Discover Fenton through its river and park landscapes, protected natural areas, and local history. The Shiawassee Riverwalk runs through three parks; the Dauner Martin Nature Sanctuary and the A.J. Phillips Fenton Museum offer other clearly distinct themes. When planning your trip, it’s worth deciding first whether you’d like to focus your stay on nature and parks, a summer event, or the town’s history. These priorities can also give your search for a hotel in Fenton a clear direction.

Riverwalk, parks and the Shiawassee River

In Fenton, the Shiawassee Riverwalk runs through O’Donnell Park, Millpond Park and Rackham Park. Millpond Park is next to Fenton City Hall on the Shiawassee River.

In Fenton, the Shiawassee River is both a state and a national water trail. This adds a second perspective to the river theme: while the Riverwalk includes the parks listed above, the water trail designation applies to the river. When choosing a focus for your trip, you can therefore distinguish between the route through the parks and the water trail classification. Millpond Park is part of the Riverwalk and is also the venue for the concert series held on summer Thursday evenings. If you’re planning a summer evening in Fenton, you can enjoy both the Riverwalk and the concert program at this location. This lets you combine an interest in nature and culture while you’re there.

Protected nature and a clear visitor rule

The Dauner Martin Nature Sanctuary is located in the city of Fenton and covers 155 acres of protected land. The land was donated to ensure its permanent protection. Its protected status makes it a nature destination in its own right, alongside the Riverwalk through the parks. Dogs are allowed on walks but must be kept on a leash. If you’re traveling with a dog, keep this specific rule in mind when visiting the sanctuary.

Historic streetscape and school history

Downtown Fenton has largely retained its historic appearance. The A.J. Phillips Fenton Museum preserves the names of all Fenton graduates since 1869. This offers two distinct ways to explore the town’s history: its appearance shapes the downtown area, while the list of names provides a specific connection to local school history. You can include the streetscape and school history as separate themes when planning your trip.

Summer evenings and performances

The “Concert in the Park” series takes place at Millpond Park on summer Thursday evenings. Silver Lake Park also hosts performances in the summer, organized by the Silver Lake Ski Club. The concert series at Millpond Park takes place on summer Thursday evenings; the Silver Lake Ski Club performances also take place in the summer.

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