Are you new to the area? Do you want some fresh ideas about where to go with your Little Brother or Sister? Here are some suggestions!
*All activities are sorted by location and are current as of July 2008. Details such as prices, hours, or contact info may change. While we do our best to keep this information current, please double check the details before leaving home! Also, this list is not exhaustive – if you have suggestions for additional activities, please let us know!
Downtown Ann Arbor/ U of M Campus
Yost Ice Arena 1000 S. State St., Ann Arbor, (734) 764-4600 www.umich.edu/yost Yost Ice Arena (6,894 capacity) is the home of University of Michigan Hockey Team. Offers regular public skating and learn to skate opportunities. Admission is $5 adults, $4 U of M faculty and staff, $3 students, youth, & seniors, $2 skate rental. See website or call for open skate times.
Ann Arbor YMCA 400 W. Washington, Ann Arbor 48103, (734) 996-9622 www.annarborymca.org
University of Michigan Nichols Arboretum (aka The Arb)
Washington Hgts. @ Nichols Dr., Ann Arbor, (734) 647-7600 www.lsa.umich.edu/mbgA 123-acre living museum in the hills adjacent to central campus. Its 1906 design by O.C. Simonds celebrates its dramatic topography. Views are framed by the Arb's collection of Michigan native plants and plants from around the world.
University of Michigan Athletics Many of U of M’s athletic games do not require tickets to attend and have minimal entrance fees.
Ann Arbor Farmers Market 315 Detroit St. (734) 994-3276 The Ann Arbor Farmers' Market features locally grown produce, flowers, shrubs, plants, jams, honey, maple syrup, jellies, baked goods, grains, fruits, eggs, dairy products, homemade apparel, toys, jewelry, home decorations, furniture, dried flowers, pottery and candles all in an open-air atmosphere. Located in the historic Kerrytown District. Hours are Wednesday and Saturday, 7-3 from May-December, and Saturday 8-3 from January-April.
The Bead Gallery 311 E. Liberty St. (734) 663-6800 www.a2beadgallery.com Bead store, beading classes! Check the website for discount days.
African American Cultural and Historical Museum of Washtenaw County PO Box 130724, Ann Arbor, (734)994-6513/996-0603 www.anotherannarbor.org Take the Journey to Freedom Tour that visits area historical stops on the Underground Railroad, including the site where one of Michigan's first abolitionist newspapers were printed.
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum 220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor, (734) 995-5439 www.aahom.org Ignite your imagination! Explore nine unique galleries containing more than 250 interactive exhibits. Learning made fun for all ages in an informal environment where hands-on experience is the best teacher. Admission $8 for 2+
University of Michigan Museum of Art *Free Admission 1301 S. University, Ann Arbor, (734) 763-8662 www.umma.umich.edu This lively loft gallery will present exhibitions devoted to photography, film, and video, as well as housing a modest Museum shop and offering public programs including tours and special events.
University of Michigan Stearns Musical Collection *Free Admission 1100 Baits Dr., Ann Arbor, (734) 763-4389 www.music.umich.edu/research/stearns_collection/index.htm More than 2,000 musical instruments, this internationally known collection is the largest assembly of such artifacts in any North American University. Group visits and guided tours available upon request.
University of Michigan Exhibit Museum of Natural History and Planetarium 1109 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor, (734) 647-1381 www.exhibits.lsa.umich.edu Houses the state’s largest collection of dinosaur skeletons and displays highlighting Michigan’s prehistoric past. The planetarium offers a 360-degree domed screen that surrounds the audience. Stargazing shows on weekends, plus weekdays in July and August.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library 1000 Beal Ave., Ann Arbor, (734) 205-0555 www.fordlibrarymuseum.gov Ford's presidential materials are here. See special exhibits, schedule a tour, hear guest speakers, or conduct research. Free on-site parking for visitors
Gallery at Duderstadt Center 2281 Bonisteel Blvd., Ann Arbor, (734) 763-3266 www.dc.umich.edu Gallery for exhibition of work by University of Michigan students, faculty & staff in a variety of media, with a special interest in digital media.
Ann Arbor South
Ann Arbor Ice Cube 2121 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor, (734) 213-1600 www.a2ice3.com 2 NHL-size rinks, 1 Olympic rink, pro shop, fitness center, children’s play space, restaurant, drop-in hockey, open ice skating, party packages, arcade, banquet facilities for up to 100. Discount available with BBBS ID.
Planet Rock 82 Aprill Dr., Ann Arbor, (734) 827-2680 www.planet-rock.com One of the largest indoor climbing gyms in the world. Unique terrain caters to complete novices and seasoned pros alike. Ages 5-95 are challenged by the quick and easy routes as well as tough competition grades. Discount available with BBBS ID cards and Big’s driver’s license.
The Scrap Box581 State Circle, Ann Arbor, (734) 994-4420 www.scrapbox.org A wonderful resource for unique, inexpensive art and craft materials, for creative expression and recycling in action.
Jump City 2825 Boardwalk, Ann Arbor (734) 995-5055 www.jump-city.com Giant inflatable toys! Includes a giant slide, gladiator arena, bounce house, and more! Costs $6 per person. Appropriate for kids 18 months through 18 years (typical customers usually 4-12). They also have a family night. Please bring socks! Check website for drop-in times.
Zap Zone 2809 Boardwalk, Ann Arbor (734) 930-6670 www.zap-zone.com Laser tag and arcade. One game of laser tag, $7. Call or see website for hours. *There is also a Canton location!
Whirly Ball of Ann Arbor 750 Phoenix, Ann Arbor, (734) 975-6909 www.annarbor.org/pages/whirlyball.html Gather a group of friends and come over for a game of whirly ball; a combination of basketball and Jai-Alai played from an electric bumper car. It's a blast.
Ann Arbor North
Domino's Petting Farm24 Frank Lloyd Wright Dr., Ann Arbor, (734) 998-0182 www.pettingfarm.com Conveniently located in Ann Arbor, Domino's Petting Farm gives children and adults a chance to interact with farm animals. Hayrides, group rates, and Birthday packages available. Pony rides on weekends.
University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens1800 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor, (734) 998-7061 www.lsa.umich.edu/mbg Situated on a lush 350-acre oasis of diverse plant life. Outdoor nature trails wind through various habitats native to Michigan, while the indoor conservatory fascinates visitors of all ages with a rare glimpse of plants from around the world.
Gallup Park Main access off Fuller Rd. One of many Ann Arbor parks, Gallup spreads out over 69 beautiful acres along the Huron River. The park offers two playgrounds, a canoe livery, picnic areas, paved and unpaved walking paths. The park is home to hundreds of geese, swans and ducks.
Hidden Lane Farm 3351 N. Maple Horseback riding! (734) 662-3390
Fuller Park 1519 Fuller Rd. (734) 994-4263 Fuller Park has a public pool that is open during the summer months.
Leslie Science and Nature Center 1831 Traver Rd. Ann Arbor 48105, (734) 997-1553 www.lesliesnc.org Natural science and environmental education opportunities for youth and families. The center comprises the Nature House, the Critter House, Resident Raptors, and the former Leslie farmhouse, all on 50 acres of fields, woods, prairies, and ponds. Outdoor, hands-on, and discovery-based programs for school groups and scouts; birthday parties, weekend events, and festivals. Nature day camps during the summer and school breaks. Hikes on the property are encouraged. Building rentals available. Call for fees and program schedules.
Argo Park 1055 Longshore Dr., Ann Arbor, (734) 668-7411 22-acre park along the Huron River features nature trails, fishing, canoe rentals, and boat launch.
Parker Mill 4650 Geddes Ave., Ann Arbor, (734) 971-6337 A 27-acre park featuring a water park, 18-hole disc golf course, walking trails, wetland boardwalk, interpretive signs, picnic area and restrooms. The mill is functional and open for tours on weekends in September and October. Group tours available by appointment anytime. Mill restored by Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation in 1984.
Mack Pool 715 Brooks St., Ann Arbor, (734) 994-2898 25-yard pool with attached children’s pool.
Humane Society of Huron Valley 3100 Cherry Hill Road (734) 662-5585 www.hshv.org The Humane Society has many opportunities for volunteers, however, there are some age restrictions, so be sure to call first and make sure they can accommodate you and your Little.
Ann Arbor East
County Farm Park 2960 Washtenaw (@ Platt)
Buhr Park 2751 Packard St. (734) 971-3228 Buhr Park features a six- lane, 25 yard pool with a deep well and a separate 0" depth entry children's wading pool with interactive play toys. Buhr Park also features 39 acres of rolling hills, picnic areas with grills, a children's play area, softball diamonds, soccer fields and outdoor tennis courts. There is also an ice skating rink, open from mid-November to mid-March.
Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center 2960 Washtenaw (@ Platt) (734) 971-6355 The Murray Rec Center has an indoor swimming pool, basketball courts, fitness classes, an indoor track, and much more! Drop in classes are $6 each, and a pass to the rec for one day is $6 for adults and $4 for youth.
Ann Arbor West
Veterans Memorial Park Ice Arena and Public Pool 2150 Jackson Rd., Ann Arbor, (734) 761-7240 Regulation-size rink of 85’ x 200’ with spectator seating for 3,000. Snack bar, coin-operated lockers, and storage units. Hockey and skating accessories available in the Pro Shop. Veterans Memorial Park also has a public pool which features a fan-shaped zero depth area with a “raindrop,” interactive water play apparatus, a handicap access ramp, and a 125 foot waterslide. Minimum height requirement for use of the slide is 42”.
Rainbow Creations 283 S. Zeeb Rd. (734) 665-1910 Paint your own piece of pottery! Discount available with BBBS ID cards.
Putt N Glow 3900 Jackson Rd. Suite 3, Ann Arbor, (734) 222-1720 www.puttnglow.net An indoor miniature golf course, complete with black lights! Costs $7 for 13+, $6 for under 12 or over 55. Second round is $3.
Quality 16 Theaters 3686 Jackson Rd. Ann Arbor, (734) 623-SHOW. www.GQTI.com Free Spring matinees for everyone! Saturday and Sunday mornings at 10 and 11. They play a different family friendly movie each weekend through March and April.
Jungle Java 3900 Jackson Rd. Ann Arbor (734) 786-1640 www.junglejavaplay.com A fun indoor playground and restaurant – navigate through mazes, tunnels, and a forest of surprises! Most kids who go are under 10 years old, but there is no age restriction. Adults are welcome to play too! Children 2+ are $6.50, adults are free. Socks are required! Open 7 days. *There is also a Canton location!
Bel-Mark Lanes 3530 Jackson Rd., Ann Arbor, (734) 994-8433 Bowling! - Mon-Sat 9am-6pm $2.50 games/$3.00 shoes Mon-Sat 6pm-9pm $3.25 games/$3.00 shoes Sundays open till Noon $1.00 games/$3.00 shoes Sundays 6pm-9pm $3.25 games/$3.00 shoes
Throughout Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor District Library Branches throughout the city of Ann Arbor. Visit www.aadl.org for the one closest to you!
Urban Fairy Doors Throughout Downtown Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor, (734) 995-7281 www.urban-fairies.com Catch these tiny doors on the front of select area businesses in downtown Ann Arbor. Consult Web site for locations.
Downtown Ypsi/ EMU Campus
Eastern Michigan University Club Pool West Circle Drive, Ypsilanti, (734) 487-1338 www.emich.edu 25-yard long pool.
Eastern Michigan University Michael H. Jones Natatorium Pool Olds-Robb Student Recreation Center, West Circle Drive, (734) 487-1338 www.emich.edu. 50-meter pool
Frog Island Park Rice St. @ Cross St., Ypsilanti, (734) 483-7272 5-acre park featuring walking/bicycle paths, soccer field, and amphitheater.
Michigan Firehouse Museum 110 W. Cross St., Ypsilanti, (734) 547-0663 www.michiganfirehousemuseum.org Located in Ypsilanti’s former Fire Hall, this museum displays fire memorabilia and antique and restored fire engines.
Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Collection & Miller Motors Hudson 100 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti, (734) 482-5200 www.ypsiautoheritage.org Learn about the unusual role Ypsilanti and its pioneers played in the history of the American automobile. See vehicles of bygone eras, study signs and records of early area auto dealers and solve the mystery of the world's most notorious highway map.
Ypsilanti Historical Museum 220 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti, (734) 482-4990 www.ypsilantihistoricalsociety.org Elegant 12-room Italianate mansion built in 1860 and furnished in period fashion. Houses one of best collections of historical and genealogical documents in the area.
EMU Symphony Orchestra Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti 734.487.4380 The EMU Symphony Orchestra is an organization of approximately 70 music majors, minors, and non-music majors. The Symphony Orchestra averages 6 concerts per year, including the Halloween Concert and matinee Children's Concerts in December. It has performed to critical acclaim at the Midwestern Conference on School Vocal and Instrumental Music in Ann Arbor, and has earned accolades from internationally known composers and conductors.
Ypsilanti East
World of Rocks 42 N. Huron St. (734) 481-9981 www.worldofrocks.com Rocks, minerals, crystals, fossils, and beads!
Recreation Park 1017 Congress, Ypsilanti, (734) 483-7272 Outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, baseball fields, picnic shelter, tables and grills, playground, and restrooms.
Ypsilanti South
Stony Creek Bead and Gallery 2060 Whittaker Rd. (734) 544-0904 Beaded jewelry
Rolling Hills Park and Water Park 7660 Stony Creek Rd., Ypsilanti, (734) 484-9655 http://www.ewashtenaw.org/ The primary attractions at the water park are the wave pool, and the water slides. The lazy river is enjoyed by patrons of all ages, while the spraygrounds are a big hit with our younger guests. The activity pool is very popular with younger children due to its wide zero depth entry, gentle bubblers, geysers, a waterfall and the kiddy slide for children under 45” tall. Rolling Hills offers a variety of trails including: 1.8 miles of paved surface for walking, biking and rollerblading; a three mile soft surface hiking trail with two observation decks and rolling terrain; and a three-quarter mile nature trail winding throughout tall trees.
Ford Lake Park System Often considered the jewel of Ypsilanti Township, the Ford Lake Park System consists of six parks: Ford Lake, Loonfeather Point, North Bay, South Hydro, North Hydro and Lakeside Parks. These community parks surround beautiful Ford Lake and provide enhanced services and facilities. Ford Lake, Loonfeather Point and North Bay Parks are normally staffed mid-May through Labor Day with Park Attendants and Rangers. In addition, the Park Rangers patrol all of the parks within the Township. If you need assistance, our park staff is there to serve you! http://www.twp.ypsilanti.mi.us/recreate/parksystem.shtml
Ypsilanti West
Gallery One at Washtenaw Community College (Student Center Bldg., WCC Campus) 4800 E. Huron River Dr., Ann Arbor, (734) 477-8512 www.wccnet.org/galleryone See works by students, faculty, local and international artists. Lectures, gallery talks, demonstrations, and workshops are occasionally held in conjunction with exhibitions.
Showcase Cinemas 4100 Carpenter Rd. Ypsilanti (734) 973-8380 Movie theater. Discounts available with BBBS ID cards
Wiard's Orchard and Country Fairs
5565 Meritt Rd., Ypsilanti, (734) 482-7744 www.wiards.comMid-Sept. through October features apples, pumpkins, country fair, cider mill, donut shop, pies, pony rides (weekends), giant inflates, and fun for all. October Fri-Sun evenings feature Night Terrors - Michigan's Chills & Thrills Park.
Putterz Golf and Games 2675 Washtenaw Rd. (734) 434-2838 www.putterz.com The Ypsilanti Putterz offers everything from a large game room to batting cages to our 54 hole golf course - there is something for everyone! Discount available with BBBS ID cards.
Ypsi Arbor Lanes 2985 Washtenaw (734) 434-1110 Bowling! Discounts available with BBBS ID cards.
Wild Swan Theater http://www.wildswantheater.org/ Towsley Auditorium, Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College Premiering productions in its home base of Ann Arbor and touring them throughout Michigan and the Midwest, Wild Swan has enchanted hundreds of thousands of play-goers of all ages in theaters, schools, libraries, and museums of all sizes. Children $8, Adults $12
Ypsilanti North
Riverside Park E. Cross Street On the Huron River, Riverside Park is home to such events as The Ypsilanti Heritage Festival, Orphan Car Show, Vintage Volkswagen Show, Michigan Elvisfest, Summer Beer Festival and many more.
Chelsea
Arctic Coliseum Ice Arena 501 Coliseum Dr., Chelsea, (734) 433-4444 www.arcticcoliseum.net Two NHL size rinks, pro shop, drop in hockey, open ice skating, figure skating, party package, arcade, restaurant/bar/banquet facility - open fall 06, complete professional hockey instruction on ice, off ice, weight training.
Cavanaugh Lake Park 16 Cavanaugh Lake Rd. (734) 971-6337 Lakeside picnic areas, children’s play area, fishing possibilities
Pierce Park S. Main Street This peaceful park in the middle of Chelsea offers a merry-go-round, covered pavilion, picnic tables and hosts several Chelsea events.
Chelsea Lanes 1180 S. Main St., Chelsea, (734) 475-8141
Waterloo Recreation Area 17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea, (734) 475-8307 The largest state park in the lower peninsula. At more than 20,000 acres, the park offers 12 miles of interpretive nature trails and 47 miles of hiking trails.
Chelsea Tree House 320 N. Main St., Chelsea, (734) 475-1555 www.thechelseatreehouse.com The Chelsea TreeHouse is an awesome adventure destination located in Chelsea, Michigan. They offer a 1,200 square foot climbing and play structure with five slides, a toddler area, swinging bridges, and of course, a huge Tree House!
Chelsea Area Historical Society Museum 125 Jackson St., Chelsea, (734) 475-7047 Located in a restored train depot built in 1880, this museum houses area memorabilia, model train and railroad exhibits, photos, and more.
Eddy Discovery Center 17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea, (734) 475-3170 www.michigan.gov/dnr Introduces visitors to the world of geology and the rich natural resouces of the Waterloo Recreation Area through historical and hands-on exhibits, dioramas, wildlife viewing area, observation deck, self guided hiking, and nature trails. Open year-round.
Chelsea Teddy Bear Factory Store 400 N. Main St, Chelsea, (734) 433-5499 www.chelseateddybear.com New 30,000 square foot factory tour. See a 7' tall smiling grizzly bear and the world's largest real teddy bear. Birthday parties right on the factory floor. History of the teddy bear display. Antique bears. Factory outlet store!
Dexter
Warrior Creek Park Main Street The railroad trestle leading out of town to the west was built by the first African American engineer of the Michigan Central Railroad as was the 150 year old railroad bridge in Warrior Creek Park located just behind the present fire station. This park includes a picnic area, playground equipment and a horseshoe pitch area.
Hudson Mills Metropark 8801 N. Territorial Rd., Dexter, (734) 426-8211 1,549-acre park has an 18-hole golf course, disc golf courses, picnic areas, swings and slides, softball diamonds, hike-bike trail, nature trails, river fishing, and canoe rental. Popular destination for canoeing and kayaking. Metropark vehicle entry permit required.
Dexter Cider Mill 3685 Central St. Dexter, (734) 426-8531 www.dextercidermill.com Open late August through mid November, Wednesday-Sunday 9-5 (and 9-6 in October). No admissions or parking fees.
Spring Valley Trout Farm 12190 Island Lake Rd., Dexter, (734) 426-4772 www.springvalleytroutfarm.com Catch your own fish from the spring-fed, pollution-free ponds that are stocked weekly with fish grown right on the farm. A children's trout pond is reserved for little anglers under 10. Environment is so perfect in the ponds that a catch is guaranteed on every outing!
Dexter Area Historical Society & Museum 3443 Inverness St., Dexter, (734) 426-2519 www.hvcn.org/info/dextermuseum Serving as western Washtenaw County's link with history, the museum houses displays, a genealogical library, local history archives, and a gift shop. Located in the former, historic St. Andrew's United Church of Christ.
Saline
Bixby Marionette Exhibit 141 E. Michigan Ave., Saline, (734) 429-0807 This permanent exhibit of marionettes was handcrafted by resident Mr. Meredith Bixby, whose company of puppeteers performed nationwide between 1930 and 1980. Offers educational tours and field trips for children and adults.
Rentschler Farm Museum 1265 E. Michigan Ave., Saline, (734) 944-0442 www.salinehistory.org This 20th century farm museum features displays of farm implements, a period garden, and 12-room farmhouse depicting life in the 1930s. Open seasonally.
Saline Railroad Depot Museum 402 N. Ann Arbor St., Saline, (734) 944-0442 www.salinehistory.org The railroad carried both passengers and freight in the Saline area from 1870-1962. The building houses a station agent’s room, freight room, and livery barn. Fully furnished caboose sits on nearby tracks. The Depot Museum includes a walking/jogging trail along the tracks.
Mill Pond Park Mill Street at Bennett Home of the annual Celtic Festival, Mill Pond Park is comprised of 54-acres, nestled along the Saline River. It offers large wooden, children's play structure, picnic area with pavilions, soccer fields, dog park, natural area and walking trails.
Milan Dragway10860 Plank Rd., Milan, (734) 439-7368 www.milandragway.com An IHRA sanctioned race track with racing every Weds, Fri, Sat & Sun. Feature events through out the season. (April - Early November). Call for complete schedule.
Yorktown Golf Center 3560 Willis Rd. Milan (734) 429-3691 Putt-putt, driving range, golf lessons. Discounts available with BBBS ID cards.
Talladay Farms 6270 Judd Rd., Milan (734) 439-2313 Take an adventure in corn! Visit this 25-acre, 10-mile corn maze, a unique way to enjoy the country. Fun for the whole family! Night walks require flashlights, available at the on-site concession stand. Admission charge for adults and children. Group discounts available. Visit the 10' high lookout tower that overlooks the maze.
Whitmore Lake
Independence Lake Park 3200 Jennings Rd. Whitmore Lake (734) 449-4437 This park has a water park, and sandy beach for use in the summer, and much more! It also has rowboat rentals!
Options outside of Washtenaw County
Westland
Sportway of Westland 38520 Ford Rd. (734) 728-7222 Miniature golf, go carts, batting cages, and more!
Skateland West 37550 Cherry Hill Rd. (734) 326-2800 Roller skating!
Canton
Zap Zone 41953 Ford Rd. Canton 48187 (734) 844-7746 www.zap-zone.com Laser tag, bumper cars, Glo Golf, etc.
Arctic Edge 46615 Michigan Ave. Canton, (734) 487-7777 www.arcticarenas.com Ice arena with open skating, drop-in hockey, and skating lessons.
Saint Joseph Mercy Health Exploration Station 1600 S. Canton Center Rd. Suite 10, Canton MI, (734) 398-7518 The Saint Joseph Mercy Health Exploration Station is open for individuals and families to tour the exhibit gallery free of charge on the fourth Thursday of each month from 10am - 8pm September through May and 10am - 6pm June through August. You can expect to spend 40-60 minutes for the tour. An adult must accompany anyone under the age of 18. The Exhibit Gallery is designed like the inside of a giant human. Come see what all the excitement is about!
Super Bowl of Canton 45100 Ford Rd., Canton, 48187, (734) 459-6070 www.bowldetroit.com
Emagine Canton 39535 Ford Rd., Canton 48187, (734) 721-3456 www.emagine-entertainment.com
Goodrich Quality Theaters – Canton Cinema 43555 Ford Rd., Canton 48187, (734) 981-1904 www.gqti.com
Jungle Java 6481 Canton Center Rd., Canton 48187 (734) 927-6680 www.junglejavaplay.com A fun indoor playground and restaurant – navigate through mazes, tunnels, and a forest of surprises! Most kids who go are under 10 years old, but there is no age restriction. Adults are welcome to play too! Children 2+ are $6.50, adults are free. Socks are required! Open 7 days. *There is also an Ann Arbor location!
Glo-Golf 41969 Ford Rd. Canton (734) 844-2244 www.glo-golf.com Glow in the dark miniature golf - $7 for one round, or $4 games on Tuesdays. $3 for bumper cars.
Canton Public Library 1200 S. Canton Center Rd., Canton, 48188 (734) 397-0999 www.cantonpl.org
Skatin’ Station II 8611 Ronda Dr. Canton, 48187 www.skatinstation2.com Roller skating! Check website or call for open skating times and prices.
Detroit Area
Holocaust Memorial Center *Free Admission 28123 Orchard Lake Rd. Farmington Hills (248) 553-2400 www.holocaustcenter.org Some of the objectives of the Holocaust Memorial Center are to preserve the memory of the 6 million Jews murdered in the Holocaust, and to help future generations understand and direct their lives to the maintenance of an open, free society. Hours are Sunday through Thursday 9:30-3:30 and Friday 9:30-12:30.
Detroit Institute of the Arts 5200 Woodward Ave. (313) 833-7900 www.dia.org $6 for adults, $3 for kids (3-17)
Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History 315 E. Warren Ave. (313) 494-5800 www.maah-detroit.org Admission is $8. Hours are Sunday 1-5, Tuesday and Wednesday 9-5, Thursday 9-8, and Friday and Saturday 9-5. The Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History, the largest museum of its kind in the world, tells the story of the black experience in America through exhibits and audiovisual presentations; there's also a theater, research library, and store.
Detroit Zoo 8450 W. Ten Mile Rd. Royal Oak (248) 398-0900 www.detroitzoo.org More than 2,800 animals from about 300 species live uncaged in natural habitats at the Detroit Zoo. Highlights include a large penguinarium, a walk-through aviary with tropical birds and plants, and a wildlife interpretive gallery with a butterfly house. Don't miss the Arctic Ring of Life exhibit, with polar bears and seals in a simulated habitat; an underwater tunnel gives you the chance to see the animals swim overhead. Admission is $11 and the zoo is open daily from 10-5.
Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village 20900 Oakwood Blvd. Dearborn (313) 271-1620 www.hfmgv.org Dearborn's Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village is America's largest indoor-outdoor museum. It charts the country's evolution from rural to industrial society through exhibits covering communication, transportation, domestic life, agriculture, and industry. Greenfield Village preserves 80 famous historic structures, including the bicycle shop where the Wright brothers built their first airplane; Thomas Edison's laboratory; an Illinois courthouse where Abraham Lincoln practiced law; and the Dearborn farm where Ford himself was born. Open daily 9:30-5. Admission: Museum $14, Village $20, combination $30.
