The medieval sport of archery is making a comeback in Farmington Hills this summer. The new Riley Archery Range is the country’s first community-based range, says Bryan Farmer, the city’s special services deputy director.
While archery clubs aren’t in short supply, “People don’t always know whether they can go into those places, or they don’t feel comfortable going in,” he notes.
Not so at Riley! Kids can channel their inner Katniss at classes for beginners and intermediaries, youth leagues and open-shooting lanes. It also has birthday party options, annual membership discounts, punch cards and equipment rentals.
“People think it’s hard, so they don’t go out and do it,” Farmer says. “I have to make it clear: All you have to do is show up, and there’ll be people there to help you.”
A trained range master is always on site to give advice and supervise techniques. And the archery range is fun for all ages, Farmer stresses. He says his own daughters, ages 10 and 9, started shooting arrows at age 5. “If they’re strong enough to hold the bow back,” they’re old enough to hone their archery skills.
Riley, which opened June 13 and hosts its grand opening July 13, is a hub for Michigan archers of any age and skill level, from preschoolers to skilled hunters. The pergola-style range – designed for up to 30-yard shots – is wheelchair accessible and allows up to eight archers at a time to shoot under an awning or outdoors. The open-shooting season runs March-November.
The free grand opening is 5:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, July 13. Visit for archery demonstrations, gift card giveaways and to learn about what the range and local clubs offer.
Riley Archery Range
Address: 24915 Farmington Road, Stables Art Studio, Heritage Park
Phone: 248-477-1135
Open shooting hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday and Tuesday-Wednesday, 9 a.m.-noon and 2-5 p.m. Saturday (hours expand after August; closed July 4)
Open shooting costs: $5/ages 17 and younger and 55-plus, $6/adults
Other costs: $5/rental for recurve or compound bow plus five arrows (or bring yours); $12-$55/intro and beginner classes (ages 8-plus; call ahead)
