Winter might be in full swing, but that doesn’t mean your family has to be stuck in the cold! With a little creativity (and a lot of wishful thinking), you can bring the fun of summer indoors.
From tropical-themed parties to indoor water parks, here are some fantastic ways to beat the winter blues and soak up some “sunshine” without leaving metro Detroit.
Indoor kid-friendly activities in metro Detroit where you can pretend it’s summer
Climb, slide and play at Dinoland
- Address: 26450 Ford Road, Dearborn Heights; 32109 John R Road, Madison Heights
For little ones who love to climb and explore, Dinoland is the perfect place to escape the winter cold. This dinosaur-themed playscape features a jungle gym with slides and obstacles, plus a soft-play area designed just for babies and toddlers. Families can stop by for open play during the day or even plan a summer-inspired party in the dino-themed space. Find more indoor play places in metro Detroit!
Make a splash at Warren Community Center
- Address: 5460 Arden Ave., Warren
Water parks are not just for summer. Metro Detroit boasts several indoor water parks, such as the Warren Community Center in Sterling Heights, where families can enjoy a lazy river, a zero-depth entry pool and hot tub, all within a comfortable indoor setting. Just remember to have a hair dryer and warm winter gear for the post-swim sprint to the car.
Escape to a butterfly paradise at the Detroit Zoo
- Address: 8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak
The Ron Kagan Wildlife Interpretive Gallery at Detroit Zoo is a gorgeous, and, of course, warm sanctuary where it feels like a balmy 75 degrees all year round. There are nearly 25 species of butterflies and unique birds! It offers a magical experience for everyone who needs a break from winter. You might even forget the snow outside.
Step into the tropics at Matthaei Botanical Gardens
- Address: 1800 N. Dixboro Road, Ann Arbor
Need a break from gray skies? The Matthaei Botanical Gardens at the University of Michigan offers a vibrant conservatory filled with lush, green plants from tropical and desert climates. Walk through warm, sun-soaked spaces filled with blooming flowers and towering trees that make you feel miles away from winter. It’s the perfect way to soak in some green and breathe in fresh, plant-filled air.
Discover the outdoors—indoors!—at the Outdoor Adventure Center
- Address: 1801 Atwater St., Detroit
Experience Michigan’s great outdoors without stepping into the cold! The Outdoor Adventure Center, located along Detroit’s riverfront, brings nature indoors with interactive exhibits on forests, waterways and even a simulated waterfall. Kids can feel like they’re on a summer camping trip as they explore hands-on displays, walk through a model tree canopy and climb into an airplane-style kayak simulator.
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