Just a short drive east of Grand Rapids, Ada, Michigan, is a true outdoor oasis. Tucked between the Grand River and Thornapple River, this charming village is known for its lush parks, connected trail systems, and strong commitment to preserving natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for weekend adventure, family-friendly recreation, or a quiet place to enjoy nature, Ada has it all.

Ada Park

We start our Ada, Michigan parks journey at Ada Park, a vibrant 57-acre community space that has something for everyone. It’s the kind of park where you can spend the whole day walking the paved and natural trails, watching your kids play on the playground, or enjoying a picnic under a pavilion. For those who love sports, you’ll find tennis and pickleball courts, basketball hoops, and fields for soccer and softball. There’s even a peaceful fishing pond and a wooded area with more than 200 trees that offer shade and beauty in every season.

Ada Park also connects to the Grand River Natural Area, giving you access to even more trails, river views, and quiet corners to explore. It’s a favorite for families, paddlers, joggers, and anyone looking to get outside without going far from home.

Roselle Park

Just northeast of Downtown Ada is Roselle Park, a sprawling 240-acre preserve that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and interesting history. Once the site of the Ada Beef Company, Roselle Park is now one of the most scenic places in Ada to walk, run, or simply enjoy the view.

At the heart of the park is a retired silo that’s been transformed into an observation tower, offering panoramic views of the wetlands and forested areas below. Visitors love the mix of paved and grass trails that weave through open fields and wooded paths. A canoe landing makes it a great spot to launch onto the river, and there’s a rock climbing wall, modern playground, and restroom facilities on site. In winter, it becomes a hub for cross-country skiing.

Legacy Park

Right in the center of Ada’s bustling downtown sits Legacy Park, a newer addition to the village’s park system. Situated along River Street and just steps from the shops and restaurants, this waterfront green space has quickly become a favorite gathering place.

Legacy Park features beautifully landscaped walking paths, an inviting playground, and the Van Andel Family Pavilion. During the summer, the park comes alive with “Music on the Lawn,” a weekly concert series that brings the community together on Wednesday evenings. Located next to the Ada Social District, it’s an ideal spot to grab a drink, meet friends, and enjoy the relaxed, small-town vibe.

Cascade Peace Park

If you’re looking for a quieter, more immersive nature experience, Cascade Peace Park is a must-visit. This nearly 200-acre preserve is filled with mature hardwood forests, winding streams, and wetlands. The trail system here which is about four miles in total, is perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Unlike more developed parks, Cascade Peace Park offers a sense of peaceful seclusion. It’s a favorite for locals who want to escape into nature without straying far from home.

Seidman Park

Seidman Park, one of the largest in the area, spans over 400 acres and includes a diverse mix of landscapes, including woodlands, wetlands, and open fields. With nearly five miles of trails, it’s a go-to for hikers, dog walkers, and winter sports enthusiasts.

The park is bordered by Ada’s paved multi-use trail, which connects you to nearby Roselle Park, Downtown Ada, and beyond. This makes Seidman Park an excellent stop on a longer walk or bike ride through the area.

Ada, Michigan Parks Update!

One of the most exciting developments in Ada is currently underway. The Covered Bridge Park expansion is a multi-million-dollar project designed to better connect Downtown Ada’s most loved green spaces, including Legacy Park, the iconic Ada Covered Bridge, and new recreational areas west of the Thornapple River.

Slated to include boardwalk trails, a splash pad, a kayak launch, pickleball courts, a dog park, a veterans’ memorial, and new picnicking areas, this park promises to become a major community centerpiece. Construction began in early 2025 and is part of the larger $8.5 million “Connecting Community Campaign,” focused on bringing people, places, and nature closer together.

This is Where Trails and Community Meet

What makes Ada, Michigan parks special is how everything is connected. You can spend the morning hiking with your dog, the afternoon listening to live music by the river, and the evening catching up with friends in the Social District, all without ever getting in your car.

With over 1,000 acres of public land and miles of trails, Ada offers a lifestyle that blends the beauty of West Michigan’s natural landscapes with the energy of a growing village. Whether you’re here for a weekend or considering making Ada home, its parks are a great place to start.