Looking to get outside and enjoy some sunshine? Head on out to Hess-Hathaway, a historic park located right here in Oakland County! Amenities include a large playground, farm animals, trails, a community garden, and more. In 1985, Mrs. Myrtle Hess and family, donated her farm land and property to Waterford Township. The park was named after Mrs. Hess and is now operated by Waterford Township Parks and Recreation.
Hess-Hathaway Park attracts many visitors with their fully enclosed, accessible for all abilities kids’ playground. This playground was added in 2002 through donations from The National Council of Jewish Women of Greater Detroit. The playground features a farm theme to mimic the rest of the park, along with a sandbox and maze.
After a fun-filled time on the playground, kids can head down the path to check out the amazing farm animals. The farm animals range from horses and ponies to cute, furry rabbits. This Waterford Township Park is self-sustainable, they grow and farm 20-acres of their own hayfield.
Amenities & Events
Aside from the park features the children adore, Hess-Hathaway Park has even more to offer for the public: softball fields, trails around the outside of the park, and a community garden where residents can rent plots to grow vegetables. Entertainment for families also include free June concerts in the park and special events throughout the summer.
Birthday party packages are available and groups such as schools, churches, and scouts can rent the park by appointment only. Activities include:
- Lone Cedar Historical Farm House Tour
- Guided Animal Visit / Tour
- Hayride
- Campfire
Admission & Hours
And with FREE admission, what more could you want? Hess-Hathaway park does not charge an admission fee to enter the park; donations are accepted and appreciated.
Summer Hours
Open: April 15th – October 15th
7 Days a Week: 10am – 8pm
Winter Hours
Open: October 16th – April 14th
Friday – Tuesday: 10am – 4pm
Farm Animal Sponsorship
Waterford Township Parks and Recreation offers an opportunity to give back to the animals. The program, Farm Animal Sponsorship, includes a certificate of appreciation, recognition on the Waterford Township website, a special photo with the animal you have “adopted,” and lastly recognition at the farm on a plaque. You may choose from a variety of farm animals and complete a form to sponsor an animal.
Follow along with Waterford Parks and Recreation online or visit their Facebook and Twitter pages. For more information on Hess-Hathaway Park, follow along with them on Facebook.
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