10 Top Kids’ Party Places in Metro Detroit and Ann Arbor

Looking for top kids party places for birthdays and more? Check out this roundup of sweet celebration spots in the metro Detroit and Ann Arbor areas.

By
Kristen J. Gough
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Looking for the best kids birthday party places for your child’s next shindig? A few tips, if we may. First: Let them in on the planning. After all, there are so many top kids party places and options in southeast Michigan – 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 some awesome ideas for birthday party places for kids throughout the metro Detroit and Ann Arbor areas.

1. Cupcake and bake 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 all across the area, these bright, heavenly scented shops often offer kids’ parties. (Or, if you want a great cake or cupcakes for your upcoming celebration, check out our roundup of bakeries and cupcake shops, too).

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2. Pottery and art spots

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 and art studios are a great option.

Consider:

  • Abrakadoodle Art Studio (Arty Birthday Parties with an art teacher plus art activities and lessons), 8016 Sheldon Center Road, Canton, 734-738-6287
  • Creative Arts Studio (pottery painting, beading, mosaics, glass fusing, wheel throwing, wax hands), 114 W. Fourth St., Royal Oak, 248-544-2234
  • Pewabic (includes a tour and tile-making; ages 6 plus 10-25 kids. Over 25 kids and parties get an additional instructor, though additional fees of $17/child apply), 10125 E. Jefferson Ave., Detroit, 313-626-2000
  • Creatopia Pottery, 924 W. Ann Arbor Trail, Plymouth, 734-453-8797
  • The Bee’s Knees Studio & Gallery, 149 E. Main St., Northville, 248-347-6718
  • The Friendship Factory, 210 W. University Drive, Suite 1, Rochester

3. Action arenas

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Whether you’re looking for hands-on fun and disco dance parties or sports-geared spots with go-karts, glo golf, arcades and laser tag – these action-packed kid zones are great for kids who want plenty to do at their next party.

Consider:

  • Bloomfield Gymnastics (gymnastics, trampolines, acrobatics), 2124 Franklin Road, Bloomfield Hills, 248-335-6770
  • Boogie Babies (disco dance, Wii/gaming stations, tree house play area), 1928 Star Batt Drive, Suite B, Rochester Hills, 248-852-6288
  • C.J. Barrymore’s (arcade, bowling alley, bumper cars, more) 21750 Hall Road, Clinton Township, 586-469-2800
  • Jungle Java (soft play center), locations in Canton, Clinton Township and Farmington Hills
  • Rochester Play, 380 E. Second St., Rochester, 248-650-PLAY (7529)
  • Detroit Kid City, locations in Clinton Township and Southfield
  • Kidz Kingdom, 18602 Fenkell St., Detroit, 313-296-1741
  • Paradise Park (laser tag, arcade, mini golf, climbing wall, trampoline, go-karts, kiddie track, more), 45799 Grand River Ave., Novi, 248-735-1050
  • Zap Zone (laser tag, arcade, jump zone, bumper cars, and at some locations, glo-golf, go-karts and more), locations in Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti, Canton, Farmington, Taylor, Utica/Sterling Heights and Waterford
  • Jeepers! (indoor roller coasters, arcade games, face painting), 14600 Lakeside Circle, Sterling Heights, 586-247-1400
  • The Hub Stadium (Fowling arena open to kids 7-plus on weekdays and weekends before 9 p.m.), 2550 Takata Drive, Auburn Hills, 248-364-4000
  • The Fowling Warehouse (Football meets bowling at this spot which is open to kids 10-plus on Saturdays and Sundays from noon-6 p.m.), 3901 Christopher St., Hamtramck, 313-264-1288

Plus, check out even more indoor fun spots around southeast Michigan, some of which may also offer birthday party options.

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!

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5. Splash zones and swim spots

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.

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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.

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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:

  • Emagine Theatres, locations in locations in Birmingham, Canton, Macomb, Novi, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak and Saline (rent a party room for 10 children or more).
  • Genitti’s Hole-in-the-Wall, 108 E. Main St., Northville, 248-349-0522 (interactive children’s comedy show with lunch).
  • Goodrich Quality Theaters, locations in Ann Arbor and Canton (with party room), Oxford (no room, but discount on kid’s concession tray).
  • 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.

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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 (and read up on these how-to tips!)

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You can find a bunch of other spots, too, by browsing our bowling alleys list. Just make sure to ask if they offer birthday parties!

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.

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Looking for more? We’ve got a whole roundup of local skating rinks to check out.

This post was originally published in 2010 and is updated regularly.

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