One of my favorite things about having a little one is I get to see things through a child’s eyes all over again.
To get excited about our future adventures together, I’ve compiled a list of 25 Metro Detroit places to show my daughter as she grows.
25 Metro Detroit Places To Show My Daughter
1. Detroit Zoo
I have so many fond memories of visiting the zoo as a child. I can’t wait to see what animals K likes the most. I’m always partial to the polar bears and penguins.
One of my fondest memories of working in the RenCen was witnessing kids playing in the fountain on the RiverWalk in the summer. I loved how some parents even let their kids go fully clothed, not anticipating how wet they would really get. Little K will love it I’m sure.
3. Greektown
I remember asking to go to Greektown for a birthday when I was young. I thought it was so magical. Being about 25% Greek, I can’t wait to share this cool part of the city with K to tell her about her own heritage.
4. Fisher (Nederlander) Theatre
I remember seeing my first play here – The Secret Garden – and so began my love for live productions. Such a great venue to see a show and be astonished by the beauty of the building.
5. The Whitney
We might not be able to get her to sit still for a formal dinner, but I would love to take her to this famous landmark for dessert when she’s the right age. While we wait for our sweet treat, we’ll be sure to walk around and admire the home’s historic beauty. We’ll just save the third floor, the might-be-scary Ghost Bar, for when she’s 21.
6. The Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village
Love these wonderful historic spots. Can’t wait to see K’s wonderment when she sees where butter really comes from. Plus, like my nephews below, I’m sure she’ll love getting in the hot dog and covering herself with toppings in front of the Oscar Weiner Mobile at the museum.
My nephews having fun in the Oscar Meyer hot dog
I didn’t see my first Tiger’s baseball game until I was in college. I don’t want that to be the case with K. As a little one, she may not understand what is going on in the actual game, but I can’t wait to see her face covered in mustard from a ball park dog and see her take a ride on the beautiful Tiger-themed carousel.
Rochester’s premier festive event featuring thousands upon thousands of lights is perfect for little eyes to witness one of the magical parts about the holiday season. I can’t wait to see K’s face light up in amazement.
9. Blueberry Picking at Hazen’s Farm in Howell
I have so many fond memories of picking blueberries with my mom at Hazen’s Farm. Can’t wait to take K to this special spot to show her the ropes.
This Detroit landmark of hodgepodge is a living work of art that seems to be inspired by Dr. Suess himself. This will be a great spot to show K that art is in the eye of the beholder.
Randomness at the Heidelberg Project
11. Imagination Station in Brighton
This is the play structure children dream about. It’s 10,000 square feet of pure playful bliss, complete with tons of fun nooks and crannies for kids to explore. Plus, it’s located adjacent to the Mill Pond, a beautiful spot for photos and family walks. We’ll be sure to also stop by the ultra-cute Yum Yum Tree for ice cream afterward.
12. Parshallville Cider Grist Mill
The cider mill I grew up loving is in Fenton (an hour drive from Detroit). It’s not as crowded as many of the metro Detroit mills, plus I love the historic value and amazing scenery and trails. Another fab spot for photo ops.
13. America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
I personally hate crowds and parades. But, that doesn’t mean I won’t put my negative feelings aside for my daughter, who has to bundle up, get some hot cocoa in a mug and experience this, just like I did growing up. I don’t doubt she’ll be in awe…especially if Elmo makes an appearance.
Love, love, love this place. We’ll swim in the lake, rent paddleboats, have a picnic and check out my favorite spot – the petting farm! Also, a great spot to watch fireworks while hearing the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in the summer or go sledding in the winter.
Even if you don’t go anywhere in particular, this is a must-do for kids of all ages when in Detroit.
16. Michigan Challenge Balloonfest
Another childhood favorite of mine from my hometown of Howell. Absolutely stunning to see hot air balloons up close.
17. Michigan Renaissance Festival
Nothing like eating a giant leg of turkey like a barbarian. This fest is such an fun thing to do, even if it’s not so easy on the wallet. I’ll just have to learn to sew better so I can make Little K a medieval princess baby costume.
18. Milford Memories
I used to love craft shows as a kid and I’m hoping my daughter feels the same. I could stroll around this event for hours checking out artist booths, live music and food tents.
A kid in a candy store. Need I say more? (Disclaimer: I have never been here, but am dying to go…might have to go even before she can technically eat chocolate!)
Of course we have to see some sort of show here…and since I am a former ballerina, of course I hope it will be the annual showing of The Nutcracker.
21. Ice Skating at Campus Martius
Every child needs to witness the magic of ice skating in the middle of the city in winter.
The famous historic landmark has fantastic children’s programs, many of which have little or no cost. Can’t wait to see what creations K can make that I can collect over the years.
You haven’t tasted melon until you’ve tried a Howell Melon. So delicious and farmed to perfection. I’ll get melon ice cream for K while the DH and I opt for delicious melon wine.
Not always known for being child-friendly, this is a place I can’t wait to take K when she’s a bit older. But, they do have great children’s programs as well, so that’s a starting point.
Detroit Institute of Arts
Such a cool little gem. Best part? There’s a great area for kids under five so no need to wait until she’s too much older.
I know there are TONS of other great places in metro Detroit and beyond. Fill me in! Where is a cool place to take kids?
A girl after my own heart. I love adventures, especially with the kids in tow! I have no idea where any of these places are seeing as I’m from down south…but sounds like you will be very busy! Have fun!
Thank you, lady! Yes, I LOVE to keep busy…you’ll never see me sitting down for long 🙂
I’ve always liked the Cranbrook Institute of Science, especially visiting the rock room and the planetarium. They have lots of great kids’ programs, and they’ve been very good over the years about encouraging girls’ interest in science and encouraging them to consider careers in the sciences as they become older.
Eastern Market could be fun with all of the great colors, sights, sounds, tastes and smells.
Love both suggestions! We’re actually hoping to go to Eastern Market soon…can’t wait. Great stimulation for Little K and mamma.
I’ve never been to the Cranbrook Planetarium, but have heard good things. Love if they are supportive of little gals learning science, too. I secretly hope she becomes an engineer 😉
Great list, Lauren! I love that you did this. I would agree with Dominique’s additions, too! I always try and show days out in Detroit with the kids & as a couple to paint a picture to those who don’t live here. There are a LOT of great things for kids. On Sunday, May 15th we are going to Eastern Market for Flower Day…might be something fun for you guys too. 😉
Elena – that was my thoughts excatly. Gotta show Detroit’s cool spots off to the world 🙂 It was super hard to keep it to 25 places, but I didn’t want the post to get too long.
I’ve got May 15th on my calendar. I LOVE Flower Day, but I’m wondering how it will be carting a stroller around…we’ll see!
There are a lot of places on the list that I’ve been to and so many more that I want to go to with my kids as well. My kids and I love the theatre but my husband doesn’t like it as much… especially musicals.
Thanks for coming up with a great list!
What is with men and not showing love for musicals? My hubby can’t get over the fact that they are “unrealistic.” That’s WHY I like them. Have fun on any adventures you have this summer and be sure to report back 🙂
This is an awesome post for anyone wanting to visit! I am definitely bookmarking it.
I really enjoyed poking around your space, it’s adorable.
Thanks so much! And please let me know if you do visit 🙂
I wish I lived in Detroit so I go visit all these places. Can you come to my city and make a list like this for me please?
If you pay for my plane ticket, Jessica, I am SO there! I would love to explore Reno 🙂
I’ve actually never been to the A2 Hands-On Museum but I’ve heard it’s a great place to take kids. My boss took us to The Whitney for lunch last year or the year before, and it was beautiful – would love to go back at some point.