There’s nothing quite like summer in the city. From FREE family fun to exciting adventures inside and out, here are the top things to do with kids when visiting Detroit.

From vendor

FREE FUN

Make A Splash

Put on your swim suits and soak up the sun in Detroit. Find a FREE splash pad or enjoy affordable fun at the waterpark.

Belle Isle

Take a trip to the jewel of Detroit, Belle Isle State Park. See the city skyline and take pictures at the fountain. Cool down at the Belle Isle Conservancy (free admission), Belle Isle Aquarium (free admission) and Dossin Great Lakes Musuem, let the kids run around the playground and explore the Belle Isle Nature Center (free admission), go on a nature walk, toss a ball, try the GIANT Slide and take in the sunset on Belle Isle beach. Save the date (July 13th) and plan your visit for the Detroit Kite Festival, it’s one of our favorite annual events.

Playgrounds

  • Joe Louis Greenway, Warren Gateway: A contender for the best playground in Michigan, the massive play structure and super speedy slide will delight kids of all ages. When they’ve had their fun there, there are other slides, swings and climbing structures to entertain and engage.
  • Chandler Park: The NEW playground at Chandler Park is fantastic for kids of all ages. A large obstacle course, giant slides, ninja gyms/climber, plenty of objects to swing and spin on plus a large toddler play area.
  • Palmer Park: Palmer Park not only has a large modern playground with eqiupment for kids of all ages, there’s also a free splash pad, historic log cabin, and beautiful walking paths in one of the city’s most beautiful parks. Be sure to visit Dutch Girl Donut on the other side of Woodward for a treat.
  • Riverside Park: Located next to the Ambassador Bridge, Riverside Park is a great place to play. Kids can climb and slide down the play structure, swing and spin on multiple structures (including a hammock and zipline), then cool down at the splash pad.
  • Belle Isle State Park: The playground next the Belle Isle Nature Center is a favorite and the multiple structure Kid Row playground is always a hit with kids (it’s also located next to the giant slide).
  • Sprit Plaza: Located in downtown Detroit. Spirit Plaza is a great place to get a photo op and let the kids climb.
  • Valade Park: A sandy beach park on the Detroit Riverfront (no water access) with a fun climbing structure for kids.
  • Clark Park: New playground in SW Detroit that includes a fun climbing structure, swings of all kinds, a natural play area, a cool sandbox with turtle statues, AND a splash pad! 

Outdoor Activities

  • Detroit Abloom: A hidden gem on Detroit’s eastside, Detroit Abloom is a FREE public garden space for guests to enjoy and get inspired. From beautiful flowers to delicious food, find inspiration and fun as you explore. Make it a picnic and stop by Yellow Light on your way for coffee and donuts.
  • Diamond Jack’s Sightseeing Tours: Take in many popular and interesting attractions along the Detroit riverfront. Tours are $25 for guest 13 – 59, $15 for children ages 6 to 12 and $5 for kids 5 and under.
  • Eastern Market: Stock up on fresh food, delicious treats and beautiful flowers at Eastern Market on Saturdays. There are beautiful murals that make for perfect family photo-ops throughout the district and an entrance to the Dequindre Cut if you’re looking to take a family walk or stroll to the Riverfront.
  • Coriander Kitchen: Enjoy a family meal on the riverfront and bring a fishing poll. Coriander’s is a hidden gem in Detroit.
  • Detroit Tigers Baseball: Root for the home team and have a fun afternoon in Comerica Park. Attend a Friday night game for fireworks or let the kids run the bases on a Sunday.

Indoor Activities

  • DNR Outdoor Adventure Center: Experience exciting outdoor adventures (INSIDE) with hands-on activities, exhibits and simulators – walk behind and touch a waterfall, use stepping stones to cross the water, step into a fishing boat and reel in a big fish, hit the trail on a mountain bike or snowmobile, and much more.
  • DYNO Detroit: Go to new heights and test your skills at Detroit’s largest climbing gym.
  • The Garden Bowl: Go for a high score at one of the oldest bowling alley’s in Michigan.

Museums

Detroit is rich in history and culture. Plan a family field trip to learn more.