A walkable downtown and lots of family-friendly activities make Northville a great choice for your next family outing.
Fun fact: Did you know that Northville is in two counties, Wayne and Oakland? (It has two parts — the city and the township.)
Check out the city center, Northville Square, with plenty of shops and places to dine outdoors. Historic buildings add to the scenic charm of this town — a must for your summer bucket list or staycation itinerary!
This article was recently updated on Sept. 18, 2024 by Metro Parent’s Audience Development Manager, Katina Beniaris. The update included her creating an interactive map to make it easier to find the best things to do near you. Questions? Please reach out to katina@metroparent.com.
Quick stats about Northville
- Population: 6,088
- County: Wayne, Oakland
- Median house value: $431,500
- Median rent: $1,245
- School district: Northville Public Schools
- Transportation: Walk Score 57/100 (Somewhat Walkable), Bike Score 53/100 (Bikeable)
- Random fact: In Niche’s 2024 Best Places rankings, Northville was ranked No. 16 in 2024 Best Places to Raise a Family in Michigan.
*Information provided by Redfin and Niche.
Fun things to do with kids in Northville
Northville has so many great activities for families! Whether you live there or want to visit the town for the day, check out these stories:
- Best Indoor Play Places Near Northville
- Best Playgrounds in Northville
- Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Northville
- Best Desserts in Northville
And here are our top picks for things to do with kids in Northville.
Northville Art House
- Address: 215 W. Cady St., Northville
The Northville Art House brings creativity to the heart of the community with dynamic exhibitions, programs, and events. Open to the public with free admission, it’s a great spot to explore local and international art. Make sure you don’t miss the whimsical art installations around town, including 50 unique fairy doors from across the globe/
Maybury State Park
- Address: 49601 Eight Mile Road, Northville
This state park, a metro Detroit gem, offers nearly 1,000 acres of adventure with scenic trails for biking, hiking, horseback riding, and more. Perfect for a family day trip, you can enjoy peaceful nature walks, thrilling rides, or even a relaxing picnic amidst beautiful surroundings. It’s the ideal escape for outdoor fun, right in the city’s backyard.
Northville Downs
- Address: 301 S. Center St., Northville
It’s off to the races at Northville Downs! Watch live harness racing, enjoy the excitement of the track, and maybe even grab a tasty bite while you’re at it. Perfect for a family day out that’s packed with thrills and a dash of horse-power.
Maybury Farm
- Address: 50165 Eight Mile Road, Northville
Saddle up for some barnyard fun at Maybury Farm! This working farm lets kids meet friendly animals, enjoy hayrides, and play on the coolest farm playground around. It’s farm-fresh fun that will have your kids grinning from ear to ear!
Unity Skatepark
- Address: Millennium Park at 45769 Six Mile Road, Northville
Got some skaters or scooter-loving kids in the family? The Northville Skatepark is where the action’s at! With ramps, rails, and bowls for every skill level, it’s the coolest place for kids to practice their tricks and have a wheel-y good time!
Browndog Barlor and Restaurant
- Address: 120 E. Main St., Northville
Head over to Browndog for brunch, dinner or what they are originally known for… ice cream! Bonus for grown-ups: boozy shakes and adult drink pouches, just a couple of the fun cocktail options available.
Garage Grill and Fuel Bar
- Address: 202 W. Main St., Northville
When you fancy classic American grill style fare for dinner, head to the Garage! The eatery is set in what was originally an old gas station right in the heart of downtown. Brunch is served on weekends.
Baby Baby Plus More
- Address: 153 E. Main St., Northville
This consignment shop sells newborn through junior items — including clothing, toys and books for kids. Located right in downtown Northville, with a selection that is always changing, you never know what you will find.
Rebecca’s Michigan Store
- Address: 136 N. Center St., Northville
This place is all things Michigan, featuring specialty Michigan-made products, including a selection of gift baskets, handmade soy candles, souvenirs and more. You can even grab some delicious snacks for your next family night, too.
Stemville
- Address: 141 N. Center St., Suite 201, Northville
At Stemville, kids get to be creative and use their imaginations, nurturing interest in STEM-based activities and having fun. With so much to explore, the possibilities are endless for what they can learn through their creativity. Stemville offers open play, private parties and other programs. Reservations are required, so call ahead.
Ford Field Park
- Address: 151 N. Griswold St., Northville
This perfect park is located within walking distance of the city center, next to Mill Race Village and along the Middle Rouge River. Run and play after grabbing a bite in town, or bring it over for a picnic in the park.
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