Nothing screams summer in metro Detroit quite like a visit to The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village. This place is amazing for kids, adults and history lovers alike, and always top of my list when entertaining out-of-town visitors.

I’ve compiled a list of 10 reasons to visit this summer, but believe me — I’ve left off a ton. See the entire calendar of fun here. In the meantime, here’s a few excuses to get you to make the drive to this Dearborn gem!

10 Reasons to Visit The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village This Summer

National Get Outdoors Day {June 10}

Join a historic forest ranger in Greenfield Village for a day of one-of-a-kind outdoor activities, including an afternoon nature hike, presentations by our historic forest ranger on horseback, tours of the William Ford Horse Barn and other hands-on activities. {Free with GFV ticket admission}

Tinkering for Tots Preschool Program {2nd Monday of each month}

Little learners have the opportunity to get a head full of STEAM {science, technology, engineering, art and math} with this hands-on program. Designed for curious preschoolers, our inspired yet playful activities focus on themed materials and then expand outward with storytelling, crafting, building and artifact exploration.

Historic Base Ball {Saturdays and Sundays, Through August 20} 

Visit the Village for historic base ball {yes, it used to be two words} based on the rules of 1867. Gloves optional, but certainly not preferred. No designated hitters, either, or domed stadiums. We still have pitchers and batters and home runs. But this is thrill-a-minute base ball in the glorious outdoors. {Admission included with GFV ticket.}

Coolest Playground EVER

The playground in the middle of Greenfield Village is such a neat space and is made for kids of ALL abilities. Stop and picnic on the grass nearby and grab an ice cream next door, too! Also, don’t forget to take a ride on the beautiful and historic carousel.

Throwback Thursdays {Throughout Summer} 

Each month, THF will stay open late on select Thursday nights to rediscover popular classics and cult films from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s. Experience them again on the Giant Screen. Pricing ranges $7.50 for kids – $10 for adults.

Sensory-Friendly Saturday at Ford Rouge Factory {June 24}

Visit the Ford Rouge Factory for a special event catering to those with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other sensory processing disorders. A variety of accommodations, activities and more have been put into place to create an inclusive, welcoming and safe space for all.

Salute to America {June 30 – July 3} 

A classic Independence Day celebration complete with picnics, games, fun for kids and festive holiday food from the award-winning culinary staff. Each evening has a joint concert by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Jazz Ambassadors of the United States Army Field Band, the premier touring musical representatives of the United States Army. The finale is the DSO’s stirring rendition of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, played in harmony with authentic cannon fire under a canopy of fireworks. {Tickets are separate cost. Pricing here.}

Maker Faire Detroit {July 29-30}

Explore 24 acres of imagination meeting determination. The maker movement will leave you reeling long after the two-day festival ends. Encounter inspiration everywhere you look on the open-air midway and inside the museum, in the form of robotics, animatronics, flaming carnival games, marshmallow shooters, clothing, food, games, mechanical wizardry and more. DIYers, curiosity seekers, artists, scientists and engineers meet their tribes through demonstrations, hands-on workshops and spontaneous spectacles. {Tickets are separate cost. Pricing here.}

Educational Experiences Daily

From glass blowing and tin making to historical games and old time school sessions, there is plenty of learning to be found at both The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village. {I love learning how they farmed…It makes me tired just to think about it!}

National Aviation Day {August 19}

Visit The Henry Ford Museum for FREE thanks to Delta Air Lines! Soar into the first 40 years of flight on this celebratory occasion. One of the most miraculous periods of discovery will thrill you with iconic and history-making aircraft from Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation’s collection.

What’s your favorite reasons to visit The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village?

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GIVEAWAY

I am excited to offer the chance for one lucky person to win a family 4-pack to visit Greenfield Village this summer! Enter using the form below. Giveaway ends on June 20, 2017 at midnight.

4 Tickets to Greenfield Village