Buckle Up

Welcome to Detroit, Michigan—the Motor City, where history, innovation, and outdoor fun come together for an unforgettable family-friendly adventure. Known for its automotive heritage, live music scene, and revitalized waterfront, Detroit offers amazing museums, hands-on attractions, and access to beautiful Lake Michigan.

From exploring The Henry Ford Experience to catching a Tigers game or venturing out for a beach day, let’s dive into the best things to do in Detroit with kids! 🚗🏙️⚙️

1. Must-See Attractions & Family Favorites

The Henry Ford Experience & Greenfield Village

Step into America’s greatest history and innovation museum, where families can see the car that started it all, ride in a real Model T, and explore hands-on exhibits.

📍 Location: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI
🌎 Website: thehenryford.org
🚗 Best Part: Visit Greenfield Village, an outdoor living history museum with working farms, Model T rides, and Thomas Edison’s lab!

Detroit Riverwalk & Belle Isle Park

Detroit’s beautiful waterfront park is perfect for biking, walking, or taking in city views. Belle Isle, an island park in the Detroit River, offers playgrounds, trails, and the Belle Isle Aquarium—the oldest in the U.S.!

📍 Location: 99 Pleasure Dr, Detroit, MI
🌎 Website: belleisleconservancy.org
🏞️ Kid Favorite: The giant slide at Belle Isle is a must-ride!

Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)

One of the top art museums in the country, featuring over 65,000 works of art, including Diego Rivera’s famous Detroit Industry murals.

📍 Location: 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI
🌎 Website: dia.org
🎨 Best Spot: The Interactive Family Room lets kids create their own artwork!

2. Offbeat & Hidden Gems

The Guardian Building

Nicknamed Detroit’s Art Deco masterpiece, this historic skyscraper features intricate tilework, colorful murals, and jaw-dropping architecture.

📍 Location: 500 Griswold St, Detroit, MI
🌎 Website: theguardianbuilding.com
🏛️ Best Time to Visit: Weekends for free self-guided tours!

The Heidelberg Project

A quirky and colorful outdoor art installation featuring painted houses, sculptures made from recycled objects, and vibrant street art.

📍 Location: 3600 Heidelberg St, Detroit, MI
🌎 Website: heidelberg.org
🎨 Best Activity: Let kids try a scavenger hunt for hidden objects in the art!

3. Outdoor Adventures & Lake Michigan Fun

Lake Michigan Beach Day at Holland State Park

Take a day trip from Detroit to visit Holland State Park, one of Michigan’s most scenic beaches on Lake Michigan. Families can swim, hike, or explore the iconic “Big Red” Lighthouse.

📍 Location: 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI
🌎 Website: michigan.gov
🌊 Best Activity: Rent kayaks or paddleboards for a relaxing day on the water!

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

For a more adventurous outdoor escape, visit Sleeping Bear Dunes, where families can climb massive sand dunes, hike scenic trails, and enjoy crystal-clear lake views.

📍 Location: 9922 Front St, Empire, MI
🌎 Website: nps.gov/slbe
🏞️ Must-Do: The Dune Climb—a fun but challenging trek up a giant sand dune!

4. Sports & Entertainment in the Motor City

Catch a Tigers Game at Comerica Park

A Detroit Tigers baseball game is a must-do family experience, complete with a Ferris wheel, carousel, and classic stadium food.

📍 Location: 2100 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI
🌎 Website: mlb.com/tigers
⚾ Fun Tip: On Sundays, kids can run the bases after the game!

The Detroit Zoo

One of the best zoos in the Midwest, featuring polar bears, kangaroos, a penguinarium, and an immersive butterfly house.

📍 Location: 8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI
🌎 Website: detroitzoo.org
🐧 Kid Favorite: The walk-through Arctic Ring of Life puts you eye-to-eye with swimming polar bears!

5. Best Places to Eat (Kid-Approved & Unique!)

Buddy’s Pizza – Home of Detroit-Style Pizza

A Motor City classic, Buddy’s serves up thick-crust, square-cut, crispy-edged pizza.

📍 Location: Multiple locations in Detroit
🌎 Website: buddyspizza.com
🍕 Must-Try: The “Detroiter” pizza with pepperoni and cheese blend!

American Coney Island vs. Lafayette Coney Island

Detroit’s most famous food rivalry—which spot serves the best Coney Dog? Try both and pick your winner!

📍 Location: Downtown Detroit
🌎 Website: americanconeyisland.com | lafayetteconeyisland.com
🌭 Best Bet: Order a classic Coney Dog (hot dog with chili, mustard, and onions).

Astro Coffee – A Hip Family Coffee Spot

A great spot for parents who need caffeine and kids who love pastries!

📍 Location: 2124 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI
🌎 Website: astrodetroit.com
☕ Best Pick: Lavender honey latte + a fresh-baked chocolate croissant!

6. Easy, Eco-Friendly & Mindful Travel Tips

• Ride the QLine Streetcar – An easy & eco-friendly way to explore downtown Detroit.
• Use Bike Share Stations – Rent a bike from MoGo Detroit and ride along the Detroit Riverwalk.
• Shop Local – Visit Eastern Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and street performances!

7. Nearby Adventures & Day Trips

Frankenmuth – Michigan’s Little Bavaria (1.5 Hours Away)

This charming German-style village offers horse-drawn carriage rides, pretzel-making classes, and the world-famous Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland.

📍 Location: Frankenmuth, MI
🌎 Website: frankenmuth.org

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum (45 Min Away)

A fun, interactive science museum perfect for young explorers.

📍 Location: 220 E Ann St, Ann Arbor, MI
🌎 Website: aahom.org

Are We There Yet?

From historic museums and iconic pizza to Lake Michigan beaches and scenic riverwalks, Detroit is an unforgettable family road trip destination. Whether you’re exploring The Henry Ford, catching a baseball game, or climbing sand dunes, this city offers something for everyone.

💬 Have you visited Detroit? Tag us in your adventures with #TheFamilyRoadTrip and share your favorite spots! 🚗🏙️⚙️