Discover Pittsfield

Wildlife observation, a paved trail, and a historic farmstead offer different ways to explore Pittsfield and its connection to Pittsfield Township. The nature and cultural examples are related to Pittsfield Township; the Pittsfield Salt Trail is historically connected to the area near the township. The examples below give these interests specific names and details. The examples below give these interests specific names and details.

History at the Sutherland-Wilson Farmstead

The Sutherland-Wilson Farmstead at 797 Textile is part of the history of Pittsfield Township. On November 16, 2000, Pittsfield Township acquired the farmstead from the family, on the condition that it be preserved as a historic site. The Pittsfield Township Historical Society and Pittsfield Township restored the buildings to their 19th-century condition. Today, the farmstead serves as an educational resource for Pittsfield Township. The acquisition, preservation condition, and restoration each tell a different part of this place’s story: the buildings have not only been preserved but are also used for educational purposes.

Free guided tours of the Sutherland-Wilson Farm are scheduled for the third Sunday of each month from May through October, between 2 and 5 p.m. If you would like to include a tour in your travel plans, check before you arrive to make sure it is taking place.

Parks, Landscapes, and Wildlife Observation

Across the township, Pittsfield Township has 17 parks covering a total of 1,017 acres. The landscapes in Pittsfield Township’s parks include meadows, wetlands, and wooded areas. Wildflower blooms, butterfly gardens, and an arboretum are also among the features of Pittsfield Township’s parks. Pittsfield Township’s natural landscape therefore encompasses more than one type of terrain: open spaces, wetlands, and wooded areas shape the township’s park offerings.

The wildlife examples from Pittsfield Township’s parks are each tied to specific locations. In these township-related park examples, turtles can be observed at Duck Potato Pond in Lillie Park, while Red-winged Blackbirds are found in Prairie Park. Pittsfield Preserve, a large public natural area owned and managed by Pittsfield Township, is home to a colony of Great Blue Herons with more than 40 nests. The preserve also includes a buttonbush swamp where threatened species occur. These township-related nature examples offer specific wildlife-watching highlights: turtles at the pond, birds in the park, and a wetland in the preserve.

Trails and Practical Information

In Pittsfield Township, the first phase of the Platt Road Greenway is a ten-foot-wide paved multi-use trail for pedestrians and cyclists. It runs along the east side of Platt Road, from Ellsworth Road to Textile Road. Its width, surface, and route give a clear picture of this trail phase and help you consider it as a distinct focus for a day outdoors.

Grewal Park is in Ann Arbor; there is no parking on site, and the park is intended for access on foot or by bicycle. Parking in nearby private lots and surrounding residential areas is not permitted. Check current local restrictions before visiting so you can plan your trip accordingly.

Market and Regional History

In 2026, Kapnick Orchards is participating as a vendor at the Pittsfield Township Farmers Market. The business offers fruit, vegetables, nut spreads, baked goods, and apple cider. Since vendor participation can change, check before visiting to see whether Kapnick Orchards is still taking part. Its selection differs markedly from the nature and history themes of the parks and farmstead, and may interest travelers who would also like to include regional products in their plans.

In the area near Pittsfield Township, the Pittsfield Salt Trail is historically connected to early animal trails and Indigenous trails. This connection adds another perspective on the area’s past to the history of the farmstead. When choosing a vacation rental, you can therefore weigh wildlife observation, a trip along a paved trail, farm history, and regional products. Which focus best suits your trip depends on which of these aspects you would like to explore more closely.

More Destinations

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