Do you want your kids to be excited about local history? Metro Detroit and Ann Arbor are full of historical attractions that can spark an interest in history. One such spot is Meadow Brook Hall.
This historic estate, which is located on the grounds of Oakland University, was built by the university’s founder, the late Matilda Dodge Wilson and her second husband, Alfred, between 1926 and 1929.
Today, this 1,500-acre estate filled with historic farm buildings and beautiful gardens plays host to some of the coolest educational family events around, including the new family program, Discovery Days.
During this family fun summertime event, families will have the opportunity to explore the grounds, gardens and both Dan’s Cabin and Knole Cottage.
“Knole Cottage and Dan’s Cabin are the recently-restored 1920s children’s playhouses on the estate,” says Shannon O’Berski, the estate’s director of external relations.
“The miniature six-room Knole Cottage, which even includes a nursery and kitchen, is furnished exactly as it was when it was given to Frances Dodge as a 12th birthday present. Her brother Dan’s log cabin playhouse with the garage workshop addition shows his interests in camping, hunting, planes and automobiles.”
In addition, families that visit during Discovery Days get a sneak peak at the soon-to-be restored Wilson Playhouse – a one-room play area built for the original owners’ two adopted children, Richard and Barbara.
But that’s not all.
Kids will also get the opportunity to play classic lawn games, like croquet and bocce, and make crafts that go along with each day’s individual themes, which include “things that grow,” “things that crawl” and “things that go.”
Discovery Days at Meadow Brook Hall happens June 20, July 18 and Aug. 15, 2019, from 1 to 3 p.m. each day. Admission to this event is $15 per child and can be purchased at the door or by calling 248-364-6254. Parents and children age 2 and under are admitted free.
House tours are not included with admission to Discovery Days but are available 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on the hour. Reservations are not required.
For more information about Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester, or the family fun events offered there, visit them online at meadowbrookhall.org.
