Why Rev’d Up Fun is the metro Detroit indoor playground kids (and parents!) adore

Rev’d Up Fun Michigan is the perfect place for everyone in the family to have a great time, from little kids to teens and even their parents. 

This family-friendly entertainment venue is locally owned and was built from the ground up to offer fun, food and celebration all in one place.

• Address: 19830 West Road, Woodhaven
• Phone: (734) 494-5641
• Hours: 5-9 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; Noon-10 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 1-8 p.m. Sunday

What makes it special?

Rev’d Up Fun is more than just an arcade. As they say, they aim “to create the best possible experience for our guests.”

With three different all-day wristband options, families can pick and choose what activities they want to participate in. Families who want to stay longer will have less to wait for, more fun and a more laid-back atmosphere. Monthly membership passes are also available and families who pay the annual fee up front get a month free. 

Each week, guests can take advantage of several specials:

• Tuesdays: Two for Tuesday for $29.99, including a luxury wristband, a $15 arcade play card and four hours of unlimited non-redemption play (must select from two different items).
• Wednesdays: BOGO unlimited-play wristbands.
• Thursdays: $25 luxury play wristbands.
• Fridays: $10 off Friday unlimited-play wristbands.

Photo credit: Rev’d Up Fun

Attractions 

• Laser tag: Full indoor course perfect for kids and teens. 
• Ropes course and zipline: For some height and a challenge (great for older kids and teens).
• Bumper cars: Always fun for kids and adults alike. 
• XD Dark Ride: An immersive ride experience can be more interesting than regular games.
• Ballocity and arcade& Arcade: Lots of arcade games, prizes for winning and open-play fun.
• Food and dining: The Filling Station restaurant inside serves delicious food, local ales for adults and kid-friendly options. 

Parties and events 

Having a birthday? Rev’d Up Fun takes that very seriously. They have a Party Mechanic who stays with everybody throughout the party so that your child is treated like royalty.

They also have room and facilities for school groups, team parties and company events. 

Why families will love it

Younger kids can play within the Ballocity area, ride bumper cars or walk around the arcade. Older siblings can try the ropes or laser tag. This indoor play place is great for snowy days in Michigan.

Parents can also unwind, enjoy coffee or craft beer, eat good food and watch their kids play all in one place. Families can participate in all kinds of activities in one building, with little planning needed.

Tips for your trip Trip

• Get there early or check their hours. They’re closed on Mondays for private events
• Book ahead for birthday parties and ask about the party package, which includes a private room and access to all the attractions.
• If you have kids of different ages, the younger ones can start with the arcade or bumper cars, and then the older ones can join them for laser tag or ropes.

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Where to find metro Detroit’s best holiday lights, events and activities

The only thing better than the holiday magic you remember as a child is getting to share the magic of the season with your kiddos. 

To help your family kick off the most wonderful time of the year, we’ve rounded up the best holiday activities in metro Detroit that the entire family will love. Find dazzling light shows, holiday attractions, winter activities and so much more to help you add just a bit more magic to your festivities. 

Updated Nov. 23, 2025: This article was reviewed and updated by the Metro Parent editorial team to reflect new event dates, refreshed links and the latest information available for families.

Stroll through holiday lights

Photo credit: Detroit Zoo

Illuminate your festivities by visiting a holiday light display. Stroll through decked-out parks and downtown areas, or visit a light show like Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo. 

Visit Santa Claus

Photo credit: Birmingham Shopping District

You better not pout I’m telling you why… Because Santa Claus is coming to metro Detroit, that’s why! Don’t stop at just snapping a photo with the old man. These awesome Santa events across metro Detroit include having milk and cookies, snacks or breakfast with Santa, visits with Mrs. Claus and more festive fun. 

Explore a winter wonderland close to home

Photo courtesy of Downtown Detroit Partnership

All aboard a holiday train

Even kids who aren’t in their planes, trains and automobiles stage will love taking a ride on one of these holiday trains. Recreate the movie magic at events based on “The Polar Express” or meet Santa on a holiday train ride. 

Hit the ice

Photo courtesy of Downtown Detroit Partnership

Make the most of the Midwest winter by getting outdoors for some holiday fun. Outdoor ice skating is a great way for families to stay active while appreciating the season. Check out these outdoor rinks where families can hit the ice. Many offer skating lessons, hockey games and other kid-friendly activities. 

See “The Nutcracker”

It’s a classic for a reason! With the dance of the sugar plum fairies and the waltz of the flowers, “The Nutcracker“ is a ballet that families should see at least once. Not into ballet? There are plenty of other great holiday performances for families, like “A Christmas Carol.”

Dress up for a holiday tea

Holiday tea can be a wonderful tradition that generations of family members can share. Enjoy tea, pastries, sweet and savory bites and more scrumptious goodies at one of these holiday teas in metro Detroit. 

Participate in a toy drive

Before your child tears into their stocking or the presents under the tree, help them learn the true spirit of the season by donating to a local toy drive so that other kids can create special holiday memories, too. Find even more hands-on volunteering opportunities the entire family can get involved in this holiday season.

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5 easy snack and meal ideas made better with Michigan cheese

Need fresh inspiration for both snacks and meals? We rounded up five parent-tested ideas that pair perfectly with Michigan cheese. They’re quick to prep, easy to customize and great for everything from after-school hunger to weeknight dinners.

This interactive guide lets you click into each idea to see how it works, get simple tips and discover easy ways to make food more fun for kids.

What you’ll find in this interactive guide foods with Michigan cheese your kids will love

• Quesadillas kids love, made with Michigan cheddar or Colby Jack
• Mini DIY pizzas on whole-grain English muffins or bagels
• Mac ’n’ cheese cups that work for lunchboxes or quick dinners
• Loaded potato boats with flexible toppings
• Apple and cheddar snack plates for after-school hunger

Open the interactive experience to tap through each idea and see easy tips for using Michigan cheese at snack time and mealtime.

 

 

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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Curious Detroit Kids: How Detroit schools are protecting student immigrants

As immigration policies evolve nationwide, Detroit Public Schools are reaffirming how they protect undocumented students and families. District leaders cite federal law and new state guidance ensuring every child’s right to a classroom seat, no matter their immigration status.

Education officials are reminding staff that schools can’t request immigration documents and must safeguard personal records. Families and advocacy groups are pushing for clearer communication and training at the district level.

Understanding every child’s right to an education

Under U.S. law, every child, regardless of immigration status, has the right to attend public school. A key federal decision affirmed this, according to the American Immigration Council. In Michigan, the Michigan Department of Education reaffirmed in January 2025 that “all children, regardless of citizenship and immigration status, have the right to equal access to a free public education.” This means a child living in the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) can enroll and attend school even if one or both parents are undocumented.

Enrollment and school services

When enrolling a child, schools cannot require proof of citizenship or ask about immigration status. According to the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center, schools must accept reliable proof of identity and age (for example, alternate documents if a birth certificate isn’t available) and cannot deny enrollment on the basis of immigration status. Schools also cannot exclude children from special education, English-learner programs or other services because of immigration status.

Protecting your child’s records and privacy

Parents in Michigan have rights under the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the state’s Protection of Pupil Privacy Act (MCL 380.1136) to control disclosure of student records, according to the Michigan Department of Education. These laws mean that school districts must check carefully before releasing a student’s information; for example, a warrant or valid legal order may be required for an outside agency (including immigration authorities) to access a student’s file. Families can also request that schools not share what’s known as “directory information” (e.g., name, address) publicly, according to Chalkbeat Detroit.

What happens if immigration agents show up at school

Schools are considered “protected areas,” meaning immigration enforcement should generally refrain from actions on school premises absent extenuating circumstances, according to the Michigan Department of Education. If agents come onto school grounds, administrators are advised to ask for valid documentation (e.g., warrants, subpoenas) and to seek legal counsel before surrendering student records or allowing interviews with students, according to the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center.

Discrimination and school safety

Schools in Michigan cannot refuse to enroll a child or deprive them of services based on national origin or immigration status. The Michigan Department of Education notes that the state’s civil-rights laws protect access to public services like education for all children. If a child experiences harassment or discriminatory treatment (for example, because of immigration status or because staff treat them differently), parents have the right to lodge complaints through the appropriate channels.

What you can do as a parent

Keep communication with your child’s school up to date, including your preferred language. Many Detroit-area schools serve bilingual families and should offer translation. Check the school’s forms about “directory information”—you may be able to restrict what’s shared. Familiarize yourself with the school’s policy in the event that immigration or law-enforcement agents come on campus. Reach out to community organizations that support immigrant families; they often provide “know your rights” materials and legal-referral services.

Examples include the Southwest Detroit Immigrant and Refugee Center, which offers free and low-cost legal help for immigrants and refugees; the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center, which provides legal advice and education for immigrant families statewide; and the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit, which supports immigrants through legal assistance, translation, and community programs.

Why this matters now

Some Michigan schools are updating their policies in response to increased concerns about immigration-enforcement presence and are releasing guidance for families and staff, according to Chalkbeat Detroit. Ensuring that children attend regularly and feel safe matters not just for learning but for their emotional and social wellbeing.

Want to learn more about metro Detroit? Read more Curious Kids content here!

Curious Detroit Kids is your guide to what parents need to know about raising kids in the Motor City. From schools and neighborhoods to local events and fun facts, we break down the stories, policies and places shaping family life across metro Detroit. Curious about something? Send your questions, comments or thoughts on what we should cover next to david@metroparent.com.

 

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Get the most out of the holiday season with these 5 free holiday activities in metro Detroit

It may be the most wonderful time of the year, but I’m not sure if my wallet would echo the sentiment. After all, holiday shopping is far from the only part of the holiday season that comes with a hefty price tag. Between booking tickets to holiday attractions to purchasing ugly sweaters and browsing the aisles for the cutest seasonal decor, I need Christmas to hurry up and get here before I spend up a storm! 

This holiday season, save your hard earned dollars for the things that really matter (like matching Christmas pajama sets and eggnog, of course) by enjoying these festive, frugal events and attractions. From free visits with Santa to light displays and holiday events that don’t cost a dime, there’s no reason holiday cheer should come with a price tag.

5 Free Holiday Activities in Metro Detroit

Get into the holiday spirit without breaking the bank with these free festivities and holiday events around metro Detroit. 

Attend a tree lighting ceremony

Photo credit: Downtown Detroit Partnership

Tree lighting ceremonies are a great way to get your family into the holiday spirit while connecting with other families in your town. These free community events kick off the season with sparkling holiday lights; some even have appearances from Santa and free activities such as ice skating performances, cookie decorating and more holiday cheer. 

22nd Annual Detroit Tree Lighting

• 4 p.m.-9 p.m. Nov. 21, 2025
• Downtown Detroit

Live entertainment, figure skating performances and holiday treats are at this event.

Wyandotte Tree Lighting

• Dusk, Nov. 21, 2025
• Wyandotte

A smaller lighting but packed with tradition, Wyandotte is approaching its 79th tree lighting, with its Christmas Parade the following morning.

Holiday Lighted Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony

• 6:30 p.m. Nov. 21, 2025
• Northville

This festive parade begins at 6:30 p.m. in Downtown Northville. Floats, bands and dancers precede the ultimate tree lighting.

Light the Village

• Nov. 21, 2025
• Village of Rochester Hills

Tree lighting kicks off the holiday season, followed by Santa visits.

Holiday Tree Lighting and Afterglow

• 6:30 p.m. Dec. 5, 2025
• Macomb Township

A tree lighting with fireworks afterwards is the best way to go during the holidays. There is also caroling and visits from Santa.

Visit Santa Claus

Photo credit: iStock/Wavebreakmedia

If your family is anything like mine, then you’ll know we never pay for something we can get for free! This year, ditch the fees to take a photo with Santa and attend one of these events where kids can visit the big man and snap a photo for free. 

Village of Rochester Hills Santa Visits 

• dates TBD, expected to begin late November through December
• Rochester Hills

Your kids can visit Santa and his reindeer on weekends starting in late November through Dec. 24. Bring your own camera for photo ops.

Visit Santa at Center Street Mall 

• 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 29-Dec. 20, 2025
• Milford

Enjoy a hot chocolate after your free visit with Santa at the Village of Milford Center Street Mall.

Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shop

• dates TBD, expected to begin late November through December
• Select Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shop locations

Reservations are required, but come with a 15-minute visit and free 4×6 print.

The Big, Bright Light Show

Photo credit: The Big, Bright Light Show

• 5 p.m. Nov. 24, 2025
• Downtown Rochester

I love bundling up, sipping a (spiked) hot cocoa and walking under tunnels of twinkling lights with my loved ones. While there are many fantastic Christmas light displays that are worth the price tag, sometimes it can be fun to check out a more lowkey, relaxed spot. 

This year, take a stroll through Rochester as 1.5 million holiday lights illuminate the downtown area. No admission fees means you can put that money towards purchasing holiday gifts from local businesses. 

Birmingham Santa Walk

Photo credit: Birmingham Shopping District

• 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, 2025
• Downtown Birmingham 

Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s stopping in downtown Birmingham! There will also be free horse-drawn carriage rides and hot cocoa. Be sure to register to reserve your child’s spot! 

Holly Dickens Festival

Photo via Holly Dickens Festival Facebook page

• 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays; 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 29-Dec. 14, 2025
• Battle Alley, Holly 

Enjoy a quaint, Charles Dickens-inspired Christmas village with costumed characters, entertainment and vendors. Children can send a postcard to Santa, drop in for a story time and attend a coronation and knighting ceremony with Queen Victoria. The Dickens Parade will be held at 6 p.m. Nov. 28.

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The gift every kid should get for the holidays this year

This article was updated on November 21, 2025

When your child makes their wish list for the holidays, chances are “money for college” won’t be a top contender. But experts say the holidays are a great time to contribute to your child’s college savings fund and even encourage family and friends to do the same.

In fact, many Michigan families make it a tradition to put money into their child’s Michigan Education Savings Program account around the holidays, says Jennifer Burke, senior marketing manager at TIAA-CREF Financial Services, which manages the MESP.

“People spend so much money on gifts because they want to make an impact. The real impact can be when they go to college and you’re responsible for giving them the tools and resources to be independent and successful in life,” Burke says. “There’s no better gift than that.”

What makes MESP meaningful

The MESP is a 529 savings plan. Since contributions are after-tax dollars, the savings grows tax-deferred. Earnings used for qualified higher education expenses are tax exempt. An account can be set up with as little as $25 and the funds can cover tuition, room and board and any additional qualified higher education costs.

Parents aren’t alone in saving for their child’s college education. It takes a village, after all, and one of the most common questions moms and dads hear around their kids’ birthdays and holidays is: “What do they want?”

With MESP’s E-Gifting Portal, it’s easy to send aunts, uncles, grandparents and friends a link where they can make a direct contribution to your child’s account. If you have the child’s six-digital code, it’s also a breeze to make a contribution online with the ugift529.com portal.

An impactful gift that’s easy to give

“At a time when you know friends and families are going to be spending money and buying gifts, what better time to have them contribute to something that will last a lifetime?” Burke says. “It’s a way to really contribute to a loved one’s future in a way the latest toy or a new sweater isn’t going to.”

Plus, most parents know all too well how quickly kids lose interest in their toys. While kids love ripping open a fun gift, the reality is the same toy will likely be overlooked a week later. Imagine, Burke suggests, knowing that your gift will make a real, long-term difference in the child’s life.

“If we think back to all the gifts that are given throughout the year that ultimately get given away or thrown away or put up on a shelf, they’re forgotten about,” she said. “When you give the gift of education, it’s something that’s going to last a lifetime.”

Striking a balance with those presents

Of course, no one’s suggesting skipping out on gifts altogether! After all, that’s part of the joy of the holidays — especially for kids. Instead, parents might consider setting aside part of their holiday gift budget for a college contribution.

The same goes for family and friends who ask about a gift. If an aunt usually spends $100 on your child, for example, they could easily buy a great toy for $20 and spend the difference as an MESP contribution.

“I understand that’s an awkward conversation to have,” Burke admits. “That being said, I think any aunt, uncle or grandparent would much rather contribute to a college fund than get the latest Legos.”

For more information on opening an MESP account, visit MIsaves.com.
Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Making Your Child’s College Dreams Come True.

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Clinton Township teacher opens classroom food pantry to help students in need

A Clinton Township high school teacher is turning compassion into action by opening a food pantry inside her classroom to help students struggling with food insecurity. The effort, started at Chippewa Valley High School in Clinton Township, has already reached dozens of families and highlights how educators are stepping up to meet students’ basic needs.

At Chippewa Valley High School in Clinton Township, social studies teacher Kim Johnston turned her classroom storage space into a food pantry to help students struggling during the ongoing SNAP benefit crisis. The pantry opened the week of Nov. 3, 2025, and has already distributed more than 100 meal kits stocked with pasta, canned goods, and other essentials, according to WXYZ Detroit.

Johnston said her goal was to “make life easier” for students and provide discreet access to food by allowing them to exit directly to the parking lot after collecting what they need. Students say the project has already helped classmates facing food insecurity. Donations have poured in from community members through an Amazon wish list, ensuring shelves stay stocked.

The pantry will stay open as long as needed, a reflection of how schools are responding to basic student needs as part of the broader conversation around education and support.

Anchor Bay: Policy shifts parents will notice

The Anchor Bay School District has introduced several new rules this school year that parents will want to note. A districtwide Away-for-the-Day device policy now requires students to keep phones, smartwatches, earbuds and other electronics turned off and out of sight during school hours. Exceptions apply for students with documented medical needs or accommodations through an IEP, Section 504 plan or the ADA. District leaders say the policy aims to reduce distractions and encourage face-to-face interactions.

The district also rolled out a new extracurricular eligibility policy for middle and high school students. To participate in athletics, clubs or school events, students must maintain passing grades in all classes, show satisfactory conduct in at least five of their six classes, and have a minimum 2.0 GPA from the previous semester.

Additionally, the district shifted to a trimester schedule (Aug. 25-Nov. 21, Nov. 24-Mar. 6, Mar. 7-June 5) and adjusted parent-teacher conference dates to early October to align with the new format, according to Anchor Bay Schools.

Anchor Bay: Building upgrades students can see and use

Anchor Bay completed major summer construction projects across four buildings. At the high school, the first phase of renovations wrapped up this fall, and several new facilities are already in use. Other notable upgrades: 

• The Shoreliner Restaurant, a student-run dining program, opened Oct. 17, 2025, at the high school, according to Anchor Bay Schools.
• The Student Success Center now hosts weekly tutoring sessions, and the newly renovated weight room is being used this month by athletics teams.
• Middle School North reopened its fifth-grade wing with larger classrooms and a new playground that students helped design.
• Lighthouse Elementary completed major renovations and installed a new playground ahead of its planned conversion to an Early Childhood Center by 2028.
• Middle School South refreshed its band and small-engine rooms and added restrooms by the athletic fields.

Eastpointe: Bond work finished in classrooms, pool reopening pending

At Eastpointe Community Schools, officials updated families on progress from the $36.4 million bond approved in 2023. Classroom renovations at Pleasantview Elementary were completed before the school year began, adding new flooring, furniture and full air conditioning across all four elementary buildings, according to C & G News.

Bond work on the Eastpointe High School pool is complete, and the district is awaiting final inspections and a certificate of occupancy before reopening it to students. Technology improvements, including security cameras and network upgrades, were also completed as part of the same bond initiative.

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