Top 10 Kid-Friendly Attractions in Detroit

things to do in detroit with kids

Detroit, known as the Motor City, is not just a place for car enthusiasts but a city brimming with activities for families to enjoy together.

My family and I recently took a trip to Detroit, and we were pleasantly surprised by all the kid-friendly attractions we discovered. From fascinating museums to beautiful outdoor spaces and everything in between, here’s our list of the top 10 things to do with kids in Detroit that made our trip memorable.

10 Thing to do in Detroit with Kids

1. Discover the Wonders at the Michigan Science Center

Our journey began at the Michigan Science Center, where hands-on exhibits made learning fun and exciting. The kids were thrilled by the live science demonstrations and the planetarium shows, making it a hit for our little explorers.

Science Center

2. Dive into History at the Detroit Historical Museum

Next, we stepped back in time at the Detroit Historical Museum. Walking through the Streets of Old Detroit exhibit was like traveling to a different era, and the kids loved learning about the city’s rich history in an interactive way.

3. Enjoy Art at the Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts amazed us with its family-friendly art experiences. The museum offers scavenger hunts and hands-on workshops that made art accessible and engaging for the kids, proving that art museums can be fun for all ages.

art museum detroit
detroit art museum

4. Play and Learn at the Belle Isle Nature Center

Belle Isle Park, a beautiful island park in the Detroit River, is home to the Belle Isle Nature Center. We enjoyed feeding the deer and exploring the indoor and outdoor exhibits. It’s a great place for kids to connect with nature.

belle isle detroit

5. Explore the Outdoor Adventure Center

The Outdoor Adventure Center brought Michigan’s natural wonders right into the city. The kids had a blast climbing the indoor treehouse and learning to fish in the simulated stream. It’s a slice of the great outdoors in the urban landscape.

detroit michigan riverwalk

6. Take a Walk along the Detroit Riverwalk

The Detroit Riverwalk offered us a peaceful place to stroll and take in the views of the river and Canada. The kids enjoyed the playgrounds along the way, and we all loved the carousel ride at Rivard Plaza.

7. Visit the Animals at the Detroit Zoo

A trip to Detroit wouldn’t be complete without a day at the Detroit Zoo. We were fascinated by the polar bear exhibit and the Butterfly Garden. The zoo is spacious and perfect for a day of animal adventures.

things to do in detroit with kids

8. Get Creative at the Detroit Children’s Museum

The Detroit Children’s Museum was a treasure trove of interactive fun. With exhibits designed to spark creativity and imagination, it was a place where the kids could play, create, and learn all at the same time.

robots kids science stem

9. Catch a Game at Comerica Park

For sports-loving families, watching a Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park is a must. The atmosphere is electric, and there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions within the park, including a carousel and a Ferris wheel.

10. Step into the World of Motown at the Motown Museum

Our adventure ended on a musical note at the Motown Museum. We took a tour of Hitsville U.S.A., learning about the legends of Motown music. It was inspiring to see the kids’ eyes light up as they discovered the sounds that shaped a generation.

detroit michigan

Detroit is a city full of surprises, offering a wide range of activities that cater to families and children of all ages. Each of these destinations added something special to our trip, creating lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this dynamic city. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, delving into the worlds of science and history, or enjoying the arts, Detroit has something wonderful to offer every family.