Once part of Royal Oak Township, Madison Heights is now an independent city in Michigan's south-east. When it was incorporated in 1955, it was one of the largest suburban communities in the Metro Detroit area. Today, it’s home to bustling shopping centres, family-friendly entertainment and leafy riverside parks.
Things to do in Madison Heights
Encompassing 15 hectares on the banks of the Red Run is the Red Oaks Nature Center, which is home to native wildlife and environmental-themed displays. You can stretch your legs on the paved walking and cycling trail, explore along the sensory path or coincide your visit with one of the naturalist-led hikes. On the other side of Red Run is Ambassador Park, where you’ll find a children’s playground and tennis courts.
Featuring nine holes, the Jerry Matthews-designed Red Oaks Golf Course is suitable for players of all abilities and offers scenic views across Madison Heights. In addition to traditional golf, you can test your skills at FootGolf, which combines elements of both golf and soccer. After your game, refuel with a steak at the adjacent Texas Roadhouse.
Madison Heights is a convenient base for discovering the sights of Detroit and learning about its role in the automotive industry as “Motor City”. Admire the Gothic architecture of the Detroit Masonic Temple and get up close to classic cars at the Henry Ford Museum, then experience the birthplace of Motown at Hitsville U.S.A. Historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries are exhibited at Greenfield Village.
Getting around Madison Heights
Madison Heights is around 15 minutes’ drive from Detroit and 30 minutes from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Buses connect to Madison Heights while renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.