Ann Arbor is a vibrant, family-friendly destination that offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring the city’s lush parks, engaging with animals at local farms, or immersing yourself in the arts and sciences, there’s no shortage of fun and educational activities for all ages. These are our top family-friendly attractions in Ann Arbor.
Be sure to check out our full Ann Arbor City Guide:
- A Family-Friendly Guide to Visiting Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Must-see family-friendly attractions on the University of Michigan Campus
- Visit These Parks on Your Next Trip to Ann Arbor
- What you’ll find: A world of animals in a clean, safe and educational setting. Home to approximately 200 animals, both traditional and non-traditional, the farm features a variety of species, including cows, horses, donkeys, llamas, alpacas, pigs, sheep, goats, ducks, chickens, peacocks and cats.
- What families say: “If you are in Ann Arbor with young children this is one of the top attractions. I was impressed by the kindness of the staff, how clean everything was and the health of the animals.” – Gary
- Pro tip: Wear close-toed shoes that you don’t mind possibly getting dirty.
- What you’ll find: Books, books and more books! Literati Bookstore is one of the leading independent bookstores in the U.S. With a dedicated following both in Michigan and nationwide, Literati has become a beloved destination for avid readers. Head up the stairs for the giant children’s section.
- What families say: “Cute bookshop with a nice children’s selection. The cafe was an awesome bonus and the workers were super friendly. It was all just a bit cramped and we wish that we could have gotten a teacher discount on the books we bought for our classrooms.” – stephjmc
- Pro tip: Check out their calendar for special events, like poetry readers and writers workshops.
- What you’ll find: An outdoor, regulation-size ice rink, perfect for practicing ice hockey skills or just the fun experience of gliding around with your friends. Skates are available for rent and the arena will be open until March 23, 2025.
- What families say: “We tried ice skating as a family for the first time here and it was so much fun! We all had a blast and will return!” – Suzanne Couture
- Pro tip: Visit on a Frozen Friday during general skate from 7-8:45 p.m. and enjoy themed music and dressing up to each theme! Themes and dates can be found online.
- What you’ll find: The Argo Canoe Livery is a popular destination for those looking to rent canoes, kayaks and rafts to explore the Huron River from May to October. Located within Argo Park and Nature Area, the livery is close to a range of amenities, including restrooms, a shelter, a public boat launch, a fishing pier and the Argo Dam. The most popular attraction here is the Argo Cascades, a series of nine small rapids, rock chutes and pools that create a scenic and exciting tubing experience from Argo Pond to the river.
- What families say: “A fun spot to spend a couple of hours cascading down the river. Suggested for kids 8 and up, but I started bringing my son when he was little and held him on my lap on my tube. It’s easy to complete the portion with rapids and walk to repeat as many times as you like.” – NatureLove44
- Pro tip: If possible, visit during the week when it’s less crowded to have a more enjoyable experience.
- What you’ll find: A family-friendly market full of local products, farm products, prepared food, beverages and artisan items. This 105-year-old market is producer-only, featuring 125 vendors from Michigan, and is the perfect way to support and immerse yourself in the local community. The market is open from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays and Wednesdays in May through December, and from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays in January through April.
- What families say: “I love the market! I always find what I want and usually find things I didn’t know I was looking for but that my kiddos love. It’s great any time of year.” – Jjessyy
- Pro tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and be sure to bring your own bags for shopping!
Want to learn more and plan your own trip to Ann Arbor? Be sure to check out our full City Guide to discover all the basics, like where to eat and stay, cool stuff to experience on the University of Michigan campus and the top parks and trails you’ll find in Ann Arbor.
Content sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
