Family-Friendly Activities Around Metro Detroit in May & June

As the weather warms up and flowers start to bloom, Metro Detroit transforms into a vibrant hub of outdoor fun and family-friendly events. Whether you're planning weekend adventures, school break outings, or ways to make the most of the longer days, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy with kids of all ages.

Here’s a curated list of the best family-friendly things to do around Metro Detroit in May and June.

🌼 1. Visit the Detroit Zoo (Royal Oak)

Spring is a great time to visit the Detroit Zoo as animals become more active in the milder temperatures. In addition to seeing over 2,000 animals, the zoo offers a Dinosauria exhibit (seasonal) that features life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, sure to excite curious kids.

Don’t Miss: The Polk Penguin Conservation Center and the Zoo’s new Carousel.

🎡 2. Check Out Local Festivals

Metro Detroit comes alive in late spring with family-oriented festivals:

• Motor City Pride (June – Detroit): A colorful celebration with a family-friendly zone and live entertainment.
• Berkley Days (May – Berkley): Enjoy carnival rides, a parade, and kids’ games.
• Grosse Pointe Art Fair (June – Grosse Pointe): A relaxing outdoor event with art, food, and children’s activities.

🚂 3. Ride the Train at Greenfield Village (Dearborn)

Greenfield Village, part of The Henry Ford, offers a step back in time. Ride in a Model T, hop on a steam-powered train, or explore working farms and historic homes. It’s an interactive experience that makes history fun for the whole family.

Bonus: Check out the Village's special events in May and June, including Civil War Remembrance Weekend and Motor Muster.

🌳 4. Picnic and Play at Belle Isle Park (Detroit)

Belle Isle is Detroit’s island oasis, perfect for a full day of family fun. Pack a picnic, enjoy scenic views, and visit the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory or the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. There’s also a playground and plenty of space for kids to run around.

🐠 5. Explore the SEA LIFE Aquarium (Auburn Hills)

Located at Great Lakes Crossing, SEA LIFE Michigan is an indoor aquarium that features touch pools, a 180-degree ocean tunnel, and interactive exhibits perfect for rainy days or weekend getaways.

Tip: Pair your visit with LEGOLAND Discovery Center for a full day of indoor adventure.

🚴 6. Take a Family Bike Ride

Hit one of Metro Detroit’s bike-friendly trails:

• Dequindre Cut (Detroit): A paved trail lined with art and greenery.
• Paint Creek Trail (Rochester): Perfect for beginners, with shaded paths and natural beauty.
• Hines Park Trail (Westland to Dearborn Heights): Offers playgrounds and picnic stops along the route.

Bring your bikes, helmets, and water bottles for a fun and active family outing!

🍓 7. Go Berry Picking

June is prime time for strawberry picking in Southeast Michigan. Farms like Spicer Orchards (Fenton) and Rowe’s Produce Farm (Ypsilanti) offer u-pick fields where kids can get hands-on with fresh, local fruit.

Pro Tip: Call ahead to check crop availability and bring your own containers.

🎨 8. Discover the DIA’s Family Sundays (Detroit)

The Detroit Institute of Arts offers free Family Sundays with drop-in art-making workshops, gallery games, and kid-friendly tours. It's a wonderful introduction to the arts in a relaxed environment.

Admission is free for residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties.

🌞 Final Thoughts

Metro Detroit shines in late spring with activities that bring families together outdoors, in museums, and at community events. Whether you're looking for educational experiences or just some fun in the sun, May and June offer the perfect chance to make memories before summer officially kicks off.

So grab your calendar, pick your favorites, and start planning your next family outing in the Motor City!