When you need a change of scenery but don’t have time for a vacation, pack up the car for a day trip.

Lansing

Take a tour of the Michigan State Capitol and show your kids where government happens. Afterwards have indoor fun at Impressions 5 Children’s Museum. Commemorate your trip with a family photo next to the ‘Love Lansing’ mural at American Fifth Spirits downtown (and order some Craft Cocktails To Go for home!). Looking for outdoor adventures? Let the kids play, stroll the Storywalk and take a hike through Hawk Island Park and on snowy days go Snow Tubing!

Midland

Bundle up and get ready for nature at its finest in mid-Michigan. Start your day at exploring rivers, wetlands, historic features and the natural play area of Chippewa Nature Center. Then take in the beauty of Dow Gardens, the canopy walk is the largest in North America.  Before you hit the road let the littles play at Plymouth Park where you’ll find a 16,000 square foot wooden castle playground.

Grand Rapids

Bundle up for a beautiful walk through the Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. The 158-acre park is the perfect place to explore any time of year. Keep warm and learn more about west Michigan at the Grand Rapids Public Museum downtown. If you’re visiting in December, see if the public outdoor rink at Rosa Parks Circle is open for skating – it’s located down the street.

Kalamazoo

Take to the skies at the AirZoo! The aerospace and science museum is both fun and educational. Visit now to see the new Alien Worlds & Androids exhibit (IronMan may be there too!). If your littles prefer the open road, make a visit to the Gilmore Car Museum to see cars and motorcycles through the ages. Whichever museum you chose to visit be sure to stop in downtown Kalamazoo for lunch, a stroll through Bronson Park (it’s lit up during the holiday season) and let the kids raid the candy aisles at Rocket Fizz.

BONUS…OHIO TRIPS:

Toledo

Head to Ohio to check out the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. From the African Safari the the Land Down Under, there are hundreds of animals to visit. Take an evening trip during the holidays to experience the Lights Before Christmas!

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