A Day in Ann Arbor, MI With Kids
Updated September 24, 2026
This is a low-stress route: two green spaces, one market and food that doesn't require a reservation.
## Morning outdoors [Leslie Science & Nature Center](/places/leslie-science-nature-center) at 1831 Traver Rd is the most structured outdoor stop in the city and the natural first move of the day. [County Farm Park](/places/county-farm-park) at 2230 Platt Rd is the flatter, wider-open option on the east side, and [Argo Nature Area](/places/argo-nature-area) off Longshore Drive puts you on the Huron River within minutes of downtown.
## Market and a snack The [Ann Arbor Farmers Market](/places/ann-arbor-farmers-market) at 315 Detroit St is the easiest mid-morning stop with kids in tow — open air, short loop, plenty to look at. [Zingerman's Next Door Café](/places/zingerman-s-next-door-cafe) at 418 Detroit St is steps away, and [Le Bon Macaron](/places/le-bon-macaron) at 209 S 4th Ave is a short walk into downtown.
## Lunch [Joe's Pizza NYC](/places/joe-s-pizza-nyc) at 1107 S University Ave Ste B is the quick slice option near campus. [Buddy's Pizza](/places/buddy-s-pizza) at 3153 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd is the sit-down version on the south side. More picks: [pizza in Ann Arbor, MI](/best/pizza).
## Afternoon [Bird Hills Nature Area](/places/bird-hills-nature-area) at 1850 Newport Rd has the most elevation of the city's nature areas, so save it for after lunch rather than before. If you'd rather stay flat and close to the car, go back to [County Farm Park](/places/county-farm-park).
## Sweet finish [Dimo's Deli & Donuts](/places/dimo-s-deli-donuts) at 2030 W Stadium Blvd and [Zingerman's Bakehouse](/places/zingerman-s-bakehouse) at 3711 Plaza Dr both work as a last stop on the way out of town. See more in [bakeries in Ann Arbor, MI](/best/bakeries) and [parks in Ann Arbor, MI](/best/parks).
Family-friendly events get listed on our [events calendar](/events) as venues confirm them.
