If you have a kid who would rather browse shelves than scroll a screen, Metro Detroit has some incredible spots made just for them. From cozy independent bookstores to interactive literary spaces and library gems, these destinations turn reading into an experience — not just a hobby. Whether you’re raising a brand-new reader or a full-blown bookworm, here are four cool places around Metro Detroit that every kid book lover needs to check out.
The Ford House (Grosse Pointe Shores)
Find the best FREE story time at The Ford House. Every Tuesday at 10:30am the Ford House hosts an engaging story time for families that includes a book reading and hands-on activities. Afterwards you can visit the hands-on museum exhibits in the Visitor Center too.
Coreander’s Children’s Bookshoppe (Grosse Pointe)
Browse the whimsical children’s bookstore and stock up on new books for your home library at Coreander’s. Your kids will love taking a peek in the secret cubby hole, taking a magical ride on the ‘hidden’ elevator and searching through collectables.
More independent bookstores with great children’s areas:
- 27th Letter Books (Detroit)
- Love & Other Books (Ferndale)
- Literati Bookstore (Ann Arbor)
- 2 Dandelions (Brighton)
- NOVEL (Rochester)
- The Caboose: Sidetrack Bookshop for Kids (Royal Oak)
Redford Library
The Redford Library’s second floor is nothing short of a magical haven for children. One of the standout features is the turf-covered kids’ play area, which instantly transports you to a whimsical outdoor playground. Location: 25320 Six Mile Road, Redford
Other libraries worth visiting:
- Clinton-Macomb Public Library
- West Bloomfield Library
- Southfield Library
- Shelby Township Library
- Mount Clemens Public Library
Story Walk at Raintree Park (Troy)
The story walk at Raintree Park is approximately a quarter mile walk long a tree lined, paved path that circles the park. It’s a fun way to get the kids moving as they search for the next story page. Before or after, let them run around the playground.
More Story Walks in Metro Detroit:
- Beverly Park Story Book Trail (Beverly Hills) – opens April
- Heritage Park (Canton)
- Bennett Civic Center Library (Livonia) – opens April
- Salem-South Lyon District Library (South Lyon)
BONUS: Muskegon Museum of Art
The Muskegon Museum of Art is great to visit any time of year but families will want to plan their visit around the Mo Willems & Friends exhibition. The delightful showcase celebrates the beloved children’s author and illustrator famous for Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! and runs from March 12th thru May 31st
The museum is open Tuesdays thru Sundays and admission is $12 for adults and kids ages 16 and under are free!
Photo: Love & Other Books
