Things to Do in Clarkston MI
It’s a walk in the park, a treetop adventure or the simple pleasure of birdwatching. Choose your adventure among acres of pristine parks in townships all around Clarkston. Pack a picnic and enjoy pavilions, hiking trails, tennis and sports fields providing play for softball, baseball, soccer and many others. Fire up a grill, relax and enjoy the view.
Parks & Recreation
The Clarkston area is home to numerous parks and places to unwind. Depot Park, located on Depot Road in downtown Clarkston, includes a beautiful gazebo and playground for children to play.
In Independence Township, the Renee Przybylski Memorial Spray Park is under construction. Other aquatic facilities include Deer Lake Beach & Bay Court Park.
Oakland County boasts numerous parks and trails that are great for fishing, biking, camping, geocaching, picnicking, and even places for special occasions, such as weddings and banquets.
Springfield Charter Township offers numerous athletic opportunities for area youth, such as baseball, basketball and softball. In addition, the township has several parks, preserves, an overlook and a community center for residents to enjoy.
Moreover, the area’s Metroparks comprises 13 scenic parks, which span more than 25,000 acres of land throughout Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties.
Libraries
Innovate, enrich and educate. That’s the motto of the Clarkston Independence Library District. With programs for all ages, there’s never a dull moment. A Cyber Seniors workshop offers internet instruction, and toddlers find delight at Little Gigglers Storytime with songs and crafts. Check the library calendar for year-round programming, including free online courses for library card holders. Don’t forget the books: Find a quiet nook and settle in for a good read. The Springfield Township Library offers a nice collection of books and reference materials, as well as space for studying, meetings and computer classes.
DTE Energy Music Theatre
DTE Energy Music Theatre has been named as the nation’s most attended amphitheater by Amusement Business/Billboard for 21 years. Opening on Memorial Day since 1992, it’s a state-of-the-art venue with seating for more than 15,000 fans. Top-billed entertainers include rockers, acoustic acts and rising stars.
Running & Walking
Walk, bike or run for a cause. The Amyloidosis Foundation hosts a 5K/10K each fall, while runners from all across Michigan lace up their sneakers for the half-marathon Brooksie Way. In November, it’s the Clarkston State Bank Back Road Half Marathon. Have a heart for kids? The SKAMP Walk & Roll (Special Camp for Kids) raises money for children. Roll along on bike, or make a pledge and walk. It all begins the first Sunday in May at Depot Park.
Golf
Fore! Find a great game of golf at lovely private and public courses situated around Clarkston and Oakland County. Pristine greens and scenic vistas await. Visit the Captain’s Club at Woodfield for play on a Ray Floyd signature 18-hole public golf course. Learn more on the Chamber’s website, featuring links to area courses.
Holiday Parades
Honor men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving the country at the annual Memorial Day Parade hosted by Campbell-Richmond American Legion Post 63; find fanfare and excitement at the City of Clarkston Fourth of July parade; and don’t miss the Clarkston Labor Day parade. Bring your Christmas wish list and meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus at the Holiday Lights Parade in December.
Art in the Village
Fall leaves bring the colorful palette of Art in the Village, an autumn tradition hosted by Clarkston Historical Society. Every September in historic Depot Park, select artists and artisans display their creations. The event brings thousands of shoppers to downtown Clarkston Village for fun times, treasures and tasty goodies.
Food Truck Rally
This early summer gathering is perfect for the whole family! Hosted by the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce, this well-loved event is home of 16 food trucks, live music, children’s activities, a beer tent with local brews, and much more. This is an event you won’t want to miss. Come hungry, Clarkston!
Clarkston Area Farmers Market
Colorful sunshine-fresh veggies are bursting with wholesome goodness at the Clarkston Area Farmers Market. Fill your basket with locally grown food and merchandise crafted by local artisans. Open Saturdays June 9 through Oct. 13, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Concerts in the Park
Revel in the sounds of fun and music at Concerts in the Park. Held at the Depot in the Village of Clarkston, artists perform on the last three Fridays in June and the first three Fridays in July.
Shiver by the River
Shiver by the River is one of the coolest events in town! Sponsored by Positively Clarkston, kiddos and grownups can warm up with chili, hot cocoa, snowshoe demonstrations and ice-skating. It’s a bundle of fun and a happy winter pick-me-up held every January in the Village of Clarkston.
Taste of Clarkston
Join the party and sample fantastic fare at the annual Taste of Clarkston. More than 50 vendors, food trucks and restaurants line downtown Main Street, offering tidbits, small plates and tasty fare. Co-hosted by the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce and Independence Township Parks & Recreation, enjoy exhibits, music and a kids’ zone.
Holiday Market
Bundle up the family and join the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce and Independence Township Parks, Recreation & Seniors at the newly renovated Brady Lodge in Bay Court Park. This is a fun-filled afternoon of holiday shopping from over 40 vendors and free family friendly activities which include, s’more roasting, horse drawn wagon rides, free hot cocoa, caroling, food trucks and more!