Detroit families will finally get to explore the long-awaited Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park when it officially opens this weekend.
The 22-acre park will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. both days at 1801 W. Jefferson in Detroit. The event is part of this year’s Detroit Harvest Fest and is free to attend.
Families can expect two full days of live entertainment, food trucks, and fall activities spread across four zones of fun along the river. The opening marks a major milestone for the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, which has been transforming the city’s waterfront into one of the most family-friendly destinations in the country.
A new centerpiece for Detroit families
Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park, formerly West Riverfront Park, has been redesigned with kids and families in mind. The park features the Delta Dental Play Garden, a sprawling play area that includes a 20-foot-tall bear slide, otter and beaver slides, and a collection of swings and climbing structures.
Younger children can explore the Ft. Wayne Tot Lot, which offers soft surfaces and sensory-focused play for toddlers. On hot days, the Gilbert Family Foundation Water Wonderland provides a splash pad with jets and sprays that keep kids cool throughout the summer.
Detroit Harvest Fest moves to the new park
This year’s Detroit Harvest Fest will take place at Ralph Wilson Park for the first time. The festival brings together local food trucks, live music, and fall-themed entertainment for all ages. Families are encouraged to come in costume and enjoy the free weekend celebration.
Harvest Fest has become one of the city’s favorite fall events and has even been recognized by the Detroit Metro Times for its massive food truck turnout. The move to the new park gives families more room to spread out and explore the riverfront while enjoying seasonal fun.
Getting there and what to know
The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free parking is available in lots along the riverwalk, and the event is accessible by foot, bike, or The People Mover.
A detailed map of the park is available on the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy’s website to help visitors plan their trip before the grand opening weekend.
More fun along the Detroit Riverfront
The new park joins several other kid-friendly destinations along the Detroit Riverwalk, including Valade Park, Mt. Elliott Park, and Cullen Plaza. The Detroit Riverwalk has been recognized as the best riverwalk in the nation for three years running. Families can make a full day of exploring the riverfront, from the beach to the splash pads to the iconic carousel.
Quick details about Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park
- Address: 1801 W. Jefferson Detroit
- Hours: 6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
- Parking: Free lots along the riverwalk
- Cost: Free
- Event: Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park Grand Opening featuring Detroit Harvest Fest
- Time and date: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26, 2025
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