Detroit in 2 Days for Families - Hands-on exhibits at Michigan Science Center
A relaxed, stroller-friendly 2-day family itinerary for Detroit in June (summer). Short transfers, interactive museums, large outdoor play spaces and family-ready meals with buffer time for naps, snacks and bathroom breaks. Recommended ages: toddlers (2–5), early kids (6–10), adaptable for older kids.
Highlights
- Hands-on exhibits at Michigan Science Center
- Picnic and playground time on Belle Isle (aquarium & conservatory)
- Full-day historic play at The Henry Ford + Greenfield Village
- Easy evening play at Campus Martius Park and RiverWalk
Itinerary
Day 1
Interactive museum morning, market lunch, afternoon on Belle Isle, casual BBQ dinner and an easy RiverWalk stroll.
Michigan Science Center — Hands-on, kid-focused exhibits
Start the day at the Michigan Science Center. Large interactive halls with a kids' area, planetarium shows and easy stroller routes. Good for ages 3–12.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at opening to minimize lines for the kid-focused “KidsTown” and planetarium; elevators and wide aisles are stroller-friendly.
- Bring a small backpack with water and sunscreen — there are family restrooms and changing tables near main exhibits for diaper changes.
- Plan a 15–20 minute planetarium show as a calm break if younger kids need to sit quietly; check show times at arrival.
Lunch around Eastern Market — informal, family-friendly food stalls
Walk or short drive to Eastern Market for diverse food vendors and covered stalls — easy for picky eaters, outdoor seating, and snack-sized portions for kids.
Tips from local experts:
- Head to vendor stalls with clear allergy labels and ask vendors — Market vendors are used to families and accommodating simple dietary needs.
- There is space to sit under shade structures; bring a lightweight blanket for littles who prefer to spread out while eating.
- Bathrooms at the market have changing tables; if it’s busy, find quieter side aisles or nearby cafes with family restrooms.
Transfer to Belle Isle (short drive/stroll)
Drive or scooter along the river to Belle Isle. Allow time for parking, a bathroom/water break and stroller setup before exploring.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick a parking spot near the Dossin Great Lakes Museum or the Conservatory to shorten stroller walks to attractions.
- Keep a light towel and water bottle handy — there are shady picnic spots but summer sun can be strong.
- Use this transfer time as a nap window in the stroller for younger kids; Belle Isle grounds are calm when you arrive mid-afternoon.
Belle Isle Park — Aquarium, Conservatory, playground and waterfront
Large island park with kid-friendly attractions: Belle Isle Aquarium, Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, a playground and wide paved paths for strollers and scooters.
Tips from local experts:
- Stroller-friendly paved paths loop around the island; take the shoreline route for shade and breeze when kids need a calm spot.
- The aquarium and conservatory have accessible restrooms and quiet corners for toddlers who may get overwhelmed by crowds.
- Pack a small picnic or snacks — there are picnic tables and grassy areas for a relaxed snack/nap break away from busier exhibits.
Dinner at Slow's Bar BQ — relaxed family-friendly BBQ (Corktown)
Comfortable, casual BBQ restaurant with hearty kid-friendly options and roomy seating — good for groups and families needing flexibility.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a high chair when booking; consider early dinner (6:00pm) to avoid peak wait times and noisy crowds.
- BBQ sauces and sides can be adjusted for picky eaters — staff are used to modifying portions for children.
- If your child needs a quieter space, ask for a table away from the bar area; patio seating is shaded and stroller-accessible in summer.
Evening stroll on the Detroit RiverWalk — short, stroller-friendly end to the day
Calm evening walk along the river with benches and gentle views. Great for digesting and letting kids move before bedtime.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light blanket or stroller cover for cooler river breezes later in the evening.
- There are benches and accessible restrooms at intervals—use the RiverWalk as a last stop for a calm wind-down routine.
- If kids are restless, let them roam a short, supervised stretch of lawn or splash area (seasonal) to burn off energy before bed.
Day 2
A full, hands-on day at The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village in Dearborn with relaxed return and an evening play stop in downtown Detroit.
Transfer to The Henry Ford (Dearborn) — morning drive
Drive from downtown Detroit to The Henry Ford in Dearborn. Aim to leave early to arrive at opening and avoid midday crowds.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan for a 25–40 minute drive depending on traffic; bring snacks and a familiar toy for younger kids to ease the trip.
- Park in the main lot near the museum entrance for the shortest walk with strollers — look for family parking signs.
- Use the transfer as quiet time for a pre-arrival snack; restrooms and family facilities are plentiful once you arrive.
The Henry Ford — Museum of American Innovation (interactive indoor exhibits)
Explore hands-on exhibits, historic cars, and interactive displays. Great for curious kids (ages 4+) with exhibits that appeal to all ages.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the family restrooms and nursing rooms located inside the museum for comfortable breaks and diaper changes.
- Start with the transportation galleries; interactive floor layouts are stroller-friendly and have clear paths for quick breaks.
- Take breaks in quieter galleries if younger children become overstimulated—benches and quiet corners are available near exhibit exits.
Lunch at 'A Taste of History' (on-site) — easy, family-friendly dining
On-site dining with kid-friendly options and space for families. Eating on campus saves time and gives a calm break before Greenfield Village.
Tips from local experts:
- Order simple items for kids (sandwiches, fruit) and ask staff about allergen substitutions — the on-site team is used to families.
- Use the stroller parking area near the restaurant entrance so you can move quickly and avoid carrying gear.
- If a quiet corner is needed for a nap, ask the host for a table away from the main traffic areas or outdoor seating.
Greenfield Village — outdoor historic village, rides and hands-on demonstrations
Spend the afternoon exploring historic houses, kid-friendly rides (Model T, carousel), and interactive crafts. Ideal for ages 2–12; lots of chances to run and play.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a lightweight stroller for little legs — pathways are generally compact but manageable; avoid bringing large double strollers on certain village lanes.
- Use scheduled demonstrations (check daily program) as structured breaks; many have seating and shade for younger kids to rest.
- Pack sunscreen and water for outdoor parts of the village; there are picnic spots and family restrooms with changing tables throughout the site.
Transfer back to Detroit — relaxed return drive
Return drive to downtown Detroit with a buffer for traffic; use this time for quiet rest or an in-car snack to tide kids until an evening play stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan a 35–45 minute window back to the city—use navigation to avoid rush-hour hotspots and look for a restroom stop if needed.
- If a child needs to nap, dim the stroller or car seat environment with a small blanket and avoid bright screens to encourage sleep.
- Have a light activity (coloring pads or an audiobook) ready to keep older kids settled during the transfer.
Campus Martius Park — playground, splash fountain and evening ice cream
Downtown green space with seasonal splash fountains, lawn space and nearby cafes for ice cream — an ideal low-key end to a busy day.
Tips from local experts:
- In summer the fountain area is a free, supervised-feeling splash space—bring a change of clothes and water shoes for toddlers.
- There are public family restrooms nearby and benches for stroller parking; grab ice cream from a nearby vendor (many have kid cones).
- If kids are tired, find a shaded bench for a 15–30 minute wind-down before heading back to your accommodation.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 9 |
| Total Places | 9 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Meal, Transfer, Outdoor, Restaurant, Neighborhood |
