Robert C. Valade Park

From Industrial to Incredible: Detroit's Riverfront Site

Next to Detroit's East Riverfront, Robert C. Valade Park now occupies what was once an industrial site. This 3.2-acre park sits where a cement factory and buoy storage yard once stood, now functioning as a community space that contrasts with its industrial past.

The park connects other riverfront locations like Stroh River Place and the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre, forming part of Detroit's RiverWalk that stretches 5.5 miles along the water.

What You'll Find Here

You can sink your toes into a sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas - right in the heart of Detroit. It's a nice spot to relax while watching boats cruise along the Detroit River.

If you're bringing the kids, they'll make a beeline for the colorful children's playscape built right into the sand. The musical garden nearby has interactive instruments for children to play with.

The community barbecue pavilion features built-in grills for family gatherings and cookouts. When temperatures drop, the park's fire pit areas come alive. The outdoor fireplaces and wood fire pit tables provide gathering spots during Michigan winters.

Standout Spots

At the heart of Valade Park stands The Shed, a 3,600-square-foot multipurpose space that houses food services, events, and various programs. Here you can use restrooms, connect to free Wi-Fi, play board games, or find a spot to catch up on work.

A notable feature is Detroit's only floating bar, named "Bob's Barge" - an unusual summer spot for waterfront dining. Active types can show off their skills at the sand volleyball court, while others might prefer the oversized outdoor games like giant chess and Connect Four.

The park shifts with the seasons, offering hot drinks and marshmallow roasting in fall, while winter brings synthetic ice curling and free sled rentals. When snow blankets the city, the park's hill transforms into a popular sledding area that draws visitors of all ages.

A Community's Vision

The park's revival story wouldn't be possible without the Molly and Mark Valade Family Fund and other community organizations that saw potential where others might have seen just another abandoned industrial space.

Good to Know Before You Go

The park never closes - it's open 24/7, with security staff maintaining a visible presence to keep things safe and orderly. There's a dedicated parking lot, however it fills up quickly during popular events, so consider arriving early.

Your four-legged friends are welcome here, but remember to keep them leashed and clean up after them using the waste containers provided. The restrooms are clean, well-maintained, and handicap accessible - a small detail that makes a big difference.

All year long, the park hosts a variety of events from fitness classes to cultural celebrations. Keep an eye out for favorites like the Fire and Ice Festival, 313 Day, and Lunar New Year celebrations that bring the community together in this once-forgotten corner of Detroit.