Visiting Detroit and Ann Arbor with kids gave our family a mix of history, hands-on learning, and outdoor exploration. Detroit and nearby Ann Arbor offer several family-friendly attractions that make Michigan a great destination when traveling with kids, including an autistic child like mine.

Here’s where we went, what worked for my son, and what I’d do differently next time.

Things to Do in Detroit With Kids

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

One of the most memorable stops of our trip was The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. This museum is filled with important pieces of American history, technology, and culture. One of the most powerful moments during our visit was boarding the actual bus connected to the story of Rosa Parks. My son even sat in the same seat associated with her historic stand against segregation.

Standing inside that bus made the history feel very real and sparked an important conversation about the Civil Rights Movement.

The museum is massive and includes exhibits on automobiles, aviation, manufacturing, and American innovation. Families can see historic presidential limousines, classic cars, and interactive exhibits that help bring history to life.

Plan to spend several hours exploring since there is a lot to see. If your child tires easily in large spaces, pick a few must-see exhibits ahead of time and build in breaks.

It’s a must-see when visiting Detroit and Ann Arbor with kids.

Motown Museum (Hitsville U.S.A.)

Another famous stop in Detroit is the Motown Museum, also known as Hitsville U.S.A. Artists like Stevie Wonder and The Supremes recorded songs here that became global hits.

During our visit, my son was ready to move on after just a few minutes, so we only took photos outside the museum. Even from the outside, it is exciting to see the historic building where legendary artists recorded music that changed the industry.

That’s a good reminder for any family: it’s okay to adjust the plan when your child is ready to move on.

Belle Isle Park

If you need a break from museums, Belle Isle Park is a great place to spend time outdoors.

Belle Isle is an island park surrounded by the Detroit River with beautiful views of the water and the Detroit skyline. There are large open spaces where kids can run around, walking paths, picnic areas, and plenty of room to relax.

Families can explore the shoreline, watch boats pass by, and enjoy the peaceful environment. It is a great spot for kids who need space to move around after visiting indoor attractions. Every trip to Detroit with kids needs a stop like this to run and reset.

Detroit Zoo

We planned to visit the Detroit Zoo during our trip. Unfortunately, the zoo was closed for a private event that day, so we were not able to explore it.

If you plan to visit, it is always a good idea to check the event calendar in advance to make sure the zoo is open to the public.

Things to Do in Ann Arbor With Kids

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum

A short drive from Detroit is the city of Ann Arbor, home to the excellent Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum.

This museum is perfect for kids who love interactive learning. The exhibits encourage children to touch, experiment, and explore science concepts through play. My son especially enjoyed moving from station to station trying different activities.

One feature that stood out is that sensory bags are available, which can help children who may become overstimulated. That small detail makes a big difference for families traveling with autistic children. It was one of our favorite stops on our trip to  Ann Arbor with kids.

Where to Eat: Buddy’s Detroit-Style Pizza

While in Detroit, we made sure to try the famous Buddy’s Pizza, which is known for its Detroit-style pizza. This type of pizza is baked in a rectangular pan and has a thick, airy crust with crispy edges.

The cheese caramelizes along the sides of the pan, which gives it a unique texture and flavor. It is very filling and definitely worth trying if you are visiting Detroit.

Where We Stayed: Embassy Suites by Hilton Detroit Metro Airport

We stayed at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Detroit Metro Airport because we had a very early flight the next morning.

From the outside you might not expect much, but the inside of the hotel was surprisingly nice. The hotel has an on-site restaurant with excellent food. My son loved the chicken strips.

Embassy Suites also offers an evening social with snacks and drinks as well as a full complimentary breakfast in the morning. These extras are always helpful when traveling with kids and needing quick meal options.

Renting a Car at Detroit Metro Airport

We rented a vehicle from Budget Car Rental. The line was extremely long, and I waited almost two hours before receiving a vehicle.

If you are renting from this location, be prepared for potential delays or consider joining the company’s express rental program if available. A long wait can be tough for any child, so plan snacks and activities just in case.

Tips for Visiting Detroit and Ann Arbor With Kids

• Plan your museum time. The Henry Ford is huge, so choose a few highlights and schedule breaks.
• Ask for sensory bags. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum offers them for children who may become overstimulated.
• Balance indoor and outdoor time. Belle Isle is a great place to run and reset after museums.
• Check calendars before you go. The Detroit Zoo was closed for a private event on the day we planned to visit.
• Prepare for rental car lines. Join an express program if you can, and pack snacks and activities.
• Be flexible. If your child is ready to move on, like mine was at the Motown Museum, a photo outside still counts.

FAQ: Detroit and Ann Arbor With Kids

Is Detroit a good destination for families with kids?

Yes. The Henry Ford Museum, Belle Isle Park, the Detroit Zoo, and Detroit-style pizza make it a fun family trip, and the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is a short drive away.

Can you sit on the Rosa Parks bus at The Henry Ford?

We were able to board the bus, and my son sat in the seat associated with Rosa Parks. It was one of the most powerful moments of our trip.

Is the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum autism-friendly?

It worked well for my son. The exhibits are interactive, and sensory bags are available for children who may become overstimulated.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Detroit and Ann Arbor with kids gave us powerful history, hands-on fun, great food, and outdoor space to recharge. With a little planning and a flexible mindset, Michigan is a rewarding destination for families, including families traveling with autistic children.

To see this adventure in action, check out the Detroit and Ann Arbor highlights from this trip on my Instagram page, @autismspectrumadventures.

Planning more trips? Read our sensory-friendly Fargo ND guide and our accessible Pensacola Beach guide.