by: Morgan Poole
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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (ABC 4)- There’s no doubt summer in West Michigan is filled with fun activities and events for families to enjoy! And, to help us make the most of this exciting season, Maranda’s sharing her Summer Break Guide filled with attractions, exhibits, programs and summer series to explore!
Top Pick for Summer Fun | Tuesday, June 18
Have a blast with free bowling!
If your kids love to try new activities and sports, then we have the perfect top pick–bowling! Throughout summer, local bowling centers are offering kids two free games daily as part of the “Kids Bowl Free Program.” Register here to find a participating bowling alley location near you.
Experience animal and nature at these West Michigan attractions:
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Frederik Meijer Gardens has fun all summer with children’s activities every day of the week including music, art and science! Learn morehere.
John Ball Zoo
John Ball Zoo has so many animals to see and lots to learn.Check out all the fun the zoo offers here.
Binder Park Zoo
Binder Park Zoo is open seven days a week and kids 2 and under get in for free. View daily hours and current exhibits here.
Blandford Nature Center
Blandford Nature Center has all kinds of outdoor fun for your family to enjoy. Check out their programming and exciting experiences here.
Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park
The Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park in Alto offers many memorable and wild animal experiences.You can check out all the fun here.
Calvin University Ecosystem Preserve and Native Gardens
The Calvin Ecosystem Preserve and Native Gardens is a fantastic place to be out and about in nature as a family. Learn more here.
Card/Riley Conservation & Wildlife Education Center at Ferris State University
Inside of this 5,000 sq. ft facility, observe over 250 specimens from 52 countries reflecting Northern Michigan’s hunting and fishing culture and wildlife globally.Learn more about this free attraction here.
Critter Barn
Spend a day learning about farming, agriculture and nature! Learn more here.
Dow Gardens-Midland
Dow Gardens is 110 acres of annuals and perennials featuring distinctive bridges, towering pines and water features. Admission is affordable. Learn more here.
Fort Custer State Recreation Area
Fort Custer State Recreation Area is a great spot to have a fun family outing. They offer camping, hiking and biking trails. Learn more here.
Hidden Lake Gardens
Michigan State University’s Hidden Lakes Garden offers 12 miles of hiking trails and a canopy walk.Learn more here.
Howard Christensen Nature Center
The nature center offers a variety of trails for family hikers.They also host several events. Learn more here.
Howell Nature Center
The Howell Nature Center offers loads of fun this summer! Make new memories experiencing wildlife, zip lining and more. Find more details here.
Hudsonville Nature Center
Take on this 76-acre nature preserve of woodlands, prairies and wetlands featuring hiking trails, lookouts, wildflowers and picnic areas. Learn more here.
Kalamazoo Nature Center
Learn a thing or two at the Kalamazoo Nature Center! Explore 15+ miles of trails and unique interactive exhibits. Find additional details here.
Karin’s Horse Connection and Legacy Stable
If you want to horse around this summer, visit Legacy Stables. Register for riding lessons or even a one-time ride here.
Leila Arboretum Society Battle Creek
The Leila Arboretum in Battle Creek is a free and wonderful place to take the kids to explore! Find more information and see what the Leila Arboretum offers here.
Michigan Legacy Art Park
Explore trails, art in nature, birdwatching and beautiful wildflowers.Find additional information here.
Ott Biological Preserve Battle Creek
The Ott Biological Preserve in Battle Creek offers hiking and biking with great views of two spring lakes. It’s 298 acres is open to the public, and more details can be found here.
Outdoor Discovery
Outdoor Discovery provides tons of opportunities to explore nature.They have trails, programs and camps. Find more information here.
Potter Park Zoo
If you are looking for an adventure, take a day trip to Lansing and check out the Potter Park Zoo.You can learn about their animals and exhibits here.
Pierce Cedar Creek Institute
Experience 850 acres of wetlands, forests, marshes, streams lakes and more here.
Beat the summer heat at these indoor West Michigan attractions:
MUSEUMS
| Air Zoo-An out-of-this-world experience awaits at the Air Zoo! Discover over 100 air and spacecraft, and indoor amusem*nt park-style rides. You can learn more information about the Air Zoo here. |
| Grand Rapids Public Museum– Get lost in three floors of exhibits focusing on the history of Grand Rapids.You can learn more information about the Grand Rapids Public Museum and everything they offer here. |
| Coopersville Farm Museum-The Coopersville Farm Museum is filled with tons of cool artifacts and information. Check out all of the fun here! |
| Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum– Explore the life and presidency of Gerald R. Ford at this historic library and museum in Grand Rapids. Find more details here. |
| Gilmore Car Museum– If you like cool cars and learning about Michigan’s automotive history, then head to the Gilmore Car Museum. You can learn more information about the museum here. |
| Grand Rapids Children’s Museum– The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a great place for kids to explore!Purchase tickets, view times as well as the exhibits they offer here. |
| Holland Museum-Discover over 90,000 artifacts in the museum’s collection, from money to art to books to stamps.Find out more about the museum here. |
| Kalamazoo Valley Museum– Roam around three floors of interactive exhibits focusing on the history of Kalamazoo, science and other fun topics.Learn about the museum here. |
| Lakeshore Museum Center– There is always something new to learn at the Lakeshore Museum Center! See more here. |
| Lawton Heritage Museum- The Lawton Heritage Museum depicts farming, wine and grape processing techniques from the Lawton area circa 1900-1940. Find more details here. |
| The Mitten Children’s Museum. The Mitten Children’s Museum in South Haven is a non-profit organization teaching children of all ages to have a love for learning. See more information here. |
| Muskegon Museum of Art– The Muskegon Museum of Art displays various collections of unique artworks. Explore featured exhibits and more here. |
| Sandcastles Children’s Museum-The Sandcastles Children’s Museum in Ludington offers hands-on activities and exhibits for you and your child to explore the world around them.See more information about the Sandcastles Children’s Museum here. |
| Schmaltz Geology Museum and Dinosaur Park– Western Michigan University offers a free geology and mineral museum to explore. Right next to the museum is the dinosaur park, where you can see seven scale model replicas of these fascinating creatures. Learn morehere. |
| Tri-Cities Historical Museum Grand Haven-The Tri-Cities Museum in Grand Haven features many events and fun exhibits.You can learn more about the museum here. |
SKATING RINKS AND CENTERS
| Griff’s Icehouse- Griff’s Icehouse features open skate times on weekdays and weekends. View times and prices here. |
| Patterson Ice Center-If you’re a fan of ice skating, then make sure you check out Patterson Ice Center! See open skate times and more details here. |
| Rollerworld– Rollerworld in Kalamazoo offers a variety of open roller-skating times.View skating times and the types of fun to have here. |
| Rollxscape Skating Center-Get your roller-skating and gaming on! Find more details here. |
| Tarry Hall Roller Rink– Tarry Hall Roller Rink offers different open skating times as well as skating lessons.Find more information about the rink here |
| Walker Ice and Fitness-The Walker Ice and Fitness Center has several open skate times this summer.View the schedule here. |
BOWLING LANES AND CENTERS
| Kids Bowl For free-This free program offers kids two free games of bowling every day at participating bowling alleys.You can learn more and register here. |
| BAM! Entertainment Center– With bowling, laser tag and an arcade, there is something for everyone at BAM! Entertainment Center. Find more information here. |
| Hudsonville Lanes– Overdue for family fun? Check out Hudsonville Lanes, where you’ll find bowling classes and specials. Learn more here. |
| Northland Lanes Bowling– Find more information about the lanes here. Calling ahead for open bowling availability is highly encouraged. |
| Sherman Bowling Center Battle Creek– Sherman Bowling Center has you covered for making this summer the best yet. Explore all the fun in store here. |
JUMP, CLIMB AND PLAY!
| Craig’s Cruisers- Craig’s Cruisers is a one-stop-shop for all things family fun! Jump on trampolines, explore indoor and outdoor attractions, and spend hours creating memories with loved ones. Learn more here. |
| Great Lakes Crossing Outlets– Home to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center and Peppa Pig World of Play, Great Lakes Crossing Outlets offers fun ways for kids and families to enjoy a world of creativity and hands-on play. See more here. |
| Action Wake Park- Have a blast at Action Wake Park’s full-size cable park and Aqua Park. Learn more here. |
| Allegan Event– If you enjoy climbing and swinging on fun indoor courses, then check out Allegan Event! Learn more here. |
| Amped Virtual Reality– Experience a new reality at Amped Virtual Reality this summer.You can learn more about all the virtual reality fun they offer here. |
| Battle GR– Battle GR is inviting kids to spend the day playing laser tag, archery tag, dodgeball, yard games and more. See all the fun it has to offer here. |
| Bricks 4 Kids– Between summer camps, STEAM activities and virtual reality activities, kids can create the summer itineraries of their dreams. View all the details here. |
| Gymco Open Gym-Open gym is a one-hour playtime for both kids and parents.Enjoy trampolines, rope, swing bars and more.You can learn more about the open gym here. |
| Kingdom Sports in Portage- Offering lessons, camps and leagues for soccer, Kingdom Sports in Portage has a lot to do and experience.You can learn about all the options they have for soccer here. |
| Klassic Arcade Gobles- The Klassic Arcade features three locations in West Michigan, two in Gobles and one in Paw Paw.Enjoy classic 1980s arcade games, pinball, pop in a glass bottle and more.Learn more here. |
| Launch Grand Rapids– Explore the fun possibilities, from trampoline courts to attractions for hours of family fun.You can learn about general admission and other attractions here. |
| Rebounderz– Rebounderz offers so much jumping and fun! See what is offered here. |
| Revel and Roll Kalamazoo– If you are looking for some indoor fun this summer, then look to Revel and Roll in Kalamazoo off of Stadium Drive.More details can be found here. |
Sit back, relax and snack on popcorn at these West Michigan movie theaters and drive-ins:
Celebration Cinema
Celebration Cinema has you covered when it comes to beating the heat this summer.See details for showings, admission, concessions and more!
Getty Drive-In
This summer, head out the Getty Drive-In for some summer movie magic.Check out show times and movies currently playing!
Summer Family Flicks 2024
Goodrich Quality Theaters is hosting Summer Family Flicks 2024.Enjoy free family movies Wednesday and Thursdays at 10 a.m.
Enjoy music at these family-friendly West Michigan summer concerts:
Benjamin’s Hope All-Abilities-Friendly Summer Concert Series
The Benjamin’s Hope all-abilities-friendly summer concert series has been quite the hit. This summer series is all-inclusive and is a great time for kids and adults.You can learn more about the concert series here.
Kellogg Arena Summer Series in Battle Creek
Mark your calendars for some free fun and outdoor entertainment happening in downtown Battle Creek.You can learn more information about the Kellogg Arena Summer Series as well as the Battle Creek Farmers Market here.
2024 Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts
The Lowell Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts are taking place every Thursday night from June 13 until Aug. 15.Find more details about the concerts here.
Rollin’ On the River Downtown Allegan
Rollin’ On the River is a free, weekly concert series held on Friday nights through Aug. 30 at the Allegan Riverfront Stage. The series features talented musicians of various genres. See more details here.
Frugthaven Farm 2024 Music Series
The 2024 Summer Music Series at Frugthaven Farm kicks off on June 13 and ends Aug. 23! You can learn more information here.
MORE MUSIC
Kalamazoo State Theatre
There’s nothing like listening to awesome music, especially at a historic venue. Check out the Kalamazoo State Theatre’s lineup of upcoming shows here!
Did you know Michigan has several designated areas for you to enjoy the night sky?Find preserves near you:
Dark sky preserves
Internationally designated dark sky parks
PLANETARIUMS
Grand Rapids Public Museum
Enjoy an out-of-this-world experience at the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium! Find their full schedule and shows being offeredhere.
Kalamazoo Valley Museum
The Kalamazoo Valley Museum provides the community with many fun and educational planetarium shows.Check out the schedule here.
Abrams Planetarium
The Abrams Planetarium in East Lansing is a fun place to learn about the night sky.Discover the museum and its planetarium showings here.
Let your furry friends roam free at these West Michigan dog parks:
Get creative at these West Michigan art museums, attractions and craft experiences:
Grand Rapids Art Museum
Thanks to Meijer, Tuesdays at the Museum are free as well as Thursday nights. Learn more here.
Kalamazoo Candle Company
Create your own signature candle scent at the Kalamazoo Candle Company! See more here.
Kalamazoo Institute of Arts
Partnering with several different institutions across the nation, there is always something fun and interesting to explore.View additional details here.
These Michigan day trips make the perfect summer family getaway:
Click the map markers to discover a unique Michigan location:
Pick delicious, fresh-grown fruit at these West Michigan fruit farms:
Experience the joy of reading by heading to your local library
A lot is happening at local libraries this summer, making for the perfect opportunity to delve into a good book. Get rewarded with cool prizes for reading books by joining the 2024 Summer Reading Club. Learn morehere.
Stay cool in the summer heat at West Michigan splash pads and pools:
Holland Aquatic Center
Holland Aquatic Center
The Holland Aquatic Center offers so much indoor water fun!Check out their Summer Mega Splash dates here that makes swimming fun and affordable all summer long.
Battle Creek
Allegan County
Oceana County
Muskegon
- Boys & Girls Club of the Muskegon Lake Shore(opens in July)
- Neal Fitness Center (opens July 1)
Have a great time without spending a dime at these free events, activities and attractions in West Michigan:
| Meijer Free Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Grand Rapids Art Museum-Meijer offers free admission on Tuesdays (Noon to 5 p.m.) and Thursdays (5-8 p.m.) to the Grand Rapids Art Museum. Learn more here. |
| Battle Creek Recreation-The Battle Creek Recreation Department offers parks and trails, rec programs, activities and more.Learn more here. |
| Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation– Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation offers over 75 parks, trails, aquatics and more.Check out their full directory here. |
| Holland Museum-The Holland Museum hosts free second Mondays every month.You can learn more here. |
| Kalamazoo Valley Museum-The Kalamazoo Valley Museum has three floors of interactive exhibits focusing on the history of Kalamazoo, science and other fun topics.Discover more about the museum here. |
| Kent County Recycling Center- The Kent County Recycling Center hosts free tours for all ages.See how our materials are recycled by learning more here. |
| Kzoo Parks– Kzoo Parks provides a list of Kalamazoo’s city parks and pools.They also host family fun events all summer long. Learn more here. |
| Muskegon Museum of Art- The Muskegon Museum of Art hosts free Thursdays thanks to the Meijer Foundation.Learn more about this free general admission day here. |
| Storytime GR and Summer Reading Celebrations- Have fun reading this summer at Storytime GR’s free events and storytimes at local parks. Learn more here. |
| Storytimes Grand Rapids Public Library-Several branches of the Grand Rapids Public Library are hosting free storytimes all summer long. Check out the schedule here. |
| Storytimes in the Park– The Kalamazoo Public Library offers several free story times geared for children from birth to 5 years old.Learn more and find the entire schedule here. |
| Berlin Raceway-Check out the Berlin Raceway this summer! Kids 15 and under receive free admission. Learn more here. |
| Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids’ Camp Sparkle– Join Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids for its free annual day camps for children ages 5-11. On June 24-28 and July 8-12, the camp sessions will focus on grief and cancer support. Pre-registration is required. Learn more here. |
Soak up the sunshine with outdoor summer activities and events in West Michigan:
West Michigan Whitecaps
It’s summertime, and baseball is in full swing!There are plenty of opportunities to watch your West Michigan Whitecaps this summer here!
First Tee West Michigan
First Tee West Michigan teaches youth ages 7 to 17 how to golf.The offer summer programs in Grand Rapids, Holland, Kalamazoo and Muskegon.Learn more here.
Kalamazoo Growlers
The Kalamazoo Growlers are back for another fun season of baseball.Learn about tickets and the game promotions here.
Summer activities on the Grand River
This summer, enjoy family paddle nights, guided kayaking and nine passenger canoes!Find more details here.
Cheers to endless summer fun, “Where You Live!”
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