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Showing posts with label Metro Parent. Show all posts

Friday, 29 August 2025

Best Things to Do with Metro Detroit Kids in September

By  August 29, 2025   No comments

September is the perfect month for family outings, with festivals, fairs and special events happening all over metro Detroit. Whether your kids love art, food, music, rides or outdoor adventures, you’ll find plenty of ways to keep them entertained this fall.

Best September family events in Macomb County

Fall fun is in full swing with family favorites like the Romeo Peach Festival, Richmond Good Old Days Festival and Festival of the Senses. Find even more Macomb County events in September on our calendar.

Blake’s Sunflower Festival

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1 (Labor Day)

  • Address: 17985 Armada Center Road, Armada
  • Cost: $10 early bird ticket; $12 Friday ticket; $14 Saturday or Sunday ticket; free for ages 2 and under; free parking

Families can pick sunflowers, shop from more than 100 artisans and enjoy kids’ activities under the children’s tent. Crafts, face painting, animal shows and DIY workshops round out the fun.

Romeo Peach Festival

Times vary, Aug. 28–Sept. 1

Families can celebrate the end of summer with carnival rides, craft shows and plenty of peach-filled treats at this long-running festival in downtown Romeo.

Richmond Good Old Days Festival

Times vary, Sept. 4–7

This hometown fair includes carnival rides, games, motor sports, a parade and fireworks, making it a family favorite in Richmond.

Classic Cruise In On The Bay

11 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6 (registration begins at 7 a.m.)

  • Address: 6300 Front St., Algonac
  • Cost: Free admission

Families can check out a classic car showcase along Lake St. Clair with live music, food, raffles and prizes. An awards presentation rounds out this lakeside car show.

Metro Boat Show

1–7:30 p.m. Thursday–Friday, Sept. 11-12
11 a.m.–7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13

11 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14

Families can explore boats, enjoy live music and play lawn games at Lake St. Clair Metropark. Kids will love the crafts, water fun and bounce houses in the Kids Zone.

Cars ‘R’ Stars

8 a.m.–3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14

Families can admire a showcase of classic and vintage cars, with Jaguars as this year’s featured marque. The event also includes DJ entertainment, food, a swap meet and a gift shop inside the historic repair garage. Kids under 12 get in free with a paid adult.

Festival of the Senses

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20
10 a.m.–3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21

Families can explore art, specialty food vendors and live performances from local talent at this annual community festival.

Fall Fun Fest

Noon–5 p.m Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 20-Oct. 26

Families can spend weekends at Deneweth’s Macomb store with pumpkin decorating, a corn maze, games and a spooky (but not scary) train ride. Kids will also enjoy the straw mound and other indoor and outdoor activities, with cider and donuts available for purchase.

Jammin’ at the Junction Car Show

8 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27

  • Address: Utica Road between 12 Mile Road and Gratiot Ave., Roseville
  • Cost: Free admission

Families can stroll Utica Road to see classic car displays, enjoy live music and grab a bite from food vendors. The street closes for this community event, making it easy to explore.

Best September family events in Oakland County

Arts beats and eats with kids
Photo via Arts, Beats & Eats on Facebook

From big festivals like Arts, Beats & Eats to local traditions such as the South Lyon Area Pumpkinfest, there’s no shortage of things to do this month. Browse our calendar for more Oakland County family events happening in September.

Arts, Beats & Eats

11 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1

  • Address: Downtown Royal Oak
  • Cost: Free admission Friday after 5 p.m.; $7–$12 admission other days

Families can explore the juried art fair, try eats from food trucks and enjoy live music throughout the weekend. The Kids Zone offers crafts, bounce houses and interactive performances designed for kids.

Michigan State Fair

10 a.m.–8 p.m. Saturday–Monday, Aug. 30–Sept. 1

Families can enjoy carnival rides, circus shows, livestock exhibits and live entertainment at this historic fair that dates back to 1849. The midway also offers demonstrations, fair food and plenty of kid-friendly fun.

Annual Labor Day Round Up

10 a.m.–3 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1

Families can enjoy inflatables, pony rides, a petting farm, midway games and an interactive circus at this long-running Franklin tradition. The parade kicks off at noon, and the day also includes a car show, jugglers, face painting and more.

Art in the Village

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1

Now in its 44th year, this fine art fair in downtown Franklin showcases works in glass, pottery, jewelry, photography, painting, wood, sculpture and more. Families can browse exceptional pieces and enjoy a day surrounded by art.

Arts & Apples Festival

2–7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5
10 a.m.–7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6
10 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7

Address: 400 6th St., Rochester

Cost: Free admission; $5 suggested donation

Families can browse artwork from more than 200 artists, enjoy food trucks, watch art demonstrations and take in live entertainment at this Rochester tradition. A children’s area offers plenty of fun activities for kids.

Walk For Miracles

7:30 a.m.–noon Saturday, Sept. 13

Address: Detroit Zoo, Royal Oak

Cost: Minimum donation $12 adults; $8 children ages 3–11; free for ages 2 and under; additional fundraising optional

Families can enjoy a superhero-themed morning at the Detroit Zoo with a two-mile walk, discounted admission and activities for kids. Proceeds benefit Children’s Miracle Network programs at Corewell Health Children’s.

Fall Family Festival

11 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13

Address: 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills

Cost: Included with museum admission; free for ArtMembers and youth 12 and under

Families can take part in hands-on design challenges inspired by mid-century modern innovators, from textile projects and Lego models to building a mini golf hole. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase at the museum’s FIKA café.

Canterbury Village Oktoberfest

1–9 p.m. Saturday–Sunday, Sept. 13–14

Address: 2325 Joslyn Court, Bloomfield Hills

Cost: $5 cash; $6 card; free parking

Families can enjoy live music, themed food, games and contests at this two-day Oktoberfest celebration in Lake Orion. Adults can sample beer while kids take part in family-friendly activities.

Rally Day Sunday & Block Party

10:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14

Address: 3882 Highland Road, Bloomfield Hills

Cost: Free admission

Families can celebrate the season with worship, food and plenty of kids’ activities at Central United Methodist Church. The event includes games, crafts, a bounce house, water play and free lunch with treats.

Autism Hero Walk

7 a.m.–noon Saturday, Sept. 20

Address: 8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak

Cost: $15 per person; free for children under 2

Families can gather at the Detroit Zoo for Michigan’s largest autism community event, featuring a walk, kids’ crafts, live entertainment and an autism marketplace. Full-day zoo admission is included with registration.

Camp Out at Marshbank Park

3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26
10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27

Address: 2805 Hiller Road, West Bloomfield

Cost: $10 residents; $12 nonresidents; ages 2 and older

Families can spend a night under the stars with crafts, fishing, telescope viewing and s’mores. The event also includes a tent decorating contest and a morning hike, with dinner available for purchase from a food truck.

South Lyon Area Pumpkinfest

10 a.m.–7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27
10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28

Address: Downtown South Lyon, South Lyon

Cost: Free admission

Families can enjoy pumpkin-themed fun with a craft show, scarecrow contest and a community parade. The festival offers activities and entertainment for all ages throughout the weekend.

Best September family events in Wayne County

Oktoberfest
Photo credit: iStock/romrodinka

Celebrate the season with community favorites including the Hamtramck Labor Day Festival, Plymouth Fall Festival and Disney On Ice at Little Caesars Arena. Check our calendar for even more Wayne County events this month.

Hamtramck Labor Day Festival

Times vary, Aug. 30–Sept. 1

  • Address: Caniff Street and Joseph Campau Avenue, Hamtramck
  • Cost: Free admission

Families can enjoy carnival rides, live music, food and vendors at this community tradition. The festival also includes canoe races and a parade.

Plymouth Fall Festival

3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5
11 a.m. Saturday–Sunday, Sept. 6-7

Address: Downtown Plymouth

Cost: $30 wristband for rides on Sunday; $1.50 per ticket; other ticket packages available

Families can enjoy carnival rides, games, food and live entertainment in downtown Plymouth. The festival also features a car show and plenty of fall fun.

Story Festival at Ford House

10 a.m.–1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6

  • Address: Ford House, Grosse Pointe Shores, Grosse Pointe Shores
  • Cost: $7 adults; $5 children (ages 3–17)

Families can celebrate reading with storytime performances, crafts, games and interactive activities. Special guests include children’s entertainer Jim Gill and author Katie Yamasaki, along with live entertainment throughout the day.

St. Joseph Oktoberfest

Times vary, Sept. 12–14

Families can enjoy authentic German food, beer, live Bavarian music and carnival rides at this annual Detroit celebration. The festival also includes games and activities for kids.

DroneArt Show Performance

8:30–9:30 p.m. Friday–Saturday, Sept. 12–13 (parking opens at 6:30 p.m.)

  • Address: Detroit (venue details on website)
  • Cost: Tickets start at $39; children’s pricing available

Families can watch more than 500 illuminated drones dance above the night sky, paired with live classical music from Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. This open-air performance offers a dazzling experience for all ages.

Radiant Detroit: A Festival of Arts, Culture and Wellness

2:30–7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13

Families can enjoy an afternoon of art, music and wellness activities at Beacon Park. Kids will love instrument stations, crafts and book giveaways, while adults can take part in yoga, dance  and poetry. The day also features live music, including a performance by hip-hop artist Mahogany Jones, plus food trucks.

Summer Sundays at Beacon Park

11 a.m.–7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14

Families can enjoy brunch, crafts, games and hands-on activities at this all-day event. Kids will love lawn games and giveaways, while adults can join dance and fitness sessions. Food trucks, music and wellness activities round out the day.

Disney On Ice presents Frozen & Encanto

Shows at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sept. 18–21 (times vary by date)

Families can see “Frozen” and “Encanto” come to life on the ice with world-class skating, acrobatics and special effects. Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Mirabel and more appear alongside Mickey and Minnie Mouse as hosts.

Romulus Pumpkin Festival

Times vary, Sept. 19–21

This annual festival kicks off with a lighted parade and continues with live music, crafts, games and food. Families can also enjoy a car show, vendor booths and plenty of pumpkin-themed fun.

Home School Fall Frolic

1–3 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25

Students ages 5–14 can enjoy a guided hike to learn about trees and create a leaf print craft. The program blends art, science and outdoor fun, with free admission for chaperones.

Fire & Flannel Festival

Times vary Sept. 26–27

  • Address: Downtown Wyandotte, Wyandotte
  • Cost: Free admission; fees for rides and axe throwing

Families can celebrate fall in Wyandotte with lumberjack shows, chainsaw carving and fire entertainment. The festival also features a carnival, axe throwing, live music and more.

Frightful Fridays: Fly By Night

6:30–8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26

Families can learn about bats, flying squirrels, moths and more during this evening nature program at Nankin Mills. The night includes a craft, a guided hike and fun activities with red-light flashlights provided.

Wayne County Parks Fishing Derby

8–11 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 28

Kids ages 12 and under can cast a line in the Rouge River, stocked with rainbow trout for this free derby. Families should bring their own equipment and bait, with on-site registration available. Prizes will be awarded.

Best September family events in Washtenaw County

Saline Ocktoberfest
Photo credit: Saline Ocktoberfest

Families can enjoy small-town traditions like Saline’s Oktoberfest, the Webster Fall Festival and the RunTough Family Fun Day. Explore our calendar for more Washtenaw County events throughout September.

Milan Concert in the Square

5:30–8 p.m. most Fridays and every third Thursday, June 13–Sept. 19

  • Address: Tolan Square, Milan
  • Cost: Free admission

Families can enjoy live music in downtown Milan during this summer concert series at Tolan Square. The lineup features local and regional artists across a mix of genres, with shows held most Fridays and every third Thursday.

Saline’s Oktoberfest

5–11 p.m. Friday–Saturday, Sept. 19–20

  • Address: 100 S. Ann Arbor, West Henry Street Parking Lot, Saline
  • Cost: $10+ for ages 21 and up; free for under 21

Families can head to downtown Saline for authentic German food, drinks, live music and fall fun. This annual celebration is open to all ages, with admission fees applying only for adults 21 and up.

Kids on the Farm 2025

10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24

Designed for ages 1–5, this program at Domino’s Farms lets little ones enjoy stories, songs, a snack, a tractor ride and admission to the petting farm. Each session has a different theme, from pets to fall colors.

Webster Fall Festival

10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27

Families can enjoy music, food, hayrides and fall activities at the Historic Webster Village. The day also features demos, cider and donuts, and plenty of kid-friendly fun.

RunTough Family Fun Day

1–4:45 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28

  • Address: Saline High School, Hornet Stadium, Saline
  • Cost: $10–$50 depending on event; toddlers $10; virtual 5K $25–$35

Families can head to Saline High School’s Hornet Stadium for a 1-mile “Tough Run,” Punt, Pass & Kick, kids’ games, a tot sprint and food trucks. Virtual race options are also available.

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Thursday, 28 August 2025

Missing School? What You Can Do About Anxiety-Driven Truancy

By  August 28, 2025   No comments

Back-to-school season can stir up more than just nerves. For some students, anxiety grows so intense that it leads to missed school days — a challenge known as school refusal anxiety. 

While every child might occasionally complain of a stomachache or say they don’t want to go, chronic avoidance is a different story. Left unchecked, it can snowball into long-term academic, social and emotional struggles.

Anxiety is now one of the leading reasons students miss school

Nationally, anxiety has become a leading driver of absences. According to a 2023 survey from the EdWeek Research Center, 16% of students said they missed school because of anxiety. It’s the top non-illness reason for staying home, just after bad weather. Another 12% said they were too sad or depressed to attend.

Here in Michigan, the issue mirrors national concerns. State data from the Michigan Department of Education shows that nearly 31% of students were chronically absent during the 2022–23 school year. While attendance has improved for the past two years, education leaders say too many students are still missing class.

What can you do when your child’s anxiety is the barrier?

Understanding school refusal anxiety

Mara Husband, Limited Licensed Psychologist and Adult Outpatient Program Manager at Lincoln Behavioral Services in Redford, explains that anxiety often shows up in physical complaints: headaches, stomachaches, dizziness or chest pain.

“Parents naturally want to help their child feel better,” she says. “But when staying home becomes the solution, it can reinforce avoidance — and make the anxiety stronger over time.”

This cycle can lead children to view themselves as sick or make school feel overwhelming. Husband emphasizes that it’s not about blaming parents, but about giving them tools to shift the pattern.

The SPACE model supports parents first

One evidence-based approach is called SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions). Instead of focusing directly on the child, SPACE works with parents to change how they respond.

“Parents tend to swing between being overly protective — ‘That’s okay, you can stay home’ — or overly demanding — ‘Stop whining and just go,’” Husband explains. “Supportive statements find the middle ground: acknowledging the struggle while showing confidence in the child’s ability to cope.”

For example:

“I know this feels really hard for you, but I’m confident you can handle it.”

Over time, this blend of acceptance and confidence helps reduce anxiety-driven avoidance.

Signs parents should watch for

Not every morning meltdown is cause for concern. But if your child consistently reports vague physical symptoms before school, only to improve once staying home is an option, they may be experiencing anxiety. Red flags include:

  • Missing more than two school days per month
  • Complaints of stomachaches or headaches that repeat in a pattern
  • Sudden drop in interest in school, activities or friends
  • Withdrawal or increased isolation

When in doubt, Husband urges parents to rule out medical issues first, then look for anxiety as a possible factor.

First steps parents can take

  1. Keep expectations clear. School is not optional. Frame attendance as a non-negotiable while still expressing support
  2. Stay connected with teachers. Don’t wait until absences pile up. Reach out early to check in on attendance and performance
  3. Limit home perks. If a child stays home, avoid access to video games, TV or fast food deliveries. The day should feel like a school day
  4. Recruit allies. Teachers, counselors, mentors and even friends who can walk your child into school can make a difference
  5. Use available resources. Many schools offer in-house mental health supports and community organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan or the Student Advocacy Center of Michigan provide mentoring and guidance

Why school attendance matters

Missing school doesn’t just mean missed lessons. Chronic absenteeism has been linked to worse mental health, fewer opportunities later in life and weaker social connections. 

Husband says that students who stay home often spend more time online or gaming, further isolating themselves from peers.

But she stresses hope. “Parents often feel blamed when their child refuses school. In reality, most would struggle in the same situation. What matters is reaching out for support and not giving up.”

A resource to explore

For families who want to start at home, Husband recommends Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD, a self-help book by Dr. Eli Lebowitz, the developer of the SPACE model. It offers step-by-step guidance for parents to shift how they respond to their child’s anxiety.

Supporting confidence, one day at a time

Anxiety-driven truancy is more common than many realize, but it’s not insurmountable. By staying connected, setting consistent boundaries and adopting supportive strategies, parents can help their children regain confidence and re-engage with school.

This content is sponsored by the Ethel and James Flinn Foundation. Visit flinnfoundation.org.

Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Parent’s Guide to Family Mental Health.



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Is Your Child Getting Enough Vitamin D?

By  August 28, 2025   No comments

Vitamin D might not get as much attention as vitamin C or calcium, but it’s one of the most important nutrients your child needs to grow and thrive. We spoke with Emily Ostrowski, a former Pediatric Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at University of Michigan Health-Sparrow who now teaches at Michigan State University. She shares why vitamin D matters for kids — and how parents can make sure their children are getting enough.

Why is vitamin D important for kids?

“Vitamin D plays a significant role in your child’s health,” says Ostrowski. “Vitamin D is very important for bone health and can help with the absorption of calcium and phosphorus and other micronutrients.”

It also helps prevent rickets in children and lowers the risk of osteoporosis later in life. Vitamin D also supports immune function, heart and brain health, and even mood regulation. 

“In some cases, it can help with pain tolerance,” Ostrowski adds.

Without enough vitamin D, kids can develop rickets — a condition that causes soft bones, skeletal deformities, developmental delays, and other health problems, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Can kids get enough vitamin D from sunlight?

Here’s something unique about vitamin D: our bodies can make it naturally when sunlight hits the skin. Just a short time outdoors with sun exposure on the arms and face can be enough to help produce vitamin D.

But relying only on sunshine isn’t always realistic — especially in southeast Michigan and across the Midwest, where long winters mean kids spend more time indoors. 

According to the NIH, season, time of day, cloud cover, smog, skin melanin content, and sunscreen all affect how much vitamin D the body can make. And since UVB rays don’t pass through glass, kids can’t get vitamin D from sitting by a sunny window.

What foods are good sources of vitamin D?

Food plays an important role, too. “I like to have families know about the sources of foods that are higher in vitamin D, but also about taking a multivitamin and, if necessary, having blood levels of vitamin D checked,” Ostrowski says.

Egg yolks, liver, some fish, and fortified dairy products all contain vitamin D. 

For most children, fortified cow’s milk is a go-to. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, whole cow’s milk is a “great source of vitamin D” for kids over 12 months old.

Still, many kids fall short. Drinking juice or other beverages instead of milk — plus less outdoor playtime — can increase the risk of deficiency, according to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

If your child isn’t a fan of plain milk, flavored milk like chocolate can still provide the same nine essential nutrients, including vitamin D, according to information from the United Dairy Industry of Michigan.

Should my child take a supplement?

Whether or not your child needs a vitamin D supplement depends on their age, diet, sun exposure and health conditions. That’s why it’s best to check with your child’s doctor.

“When we work with patients with other health problems, our physician team often recommends a multivitamin, but they may also recommend checking serum levels and making a more aggressive plan,” says Ostrowski.

Pediatricians agree that most kids need some help reaching their daily vitamin D goals. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises:

  • Infants under age 1 should get about 400 IU daily.
  • Children age 1 and older, including teens, need around 600 IU each day. 

These recommendations were updated in 2008, when research began showing that vitamin D plays an important role not just in bone health, but in long-term wellness throughout childhood and beyond.

Quick tips for parents

Bottom line: Vitamin D is essential for your child’s growth, bone health and overall well-being. 

Between food, outdoor playtime and possibly a supplement, parents have several options to make sure kids are getting enough.

This content is sponsored by United Dairy Industry of Michigan / Milk Means More. Learn more at milkmeansmore.org.

Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s How to Get Kids to Eat Healthy.



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Wednesday, 27 August 2025

The Ultimate Family Guide to Dinosaur Attractions in the Midwest

By  August 27, 2025   No comments

If you have any dinosaur fans at home, you know that they can’t seem to stop stomping around or sharing their latest dinosaur fact. Did you know that chickens are descendants from dinosaurs? Or that dinosaur fossils have been found on all seven continents?

Let’s just say dinosaurs aren’t going out of style anytime soon. As dinos continue to rule the world, you can get your dino fix a short drive from southeast Michigan — from our own Cranbrook Institute of Science to options in Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin and beyond.

For the ultimate dinosaur hunt, check out these dino-mite Midwest spots your whole family will love. And, to plot out your itinerary, check out our guides to destinations in three top states:

  • A roaring good time at 5 top dinosaur attractions in Michigan
  • Another 5 awesome dinosaur destinations in nearby Chicagoland
  • Even more dinosaur getaways located in Ohio

A touring dino extravaganza in 8 different cities

Jurassic Quest

Touring locations: 

  • Lake County Fairgrounds, Grayslake, Illinois — Sept. 12-14, 2025
  • Peoria Civic Center, Peoria, Illinois — Sept. 19-21, 2025
  • International Exposition Center, Cleveland, Ohio — Sept. 26-28, 2025
  • Glass City Center, Toledo, Ohio — Oct. 18-19, 2025
  • Gateway Convention Center, Collinsville, Illinois — Nov. 14-16, 2025
  • Wisconsin Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin — Nov. 21-23, 2025
  • Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, Indiana — Dec. 5-7, 2025
  • Mayo Civic Center, Rochester, Minnesota — Dec. 12-14, 2025

Cost:  $22-$36 per person, free/under age 2

The nation’s largest traveling dinosaur experience roars around the Midwest in late 2025. Families can see 80+ life-size dinosaurs, ride on moving dinos, dig for fossils and explore hands-on science and animatronic shows.

3 top dinosaur attractions in Michigan

Michigan is home to unique dinosaur experiences, from roadside sculptures to modern museums that bring prehistoric creatures to life.

Cranbrook Institute of Science

  • Address: 1 Institute Way, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
  • Cost: $15/adults, $11.50/kids ages 2-12, free/under age 2 (and for members)

At Cranbrook, families can meet a fierce T. rex, trace the spikes of a Stegosaurus, and explore other life-sized dinosaur reconstructions alongside real fossils. Rotating exhibits and interactive displays keep kids engaged, while the planetarium adds a cosmic twist.

Dinosaur Garden

  • Address: 11160 US-23 S., Ossineke, Michigan
  • Cost: Walking tour $10/person; dino pass $24.99-$34.99; putt-putt golf $6; fossil dig $3/child; miner’s sluice packages $11-$22; free/under age 2

This one-of-a-kind park, which opened in the 1930s, is filled with reproductions of life-sized dinosaurs, including Pterodactyls, a T. rex and the mighty Triceratops. Dinosaurs are set against natural scenery, and guests can pose with the statues. There are plenty of photo ops, along with a fossil dig, mini-golf course and a frozen yogurt bar.

Young boy reaches toward a giant dinosaur head display at the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History’s Dinosaur Discovery.
Photo credit: University of Michigan Museum of Natural History

University of Michigan Museum of Natural History

Explore “Dinosaur Discoveries: Ancient Fossils, New Ideas,” which showcases the latest dinosaur science from the past two decades. Fossils, computer simulations and life-like models will allow guests to discover how dinos looked, moved, behaved and became extinct, based on the newest interpretations of ancient fossils.

Children and families interact with a life-size dinosaur puppet during a lively show at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
Photo credit: Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

1 can’t-miss dinosaur attraction in Indiana

Indiana offers an immersive museum experience that puts your family face-to-face with dinosaurs.

Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

The dinosaurs on the outside of the building welcome guests, but you’ll find even more indoors. Inside, visitors can explore the “Dinosphere” in five immersive experiences. They include Giants Jurassic, Creatures of the Cretaceous, Monsters of the Mesozoic Seas, Art Lab and Paleo Lab.

5 fantastic dinosaur attractions in Illinois

Illinois is packed with interactive exhibits and world-famous fossils perfect for dinosaur fans of all ages.

Bess Bower Dunn Museum

In the museum’s Prehistoric Lake County collection, stand up close to the world’s most scientifically accurate Dryptosaurus, complete with fleshed out skin, protofeathers and claws. Then try a hand at pit digging to find an ancient treasure.

Burpee Museum of Natural History

Take a look at Jane, the most complete juvenile T. rex. In her exhibit, Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur, you can see what happened during the 66 million years she lay buried. From there, see Homer the Triceratops in his exhibit, Homer’s Odyssey. Plus, explore the Pleistocene in their second-floor Ice Age exhibit.

Chicago Children’s Museum

Step into the museum’s Dinosaur Expedition — a recreation of Chicago paleontologist Paul Sereno’s journey through the Sahara, where his team uncovered remarkable dinosaur finds. You can even find a life-size Suchomimus skeleton in a huge dino pit. Advance ticket purchases are recommended.

The Field Museum

Chicagoans all know and love Sue, the city’s famous Tyrannosaurus rex that calls the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet her home. In the exhibit, you can learn even more about Sue, a 40-foot-long and 90% complete T. rex. Don’t forget about Máximo, the largest Titanosaur ever discovered, and the Spinosaurus!

Young boy reaches toward a baby dinosaur model hatching from a giant egg at Jurassic Gardens in Volo, Illinois.
Photo credit: Jurassic Gardens

Jurassic Gardens

Embark on a thrilling prehistoric adventure at the indoor Jurassic Gardens with 30+ lifelike animatronic dinosaurs, an arcade, fossil dig and a dino-lab. There’s a gift shop and plenty of photo opportunities to capture the occasion.

3 amazing dinosaur spots in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s museums and exhibits combine learning with hands-on prehistoric fun.

Dinosaur Discovery Museum

  • Address: 5500 1st Ave., Kenosha, Wisconsin
  • Cost: Free; suggested donation $5/person at the door

Hang out with more than 20 meat-eating dinosaurs! In the exhibit “Little Clint: The Story of a Baby Dinosaur,” kids can follow the journey of a juvenile T. rex (excavated in Montana) from its birth to its display in a museum. Participate in the “I Spy Activity” to receive a prize at the end of your visit.

Milwaukee Public Museum

The Third Planet exhibit features dinosaurs in a diorama complete with thunder and the roaring of a life-sized replica of T. rex. Milwaukee Public Museum was one of the first museums to recreate life-sized dinosaur models in their natural habitat. 

University of Wisconsin Geology Museum

Kids will dig the Edmontosaurus and Triceratops, and a roomful of other dinosaurs in this small “gem” of a museum. Stick around and explore other real gems, a cool fluorescent display and extraterrestrial geology.

3 delightful dino stops in Ohio

Ohio offers everything from major science centers to small specialty fossil exhibits.

Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Meet “Happy,” a 70-foot-long “Haplocanthosaurus delfsi” sauropod, plus other dinosaur friends in the Kirtland Hall of Prehistoric Life. You’ll also find Coelophysis Bauri, the museum’s oldest dinosaur (closed during construction; check online for updates of reopening of this exhibit). Advance tickets are required.

Family smiles while viewing a lifelike feathered dinosaur exhibit at the COSI Center of Science and Industry’s Dinosaur Gallery in Ohio.
Photo credit: COSI: Center of Science and Industry

COSI: Center of Science and Industry

See a full-size cast skeleton of a T. rex or the 60-foot-long metallic model of the long-necked Apatosaurus. With a one-of-a-kind partnership with the American Museum of Natural History, there are many interactive and educational elements to learn from.

Orton Geological Museum

Arrange for a free tour of the Museum Gallery by calling or emailing the museum. All ages are welcome to the tour and there are even virtual tours available. Take photos with life-size skeletal displays of your favorite dinos and check out other prehistoric fossils, too.

1 standout dinosaur visit in Minnesota

Minnesota combines impressive fossil collections with interactive exhibits for kids and adults.

The Science Museum of Minnesota

Get a chance to see one of only four real Triceratops on display in the world. Plus, it’s the museum’s largest complete specimen on display. You also can’t miss the 80-foot-long Diplodocus that your kids will love to snap a photo with.

7 dinosaur stops you’ll find in Kansas

Kansas showcases fossils unique to the region, from ancient marine life to life-size animatronic dinosaurs.

Fick Fossil & History Museum

You can see the oldest known mosasaur fossil, with its eye socket intact along with more than 11,000 shark teeth and a 15-foot Xiphactinus Audax.

Two giant animatronic dinosaurs tower over visitors at Field Station: Dinosaurs, an outdoor prehistoric-themed attraction in Kansas.
Photo credit: Field Station

Field Station: Dinosaurs

Your kids will be amazed by the 10 dino-dazzled acres filled with 40 life-size animatronic dinosaurs. Find out which dinosaurs were unique to Kansas, then dig for fossils and play Jurassic Golf, explore the Raptor Maze and more.

Keystone Gallery

Spot a 20-foot Mosasaur and 14-foot Xiphactinus, plus other fish, turtle and bird fossils.

KU Natural History Museum

Take a photo with Annabelle, a 50-foot-long, 140-million-year-old Camarasaurus. There’s also the skeleton of one of the first vertebrates, the Pteranodon and a 16-foot-long bony fish, the Xiphactinus, which was first discovered in Kansas in the 1850s.

Museum at Prairiefire

Meet AMNH 5027, the first complete T. rex ever assembled by famous paleontologist and Kansas native Barnum Brown. The Discovery Room awaits those interested in more hands-on fun, including Paleontology. 

Museum of World Treasures

  • Address: 835 E. 1st St., Wichita, Kansas
  • Cost: $10.95/adults,$8.95/ages 4-12, free/ages 3 and under; $35.95/family day pass: 2 adults, 2 youth

Dinosaur fans can wave to Ivan the T. rex, Cutie the Daspletosaurus and Ed the Edmontosaurus, along with a number of other prehistoric fossils. For more interactive fun, there is a fossil and cast touching station.

Sternberg Museum

Walk through the land and sea diorama complete with a life-sized animated model of a T. rex. Ever see a fish within a fish fossil? This, along with other Cretaceous Period fossils can be found here.

1 remarkable dinosaur attraction in South Dakota

South Dakota’s roadside dinosaur sculptures are a classic family travel stop.

Child and adults carefully work on cleaning a large dinosaur fossil at the Dinosaur of the Hell Creek Museum in South Dakota.
Photo credit: Dinosaur of the Hell Creek Museum

Dinosaur of the Hell Creek Museum 

  • Address: 11324 US Highway 212 Belle Forche, South Dakota
  • Cost: $12/ages 3-plus, $10/family of 4-plus, free/ages 2 and under

Get lost in this fun road trip diversion, Dinosaur Park, which lures travelers and dino lovers with their life-size, concrete and steel dinosaur sculptures. 

 

Create the ultimate family dinosaur adventure! Get more details about five top places to explore in Michigan, Chicagoland, and a few cities in Ohio.

This content is sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.



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The Detroit Riverfront’s New Playground Will Have Kids Roaring with Fun

By  August 27, 2025   No comments

Is your little one ready to slide past 20-foot bear at the new Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park on the Detroit Riverfront? 

Ralph Wilson Park, formerly West Riverfront Park, will feature a stunning playground complete with a beautiful walking path, large pavilion, family-friendly seating—and a cool bear holding a slide. 

The park’s grand opening is on Oct. 25-26 as part of the celebration for the Detroit Harvest Fest. The all-ages event will allow visitors to experience all 22 acres of the new park along the riverfront as well as four zones of fun. 

This year’s Harvest Fest runs on the Saturday and Sunday before Halloween. Families are sure to have fun dressing up and getting in the spirit with fall activities at this free event. 

The Harvest Fest is also a major hub for food trucks–last year, it was voted the best food truck gathering by the Detroit Metro Times. 

Playground features at Wilson Park

Detroit Riverfront Park
Photo credit: Nadar Ali

The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy shared plans for the Delta Dental Play Garden at Ralph Wilson Park, and the designs feature some exciting amenities for little ones. 

Along with open spaces, the Play Garden includes a collection of incredible slides. Kids will love scrambling up the 20-foot-tall bear slide or whizzing down the otter and beaver slides. 

Each slide offers different heights and speeds so kids can play safely. 

On hot summer days, the Gilbert Family Foundation Water Wonderland offers up jets and sprays on a splash pad. Along with the splash pad, the Ft. Wayne Tot Lot lets toddlers explore sensory play in a safe and soft setting. 

There’s also a collection of swings and a magical treehouse for kids to explore. 

Things to do on the Detroit Riverfront 

The new Ralph Wilson Park is far from the only fun place to be on the riverfront. Stretched along 3.5 miles, the public space along the Detroit River earned it the top spot as the best riverwalk in the nation for three years.  

Kids can explore the beach and playground at Valade Park, play at the splash pad at Mt. Elliott Park or ride the carousel at Cullen Plaza. 

Whether your little one wants the thrill of playgrounds and splash pads or quiet time along the water, the Detroit riverfront has something for every type of kid. 

Check out a map of the different family-friendly spaces by visiting DetroitRiverfront.org. 

Quick details about Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park

  • Address: 1801 W. Jefferson Detroit 
  • Hours:  6 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
  • Parking:  Free lots along the riverwalk. See the locations here.
  • Cost: Free

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Which Michigan Small Town Is Crowned the Best in the State?

By  August 27, 2025   No comments

What makes a small town stand out? 

World Atlas, an online geography resource company, put together a list of the best small towns in every state based on what it has to offer visitors. 

Metro Detroit families might not be surprised that Traverse City, located on the coast of Lake Michigan, took the top spot. 

The World Atlas team said Traverse City is “bustling with life.” Visitors can expect to find popular breweries and wine shops filled with people on a warm summer day. 

World Atlas isn’t the only fan of Traverse City. The town was included in the top 10 places to visit in 2025 by the Wall Street Journal, too. 

Facts about Traverse City

Known as the cherry capital of the world, Traverse City is well known as a popular farming area. The city is filled with fresh fruit during cherry season, but locals also offer up fresh vegetables and other homemade goods in small markets. 

The National Cherry Festival takes place in Traverse City every year. The festival draws in hundreds of thousands of tourists for good reason–the cherries are ripe, vendors offer unique themed goods and the surroundings are beautiful. 

Traverse City is one of the most popular summer travel destinations for Michiganders. 

The 153,448 residents in Traverse City enjoy a busy season during the warmer months and a much calmer time during the colder months. For visitors, expect packed restaurants and sites when visiting during these peak times. 

Things to do in Traverse City 

Traverse City is located along Lake Michigan and enjoys breathtaking views. The world famous Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes are located nearby and are a major draw for families looking for an incredible day of hiking, sightseeing and swimming. 

The wineries surrounding Traverse City produce some of the best wine in the midwest region. Groups can go on organized wine tours or just pop into a few places for glass and some bites among the sweeping hills with beautiful views. 

If a day spent downtown is more appealing, World Atlas recommends catching a show at the iconic 1916 State Theatre or grabbing drinks while on a brewery tour. 

The company says shopping is another top activity while downtown, from picking out jewelry to talking to a cheesemonger about aged cheeses. 

With its thriving downtown, abundance of outdoor scenery and incredible produce, it makes sense that Traverse City snagged the top spot as best small town in Michigan. 

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