Summer is the perfect time to explore a new museum, zoo, or science center—and this year’s lineup of limited-time exhibitions is packed with dinosaurs, dragons, sky-high adventures, historic artifacts, and hands-on fun. Whether you’re planning a family day trip close to home or looking for an easy weekend getaway, these exhibits won’t be around for long.
Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation | Dearborn
July 9–26, 2026
One of the most significant traveling exhibitions in America 250 celebrations is making its only Michigan stop at The Henry Ford. For just over two weeks, families can view rare founding-era documents from the National Archives that have never before toured the country together. Admission is free with a reservation, making this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for history lovers of all ages. Reserve your spot
Dinosauria
Detroit Zoo | Royal Oak
May 23–September 7, 2026
Travel millions of years back in time as you walk through a three-acre trail filled with more than 25 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. New for 2026 are additional dinosaur species, a climbable dinosaur, interactive fossil activities, dig pits, and incredible photo opportunities. It’s a summer must for little dinosaur fan.
A-MAZING Detroit: All Paths Lead to Mi-Sci
Michigan Science Center | Detroit
Limited-time exhibit this summer
Get lost—in the best way possible! This giant cardboard maze celebrates Detroit through colorful artwork, engineering, and interactive challenges. Families can navigate winding pathways inspired by local landmarks before building cardboard creations, guiding robots through mini mazes, and discovering how creativity and engineering shape our city. It’s a playful exhibit that combines STEM learning with imaginative fun.
The Lost World of Dragons
Sloan Museum of Discovery | Flint
Now through September 13, 2026
Step into a mythical world where dragons soar, breathe fire, and guard ancient treasures. This immersive exhibition combines science, history, mythology, and fantasy through life-sized dragon models, interactive displays, hands-on activities, and fascinating stories from cultures around the world. Young dragon trainers will love exploring this magical adventure.
Unofficial Galaxies
Imagination Station | Toledo
Now through August 23, 2026
Just an hour from Metro Detroit, this fan-inspired space adventure invites visitors to pilot starships, build droids, explore distant planets, and immerse themselves in an interactive Star Wars filled with hands-on exhibits. While inspired by a beloved sci-fi universe, this unofficial experience creates its own imaginative adventure that’s perfect for aspiring Jedi, pilots, and space explorers.
Destination Mars
Impression 5 Science Center | Lansing
Now through September 6, 2026
Blast off on an unforgettable mission to the Red Planet in this immersive traveling exhibit that puts kids in the role of future astronauts. Destination Mars challenges visitors to solve real-world problems they’ll face while living on Mars—from growing food and building shelter to exploring the planet’s surface. Families can drive a 4-D Mars exploration vehicle, pilot a virtual drone, experience G-forces in a spinning capsule, and tackle hands-on engineering challenges that inspire curiosity about space exploration and STEM careers.
Unseen Oceans
Grand Rapids Public Museum | Grand Rapids
Now through January 3, 2027
Dive beneath the surface and discover one of Earth’s last great frontiers. Through larger-than-life models, immersive displays, and interactive exhibits, families will encounter mysterious deep-sea creatures, glowing marine life, and incredible underwater ecosystems while learning why ocean conservation matters—even here in Michigan.
AIM HIGH: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum | Grand Rapids
Now through September 6, 2026
Young aviators can climb into the cockpit, test their piloting skills, and discover the inspiring story of the Tuskegee Airmen—the first Black military pilots in U.S. history. Through interactive flight experiences, engineering activities, and imaginative play, this traveling exhibit introduces children to aviation while celebrating courage, perseverance, and innovation.
