things to do in michigan with kids

Michigan is a fantastic state to explore with kids, offering a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to all interests and ages. Here are some things to do in Michigan with kids:

Outdoor Activities

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Explore the stunning sand dunes, hike trails, and enjoy water activities on Lake Michigan.
2. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Hike, kayak, or take a boat tour to experience the breathtaking natural beauty of this lakeshore.
3. Michigan State Parks: Many parks offer hiking, biking, and water sports, such as Ludington State Game Area and Sterling State Park.
4. Beaches: Michigan has numerous beautiful beaches, like St. Joseph Beach, Grand Haven State Park, and East Grand Rapids’ Reeds Lake Park.

Museums and Indoor Play

1. Impression 5 Science Center (Lansing): Hands-on science exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.
2. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum (Ann Arbor): Interactive exhibits focused on science, art, and local history.
3. Detroit Children’s Museum (Detroit): Exploratory play areas and educational exhibits.
4. Legoland Discovery Center Michigan (Auburn Hills): Indoor theme park with rides, 4D movies, and LEGO play areas.
5. Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum (Kalamazoo): Interactive exhibits, flight simulators, and a planetarium.

Theme Parks and Water Parks

1. Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio, but accessible from Michigan): Roller coasters and other thrill rides.
2. Michigan’s Adventure (Muskegon): Roller coasters, water park, and a separate water park called WildWater Adventure.
3. Adventure Waterpark (Muskegon): A fun water park with slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.

Zoos and Aquariums

1. Detroit Zoo (Royal Oak): Home to over 2,000 animals, including polar bears, penguins, and giraffes.
2. Binder Park Zoo (Battle Creek): African wildlife exhibit, a children’s zoo, and a zip line.
3. Grand Rapids Public Museum’s Fish Ladder (Grand Rapids): Observe fish swimming upstream and explore the surrounding museum.
4. Michigan State University Museum’s Butterfly Garden (East Lansing): Tropical garden with butterflies from around the world.

Special Events

1. Michigan Festival of the Arts (Statewide): Celebrates local art, music, and food.
2. Detroit River Days (Detroit): A riverfront festival with music, food, and activities for kids.
3. Grand Rapids Festival of the Arts (Grand Rapids): Art, music, and family-friendly activities.
4. Kalamazoo Air Show (Kalamazoo): Watch aircraft performances and explore the adjacent Air Zoo museum.

Winter Activities

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at resorts like Nub’s Nob, Boyne Mountain, or Shanty Creek.
2. Sledding: Find a nearby hill and enjoy the thrill of sledding with the family.
3. Ice Skating: Many indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks are available, such as the ones in Ann Arbor, Detroit, and Grand Rapids.
4. Snowshoeing: Explore Michigan’s winter landscapes on snowshoes, a great way to experience nature.