No matter what the season, there’s never a bad time to start planning your next great day trip here in Metro Detroit. Whether it’s the brink of a new year, the middle of summer, or something in between, there’s always a calendar full of possibilities just waiting to be fulfilled. As you start preparing for your next great outing with the entire family, you’ll undoubtedly want to check out some of the best day trips in Detroit and its surrounding communities. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled a list of great options — with one day trip for every month of the year. There are so many wonderful things to do in Detroit, so prepare to have a blast.
- January: Hawk Island Park
TripAdvisor/aldmar The snowy weather always manages to stick around a bit longer than we expect, so make the most of January’s chilly temperatures by heading out for a tubing adventure with loved ones. Hawk Island Park features 100 lovelyacres of beautiful land to explore, but it comes to life with fun and excitement during the winter months by offering multiple tubing lanes. Rent a tube, take the conveyor belt back to the top, and round it all out with a soothing cup of hot cocoa. What better way to spend a winter day? Find out more about Hawk Island Park in our previous article. Hawk Island Park, 1601 E Cavanaugh Rd, Lansing, MI 48910, USA
- February: Sanders Chocolate Factory Tour
TripAdvisor/management When February rolls around, venture to Clinton Township for a romantic Valentine’s Day outing or a family adventure that will have your sweet tooth tingling with excitement. Whether you embark on a self-guided tour or call in advance to reserve a guided tour, you’ll appreciate the chance to check out the candy-making process. During guided tours, you’ll even round out the journey with a few free chocolate samples. We really can’t imagine a more wonderful way to spend the day. Learn more about this chocolate tour in our previous article. Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe - Clinton Township (Sanders Candy), 23770 Hall Rd, Clinton Twp, MI 48036, USA
- March: Take a journey to Hell, Michigan
Flickr/Mike Goad March days can often be dreary, so why not lean into this sense of darkness with a fun and fascinating journey to Hell? That’s right: Hell, Michigan exists and it’s undeniably fun for those with a quirky sense of humor. Grab tasty food and refreshing drinks at the Hell Saloon, snap a few silly photos throughout the area, or pick up a souvenir to commemorate your trip to Hell. There’s truly something in Hell for everyone. For more info on the town of Hell, check out our previous piece. Hell, MI 48169, USA
- April: Monroe Farmers Market
Google Maps You know the old saying: April showers bring May flowers. The month of April is often rainy here in the Great Lakes State, so guarantee a good time by planning an unforgettable indoor day trip. We recommend checking out the Monroe Farmers Market, a year-round wonderland that offers everything from handicrafts to fresh produce inside a converted streetcar freight depot. You’ll find it hard to leave empty-handed when you make your way to this marvelous market. Find out more about this Detroit farmers market in our previous article. Monroe Farmers Market, 20 E Willow St, Monroe, MI 48162, USA
- May: The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village
TripAdvisor/management There’s certainly no bad time to visit the Henry Ford and Greenfield Village, but we highly suggest dropping by during the spring when everything feels fresh, new, and full of promise. History buffs will appreciate the chance to stroll through impressive exhibits highlighting everything from civil rights to the iconic automotive industry, not to mention a real-time visit to the past within Greenfield Village. To learn more, read our previous article. Greenfield Village, Dearborn, MI 48124, USA
- June: Red Oaks Waterpark
TripAdvisor/EricaDH When the sunny weather finally makes an appearance here in Metro Detroit, there’s really nothing more wonderful than heading outside for a day of waterpark fun. Red Oaks Waterpark is situated approximately 20 minutes by car from Detroit, making it an ideal spot to check out when you want to cool off with the whole family. From slides to dump-buckets to relaxing lounge chairs, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. For details, read our previous feature. Red Oaks Waterpark, 1455 E Thirteen Mile Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071, USA
- July: Ann Arbor Art Fair (Downtown Ann Arbor)
Facebook/Ann Arbor Art Fair Each year, Ann Arbor hosts hundreds of talented artists and craftspeople during the Ann Arbor Art Fair. This year will be no exception, with a variety of events, sidewalk sales, and demonstrations taking place in mid-July in Metro Detroit’s most charming college town. Whether you’re hoping to shop, hone your creative skills, or simply do some truly awesome people-watching, you’ll love the Art Fair and everything it brings to the area. Details are available on the fair’s website. Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- August: Lexington, Michigan
TripAdvisor/Chris B. Nothing says late summer like a day on the beach, and Metro Detroit offers plenty of pretty options for those who want to lounge atop the sand. We recommend spending your August days in beautiful Lexington, which offers gorgeous access to Lake Huron and a small-town atmosphere that’s impossible to dislike. Whether you stop by for a quick dip or take out your boat at Lexington State Harbor, you’ll have a blast. For further details about this lovely waterfront town, read our past piece. Lexington, MI 48450, USA
- September: Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill
Google Reviews/Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill When September rolls around, many Detroiters are eager to head out for a healthy dose of traditional autumn activities with the kids in tow. If you’re a fan of apple orchards and Instagram-worthy scenery, head to Blake‘s Orchard and Cider Mill in Armada for an unforgettable day with family or friends. Generations of Metro Detroit residents have appreciated all that Blake’s has to offer, from hard cider to U-Pick apples to annual festivals. To learn more, visit the Blake’s Orchard website. Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, 17985 Armada Center Rd, Armada, MI 48005, USA
- October: Hudson Mills Metropark
TripAdvisor/halfmoondave Immerse yourself in the beauty of fall during a breathtaking foliage hike at Hudson Mills Metropark. Situated just minutes from the picturesque town of Dexter, which boasts plenty of its own fall attractions, Hudson Mills features ample opportunities for canoeing, birdwatching, fishing, and more. With serene forested trails and more than 1,500 acres to explore, the park will quickly be a new family favorite. Find out more about the park and Dexter as a whole by reading our previous feature article. Hudson Mills Metropark, 8801 N Territorial Rd, Dexter, MI 48130, USA
- November: Frankenmuth, Michigan
Flickr/Tod Van Hoosear Who says November is too early to start preparing for the Christmas season? If you’re a fan of the holidays, Frankenmuth makes for the ultimate day trip from Detroit. Be sure to start your day at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, a 7.35-acre building that houses more holiday decor than you could ever imagine. Next, do some shopping downtown before rounding it all out with a meal at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth. To learn more about Frankenmuth, read our previous article. Frankenmuth, MI, USA
- December: Rochester’s Big, Bright Light Show (Downtown Rochester)
Flickr/Dane Downtown Rochester comes to life each December with the Big, Bright Light Show, a stunning display of holiday lights that will take your breath away as soon as you arrive. The city’s entire downtown area is immersed in an endless array of twinkling lights in every hue imaginable, and you could easily spend hours perusing local shops and eateries. What better way to celebrate the many delights of December? Find out more by reading this piece or checking out the Downtown Rochester website for annual event details.
So, there you have it: some of the best day trips in Detroit and Metro Detroit. Are there any other awesome family activities in Detroit that we should have included on our list? Which of these ideas will be added to your itinerary for the next twelve months? Be sure to share your top recommendations and ideas with us by leaving a Facebook comment or filling out our official nomination form.
TripAdvisor/aldmar
The snowy weather always manages to stick around a bit longer than we expect, so make the most of January’s chilly temperatures by heading out for a tubing adventure with loved ones. Hawk Island Park features 100 lovelyacres of beautiful land to explore, but it comes to life with fun and excitement during the winter months by offering multiple tubing lanes. Rent a tube, take the conveyor belt back to the top, and round it all out with a soothing cup of hot cocoa. What better way to spend a winter day? Find out more about Hawk Island Park in our previous article.
Hawk Island Park, 1601 E Cavanaugh Rd, Lansing, MI 48910, USA
TripAdvisor/management
When February rolls around, venture to Clinton Township for a romantic Valentine’s Day outing or a family adventure that will have your sweet tooth tingling with excitement. Whether you embark on a self-guided tour or call in advance to reserve a guided tour, you’ll appreciate the chance to check out the candy-making process. During guided tours, you’ll even round out the journey with a few free chocolate samples. We really can’t imagine a more wonderful way to spend the day. Learn more about this chocolate tour in our previous article.
Sanders Chocolate & Ice Cream Shoppe - Clinton Township (Sanders Candy), 23770 Hall Rd, Clinton Twp, MI 48036, USA
Flickr/Mike Goad
March days can often be dreary, so why not lean into this sense of darkness with a fun and fascinating journey to Hell? That’s right: Hell, Michigan exists and it’s undeniably fun for those with a quirky sense of humor. Grab tasty food and refreshing drinks at the Hell Saloon, snap a few silly photos throughout the area, or pick up a souvenir to commemorate your trip to Hell. There’s truly something in Hell for everyone. For more info on the town of Hell, check out our previous piece.
Hell, MI 48169, USA
Google Maps
You know the old saying: April showers bring May flowers. The month of April is often rainy here in the Great Lakes State, so guarantee a good time by planning an unforgettable indoor day trip. We recommend checking out the Monroe Farmers Market, a year-round wonderland that offers everything from handicrafts to fresh produce inside a converted streetcar freight depot. You’ll find it hard to leave empty-handed when you make your way to this marvelous market. Find out more about this Detroit farmers market in our previous article.
Monroe Farmers Market, 20 E Willow St, Monroe, MI 48162, USA
There’s certainly no bad time to visit the Henry Ford and Greenfield Village, but we highly suggest dropping by during the spring when everything feels fresh, new, and full of promise. History buffs will appreciate the chance to stroll through impressive exhibits highlighting everything from civil rights to the iconic automotive industry, not to mention a real-time visit to the past within Greenfield Village. To learn more, read our previous article.
Greenfield Village, Dearborn, MI 48124, USA
TripAdvisor/EricaDH
When the sunny weather finally makes an appearance here in Metro Detroit, there’s really nothing more wonderful than heading outside for a day of waterpark fun. Red Oaks Waterpark is situated approximately 20 minutes by car from Detroit, making it an ideal spot to check out when you want to cool off with the whole family. From slides to dump-buckets to relaxing lounge chairs, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. For details, read our previous feature.
Red Oaks Waterpark, 1455 E Thirteen Mile Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071, USA
Facebook/Ann Arbor Art Fair
Each year, Ann Arbor hosts hundreds of talented artists and craftspeople during the Ann Arbor Art Fair. This year will be no exception, with a variety of events, sidewalk sales, and demonstrations taking place in mid-July in Metro Detroit’s most charming college town. Whether you’re hoping to shop, hone your creative skills, or simply do some truly awesome people-watching, you’ll love the Art Fair and everything it brings to the area. Details are available on the fair’s website.
Ann Arbor, MI, USA
TripAdvisor/Chris B.
Nothing says late summer like a day on the beach, and Metro Detroit offers plenty of pretty options for those who want to lounge atop the sand. We recommend spending your August days in beautiful Lexington, which offers gorgeous access to Lake Huron and a small-town atmosphere that’s impossible to dislike. Whether you stop by for a quick dip or take out your boat at Lexington State Harbor, you’ll have a blast. For further details about this lovely waterfront town, read our past piece.
Lexington, MI 48450, USA
Google Reviews/Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill
When September rolls around, many Detroiters are eager to head out for a healthy dose of traditional autumn activities with the kids in tow. If you’re a fan of apple orchards and Instagram-worthy scenery, head to Blake‘s Orchard and Cider Mill in Armada for an unforgettable day with family or friends. Generations of Metro Detroit residents have appreciated all that Blake’s has to offer, from hard cider to U-Pick apples to annual festivals. To learn more, visit the Blake’s Orchard website.
Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, 17985 Armada Center Rd, Armada, MI 48005, USA
TripAdvisor/halfmoondave
Immerse yourself in the beauty of fall during a breathtaking foliage hike at Hudson Mills Metropark. Situated just minutes from the picturesque town of Dexter, which boasts plenty of its own fall attractions, Hudson Mills features ample opportunities for canoeing, birdwatching, fishing, and more. With serene forested trails and more than 1,500 acres to explore, the park will quickly be a new family favorite. Find out more about the park and Dexter as a whole by reading our previous feature article.
Hudson Mills Metropark, 8801 N Territorial Rd, Dexter, MI 48130, USA
Flickr/Tod Van Hoosear
Who says November is too early to start preparing for the Christmas season? If you’re a fan of the holidays, Frankenmuth makes for the ultimate day trip from Detroit. Be sure to start your day at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, a 7.35-acre building that houses more holiday decor than you could ever imagine. Next, do some shopping downtown before rounding it all out with a meal at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth. To learn more about Frankenmuth, read our previous article.
Frankenmuth, MI, USA
Flickr/Dane
Downtown Rochester comes to life each December with the Big, Bright Light Show, a stunning display of holiday lights that will take your breath away as soon as you arrive. The city’s entire downtown area is immersed in an endless array of twinkling lights in every hue imaginable, and you could easily spend hours perusing local shops and eateries. What better way to celebrate the many delights of December? Find out more by reading this piece or checking out the Downtown Rochester website for annual event details.
Looking for even more family fun? Be sure to read about some of the best free things to do in Detroit.
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Day Trips In Detroit March 23, 2022 Sophie Boudreau What are the best outdoor day trips in Detroit? While the article above covers some of the best things to do in Detroit, it’s not exclusively focused on natural attractions. If you’re keen on day trips centered around the great outdoors, we’ve got you covered. Our list of natural wonders in Detroit and Metro Detroit features everything from a unique international wildlife refuge to beaches around Detroit that will have you feeling more relaxed in no time. By the time you’ve checked out all these awesome spots, you’ll be nothing short of an expert regarding Metro Detroit’s natural splendor. Are there any other family-friendly activities in Detroit? If you’ve got kids, you know that it can be tough to keep the whole family entertained while exploring Metro Detroit. Luckily, we’ve done some of the guesswork for you by compiling a list of family-friendly hikes in Detroit and the communities in its immediate vicinity. Not sure if your children are up for a day in the great outdoors? Never fear: here are some of the best free museums in Detroit, all of which offer a winning combination of fun and education. Are there any charming small towns near Detroit? If you’re still not satisfied by our day trip offerings, check out some of the best small towns near Detroit. After all, if you choose to explore an entire community without making pinpointed plans, you’ll leave plenty of space to discover your own hidden gems. Our list includes everything from the waterfront town of Lexington to the history-rich community of Milford, so you’ll never run out of fun charm in Metro Detroit. Happy adventuring, Detroiters!
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best Day Trips In Detroit
March 23, 2022
Sophie Boudreau
What are the best outdoor day trips in Detroit? While the article above covers some of the best things to do in Detroit, it’s not exclusively focused on natural attractions. If you’re keen on day trips centered around the great outdoors, we’ve got you covered. Our list of natural wonders in Detroit and Metro Detroit features everything from a unique international wildlife refuge to beaches around Detroit that will have you feeling more relaxed in no time. By the time you’ve checked out all these awesome spots, you’ll be nothing short of an expert regarding Metro Detroit’s natural splendor. Are there any other family-friendly activities in Detroit? If you’ve got kids, you know that it can be tough to keep the whole family entertained while exploring Metro Detroit. Luckily, we’ve done some of the guesswork for you by compiling a list of family-friendly hikes in Detroit and the communities in its immediate vicinity. Not sure if your children are up for a day in the great outdoors? Never fear: here are some of the best free museums in Detroit, all of which offer a winning combination of fun and education. Are there any charming small towns near Detroit? If you’re still not satisfied by our day trip offerings, check out some of the best small towns near Detroit. After all, if you choose to explore an entire community without making pinpointed plans, you’ll leave plenty of space to discover your own hidden gems. Our list includes everything from the waterfront town of Lexington to the history-rich community of Milford, so you’ll never run out of fun charm in Metro Detroit. Happy adventuring, Detroiters!
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
While the article above covers some of the best things to do in Detroit, it’s not exclusively focused on natural attractions. If you’re keen on day trips centered around the great outdoors, we’ve got you covered. Our list of natural wonders in Detroit and Metro Detroit features everything from a unique international wildlife refuge to beaches around Detroit that will have you feeling more relaxed in no time. By the time you’ve checked out all these awesome spots, you’ll be nothing short of an expert regarding Metro Detroit’s natural splendor.
Are there any other family-friendly activities in Detroit?
If you’ve got kids, you know that it can be tough to keep the whole family entertained while exploring Metro Detroit. Luckily, we’ve done some of the guesswork for you by compiling a list of family-friendly hikes in Detroit and the communities in its immediate vicinity. Not sure if your children are up for a day in the great outdoors? Never fear: here are some of the best free museums in Detroit, all of which offer a winning combination of fun and education.
Are there any charming small towns near Detroit?
If you’re still not satisfied by our day trip offerings, check out some of the best small towns near Detroit. After all, if you choose to explore an entire community without making pinpointed plans, you’ll leave plenty of space to discover your own hidden gems. Our list includes everything from the waterfront town of Lexington to the history-rich community of Milford, so you’ll never run out of fun charm in Metro Detroit. Happy adventuring, Detroiters!
