Parks &
Facilities

The Village of Elk Rapids boasts some of the most beautiful parks on the East Grand Traverse Bay. In order to make these parks accessible to all citizens, they cannot be reserved exclusively for private events. While the Village encourages use of the parks by community groups and private parties, the parks are first-come-first-served. Additionally, the Village does not permit the use of tents or other structures in public parks without permission from Village Council.

The Village does offer reservations to the pavilions and other facilities. Reservation information is listed below for available options.

  • Day Park

    The Elk Rapids Day Park is located on the Grand Traverse Bay and features an outdoor sculpture park developed by “Art Rapids!” Enjoy the many hiking trails or rest at the Deborah Wentworth Memorial Pavilion. The park has several picnic tables and grills throughout.

    The Day Park is maintained by Antrim County. For more information, please click here.

  • Dam Beach

    Located next to the Hydro Power Plant off Ames Street, the Dam Beach is a favorite location for residents and families to spend time. It is near a popular fishing area and it has a nice natural feeling to it.

  • Jack Blesma Pavilion - Harbor

    Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor enjoys the distinction of being one of the finest harbors on Lake Michigan located in the Northwest Region of the state of Michigan. The Jack Blesma Pavilion is available for private use to renters on a first-come-first-served basis from May 15th to June 14th, and from September 15th to October 15th subject to the Pavilion policies, rules and regulations regarding use. All applications are approved by the Harbormaster.

    For additional information, please refer to the Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor Pavilion Agreement. To see if the space is available or to make a reservation please contact the Assistant Harbormaster at harbormaster@elkrapids.org.

    Click here for the application to rent the Pavilion.

  • Rotary Pavilion

    The Elk Rapids Rotary Park is located north of the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce building on the east side of U.S. 31. This park and pavilion provide a nice view of the Elk River as it makes its way toward the Upper Harbor. Rotary Park features a large, relatively level grassy area that can be used for a number of activities. In addition to the Pavilion, Rotary Park features a kayak launch and parking area.

    The Pavilion at Rotary Park may be reserved by groups at a fee of $25 per four hour block. Reservations may be made at the Elk Rapids Government Center (315 Bridge St.) between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. or by calling 231-264-9274. For additional information, please refer to Village of Elk Rapids Rotary Park Pavilion Reservation Policy, which includes details on the rental and use of Rotary Park Pavilion as well as a reservation form.

  • Veterans Memorial Park

    Memorial park features a modest beach on the Grand Traverse Bay and has plenty of space to spread out a blanket for a picnic. The north end has a basketball and tennis courts, with the southern end has a nice wooded area that is perfect for spotting local birds. There is a playground area perfect for young children.

  • Old Council Chambers Meeting Room

    The Old Council Chamber Meeting Room is a medium-sized meeting room located at 321 Bridge Street (access is through the Elk Rapids Police Department main entrance). While priority for use of this room is given to Village Council, commissions and committees – civic and service organizations and public interest organizations that are open to the entire community may reserve and rent the room at a fee of $20 per meeting, with a security deposit of $50.00. For additional information, please contact 231-264-9274.