We’re approaching the heart of football season in Michigan — and with three big teams to root for, there’s no better place to be. Fall is prime time for all things football, which means a family road trip to the stadium before winter sets in.
From high-energy college football in Ann Arbor and East Lansing to nail-biting NFL games in Detroit, there are plenty of games ahead to start planning your gameday visits. Best of all, these teams offer family-friendly game day experiences for you and your kids to enjoy.
To find out even more about each type of game, check out our guides to:
- Checking out a high-throttle Detroit Lions football game with your family
- Cheering on a University of Michigan Wolverines football game
- Visiting a Michigan State University Spartans football game
Why football season is perfect for families
The anticipation of tailgates, community-wide team spirit and rumbling of the stadium are just some aspects that make football in Michigan a great outing for families.
The full-day commitment of football games makes them that much more exciting — waking up on the day of a big game can feel like Christmas for both kids and parents.
Beyond the energy and excitement that come with football game days, they are a great opportunity to continue team traditions, and even start family traditions of your own.Â
Each of the three big football teams in Michigan — the U-M Wolverines, the MSU Spartans and the Detroit Lions — have iconic gameday rituals for you and your family to discover at your next visit.
Michigan football games you have to experience once
1. Detroit Lions football
Watching the Lions in Detroit brings the big-league excitement of the NFL to Michigan.Â
Ford Field offers only the best family-friendly amenities and an electric environment, making a Lions Sunday the perfect family day trip. There’s even a Lions kids club!
The Lions “pride” community is what makes attending a game so much fun. Downtown tailgates are where the party starts, but there is plenty more to explore as you get closer to the stadium, including a family zone to make the most memorable game day experience for your kids.
To get ready for a family game day at Ford Field, check out the Detroit Lions guide.
2. University of Michigan football
Football games at the University of Michigan are a magical experience. The Big House, U-M’s stadium, is the largest in the country, and the energy inside is contagious.Â
Around October and November, Ann Arbor revolves around football. The team spirit is unavoidable, and there will be plenty of pre- and post-game activities to do if you decide to spend a weekend watching U-M football with your family.Â
Explore a family guide to Wolverine game days at the the University of Michigan.
3. Michigan State University football
Football Saturdays in East Lansing take on their own energy, with trails of green leading to Spartan Stadium. The long-standing pre-game shows and traditions will keep kids chanting their hearts out like true Spartans.
Whether it’s marching bands, tailgates or simply walking around town, game weekends in East Lansing are more than just the battle on the field — they’re community celebrations.
Get a detailed look at what a family game days feel like at Michigan State University.
How to be prepared for any game
What to bring
Other than gear in your favorite team’s colors, bring your phone to save your memories from the big game. Check out the bag policies for The Big House, Spartan Stadium and Ford Field to make sure you leave prohibited items at home.Â
Importantly, all three stadiums only accept digital tickets. Make sure your phone is fully charged, and, for extra peace of mind, bring a portable charger.
Where to park and tailgate
Sometimes the energy from college and NFL football can get overwhelming, so it’s important to find family-friendly parking and tailgating spots ahead of time.
On Saturdays, U-M and MSU have many free and paid tailgating spots to try. MSU’s Munn Tailgate is great for families, offering yard games and food vendors with your pass. Before a U-M game, try finding or reserving a spot at the Pioneer High School lot for some distance from wild college kids while still being near The Big House.
For Sundays at Ford Field, fans love parking in Downtown Detroit to enjoy the Eastern Market tailgate before they walk or bus to Ford Field. Make sure to arrive at the stadium early to experience Pride Plaza, a kid-friendly pre-game party with band performances and other festivities.
Weather prep
The weather in Michigan starts to get dicey during football season, and wind and rain can make or break your gameday if you come unprepared.Â
While Ford Field is indoors, The Big House and Spartan Stadium are not. Make sure to check the weather forecast ahead of time and dress in layers accordingly. Blankets are also allowed in all three stadiums for extra warmth during the game.
Get the detailed football guides
Discover the family insider scoop for all three major football experiences in Michigan! See our guides to Wolverines football, Spartans football and, of course, the Detroit Lions.
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.
