For college students, summer vacation is the best time to revisit old passions or experience new things at home. As a college student myself, who is home for the summer, these months off have given me time to think about what activities I love doing, especially in Macomb County. It has given me time to truly rediscover my hometown and what makes Macomb County so great! Here are my top picks for what to do during the summer in Macomb County.
1. Explore Macomb’s parks
As someone who loves the outdoors and relaxing in the sun, finding the perfect park is important. Macomb County has so many parks open for the public during the summer months, ranging from all different sizes. For instance, we have large parks like Stoney Creek Metropark in Shelby Township, or smaller parks like Macomb Corners Park in Macomb Township. Each park has something to offer, which is what I love about Macomb County’s parks. You could have a nice picnic with your friends or family, take your dog on a stroll through the outdoors, play sports, or even bird watch. The parks are a great way to get people together so they can enjoy the sense of calm and tranquility.
2. Summer blockbusters
The summer months are filled with heat and sweat. One of the best places to go to cool down while also enjoying something new and old are the movies. Going to the movies provides something for all ages whether that be the concessions or the classic movies themselves. I grew up going to the movies so in the summer months, I always try to make time to see the big new features while also enjoying the freshly popped popcorn and the comfortable chairs. But what makes going to the movies uniquely special is the overall atmospheric experience you can get. When everybody in the community comes together to see the next big movie it gives you a sense of togetherness and excitement. Whether it is the first time seeing the movie, falling in love with a classic movie you have seen hundreds of times, or even seeing that movie just one more time to experience that feeling all over again, you’ll always have a great time. Not many other places can give you that feeling. Here are some of my favorite theaters to visit: Emagine theaters in Macomb Township, AMC forum 30 in Sterling Heights, and MJR Digital Cinemas at the Mall at Partridge Creek.
3. Food frenzy
Macomb has a very diverse range of food options. Exploring those restaurants and food stands is always a fun and exciting thing to do in the summer. These months are perfect to open yourself up to the world of culinary delights. From waterfront dining to food trucks to having food in a lavender farm, Macomb has truly all the options anyone would ever want. As someone who considers oneself a foodie, finding the perfect go-to restaurant is important, but with living in Macomb County, that’s never an issue. Want to find some options for dining local? Check out the Eat Local Macomb Facebook page.
4. Enjoying the water
When summer temperatures start to rise, you can beat the heat by getting out on the water. Relaxing or adventurous, Macomb’s water-based activity selections are the perfect place to start. If you like swimming or boating, Macomb’s Metro parks are the key spot. If you enjoy a calmer day, try kayaking, canoeing, or even paddle boarding down the Clinton River. But if being on the water isn’t your thing, there are countless places to relax next to the water where you can read a book, or just have fun in the sun. Whatever your preference, a Macomb County summer offers endless opportunities to make a splash and create unforgettable memories in the water.
5. Live music
As an avid music lover, I am constantly on the lookout for live shows in Macomb. Whether it’s a big name performing at Freedom Hill, a fun band playing at Partridge Creek, or an up-and-coming group performing at a block party, I always have a fun time. But the true beauty lies in the immersive feeling of sound and emotion that you get from attending concerts around Macomb. It provides an indescribable feeling that makes you truly feel a part of the band and it doesn’t stop there. Attending live music also creates lasting memories. So next time you hear about a live music experience in Macomb County, grab a ticket and embark on a memorable moment that you’ll never forget.
The options are endless when it comes to finding something to do in Macomb during the summer months. Outside, inside, on the water, in the parks, by yourself, or with others. These summer months are the best time to explore your County, find all of its hidden gems and fall back in love with where you live. I know I have!
Will Husby is a marketing communications intern for Macomb County Planning and Economic Development
