Sterling Heights Real Estate > Sterling Heights Community Info

Sterling Heights City Living

Sterling Heights was incorporated as a city in 1968. The area’s first American settlers came to Mount Clemens as captives of the Chippewa during the end of the Revolutionary War. The area’s fertile soil and proximity to the Clinton River – formerly the Huron River – attracted farmers, who built large homesteads. Wheat and corn crops and apple and peach orchards were very popular. Later, livestock became important. In 1900, residents traveled on horseback for one-half day on a rough clay road to Detroit. In the 1950s, the introduction of major manufacturers to Sterling Heights encouraged growth.

Community Information

Sterling Heights today offers a number of fine amenities to residents, including abundant recreational activities. Residents enjoy numerous ball fields, volleyball courts, tennis courts, playgrounds, sled hills and nature trails as well as an outdoor ice/in-line skating rink and outdoor concert stage. The Clinton River is Sterling Heights’ most important natural resource and the major reason for the city’s development. The Clinton River Park System provides approximately 460 acres of recreational space. Nearby Bald Mountain State Recreation Area has about 15 miles of hiking and biking trails and approximately eight miles of cross-country skiing trails. Locals also appreciate the 11 lakes and two trout streams at this state recreation area.

For a taste of local history, residents travel to the Utica House, a historic home built in 1867; and the Old Garage, an antique car museum. Lakeside Mall, which houses Marshall Field’s and Lord & Taylor, is a favorite shopping spot in town. Residents appreciate the city’s variety of festive annual events like the Memorial Day Parade, Sterlingfest and Music in the Park.

Schools

Educational options are many and varied in Sterling Heights and the surrounding area. Post-secondary students can attend Bethesda Christian Bible Institute in town or travel to various colleges and universities within 15 miles. These schools include Macomb Community College, Oakland University, Marygrove College and Wayne State University.

Nearby Attractions

Residents journey to Detroit to take advantage of its many attractions. These include Belle Isle, Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Science Center, Detroit Zoo and Museum of African American History. Belle Isle is the nation’s largest city island park. Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky is also a thrilling attraction. Locals can view former mansions of Henry Ford in nearby Dearborn and Gross Pointe Shores.