Top 10 Fun Things to Do in Detroit with Kids

Detroit, one of Michigan’s most vibrant and fast-growing cities, is a destination that surprises families at every corner. Known as the heart of the American automotive industry, Detroit has evolved into a cultural hub that blends music, art, innovation, and history in one dynamic landscape.

But here’s the thing many travelers don’t realize — Detroit isn’t just for adults. Beyond its reputation for Motown tunes and car factories, the city bursts with energy, creativity, and warmth that families will absolutely love. Detroit offers a wonderful mix of museums, parks, and outdoor adventures perfect for children of all ages — from toddlers to teens.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full family vacation, this guide brings you the best fun things to do in Detroit with kids. You’ll discover everything from iconic attractions to hidden gems — things to do in Detroit Michigan with kids that combine learning, fun, and togetherness. Let’s dive into Detroit’s most family-friendly adventures!

Top 10 Fun Things to Do in Michigan

1. Explore Wildlife Wonders at the Detroit Zoo

When it comes to things to do in Detroit with kids, the Detroit Zoo easily tops the list. Located just a few miles from downtown in Royal Oak, this massive zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from around the world. Families can stroll through beautifully landscaped habitats that make you feel like you’re walking through nature itself.

Kids will absolutely love the Polk Penguin Conservation Center, one of the largest penguin facilities in the world. Watching the penguins dive and glide underwater through glass tunnels is an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the African Grasslands and Arctic Ring of Life, where lions, giraffes, and polar bears captivate visitors of all ages.

Parents can enjoy the easy walking paths, picnic areas, and family rest zones — making it a relaxing day for everyone. The Detroit Zoo also offers educational programs and seasonal events like “Zoo Boo” in October or “Wild Lights” during the holidays.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this is one of the most fun things to do in Detroit with kids that balances excitement and learning in the great outdoors.

2. Discover Science and Imagination at the Michigan Science Center

If your children love experimenting, touching, and exploring how things work, the Michigan Science Center (MiSci) is the place to go. This interactive museum is one of the most engaging things to do with kids in Detroit — a hands-on paradise for curious young minds.

Located in Midtown’s Cultural Center, MiSci offers dozens of science exhibits covering topics like physics, space, engineering, and health. Families can dive into interactive labs, test mechanical inventions, and even participate in live science shows. The Planetarium Dome Theater is a must-see — it takes you and your kids on a magical journey through the stars.

Younger children can play in “Kids Town,” an area designed specifically for toddlers with safe, educational fun. Parents will appreciate how the museum encourages creativity and curiosity while still being entertaining.
When it comes to combining fun and learning, few places deliver like MiSci — a must-visit on any list of fun things to do in Detroit with kids.

3. Enjoy Outdoor Fun at Belle Isle Park and Aquarium

Families looking for free things to do in Detroit with kids will fall in love with Belle Isle Park. This 982-acre island park on the Detroit River is a natural playground offering endless outdoor activities for children and adults alike.

Start your adventure at the Belle Isle Aquarium, the oldest aquarium in the United States. It’s free to enter, and kids will love seeing colorful fish, turtles, and coral displays. Next door, explore the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, home to tropical plants and exotic flowers — a great spot for family photos.

The park also features a small Nature Zoo, hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful beach with views of Canada across the water. During summer, families can rent bikes or kayaks, while winter brings serene snow-covered landscapes.
Belle Isle is more than just a park — it’s a full day of discovery. If you’re planning your trip, make sure this island gem is on your itinerary of things to do in Detroit Michigan with kids.

4. Stroll and Play Along the Detroit Riverwalk & Mt. Elliott Park

For a scenic family day outdoors, the Detroit Riverwalk is one of the best free things to do in Detroit with kids. Stretching over five miles along the riverfront, it offers spectacular views, clean walkways, and safe play spaces for children.

One highlight is Mt. Elliott Park, where kids can splash around in the interactive water features shaped like ships and sea creatures — a perfect stop on hot summer days. There are also shaded picnic spots, benches, and cafes along the route for parents to relax while little ones play.

The Riverwalk is ideal for biking, walking, or renting scooters. It’s stroller-friendly and offers plenty of photo opportunities with Detroit’s skyline as a backdrop. As evening falls, the area transforms into a beautiful sunset stroll.
This riverside escape combines relaxation, recreation, and accessibility, making it one of the most peaceful yet fun things to do in Detroit with kids — and completely free!

5. Build, Play, and Learn at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan

No list of things to do in Detroit with kids is complete without mentioning LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan. Located at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets in Auburn Hills, this indoor wonderland is perfect for LEGO lovers of all ages.

Families can explore multiple themed zones — from the LEGO 4D Cinema, where movies come alive with wind and mist effects, to the Kingdom Quest ride, where you help rescue a captured princess using laser blasters. There’s also Miniland Detroit, an impressive miniature version of the city made entirely from LEGO bricks.

Younger kids will adore the Duplo Farm and LEGO Build & Test Zone, where creativity has no limits. Parents can enjoy a coffee while kids play safely in this bright, colorful environment.

If you’re looking for a day filled with imagination and creativity, LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan is hands down one of the most fun things to do in Detroit with kids — especially on a rainy day.

6. Get Creative at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)

For families who love art and culture, the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) offers an inspiring yet surprisingly kid-friendly experience. While it’s known for its vast art collection, the museum also offers engaging activities tailored for young visitors.
Children can join Family Sundays, where hands-on art projects, storytelling, and live performances bring creativity to life. The museum’s Center for Creative Studies often hosts workshops that allow kids to paint, draw, or sculpt.

Parents will appreciate DIA’s world-renowned exhibits — from Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry murals to ancient Egyptian artifacts. The museum’s open and welcoming environment makes art approachable for kids.

Better yet, admission is free for residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, making it one of the top free things to do in Detroit with kids. A visit to DIA is not just about looking at art — it’s about sparking imagination and inspiring the next generation of creators.

7. Travel Through Time at The Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village

Located in nearby Dearborn, The Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village is one of the most fascinating things to do in Detroit Michigan with kids. It’s an immersive experience that takes families through America’s innovation and history — from classic cars to early airplanes.

Inside the museum, children can marvel at the massive steam locomotives, the Rosa Parks Bus, and even the original Ford Model T. The interactive exhibits let kids touch and explore history up close, turning learning into adventure.

Outside, Greenfield Village brings history to life. Families can ride in a Model T car, watch glassblowing demonstrations, or visit working farms with horses and chickens. It’s a rare opportunity for kids to see how people lived more than a century ago.

The Henry Ford is both educational and exciting — a perfect combination for family travelers seeking fun things to do in Detroit with kids that go beyond the ordinary.

8. Experience Nature Indoors at the Outdoor Adventure Center

Located right along the Detroit Riverfront, the Outdoor Adventure Center (OAC) brings the great outdoors indoors — literally! This hidden gem is one of the most interactive things to do with kids in Detroit, combining education, technology, and nature-based fun.

Children can climb a giant oak tree, cross a rope bridge, try a simulated kayak ride, or explore a life-size fishing boat — all inside a stunning restored warehouse. It’s safe, air-conditioned, and full of Michigan-inspired adventure.
Parents love that the OAC promotes environmental awareness while keeping kids entertained for hours. There are even exhibits showing how to protect wildlife and forests across Michigan.

Affordable and accessible, the Outdoor Adventure Center is an excellent option for families looking for fun things to do in Detroit with kids any time of year — rain, snow, or sunshine.

9. Relax and Have Seasonal Fun at Campus Martius Park

If your family wants a taste of downtown life, Campus Martius Park is one of the best free things to do in Detroit with kids. This central urban park transforms with every season, offering something different year-round.

In summer, kids can play in the splash pad while parents relax on beach chairs under palm trees at the “Downtown Detroit Beach.” During winter, the park becomes a magical wonderland with ice skating, twinkling lights, and a giant Christmas tree.
Surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and public art, Campus Martius is the perfect stop for families who want to experience Detroit’s vibrant downtown. There are often live performances, family movie nights, and seasonal festivals happening nearby.

Whether you visit in July or December, Campus Martius Park proves that you don’t need to spend a dime to find fun things to do in Detroit with kids.

10. Bike, Walk, and Explore Art at Dequindre Cut Greenway

End your family adventure with a stroll or bike ride through the Dequindre Cut Greenway, one of Detroit’s coolest urban trails. Once a former rail line, this 2-mile path is now a colorful corridor of murals, gardens, and art installations.

Families can rent bikes, bring scooters, or walk while admiring the ever-changing graffiti and street art. It’s a peaceful, traffic-free route that connects Eastern Market to the Detroit Riverwalk, making it ideal for a full-day family outing.

Kids enjoy spotting the creative murals, while parents appreciate the safe and scenic environment. There are picnic tables, rest areas, and plenty of open space to unwind.

If you’re searching for laid-back and free things to do in Detroit with kids, the Dequindre Cut Greenway is a perfect blend of creativity, exercise, and exploration.

Additional Tips for Your Detroit Family Vacation

Transportation Tips

Getting Around the City Navigating Detroit with kids requires some planning, but it’s easier than you might think. If you’re flying in, Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is about 20 miles from downtown, and most families find that renting a car is the most convenient option. Having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility to move between attractions at your own pace, store snacks and supplies, and accommodate naptime schedules without stress.

Detroit is a car-friendly city with generally affordable parking at most attractions—many offer free parking, while others charge between $5-15 per day. If you’re staying downtown, the QLine streetcar is a fun, free way for kids to experience public transit while traveling along Woodward Avenue to several attractions. The People Mover is another child-friendly option that provides an elevated view of downtown and costs only 75 cents per ride.

For families who prefer not to drive, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout the city. Just remember to request a car seat if you’re traveling with younger children, though availability can be limited, so bringing your own portable car seat might be more reliable.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Where to Stay with Kids Choosing the right accommodation can make or break a family vacation. Downtown Detroit offers several excellent family-friendly hotels within walking distance or short drives from major attractions. The Westin Book Cadillac and MGM Grand Detroit both offer spacious rooms and amenities that cater to families, including pools and room service options kids will enjoy.

For families seeking more space and kitchen facilities, consider booking an Airbnb or extended-stay hotel in neighborhoods like Midtown or Corktown. Having a full kitchen allows you to prepare breakfast and snacks, which significantly reduces meal costs and provides familiar food options for picky eaters. Plus, having separate sleeping areas means parents can relax after the kids go to bed.

If you’re planning to spend significant time at the Detroit Zoo or Henry Ford Museum, consider staying in suburban areas like Dearborn or Royal Oak, which offer more affordable hotel options and easy access to these attractions while still being within 20-30 minutes of downtown activities.

Kid-Friendly Dining Options

Feeding Your Family Detroit’s food scene has exploded in recent years, and many restaurants welcome families with open arms. For a quintessential Detroit experience, visit American Coney Island or Lafayette Coney Island (they’re right next to each other!) for the city’s famous Coney dogs—most kids love them, and they’re budget-friendly.

Eastern Market, one of the oldest public markets in the country, is perfect for families on Saturday mornings. Kids can sample fresh fruit, watch street performers, and you can grab prepared foods from various vendors. Buddy’s Pizza, a Detroit institution, invented Detroit-style pizza and offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a kids’ menu.

For healthier options, Sweetwater Tavern in downtown has an extensive kids’ menu with options beyond typical fast food, and the casual atmosphere welcomes even the wiggliest children. Many of the museums and attractions also have on-site cafés with kid-friendly food, though bringing your own snacks and water bottles can save money and time.

Money-Saving Tips

Maximizing Your Budget Detroit offers numerous free things to do in Detroit with kids, making it an affordable destination for families. Belle Isle Park, the Detroit Riverwalk, Campus Martius Park, and Dequindre Cut are all completely free. The Detroit Institute of Arts offers free admission for residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, and children under 6 are always free.

Consider purchasing a CityPASS if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions—it includes admission to the Detroit Institute of Arts, Motown Museum, Detroit Historical Museum, and more at a discounted rate. Many attractions offer discounted admission on specific days; for example, the Michigan Science Center has reduced prices on certain weekdays.

Pack snacks, water bottles, and lunch when possible. Most parks and outdoor attractions allow outside food, which can save your family $50-100 per day in meal costs. Visit during off-peak seasons (late fall or early spring) when hotel rates drop significantly, and attractions are less crowded.

Sign up for attraction newsletters before your trip—many send discount codes and special offers to email subscribers. Finally, check Groupon and local deal sites for discounted tickets to paid attractions, which can sometimes save you 20-40% on admission prices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Things to Do in Detroit with Kids