Ann Arbor offers a wealth of parks and recreational activities tailored for families, ensuring engaging and enjoyable experiences for all ages.
Parks and Outdoor Activities:
- Gallup Park: A 69-acre park featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and trails along the Huron River. Families can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats to explore the waterway.
- County Farm Park: This park boasts playgrounds, nature trails, and the Project Grow Community Gardens, where families can rent plots to cultivate their own gardens.
- Buhr Park: Offers a public swimming pool, children’s wading pool, picnic areas, and sports fields. In winter, the Buhr Outdoor Ice Arena provides ice skating opportunities.
- Leslie Science and Nature Center: Features nature trails, live animal exhibits, and educational programs, fostering a connection with the natural world.
Recreation Programs:
- Ann Arbor Public Schools Community Education & Recreation (Rec & Ed): Provides a variety of programs, including youth sports, art classes, and summer camps. Their offerings cater to different age groups and interests, promoting active lifestyles and skill development.
- Safety Town Program: A popular educational initiative for children entering Young 5’s, Kindergarten, or First Grade, focusing on safety awareness through interactive activities.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
- Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum: An interactive science museum with over 250 exhibits designed to engage children and adults in hands-on learning experiences.
- University of Michigan Museum of Natural History: Showcases exhibits on prehistoric life, including dinosaur fossils, and offers educational programs suitable for families.
For a comprehensive list of parks and their amenities, visit the Ann Arbor Parks and Places page.
These resources provide numerous opportunities for families in Ann Arbor to engage in recreational activities, explore nature, and participate in educational programs, fostering a vibrant community experience.