Fun Things to Do in Ann Arbor With Kids

Home to the Big House and famous for its big-city, small-town charm, this Washtenaw County college town is never dull.

Looking for a new place to explore not too far from home? Mark your calendar for a family trip over to Ann Arbor, one of our mitten’s must-see cities.

Throughout the collegiate atmosphere of the downtown streets — cozy cafes, theaters and artsy shops — fun adventures are always awaiting even the youngest visitors. You’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Ann Arbor for everyone in the family.

With indoor inflatable playgrounds, a hidden fairy village and a crafter’s ultimate dream, here are some of the city’s best-kept secrets, just for you and the kids.

Note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of these spots may have odd hours or may enforce safety protocols. Check ahead. 

Ann Arbor District Library 

Spend an afternoon with the family at the AADL and explore all it has to offer. Aside from the art collection and seasonal exhibits, ongoing programs just for kids include baby playgroups, preschool storytimes, cool crafts, movies, games and contests. They’ve even got awesome resources for guests to check out and hidden fairy doors, too. Keep in mind that non-residents can pay to get a library card, too.

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum 

  • Address: 220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor
  • Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday. Pod rentals are available Fridays. Closed Monday

This museum is a must-see (and do!) for creative and curious minds alike. Tons of exhibits showcasing technology, light and optics, simple machines and the human body invite kids to learn and discover the world around them in a whole new way. They can even climb a rock wall, walk on life-size piano keys and step inside a massive bubble. Plus, there’s an interactive gallery made just for children 4 and under. New exhibits are rolling in all the time, so be sure to check back often for more fun and surprises. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Ann Arbor with kids.

Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra

Since 1928, Ann Arbor’s premier orchestra has been wowing crowds with opera, classic concerts and contemporary pieces. Watch for its annual array of kid-pleasing family concerts, instrument petting zoos and free 30-minute KinderConcerts for ages 2-5 (various locations).

Briarwood Mall

  • Address: 100 Briarwood Circle, Ann Arbor
  • Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday

Anchored by Macy’s, JCPenney and Von Maur, this regional shopping magnet is packed with a variety of shops for all budgets. Be sure to catch seasonal family fun events – and the cool play area for kids.

Cobblestone Farm

Originally a two-family home, this Ann Arbor spot has evolved over the years and become a great spot for weddings, bat and bar mitzvahs, dances and more. Enjoy a guided tour of the Cobblestone Farmhouse Museum (call for an appointment).

Downtown Ann Arbor

  • Address: Kerrytown District, Main Street Area, State Street Area, South University Area
  • Hours: Vary by district, shop and/or event

Looking for events and shopping around town? This is your starting destination. It’s got your day of hoofing-it covered, including an interactive walk map for several areas.

Dixboro General Store

This country-style gift and furnishing store sells everything from jellies and jams to couches and tables. The store has been in operation since 1840 and has evolved from the general merchandise store that it once was.

Gallup Park

Looking for fun things to do in Ann Arbor? Enjoy a visit to Gallup Park. As one of Ann Arbor’s most popular parks, this 69-acre recreation hot spot includes ponds, picnic spots, a pair of playgrounds, trails and much more. Canoes are also available to rent too.

Kerrytown

This quaint little plaza — also where the Ann Arbor Farmers Market takes place year round – will tickle everyone’s fancies. While strolling through these historical buildings (part of the original village of Ann Arbor), plenty of shops await. Be sure to check out Mudpuddles for cool, creative toys for kids. Then grab a bite to eat at the KOSMO lunch counter to enjoy breakfast and lunch favorites all day, as well as an array of Korean dishes – all for a delicious price, too.

Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger

Billed as Ann Arbor’s oldest hamburger stand — and its fave since 1953 — you can watch as your burger is made right in front of you.

Leslie Science and Nature Center

Discover the creatures that swoop up high and slither down low: From owls and hawks to turtles and toads, the Leslie Science and Nature Center invites you to experience some of earth’s neatest critters. You can view the raptor enclosures from sunrise to sunset daily, or wander through the Critter House every weekend, where staff is available to answer any questions. Walk the Black Pond Woods Trail and observe the animals in their natural habitats, too, while you hunt for tracks or try your hand at geocaching – an outdoor treasure hunt – with any GPS-enabled device. The 50-acre property is open every day of the year.

Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum

  • Address: 1800 N. Dixboro Road, Ann Arbor
  • Hours: open daily, sunrise to sunset (Visitor Center at Nichols Arboretum open seasonally mid-March through mid-November)

Enjoy looking at native Michigan plants along with varieties from around the world at this 123-acre arboretum, which has both indoor and outdoor sections.

Michigan Theater

This magnificent old-fashioned theater houses two auditoriums under the same roof. Don’t miss live kids’ stage shows, as well as a series of occasional flicks children will love.

Planet Rock

Looking for stuff to do in Ann Arbor and seeking a new adventure? Try your hands (and feet) at Planet Rock — a huge indoor climbing gym. Rock walls, ropes and play gyms are open to climbers of all ages and levels for an exciting day of finding new heights. For first-timers, the training session will teach you everything you need to know to reach the top. Camps, daily passes, lessons and teams are also available, whether you’re looking to climb competitively or for recreation.

The Scrap Box

A dream come true for all and any crafty cravings, The Scrap Box offers anything you could ever want to cut, paste, paint, string or collage. Thanks to donations from local businesses and households, The Scrap Box encourages creativity and recycling by collecting remnants of all sorts that’d make for unique crafting materials.

Seva Restaurant

Two words: yam fries. For creative, vegetarian meals that will have your kids begging for more greens, try Seva. Opened in 1973, Seva has a variety of entrees to choose from.

University of Michigan Museum of Art

With collections from across the globe, this institute lets your family look through paintings, sculptures and more one-of-a-kind pieces of art.

Washtenaw Dairy

You’ll always find plenty of great things to do in Ann Arbor — and no shortage of excellent places to eat. At Washtenaw Dairy, munch on doughnuts, ice cream and an assortment of other goodies. It’s an Ann Arbor landmark!

Zingerman’s Delicatessen

There’s often standing room only to order sandwiches at lunchtime. But don’t let the crowd hold you back; it’s worth it to sample the corned beef and pastrami sandwiches topped with homemade dressings, cheeses and breads. Make sure to order an extra loaf to bring home with you! And, be sure to try Zingerman’s mac and cheese recipe at home, too.

This post was originally published in 2012 and is updated regularly. 


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