Metro Parent / August 2010 / Top 10 Kids' Party Places in Southeast Michigan

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Top 10 Kids' Party Places in Southeast Michigan

Here are 10 sweet spots for children's birthday celebrations in the metro Detroit and Ann Arbor areas. Don't forget to check Metro Parent's Party Directory, too!

Looking for a primo spot for your child's next birthday party? A few tips, if we may. First: Let them in on the planning. After all, there are so many option – whether your child is a princess wannabe or just a ball of energy needing an outlet. Second: Let Metro Parent be your guide! Here are 10 awesome venue ideas throughout the metro Detroit and Ann Arbor areas. Looking for something else? Our Kids Parties Directory totally has you covered!

1. Cupcake shops

Colored sprinkles, gobs of frosting, and a choice of yummy cupcakes – these are the makings for a birthday party for kids with a sweet tooth (or two!). With bakeries sprouting up around the area, these bright, heavenly scented shops often offer kids' parties. Consider:

Consider:

The Cupcake Station
136 N. Old Woodward, Birmingham, 248-593-1903
116 E. Liberty St., Ann Arbor, 734-222-1801

The Cupcake Kitchen
17412 Hall Road, Clinton Township

2. Pottery places

Children love to get their hands messy. And if they can make unique creations while doing it, all the better. For a memorable party complete with favors guests create during their time together, pottery shops are a great option.

Consider:

Potters' Mill Clay Art Studio
55118 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township, 586-992-2521

The Bee's Knees Studio & Gallery
149 E. Main St., Northville, 248-347-6718

3. Action arenas

Complete with neon lights, go-karts, glo golf, arcades – not to mention the laser tag – these action-packed kid zones are great for kids who want plenty to do at their next party.

Consider:

Zap Zone
Locations in Ann Arbor, Canton, Farmington, Taylor, Utica and Waterford

Jungle Java
Locations in Ann Arbor, Canton, Clinton Township and Farmington Hills

Paradise Park
45799 Grand River, Novi, 248-735-1050

Kids Gotta Play
53535 Grand River, New Hudson, 248-486-5300

4. Bouncing bonanzas

Does your child always seem to be bouncing around – whether on her bed or on the couch? If so, you might want to schedule some time letting your child venture into an inflatable haven. Don't forget to have the kids wear their socks!

Consider:

Bounce U
301 Appian Way, Brighton, 810-227-7278
1101 Rochester Road, Troy, 248-626-5867

Bouncing Off the Walls
3887 Fort St., Wyandotte, 734-246-9977

5. Splash zones

For parents with water bugs on their hands, don't miss out on some chlorinated local fun. Little swimmers will love having a party poolside.

Consider:

Liberty Lagoon Indoor Waterpark and Activity Center
2975 W. Liberty Road, Ann Arbor, 734- 665-3738, ext. 57

Goldfish Swim School
2388 Cole St. No. 101, Birmingham, 248-644-1914
22710 Haggerty Road, Farmington Hills, 248-596-1914

6. Science centers

Budding scientist, or maybe just an astronaut wannabe? If so, book your child's next birthday bash at an area science center.

Consider:

Detroit Science Center
5020 John R St., Detroit, 313-577-8400, option 5

Cranbrook Institute of Science
39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, 248-645-3200

7. Private theaters

Everyone likes going to the theater, whether for movies or plays. But how often do you get to have a theater all to yourself or reserved seating? It sure could be arranged for a special birthday boy or girl.

Consider:

Goodrich Quality Theaters
Locations in Ann Arbor, Canton and Oxford

Marquis Theatre
135 E. Main St., Northville, 248-349-8110

8. Princess palaces

For little girls looking for the chance to be a princess for a day, there are several party places to indulge her inner royalty.

Consider:

Tea Party Castle
52261 Van Dyke, Shelby Township, 866-484-4662

The Kiddie Klub
2897 Crooks, Rochester Hills, 248-852-4012

9. Bowling alleys

If you've got kids who love to stay active during the party and down a few pins, a bowling party is the ticket. Remember to ask for the staff to put up kids' bumpers.

Consider:

Thunderbird Lanes
400 W. Maple Road, Troy, 248-362-1660

Brighton Bowl
9871 E. Grand River Ave., Brighton, 810-227-3341

10. Skating rinks

There's something a little retro special about hanging out a roller rink. Strap some skates on your birthday kids and watch them take a spin around the rink. Be sure they get in a game of hokey-pokey, too.

Consider:

Bonaventure Family Skating Center
24505 Halstead Road, Farmington Hills, 248-476-2201

The Great Skate
29100 Hayes, Roseville, 586-777-4300

Ready to party? With these great birthday destinations nearby, you can find a place to suit your child's ideal party. (And you won't even have to handle any of the cleanup!)