If you’re dreaming of a wildlife-filled adventure but don’t want to travel as far as Costa Rica for the experience, you’re in luck. Metro Detroit families can get in on the family adventure travel trend — which is booming in 2025 — with a creative road trip to Ohio, Indiana or Kentucky.
Whether you’re looking for exotic animals, sand dunes or kayaking through an illuminated cave, these three destinations offer unforgettable experiences. Get a taste here, or jump right in and:
- Take a family wildlife safari at The Wilds, Ohio
- Climb your way around Indiana Dunes National Park
- Explore the caves and critters in Louisville, Kentucky
The Wilds in Ohio gets you up close with wildlife
Itching for a safari? The Wilds delivers. About a four-hour drive from metro Detroit, it’s located near Cumberland, Ohio. Just take I-75 South to US-23 South and continue on I-70 East.
- Why it’s a great adventure spot: The Wilds is a 10,000-acre safari park where families can see giraffes, rhinos and cheetahs roam free. This destination offers safari tours, ziplining over animal habitats and even overnight stays in a cabin or a lodge.
- Adventurous pit stop: Break up the drive with a visit to The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, one of the top-rated zoos in the country. It features a world-class gorilla habitat and a massive aquarium.
- Where to stay: The Lodge at The Wilds offers a safari-style experience surrounded by wildlife. Salt Fork Lodge & Conference Center provides a rustic yet modern retreat with scenic lake views and ample amenities. For a modern option, the Hampton Inn Cambridge delivers reliable hospitality with easy access to local attractions.
- Spots to eat: The Wilds’ Overlook Café delivers casual dining with stunning views of the savanna. In downtown Cambridge, Theo’s serves up classic American fare in a welcoming atmosphere. And for a quick yet flavorful bite, McKenna’s Market is a must-visit, offering delicious deli sandwiches and a variety of gourmet snacks.
Indiana Dunes National Park delivers sandy adventure
Love to hike and kayak? Indiana Dunes National Park is a quick 3.5-hour drive from Detroit. Take I-94 West toward northwest Indiana and follow signs for the national park.
- Why it’s a great adventure spot: The towering sand dunes along Lake Michigan create the perfect playground for adventurous families. Hike the famous 3 Dune Challenge, kayak through wetlands and spot diverse wildlife. Don’t miss the roaming bison on restored prairie land at nearby Kankakee Sands.
- Adventurous pit stop: Pop by Kalamazoo for the Nature Center’s trails and animal encounters, or hit the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum for flight simulators and sky-high thrills.
- Places to stay: Beachwalk Vacation Rentals features charming lakefront homes, perfect for a relaxing escape. For a peaceful stay surrounded by nature, Spring House Inn has a rustic, wooded setting with warm hospitality. If you prefer contemporary amenities, Hilton Garden Inn Chesterton is a comfortable and well-equipped stay.
- Spots to eat: Check out the Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille, where classic comfort food gets a creative twist in a cozy setting. For pizza lovers, The Rolling Stonebaker serves up delicious slices with high-quality ingredients. If you want a healthy start to your day, Third Coast Spice Café offers organic, wholesome breakfast options.
Louisville, Kentucky is the place for caverns and critters
Craving a little cave adventure? Ready to meet some gorillas and sea lions? Louisville, a 4.5-hour drive via I-75 South, is an easy road trip destination from metro Detroit.
- Why it’s a great adventure spot: Louisville may be famous for bourbon and horse racing, but it’s also packed with family-friendly outdoor adventures. Visit the Louisville Mega Cavern for underground ziplining, walk the Big Four Bridge and explore the Louisville Zoo, home to a variety of exotic animals. Plus, find theme park thrills at Kentucky Kingdom.
- Adventurous pit stop: En route, stop by Big Bone Lick State Park. Known as the “Birthplace of American Paleontology,” this spot features real bison herds and fossil displays of ancient mammoths.
- Places to stay: Louisville South KOA Holiday offers cabins with bunk beds and room to play just outside the city. At Staybridge Suites Downtown, find spacious suites with kitchens and walkable access to top spots. Nearby Drury Inn & Suites Louisville East is an affordable pick with free breakfast. All three spots boast pools.
- Spots to eat: Proof on Main offers a dynamic dining experience that blends art, culture and bold flavors. For barbecue lovers, Feast BBQ serves mouthwatering smoked meats and flavorful sides that hit the spot. And if breakfast or brunch is your thing, Wild Eggs delivers creative twists on classic morning favorites.
For even more details on these family adventures, dive into our companion guides on The Wilds, Indiana Dunes National Park and Louisville.
This content is sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
