Finding activities for children in Ann Arbor, Mich., doesn't have to be a challenge for parents, whether your family includes toddlers or older children. If you're visiting the city for a short weekend or even for a longer stay, you're sure to find an entertaining activity for your whole family.
This nature center is housed on 50 acres of land that contain woodlands, ponds and fields, providing habitat to a variety of Michigan's wildlife and plant species. Take a walk through the woods on its mile-long trail and observe animal tracks or listen to the sound of wild birds and frogs. On Sundays, children will enjoy a visit to the Critter House, where rabbits, turtles and other small animals live, most donated by families who could not keep them as pets. The raptor center houses injured birds of prey that cannot survive in the wild, offering guests a unique opportunity to view these magnificent creatures up close. The website lists upcoming programs open to the public; some programs charge a fee and registration may be required. General admission to the center is free and the grounds are open 365 days a year during daylight hours. The Critter House is open Sundays from 12 to 3 p.m. Most buildings and special programs have irregular hours; call before scheduling your visit.
Leslie Science and Nature Center
1831 Traver Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
(734) 997-1553
lesliesnc.org
This play facility and café will be a favorite of both children and parents who visit Ann Arbor. The café serves coffee drinks, smoothies, sandwiches and kids' meals; free Wi-Fi is available for adults who wish to surf the Internet while their children play. With separate play areas for toddlers and older children, the playground equipment is chosen to be safe, age-appropriate and fun. If your child needs a little encouragement, don't worry, as adults can go through the play structures with their children. Cleanliness is taken seriously at the facility and for hygienic reasons, all participants in play areas must remove shoes and wear socks. With no time limit, kids can play to their heart's delight while their parents relax in the adjoining café. No re-entry is permitted. Adults pay no entry fee; pricing scale for children (as of February 2010) is: children under 1 year enter free, children 12 months to 23 months pay $3, and children 24 months to 17 years old are $6.50 each. It is open seven days a week. Hours of operation are: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Jungle Java Play
3900 Jackson Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
(734) 786-1340
junglejavaplay.com
Take advantage of good weather and visit the Domino's Petting farm for an enjoyable and educational experience. Children can feed ducks swimming on the pond or get close and pet the many farm animals. The farm is home to rare domestic breeds such as highland cows, horned Dorset sheep and the Jacob sheep, which can have up to six horns. Hayrides are part of the general admission cost; pony rides can be arranged with a separate ticket (weekends only). Prices are reduced during winter months; regular rates (as of February 2010) are $5 for adults and $4.50 for children 2-12 and senior citizens.
Domino's Petting Farm
24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive
P.O. Box 445
Ann Arbor, MI 48106
(734) 998-0182
pettingfarm.com
