Kensington Metropark: The Heart of the 2026 PDGA Pro World Championships
When spectators arrive at Kensington Metropark for the 2026 PDGA Pro World Championships, they won’t just be stepping onto the grounds of a prestigious tournament—they’ll be entering one of Southeast Michigan’s most cherished outdoor destinations. As part of the Huron-Clinton Metroparks system, Kensington spans 4,481 acres of rolling hills, wooded trails, and sparkling lakeshores that draw 2.5 million annual visitors. For Worlds week, this iconic park becomes the stage for an international celebration of disc golf.
And to elevate the experience even more, Kensington will host a Friday night concert and drone show, giving fans a festival atmosphere wrapped into championship week.
A Park Full of Touchpoints for Fans
Throughout the week, spectators will encounter Kensington’s presence at every turn—through wayfinding signage, hospitality areas, fan zones and disc golf themed activities. Beyond tournament action, fans can enjoy everything the park already offers:
- 22 miles of scenic trails
- Paddling and boating on Kent Lake
- Multiple beaches and swimming areas
- The Splash ’n’ Blast water attraction
- Golf, fishing, and picnic areas
- The Island Queen boat tour
- A Nature Center and Farm Center
Kensington is built for families, adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts—making it the perfect backdrop for the sport’s biggest event.
How Kensington Is Preparing for Worlds
The Metropark has been working side-by-side with the Ledgestone team for the past 18 months on major course-related upgrades. Their crews have taken the lead on:
- Construction and expansion of the Black Locust Worlds layout
- Maintenance and restoration projects at Toboggan
- Widespread clearing of invasive Autumn Olive
- Restoration work near Martindale Beach
These improvements have already opened new viewing corridors, strengthened course infrastructure, and enhanced spectator flow at both venues.
In several areas—especially around the expanded Black Locust layout—the restoration work doubles as long-term habitat improvement. Clearing overgrown invasives will help native tree health and support the return of tall-grass ecosystems that benefit wildlife such as deer and grassland birds.
A Partnership That Benefits the Region
Hosting Worlds brings a spotlight to Kensington Metropark and to the entire Metro Detroit region. With over 20,000 spectators expected in attendance at the event, the event will boost tourism, drive new visitors into the park, and introduce an international audience to one of Michigan’s premier outdoor spaces.
Spectators won’t just get world-class disc golf—they’ll gain access to Kensington’s full lineup of amenities. The partnership also leaves the park with improved fairways, restored natural areas, and a more robust course infrastructure for future use.
From the Metroparks CEO
“We’re proud to team up with Ledgestone, the Detroit Sports Commission, and the Livingston County Convention & Visitors Bureau to bring this championship back to Metro Detroit. We can’t wait to welcome the world to our courses and to welcome the region to be a part of a world-wide disc golf experience.”
— Amy McMillan, CEO, Huron-Clinton Metroparks
Stewardship, Sustainability, and Long-Term Impact
With nearly 25,000 acres across Southeast Michigan, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks are leaders in environmental preservation. Their Natural Resources Department oversees habitat conservation across all 13 parks, ensuring that recreation and stewardship move hand-in-hand.
The temporary Worlds layout at Black Locust is a perfect example: It enables the championship and provides a rare opportunity to restore overgrown natural land that will remain healthier long after the event ends.
Nature wins. The community wins. And spectators get a better experience because of it. Don’t miss the 2026 PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Championships at Kensington Metropark, taking place August 26th to the 30th.
