If a change of scenery is what you’re family is looking for – but not too far away – we suggest making a day trip to Brighton-Howell for winter fun.

Plan a day trip and take in the fresh fall at some of the coolest playgrounds around, then treat yourself with a can’t-miss sweet treat.

Howell Nature Center

The Howell Nature Center is one of our favorite places to visit animals, take a nature walk and let the children run around the playground – the treehouse forts and canopy walks are pretty cool for parents and kids alike! The fun doesn’t stop when the temperatures drop either. There’s a new Raptor Hill for sledding on snowy days and exciting events all through the year.

Open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for kids ages 3 to 17. Ages 2 and under are free!

Mt Brighton

Mt. Brighton Ski Area is the place to ski/snowboard in metro Detroit. Riders can easily access 25 trails and five lifts covering 130 acres. Novices can sign up for lessons and experts can have fun racing down the slopes.

Open 7 Days A Week and equipment rental is available for $55 online and $65 walk-up.

Castaway Play

Avoid cabin fever and have a full day of fun at Castaway Play. The indoor amusement center features a massive indoor play structure with a dedicated toddler space, inflatable bounce houses, arcade and VR games, Laser Tag, Create-A-Pal and an epic Challenge Zone.

Open Tuesday – Thursday from 10am to 7pm, Friday & Saturday from 10am to 8pm. Available on Sundays for private parties. Admission prices vary, check the site for full details!

Explore The Great Outdoors

Brighton is home to 2 State Parks and a Metropark. Explore the nature trails, go cross country skiing or sledding at Brighton Recreation Area, Island Lake Recreation Area or Huron Meadow Metropark.

Playground Play Dates

Let the kids run and play at the park. Our three favorite playgrounds in the area are:

  • Mill Pond Park (W Main St & E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI 48116): The park  has a giant, fenced-in wooden castle theme playscape and public restrooms.
  • Genoa Township Park (100 Dorr Rd, Brighton, MI 48114): The park  has swing-sets, climbing structures and playsets next to a public restroom. There’s also a massive sledding hill.
  • Howell Summit Garden (219 N Walnut St, Howell, MI 48843): The children’s playground in downtown Howell is adorable and lots of fun! A mini maze, colorful tents and curving slides offer whimsical amusement for little ones.

Photo credit: Facebook