Did you know that Sterling Heights is not only the second largest suburb in Metro Detroit, but also a vibrant hub of kid-friendly activities? Nestled in the heart of Macomb County, this bustling town offers an abundance of options for families seeking quality education, lush parks and engaging community events.
Sterling Heights boasts a variety of top-rated schools that cater to the educational needs, along with well-maintained parks and recreational areas. The metro Detroit suburb also hosts great events. Some of our favorites include summer festival Sterlingfest, and their annual Memorial Day parade.
Read on to read more about Sterling Heights in our family guide.
Quick stats about Sterling Heights
- Population: 133,744
- County: Macomb
- Median house value: $243,400
- Median rent: $1,215
- School district: Utica Community Schools
- Top schools: Messmore Elementary School (A), Bemis Junior High School (A-minus), Utica High School (B-plus)
- Transportation: Walk Score 33/100 (Car Dependent), Bike Score 37/100 (Somewhat Bikeable)
- Random fact: In Niche’s 2024 Best Places rankings, Sterling Heights was ranked No. 2 in Best Places to Live in Macomb County.
*Information provided by Redfin and Niche.
Fun things to do with kids in Sterling Heights
Sterling Heights 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 in Sterling Heights
- Best Playgrounds in Sterling Heights
- Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Sterling Heights
- Best Over-The-Top Desserts in Sterling Heights
And here are our top picks for things to do with kids in Sterling Heights.
City of Sterling Heights Art Walk
Sterling Heights loves supporting the arts so much that they even have a map featuring their public artwork across town. Some of the artwork featured can be found in the Sterling Heights Public Library.
Play-Place Autism & Special Needs Center
- Address: 39337 Mound Road, Sterling Heights
This all-inclusive play facility caters to individuals of all ages and abilities. Families can find diverse attractions such as a Lego castle, rock wall and specialized rooms for art, computers and therapy.
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
- Address: 12050 Hall Road, Sterling Heights
This gigantic trampoline park offers so much indoor fun with trampolines, ropes course, climbing walls and more.
Dodge Park
- Address: 40620 Utica Road, Sterling Heights
This popular Sterling Heights park features two modern playgrounds with slides and climbing sculptures. During the summer, families can stay cool at Dodge Park Splash Pad, and enjoy their Dodge Park Thursdays with a farmer’s market, free concerts, food trucks and more.
Farmstead Park
If you’re looking for a quieter atmosphere, Farmstead Park has all that you need including a playground, picnic areas and basketball courts. Keep an eye out for signs leading to the Clinton River Trail System if you want to explore some nature (or head over to nearby Dodge Park).
Beaver Creek Park
The playground at Beaver Creek Park lets kids of all ages play. There’s even a smaller area dedicated for toddlers.
City Burger
This burger joint stands out with fun burgers named after cities like The New Yorker or The Detroiter. Classic dishes on the kid’s menu include chicken tenders and sliders.
Ike’s Restaurant
Ike’s Restaurant serves Lebanese cuisine great for the whole family from lamb kebabs to chicken shawarma. A kid’s menu is available with options like a cheeseburger and chicken strips.
Portillo’s Sterling Heights
Yes, the Chicago-born hot dog chain is now in Michigan! You have plenty of options for the family to choose from but you can’t leave without grabbing a slice of their famous, homemade chocolate cake.
Choco Mania Cafe
- Address: 44621 Mound Road, Sterling Heights
Get ready for a sugar rush with this European cafe packed with popular items like crepes and rolled ice cream. Treat yourself to their Speciality Sundae cups topped with Oreo cookies, strawberries and more.
Read more: Forget The Rainbow, Taste The Globe at Choco Mania Cafe
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