Rain or Shine: Indoor Fun in Metro Detroit

August 22, 2023
Multi-level playscape at Kidcadia

Photo courtesy of Kidcadia

Mother Nature can cancel fall fun plans in a moment. A rainy day backup is something every family should have ready to roll when clouds come charging in and the rain falls in buckets. 

Metro Detroit has many indoor areas that provide so much entertainment that you’ll forget all about the rain. Shifting to these locations, whether it is a museum, a library story hour, an escape room or a climbing wall, will make you feel like you got to see something new and experienced just enough activity to make the rest of the day at home inside seem like a great way to spend time together.

Here are six places that make for a great rainy day excursion in Metro Detroit. 

Kidcadia

Talk about a stretch of the legs – this is a whole-body workout for kids. The 10,000 sq. ft. indoor space has a large playset for older kids that features a climbing tree, slides, a trampoline, and multiple climbing apparatus. If you have a smaller tot, you can check out the dedicated play area for toddlers as well as sensory walls and coloring quarters. Kidcadia is available for three-hour play blocks Thursday – Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is $15.99 for kids 24 months and older, $10.99 for children 12 months to 23 months, and free for adults and children under 12 months. You can reserve your playtime online or walk-ins are also welcome. Manager Huda Abdulla says, “Caregivers can choose to chase their little ones straight into the play structure and show them that they still know how to play Tag, Hide and Seek, and Capture the Flag. Or they can choose to spend the afternoon coloring, relaxing, and recouping. After play, families can take a break and enjoy lunch/dinner from neighboring restaurant Pine Coast, serving gourmet sandwiches, salads, coffee, lattes, and more!”

 

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Photo courtesy of Kidcadia

Trampoline Park

Jumping to your heart’s content is a great way to expend energy and exercise everyone in the family. One spot perfect for this is Sky Zone on Union Lake Road in Commerce Charter Township. Sky Zone features over 35 trampolines for open jumping, games, a foam pit, a ninja warrior course, a rock wall, and more. This spot offers single-day passes for either 90 minutes or all-day play, as well as monthly membership options. No matter the age, children and adults alike can enjoy the attractions at Sky Zone. 

Bowling

Did you know that Detroit has the oldest continuously operating bowling alley? Kids of all ages love this Midtown spot. For 110 years, The Garden Bowl has served as the destination for recreation with the focus on fun and family. In addition to 16 historic lanes, the Garden Bowl offers a full-service bar and lounge. If you get hungry, go for some pizza from Sgt. Pepperoni’s.

SCIENCE CENTER

The Michigan Science Center is also a great spot for a rainy day. One display in particular, “Sun, Earth, Universe,” has been updated to feature a hands-on component that focuses on building a habitat on Mars. “The new exhibit examines the technology and systems that would be needed for humans to survive and thrive on Mars, including how to get water to drink, oxygen to breathe, and shelter from the harsh environment. It also discusses the special efforts and resources needed to stay physically and mentally healthy living on a completely different planet,” says Dr. Christian Greer, Mi-Sci President & CEO.

Photo courtesy of Michigan Science Center

Lines Skate Park

If you’re a Gen X parent, chances are you were a skater or friends with someone who was. If you want to develop this interest in your children, then this is the indoor activity for you. Formerly known as Transitions Ramp Park, Lines Skate Park in Dearborn Heights has a variety of skating ramps and related equipment. There are lessons available for newcomers, as regular or private sessions are offered. There also is a small concessions area.  You must have a parent present at the skatepark if you are 12 years of age or younger. No kids under the age of 8 are permitted to use the skate park. 

COMEDY

For the 18+ crowd, a comedy show at Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle could cure the rainy day blues. It’s regarded as one of the top clubs in the country and many stars like Jim Carrey or Jerry Seinfeld have performed here. Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase to enjoy along with the shows.

If you are going to one of these locations, call ahead to make sure the hours are as they are listed online. You also will want to bring umbrellas and raincoats just in case you have to make a mad dash back out to your vehicle when it is time to go home. 

This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was authored by Karen Dybis.

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