traditional demonstrations, visit with the food and craft vendors of our Festival Market, and be entertained by Rosco the Clown. The Kensington Living History Village will be open, showcasing early pioneer skills. Make sure to take a horse-drawn hayride to and from the pumpkin patch to pick out the perfect pumpkins for you and your family. Pumpkins and gourds are priced per size. Standard public hayride rates apply.

During this evening program, costume-clad little ones will experience Halloween-themed interpretive stops along the Kensington Metropark Nature Trails. Bring a bag or bucket and collect treats at each stop. Upon your return to the festively-decorated Nature Center enjoy cider and donuts and fall activities. Program is geared toward younger children. Tours leave at scheduled times. Advance registration is required. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917

Get in the Halloween spirit! Pick out a pumpkin and a design and have fun carving it in our festively-decorated event room. Then enjoy cider and donuts. We’ll party ‘til the pumpkins run out!  Fee covers one pumpkin and refreshments.

Fun on the Farm is a children’s program series that focuses on different animals and aspects of farming. This week, it’s time for toddlers to “trick or treat” all around the farm, play Halloween games and visit a “haunted” barn. Our special spooky party includes an animal parade that you can join in! Costumes are encouraged and appreciated!  Ages 2 - 6.

Will you be ready to head for the wilderness when the zombies attack?  Discover the truth about real life zombies in nature. Then learn some of the skills you’ll need, such as shelter-building and fire-starting, to survive this and other survival emergencies. Dress for the weather and possibly get a little dirty. Ages 8 and older. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917.

Ever wanted to feed the pigs? Help farm staff to feed the pigs, goats, cows, and more. Young farmers will learn what each animal eats and why.  Ages 6 - 15. Please preregister, 248-684-8632.

This month we’ll focus on our nocturnal neighbors and discover why they are so amazing. We’ll look at small bats, large bats, and everything in between! Listen to the story of “Stellaluna” by Janell Cannon and enjoy some bat-themed activities and crafts. The Little Critters Nature Hour presents a new nature program every month geared towards young children and their families. Ages 3-5. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917.

Farm Traditions is a seasonal program that teaches the skills and activities of the farm homestead. This month, learn how to make a holiday wreath using materials around your yard. Watch demonstrations of different styles and greenery and make a small wreath to take home. Ages 12 and up. Please preregister, 248-684-8632.

Ever wanted to feed the pigs? Help farm staff to feed the pigs, goats, cows, and more. Young farmers will learn what each animal eats and why.  Ages 6 - 15. Please preregister, 248-684-8632.

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience you can have no place else.  At Kensington Metropark Nature Center, a variety of winter songbirds will eagerly fly to your hand for seeds. Learn about why this happens and how to recognize the birds you’ll see during this one-hour program. Then take a short guided walk along the nature trails to meet your new feathered friends. We’ll provide all the seed you’ll need, but you might want to bring your camera.  Fun for all ages. Dress for the weather. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917.

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience you can have no place else.  At Kensington Metropark Nature Center, a variety of winter songbirds will eagerly fly to your hand for seeds. Learn about why this happens and how to recognize the birds you’ll see during this one-hour program. Then take a short guided walk along the nature trails to meet your new feathered friends. We’ll provide all the seed you’ll need, but you might want to bring your camera.  Fun for all ages. Dress for the weather. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917.

Wake up with the birds! Birding is a worldwide recreational activity enjoyed by millions. Start a new hobby or hone your birding skills. For beginners, an indoor program covering binocular use and basic bird identification will be offered at 8:30. More advanced birders can join the group at 9:00 at the Kensington Metropark Nature Center for the outdoor walk. Bring your own binoculars and favorite morning beverage. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow and hot beverages may be purchased at the Nature Center. Please dress for the weather—we will be outdoors rain or shine. Ages 12 and older. Please preregister, (810) 227-8917.

Ever wanted to feed the pigs? Help farm staff to feed the pigs, goats, cows, and more. Young farmers will learn what each animal eats and why. Ages 6 - 15. Please preregister, 248-684-8632.

There’s no better place to celebrate the holiday season than at the Kensington Metropark Nature Center! Step into our winter wonderland and be surrounded by the sights, smells and sounds of the holiday season. Make s’mores by the campfire and enjoy a beautiful winter’s eve outdoors, then warm up inside with a steaming cup of hot chocolate and spend some quality time with your family making holiday crafts. Of course, no holiday celebration would be complete without a visit with Santa! Be sure to bring your wish lists and a camera. Start a new family tradition and spread some Holiday cheer with us here at the Nature Center. Program is geared toward young children. Advanced ticket sales. Please preregister, 810-227-8917.

Ever wanted to feed the pigs? Help farm staff to feed the pigs, goats, cows, and more. Young farmers will learn what each animal eats and why. Ages 6 - 15. Please preregister, 248-684-8632.

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience you can have no place else. At Kensington Metropark Nature Center, a variety of winter songbirds will eagerly fly to your hand for seeds. Learn about why this happens and how to recognize the birds you’ll see during this one-hour program. Then take a short guided walk along the nature trails to meet your new feathered friends. We’ll provide all the seed you’ll need, but you might want to bring your camera. All ages. Dress for the weather. Please preregister, 810-227-8917.