Lansing, Michigan, is a treasure trove of activities. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, parents or grandparents, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Plus, the city strives to be the most accessible and inclusive in Michigan, ensuring that every member of your crew can have an amazing time.
I spoke with Lori Lanspeary, manager of marketing and community engagement for Choose Lansing, to get her suggestions for a great family experience.
Lanspeary’s first tip: “Download our free Greater Lansing Experience Pass app! Check in at each participating location to rack up points so that you can get some fun prizes,” she says.
Here are 10 attractions that promise a fun-filled summer for multi-generational families, along with some useful tips to make the most of your trip.
1. Potter Park Zoo
Potter Park Zoo is a beloved destination that delights visitors of all ages. “What I love about Potter Park Zoo is that you can get through it in two hours,” says Lori Lanspeary, “This leaves plenty of time to explore other activities and grab lunch.”
The zoo boasts a new lemur baby, playful triplet river otters and the intriguing Wayne the giant anteater. Accessibility is top-notch with rental wheelchairs available and newly repaved paths. Members of other AZA zoos enjoy reciprocal admission benefits.
Tip: Plan your visit in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a leisurely stroll and don’t miss the red pandas!
Dive into Michigan’s rich history at the Michigan History Museum. Spanning three floors, this museum offers a journey from the Ice Age to modern times, including the Motown era and the Vietnam conflict. It’s a hit with kids learning new things and grandparents reminiscing about the past.
“Allow at least a few hours to explore the exhibits thoroughly,” suggests Lansing. “There is so much to see!”
Tip: Sundays offer free admission and there are sensory-inclusive hours.
3. Impression 5 Science Center
“Impression 5 Science Center, named after the five senses, brings out the kid in everyone,” says Lanspeary.
The two-story water room, paper airplane making station and the new Organ Adventure exhibit, where visitors can step inside a giant heart or liver, offer a hands-on learning experience. With elevators and exhibits on the main floor, it’s easily accessible.
Tip: All ages will find something to enjoy here, and there are several spots to take a rest break.
4. Zap Zone XL
Located in the Lansing Mall, Zap Zone XL offers 15 attractions under one roof, including six bowling lanes, glow golf, a giant arcade, axe throwing and two-story go-karting. It’s perfect for families with teens and younger kids alike.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid waiting times for popular attractions like go-karting and laser tag.
5. High Caliber Karting & Entertainment
High Caliber Karting & Entertainment in the Meridian Mall features two go-kart tracks. Bonus: one track offers “Combat Karting” with real-life Mario Kart racing, complete with “boosts.”
Other activities include axe throwing, jelly blasting and Nerf archery. “It’s a fantastic spot for families with hard-to-entertain teenagers,” says Lanspeary.
When hunger strikes, check out the restaurant and full bar on the premises.
Tip: High Caliber Karting has go-karts that are accessible for people with disabilities and smaller go-karts for younger kids.
6. Spare Time Entertainment Center
Spare Time Entertainment Center is another great option with bowling, an outdoor putt-putt course and an escape room. It’s an excellent place for families to bond over friendly competition.
Tip: Encourage the kids to try out the escape room for a fun and challenging family activity.
7. Hawk Hollow and Little Hawk Golf Courses but the adjoining Little Hawk provides an 18-hole bent grass putting course with sand traps and water hazards. “This is ideal for seasoned golfers and beginners alike,” says Lanspeary.
Tip: Make it a family competition and see who can navigate the course with the fewest strokes.
8. The Falcon and Royal Scot Golf & Bowl
Like golf? How about foot golf, which is played with a soccer ball? The Falcon and Royal Scott offer both options on site. “Foot golf is a fun twist for soccer-loving kids,” says Lanspeary.
The Falcon is a nine-hole links-style golf course that is enjoyable for both experienced and beginning golfers.
Royal Scot Golf & Bowl features a stunning 27-hole golf course with four indoor golf simulators, and a 60-lane bowling alley with bumper bowling for the littles.
Tip: Plan a day that includes both foot golf and bowling to keep kids engaged and active.
9. Lansing Lugnuts
Catch a minor league baseball game with the Lansing Lugnuts, an affiliate of the Oakland A’s. “Between innings, there’s always something fun happening on the field,” Lanspeary says.
Plus, many Lugnuts games feature fireworks and family-friendly activities.
Tip: Check their schedule for special family days and fireworks nights.
10. Accessibility and Sensory-Inclusive Activities
Lansing is committed to being inclusive for all families. The city’s accessible travel guide provides information on accommodations and attractions that cater to various needs. Many attractions offer sensory-friendly experiences, such as quiet rooms and specific movie and theater performances that cater to people with special needs.
“Many attractions and hotels have undergone training to better meet the needs of our neurodiverse guests. Over 1,000 people have been trained and we are continuing to grow that number,” says Lanspeary.
Plus, some attractions, like the Play Michigan! All-Inclusive Playground have been specifically designed with special needs and abilities in mind to make sure that everyone can enjoy a great time out with the family.
Tip: The Choose Lansing website has detailed information on sensory-friendly activities and accessibility.
Summer is flying by, so download the free Lansing Experience Pass on your phone, gather up the family and get ready for great family memories in Lansing!
For more information and to plan your trip, visit www.lansing.org.
from Metro Parent https://ift.tt/syBzvNh
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