Your “Little” Guide to Family Adventures in Metro Detroit
Fall 2026
CIDER MILLS + U-PICK ORCHARDS
HALLOWEEN EVENTS
YOUTH SPORTS + ACTIVITIES
Join LittleGuide Detroit for
FREE Family Fun at Stroller Roll presented by:
supported by:
Save the Date and join the LittleGuide Detroit team at the final (and FREE) Stroller Roll of 2026! Join LittleGuide at the Detroit Riverfront for our annual Stroller Roll on Saturday, September 26 from 9am to 11am. This family-friendly event is FREE and open to everyone... but let us know you’re coming!
REGISTER FREE Activities Include: •C hildren’s Hospital of Michigan’s
Safety Zone—including touch-a-truck experience with Panda One Ambulance
•F REE Diapers for All - Provided by Priority Health
• Princess & Super Hero Meet & Greets • Sports, Kids’ Activities & Activations
Hello Fall There’s something about fall that makes life feel both exciting and incredibly busy. One minute you’re celebrating the first day of school, and the next you’re juggling soccer practices, dance classes, Friday night football games, pumpkin patch plans, and somehow the holiday season is already peeking around the corner. As parents, our calendars fill up fast. It’s easy to get caught up in the daily routines and realize that another season has flown by before we’ve had the chance to enjoy it. We don’t want that to happen this fall. That’s where the LittleGuide Detroit Fall Magazine comes in. Think of it as your go-to guide for making the most of the season. Whether you’re waiting in the school car line, cheering from the sidelines with a pumpkin spice latte in hand, or winding down before bedtime, we hope you’ll flip through these pages and discover a new family tradition, weekend adventure, or hidden gem to add to your calendar. So grab your planner and remember that every page here is a link that takes you to even more detailed information at littleguidedetroit.com. Here’s to crisp mornings, colorful leaves, cider mills, cozy sweaters, and making every moment count.
The Little Guide Team
15 Must Visit
Fall Attractions FOR METRO DETROIT FAMILIES
When you can’t figure out what to do on a crisp fall day, this rundown of the best pumpkin patches, cider mills, fall festivals, Halloween events and family-friendly destinations in Metro Detroit has you covered! From apple cider and donuts to corn mazes, pumpkin patches, trick-ortreating and not-too-scary Halloween fun, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy fall in Metro Detroit. Whether your family loves traditional cider mill days or wants to get into the Halloween spirit, these are 25 fall attractions worth adding to your calendar in 2026.
1. LittleGuide Detroit Stroller Roll @ Valade Park | Detroit Riverfront LittleGuide Detroit’s Stroller Roll returns to beautiful Valade Park for a FREE morning of family fun along the Detroit Riverfront! Families can bring their strollers and enjoy a festival-style morning filled with character meet-and-greets, touch-a-trucks, hands-on kids’ activities, sports fun, snacks, giveaways and more. This isn’t a race or formal walk—families can explore at their own pace and let the kids choose their favorite activities. The event is presented by Priority Health and supported by Delta Dental of Michigan, with an incredible lineup of family-friendly partners. Kids can meet princesses and superheroes, check out the Children’s Hospital of Michigan’s PANDA One Ambulance, enjoy sports activities with the YMCA of Metro Detroit and collect plenty of FREE snacks and swag. Priority Health will also provide FREE diapers for families, while supplies last. Be sure to visit the Children’s Hospital of Michigan Safety Zone, where families can explore hands-on stations focused on important topics including fire safety, water safety, car seat safety and bike and helmet safety. The Safety Zone is designed to make learning about safety fun and memorable for kids, with the PANDA One ambulance serving as a special touch-a-truck highlight. September 26, 2026 | 9 AM–11 AM | FREE | Valade Park, Detroit Riverfront
2. Hallowe’en in Greenfield Village | Dearborn Hallowe’en in Greenfield Village transforms it into an enchanting Halloween experience with illuminated jack-o’-lantern paths, costumed characters, music, storytelling and spooky scenes throughout the historic village. It’s a great choice for families who want Halloween atmosphere without a traditional haunted house. October 1–4, 8–11, 15–18 & 22–25, 2026 6–9:30 PM
3. Zoo Boo @ Detroit Zoo | Royal Oak Zoo Boo is a “merry-not-scary” Halloween celebration designed especially for younger trick-or-treaters. Families can explore the Zoo after dark while enjoying Halloween decorations, seasonal activities and plenty of opportunities for kids to dress up. October 3–4, 9–11, 16–18 & 23–25, 2026 3–8:30 PM. Tickets start at $21, with members receiving a discount
4. Kackleberry Farms Fall Festival | Monroe Kackleberry Farms brings fall fun to the farm with a family-friendly festival featuring a giant corn maze, pumpkin activities, farm animals, games, rides and plenty of opportunities to explore. Families can spend the day enjoying seasonal attractions, making memories and soaking up the sights and sounds of fall on the farm.
5. Detroit Harvest Fest | Detroit Detroit Harvest Fest brings a big weekend of fall fun to Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park along the Detroit Riverfront. Families can enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, local vendors, seasonal activities and kidfriendly fun. October 3–4, 2026 | 11 AM–8 PM. Advance admission is $5, with family four-packs available for $15
6. Royal Oak Spooktacular | Royal Oak Royal Oak Spooktacular brings Halloween fun to downtown Royal Oak with familyfriendly activities, costumes and seasonal entertainment. It’s a fun community event for little ghosts and goblins who want to celebrate Halloween outside the neighborhood. Sunday, October 18, 2016 | 2PM–5 PM
7. Streets of Treats @ Northville | Northville Streets of Treats is a favorite downtown Halloween tradition where children can trick-or-treat at businesses and organizations throughout downtown Northville. The event also features entertainment, games, mini donuts and cider. Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 10 AM–12 PM | Main & Center Streets
8. Great Fall Festival @ Maybury Farm | Northville Maybury Farm’s Great Fall Festival celebrates everything families love about autumn with wagon rides, pumpkins, games, crafts, inflatables, live music, food trucks, cider and donuts. Saturday, October 10, 2026 | 10 AM–5 PM
9. Halloween at the YMCA | Metro Detroit Halloween at the YMCA offers families a safe, community-focused way to celebrate Halloween. Participating YMCA locations have hosted free Halloween events with outdoor activities, games and family-friendly fun. 2026 dates and participating locations: TBA.
10. Scarecrows in the Park @ Plymouth | Plymouth Scarecrows in the Park fills Kellogg Park with dozens of creative scarecrows designed by local businesses, organizations and community groups. It’s completely free to visit and makes for an easy fall photo stop in downtown Plymouth. September 25–November 2, 2026 | Free | Kellogg Park
11. Terror on Tillson Street | Romeo Terror on Tillson Street is one of Metro Detroit’s most famous Halloween neighborhoods. Residents transform their homes into elaborate Halloween displays, creating a free, walkable experience that has become a fall tradition for families. Free; October 2026
12. Fire Department Open Houses | Metro Detroit Fire department open houses are a fun and often FREE fall activity for kids who love fire trucks, ambulances and all things emergency services. Many local departments welcome families for truck tours, demonstrations, safety activities, giveaways and opportunities to meet firefighters. September–October 2026 | Dates & locations vary
13. CarnEVIL 2 @ Glenlore Trails | Commerce Township CarnEVIL 2 at Glenlore Trails turns the illuminated forest into an enchanting Halloween experience. Families can follow the nighttime trail to encounter carnival-inspired games, unexpected surprises, swinging skeletons, and more. Tickets are currently listed at $15 for youth ages 4–12 and $25 for ages 13+. Thursdays-Sundays from September 18th through November 1st | Timed tickets available from 7 PM to 9:30 PM
14. Stone Wall Pumpkin Festival | Rochester Hills Stone Wall Pumpkin Festival is a fall favorite at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm. Families can enjoy food, pumpkin bowling, live entertainment, crafts, professional pumpkin carving, Yates Cider Mill cider and donuts, and more. Kids can carve their own pumpkin and add it to the stone walls surrounding the museum. Then, return in the evening to see hundreds of glowing pumpkins light up the property! The festival also features scarecrows created by local organizations. Saturday, October 10, 2026 | Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm.
15. Halloween Kid Concerts @ Detroit Symphony Orchestra | Detroit The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is bringing Halloween fun to the stage with two family-friendly concerts on Halloween morning. Families can choose between Miss Paula & The Candy Bandits, a high-energy, candy-coated punk rock concert perfect for kids and grown-ups, and Spooky Spectacular! Halloween at Orchestra Hall, a playful symphonic celebration featuring spooky sounds, magical music, ghostly dances and plenty of Halloween surprises. Kids are encouraged to come in costume, and both concerts include free pre-concert activities such as instrument tryouts and arts and crafts. Saturday, October 31, 2026 | 10 AM & 11 AM | The Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center/Orchestra Hall. Each concert runs approximately one hour.
Trick-or-Treat Trails in Metro Detroit for Halloween
Get ready to take trick-or-treating to the trails! Metro Detroit parks and attractions are turning their walking paths into festive Halloween adventures where kids can dress up, collect treats and enjoy plenty of spooky-season fun.
Dearborn Haunted Trail October 16 - 18 | Ford Field Park, Dearborn If your kids are asking for a real haunted trail, Dearborn’s Haunted Trail is the one to put at the top of the list. The wooded trails at Ford Field Park come alive with scares hiding around the corners, making this much more of a traditional haunted attraction than a simple trick-or-treat walk. The event also offers options for families who aren’t quite ready for the full scare experience. The family and sensory-friendly hour provides a gentler way to experience the trail, and a Friday evening Trunk-orTreat gives younger kids another opportunity to collect goodies.
Glenlore Trails: CarnEvil 2 September 18–November 1, 2026 | Commerce Township Halloween gets an immersive makeover at Glenlore Trails, where the forest transforms into a mysterious carnival midway for CarnEvil 2. The approximately onemile nighttime trail is filled with glowing lights, carnival-inspired games, swinging skeletons, curious creatures and interactive surprises around every turn. It’s a fun option for families looking for something more unique than a traditional haunted house, with plenty of spooky sights and unexpected moments along the way. Just be prepared for some scares as you make your way through the glowing forest!
Trek or Treat at Rolling Hills Park
Jack-O-Lanterns Among the Trees
Saturday, October 3 | Rolling Hills Park, Ypsilanti
Saturday, October 24 | Stage Nature Center, Troy
Trade the neighborhood sidewalks for a 1.5-mile Halloween hike at Rolling Hills Park. Trek or Treat combines outdoor adventure with trick-ortreating as families make their way along the trail and stop at themed stations for treats.
For a Halloween experience that’s more magical than scary, head to Stage Nature Center for Jack-OLanterns Among the Trees. Families can walk through the woods surrounded by glowing jack-olanterns while enjoying nighttime nature activities and Halloween fun.
Trick-or-Treat Along the Trail at Kensington Metropark Saturday, October 17 | Kensington Metropark The Trick-or-Treat Along the Trail at Kensington Metropark is specifically designed as a fun, safe and non-scary Halloween experience for the whole family. Families follow a roughly quarter-mile pumpkin-lined trail, stopping along the way for treats, fall-themed photo opportunities and encounters with costumed characters.
Trick-or-Treat Trail Sunday, October 25 | Marshbank Park, West Bloomfield At the West Bloomfield Trick-or-Treat Trail, kids can dress in costume and travel along a safe, paved trail while collecting goodies from costumed characters, local businesses and community organizations. Each registered child receives an event treat bag to collect goodies, plus a cider and donut voucher. The event is divided into four sessions to keep the experience manageable for families.
Halloween
Train Adventures FOR METRO DETROIT FAMILIES
Calling All Little Train Lovers! Halloween is even more exciting when you can combine pumpkins, costumes and spooky fun with a ride on the rails. From a haunted train ride through Greenfield Village to a FREE Halloween train ride in Southgate, these Halloween events are perfect for families who think the best way to celebrate fall is by hopping aboard a train.
Halloween Ghosts & Goodies at Crossroads Village | Flint Head north to Flint for Halloween Ghosts & Goodies, where the historic Crossroads Village gets a family-friendly Halloween makeover. Kids can explore the village, visit 20 treat stops, navigate a straw maze, catch a magic show and enjoy plenty of spooky surprises. The highlight for train fans is the Huckleberry Ghost Train Express. The historic train takes families on a roughly 40-minute ride through the autumn countryside, making this a great option for kids who want a real train ride as part of their Halloween adventure.
Families can choose village-only admission or upgrade to the combination train and village ticket. Since train tickets can sell out, advance purchase is recommended.
Hallowe’en @ Greenfield Village | Dearborn
FREE Halloween Train Rides at Southgate Train Park | Southgate
For families looking for a big Halloween experience with a train-loving twist, Hallowe’en in Greenfield Village is hard to beat. The historic village transforms after dark with glowing jack-o’-lantern paths, costumed characters, spooky stories, live music and theatrical scenes throughout the village.
Looking for a Halloween activity that won’t break the bank? Put Great Lakes Live Steamers on your calendar! The volunteer-run organization brings its miniature railroad to Southgate Train Park for a special Halloween run on October 16 and 17, giving families a chance to enjoy a spooky train ride after dark.
And, of course, there’s a train! The Hallowe’en Express takes families on a ghoulish journey through Greenfield Village and is available as a $5 add-on to event admission. Train tickets are timed and can sell out, so families who want to ride should reserve their spots in advance.
The best part? The miniature train rides are free, with donations appreciated to help maintain the trains and equipment. The Halloween trains run from 5–8pm, weather permitting, making this a fun evening activity for families who have a little train lover in the crew.
Kids will also love spotting more than 50 costumed characters, riding the historic carousel, following illuminated pumpkin paths and watching spooky performances inspired by stories including The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and The Wizard of Oz.
Kids will love climbing aboard the miniature railroad, taking a nighttime ride through the park and enjoying the Halloween atmosphere. It’s a particularly great pick for younger kids who might not be ready for a full-blown haunted attraction — or families who simply want an affordable, low-key Halloween outing with a fun train-loving twist.
FALL FESTIVALS IN METRO DETROIT
Troy Family Daze
Pumpkins, Apples, and Carnivals ...
OH MY!
Let the Fall Festivals + Festivities begin.
SEP 11-13
Art & Apples Festival (Rochester)
11-13
Fall Festival (Plymouth)
12 Story Festival @ The Ford House (Grosse Pointe) 12 & 13 Old Car Festival @ The Henry Ford (Dearborn) 17–20
Troy Family Daze (Troy)
18–20
Pumpkin Festival (Romulus)
18–20
Northville Heritage Festival (Northville)
19
Trenton Art Fair
19
Lake Orion Fall Fest
25–27
DIY Street Fair (Ferndale)
25–27
St. Anne Sausage Festival (Warren)
25–26
Fire & Flannel Festival (Wyandotte)
25–27
Pumpkinfest (South Lyon)
26 & 27 Down on the Farm Fest (Lake Orion) 26–27 Festival of The Senses (Clinton Township)
OCT
Michigan State Fair 3&4
Detroit Harvest Fest (Detroit)
4th Harvest Happening @ Hess-Hathaway Park (Waterford) 10th Great Fall Festival @ Maybury Farm (Northville) 10th Stone Wall Pumpkin Festival (Rochester Hills) 17 & 18 Macomb County HarvestFest (Sterling Heights)
Detroit Harvest Fest
taste the
GUERNSEY
difference
Budget Tips
Back-to-school
Savings Guide from
1
reate a Budget & Make C a Shopping List
Focus first on the required supply list you may get from your child’s school. Next, list any clothing or personal items your child needs for the upcoming school year. You can use this task to talk with your child about saving and spending and let them help choose the supplies they need and a few things special to them.
2
Take Inventory of What You Have at Home
Take this time to sort through items and decide what to keep, toss, or donate. You might discover that you already have more than you realized—like unopened packs of pencils, barely used notebooks, or clothes that still fit.
3
Buy in Bulk
When purchasing frequently used items such as pencils, pens, notebooks, and folders, think about buying in bulk. Purchasing supplies in larger quantities can save you money when they run out.
4
Compare Prices & Utilize Coupons
5
Teach Your Children About Spending and Saving
Take advantage of perks that come with coupons, member-only sales, and money off your purchase during transactions that you would have done regardless. The back-to-school season is accompanied by sales, especially during Labor Day Weekend, so keep those in mind!
It’s never too early to teach your child about finances. Using back-to-school shopping on a budget as a real-world example of saving and spending can help you teach them the value of money. Involve your child when making your list of needed supplies and setting your budget. Teach them the difference between needs and wants when preparing for school and how to find balance in their budget. Lastly, let your child help pick out or customize their supplies while helping them stay on budget.
Sweet Finds Indoor Fun for All Ages
Let the kids burn off some energy—without turning your house upside down! From climbing structures and inflatables to trampolines and imaginative play, these are the best indoor play places and amusement centers in Metro Detroit for kids of all ages.
1.
Dinoland (Ann Arbor/Madison Heights)
2.
Legoland Discovery Center (Auburn Hills)
3.
Airborne (Brighton + Taylor)
4.
T&B Play (Canton)
5.
Fairytale Fun Place (Clarkston)
6.
Kids Empire (Clinton Twp & Farmington Hills)
7.
Yoyo’s Fun Center (Clinton Twp/Westland)
8.
Fascination Factory (Birmingham)
9.
SkyZone (Commerce)
10. Kidcadia (Dearborn) 11.
Detroit Museum of Illusion (Detroit)
12. Just Play (Dexter) 13. Sandverse (Farmington Hills) 14. IMAGINATION Station (Garden City) 15. Stemville (Howell & Northville) 16. Jummps Adventure Park (Lincoln Park) 17.
Wonder World Play Cafe (Livonia)
18. Urban Air (Livonia + Sterling Heights) 19. Hilltop Church Play Park (Northville) 20. 2D DIY Studio (Novi, Sterling Heights & Troy) 21. Airtime (Sterling Heights + Westland) 22. Recre8Play (Troy) 23. Slick City (Troy) 24. Ninja Kidz (Westland) 25. Rev’d Up Fun (Woodhaven)
5
reasons to plan a fall road trip to experience Grand Rapids
1.
Art Prize
Experience one of Michigan’s most unique fall events at ArtPrize, the internationally acclaimed art competition that transforms downtown Grand Rapids into a giant outdoor gallery from September 18–October 3. This FREE festival features incredible sculptures, larger-than-life installations, paintings, interactive exhibits, and more, making it a fun outing for the whole family as you explore the city together.
2.
Unseen Oceans
Dive into the mysteries of the deep at Unseen Oceans, a special exhibit at the Grand Rapids Public Museum that explores the latest discoveries from the ocean’s greatest depths. Through interactive displays and hands-on activities, families of all ages can learn about incredible marine life and the cutting-edge science helping us better understand our underwater world.
3.
Zoo Goes Boo @ John Ball Zoo
Celebrate Halloween at John Ball Zoo’s Zoo Goes Boo! Families can enjoy a festive day at the zoo while visiting 13 trick-or-treat stations filled with candy and Halloween treats. Running October 16–November 1, it’s a fun way to combine your favorite animals with family-friendly fall festivities.
4.
Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery
Experience your favorite fall traditions on Michigan’s west side! Spend the day apple picking, taking hayrides, exploring the corn maze, and letting the kids play while parents relax with a glass of house-made wine.
5.
Deer Tracks Junction Deer Tracks Junction is a 90-acre family destination featuring Michigan’s only drive-thru safari, a hands-on animal park, an epic playground, and seasonal attractions that kids of all ages will love.
Halloween Events Get your costumes ready for a season full of ghosts, goblins, and, of course, lots of goodies this Halloween!
OCT 1-31
Brick or Treat (Auburn Hills)
1-25
Hallowe’en (Greenfield Village)
2-30
Halloween Stroll (Lake Orion)
3-25
Zoo Boo (Royal Oak)
3-30
Ghosts & Goodies Train (Flint)
10
Trick or Treat Trail (Canton)
10
Fall Fest & Panther Hunt (Wixom)
11
Trick or Treat Trail (Brownstown)
17
Trick or Treat Trail (Milford)
17
Sterling Frights (Sterling Heights)
17
Candy Loop (Van Buren Township)
17 & 18 Boo Barn (Taylor) 18
Pumpkin Palooza (Plymouth)
23-25
Trick or Treat At The Farm (Ray)
23
A RARE Nightmare (Roseville)
24
Spooktacular (Auburn Hills)
24
Street of Treats (Northville)
24
Little Goblins (Grosse Pointe)
25
Meadow Brook’s Hall-oween
25
Trick Or Treat Trail (West Bloomfield)
Must-Visit From hands-on learning and indoor Places play adventures to unforgettable For Lego birthday celebrations, these Metro Detroit destinations are perfect for kids Lovers who love to build, imagine, and create.
LEARN @ THE HENRY FORD
Blast off on an out-of-thisworld adventure where engineering, creativity, and space exploration come together! Artemis Adventure with LEGO® Bricks is a limited-time traveling exhibit at The Henry Ford that brings NASA’s Artemis missions to life through incredible LEGO® creations, interactive challenges, and hands-on STEAM experiences the whole family will enjoy. Oct 18, 2026-Jan 3, 2027
Find out more
PLAY @ LEGOLAND
Every day is a building adventure at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Michigan in Auburn Hills! Designed for families with children ages 3–10, this indoor attraction is packed with hands-on fun. Ride Kingdom Quest, soar on Merlin’s Apprentice, experience the actionpacked 4D Cinema, explore MINILAND® Detroit, and let imaginations run wild in interactive build zones featuring millions of LEGO® bricks.
PARTY @ THE ROBOT GARAGE
The Robot Garage offers one-of-a-kind birthday parties where kids build, code, and create while celebrating with friends. Guided by enthusiastic instructors, party guests enjoy hands-on LEGO® building activities that are both fun and educational. With customizable themes and exciting add-ons, every celebration is a unique and unforgettable experience for budding builders.
4 Kid Shows your Littles Won’t Want to Miss Bring your kid’s favorite characters to life with these unforgettable family shows coming to stages across Metro Detroit this fall!
1
Disney On Ice @ Little Caesars Arena (Detroit)
2
Disney Worlds Collide @ Little Caesars Arena (Detroit)
3
Sesame Street Live @ Fox Theatre (Detroit)
4
Watch your favorite Disney characters come to life in Disney On Ice presents Find Your Hero, featuring world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics, dazzling special effects, and unforgettable adventures for the whole family. September 17–20.
Experience the Worlds Collide Concert Tour, where the stars and music of Descendants, ZOMBIES, and Camp Rock come together for an unforgettable live pop concert experience. Friday, October 23.
Get ready to sing, dance, and move with Elmo’s Got the Moves! Join Elmo and all your favorite Sesame Street friends for an interactive live show that will have kids and parents alike on their feet. Sunday, November 8.
Blippi Live @ Fisher Theatre (Detroit) Join Blippi and Meekah for The Be Like Blippi Tour, a high-energy live show filled with music, dancing, learning, and interactive fun that your little ones will love. Saturday, November 14.
WHERE TO TAKE A FIRE TRUCK FAN
Memorial Fire Truck Park Little firefighters will love this neighborhood Tot Lot, featuring a fire truck-themed play structure, spring riders, and swings designed especially for children ages 2–5. 2058 Phillips Dr, Auburn Hills
October is Fire Prevention Month and in addition to special events, you can also visit these fun fire truck themed playgrounds!
Wyandotte Rotary Park
McKinley Park
Kids will love climbing and playing on the fire truck-themed playground, located right next to the local fire station. If the crew is available, consider stopping by to say hello— they often enjoy welcoming young visitors!
The standout attractions at McKinley Park are a fire truck-themed play structure with slides and climbing features, plus an airplane playground packed with interactive activities, multiple climbing challenges, and more fun to explore.
3rd St, Wyandotte
31500 Grove St, Fraser
LEVEL UP YOUR WORKOUT AT THE YMCA Who says video games are just for kids? At the South Oakland Family YMCA in Royal Oak, adults can enjoy a workout that feels more like a game than a trip to the gym. With EGYM, smart technology creates a personalized fitness experience that’s fast, fun, and designed just for you.
WHAT IS EGYM?
MORE THAN JUST A GYM
After a quick 20-minute orientation, simply scan your wristband and each machine automatically adjusts your seat, resistance, and range of motion based on your body and fitness goals. Interactive screens guide every rep, making strength training easy, effective, and personalized.
A YMCA membership gives your family access to all six YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit locations, each featuring a fitness center, gymnasium, group exercise classes, and an indoor pool. Members also enjoy discounted programs, priority registration, and family-friendly offerings like swim lessons, youth sports, dance, camps, and wellness classes.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT No counting reps or guessing which weight to use. EGYM tracks your progress, celebrates milestones, and provides personalized workout summaries after each session. Choose from a variety of goalbased programs—including Weight Loss, Muscle Building, Body Toning, and more—to stay motivated while getting stronger.
A FULL-BODY WORKOUT IN 30 MINUTES Move through 11 smart strength machines in a guided circuit that targets every major muscle group. Each workout takes about 30 minutes, automatically adjusts as your fitness improves, and keeps you challenged every step of the way.
READY TO LEVEL UP? Complete a guided circuit of 11 smart strength machines for a full-body workout in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re new to strength training or an experienced athlete, EGYM meets you where you are—and keeps you coming back for more. South Oakland Family YMCA 1016 W. 11 Mile Road • Royal Oak
Our Favorite Petting Farms to visit in Fall
Petting Farm, ANN ARBOR
Meet more than 200 friendly farm animals, enjoy seasonal hayrides, and let the kids pet and feed their favorite furry friends.
Bowers Farm - Discovery Oak Park , BLOOMFIELD
Bowers Farm’s Fall Festival features pumpkin picking, wagon rides, farm animals, crafts, games, and plenty of family-friendly fall fun.
Maybury Farm, NORTHVILLE
Fall is the perfect time to visit Maybury Farm, where families can enjoy a giant corn maze, hayrides, friendly farm animals, and seasonal festivals in Northville.
Kensingston Farm, MILFORD
Meet farm animals, including chickens, goats, sheep, cattle, and draft horses, then hop aboard a wagon ride for a classic day on the farm.
Calder Dairy Farm, CARLETON
Calder Dairy Farm is open daily with FREE admission! Meet friendly farm animals, then stop by the farm store for fresh ice cream and treats.
Find Youth Sports In Metro Detroit Find the Perfect Extracurricular for Every Kind of Kid FLAG FOOTBALL NFL FLAG is fun, easy, and for EVERYONE! Girls and boys ages 4–14 can enjoy 5-on-5, non-contact football with just one 1-hour practice and one 1-hour game each week— and that’s a big win for parents, too!
SOCCER KickStart Toddler Soccer is the perfect introduction to sports for kids ages 18 months to 6½ years. Fun, engaging weekly classes are led by patient instructors who help build confidence, coordination, and a love of the game.
SWIMMING Dive into the Goldfish Swim Force Swim Team, where kids ages 5–12 build confidence, master all four competitive swim strokes, and put their skills to the test at quarterly swim meets.
GYMNASTICS Build strength, confidence, and coordination at S.W.A.G. Kids Gym! With classes for ages 10 months to 12 years, it’s the perfect place to introduce kids to gymnastics.
BASKETBALL The YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit offers basketball clinics and leagues for kids ages 4–14, helping them build skills, confidence, and sportsmanship through team play.
SKIING + SNOWBOARDING Get slope-ready at Shredder, an indoor ski and snowboard training center where kids can build confidence, learn safety, and master the basics before hitting the snow.
BEST CIDER DONUTS
01
07
08
11 01 Blake Farms (Armada/South Lyon) 02 Hy’s Cider Mill (Bruce) 03 Dexter Cider Mill (Dexter) 04 Franklin Cider Mill (Franklin) 05 Spicer Orchards (Fenton) 06 Apple Charlie’s Orchard (New Boston) 07 Parmenter’s Cider Mill (Northville)
14 08 Three Cedars Farm (Northville) 09 Plymouth Orchards (Plymouth) 10 Rochester Cider Mill (Rochester Mill) 11 Yate’s Cider Mill (Rochester Hills) 12 Stony Creek Orchard (Romeo) 13 Westview Orchards (Washington) 14 Wiard’s Orchard (Ypsilanti)
FIND A FENCED-IN PLAYGROUND NEAR YOU Looking for a safe, stress-free place to play?
These fenced-in Metro Detroit playgrounds are perfect for toddlers, runners, and little explorers who love to roam.
Wabash Park (Rochester)
Munson Park (Monroe)
Innovation Hills (Rochester Hills)
Seymour Lake Park (Oxford)
Centennial Park (Detroit)
Peasley Park (Huntington Woods)
Civic Center Park (Woodhaven)
Hess-Hathway Park (Waterford)
Ford Woods Park (Dearborn)
Save Time & Money with Kroger Your One-Stop Shop for Easier Family Meals, Bigger Savings & Less Stress Between school drop-offs, sports practices, work, and everything else on your family’s calendar, grocery shopping can quickly become another chore that takes time—and stretches your budget. Fortunately, Kroger makes it easier than ever to shop smarter, save more, and get dinner on the table with less stress. From online grocery ordering and digital coupons to meal planning tools and chef-inspired ready-to-cook meals, Kroger’s website and app are designed to simplify busy family life. Whether you’re stocking up for the week, planning game-day snacks, or sending a meal to loved ones, here’s how Kroger helps Metro Detroit families save both time and money.
Shop Intentionally, Not Impulsively Shopping online helps eliminate impulse purchases by letting you focus only on what’s on your list. Browse from your couch, compare prices, see what’s on sale, and stick to your grocery budget without wandering every aisle.
Grocery Shopping That Fits Your Schedule FREE Grocery Pickup — Order online and have your groceries brought directly to your vehicle. Home Delivery — Need groceries brought to your door? Kroger Delivery makes it easy to have fresh groceries and essentials delivered straight to your home.
Digital Coupons = Instant Savings Load coupons directly to your Shopper’s Card before placing your order. The savings are automatically applied at checkout — no clipping required.
Save at the Pump, Too Shopping with Kroger earns Fuel Points, helping lower the cost of filling up your tank. Between weekly promotions, digital coupons, and bonus Fuel Point offers, everyday grocery shopping turns into significant gas savings.
Meal Planning Made Easy Browse hundreds of family-friendly recipes by prep time, budget, dietary needs, and more. Add recipe ingredients directly to your cart with one click.
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HALLOWEEN MAGIC
At Zoo Boo Every weekend in October, the Detroit Zoo transforms into one of Metro Detroit’s favorite family Halloween traditions. Zoo Boo is a merry-not-scary celebration perfect for toddlers through elementaryaged kids. Families are encouraged to wear costumes while enjoying trickor-treat stations, festive decorations, themed entertainment, seasonal photo opportunities, and Halloween fun throughout the Zoo.
Parents Deserve Halloween Fun Too Book the babysitter and enjoy an adults-only night out at Spooky Spirits, the Detroit Zoo’s popular 21+ Halloween celebration. Sip creative cocktails, dress in costume, and enjoy festive entertainment in a unique after-hours setting—perfect for date night, girls’ night, or a fun evening with friends.
BRI N G I N G BAC K T H E
Bedtime Story
Priority Health Shares the Importance of Reading with Kids How many adults can recall the warmth and safety they felt snuggled next to their mom or dad reading a bedtime classic when they were children? The cherished evening ritual served as a sacred time of day when all activity stopped - so as to be carried away by a delightful, imaginary tale. Yet, fewer of today’s children may have that pleasant memory when they grow up. The number of parents who read to their children is at an all-time low of 41%. That’s down from 64% in 2012.
“The number of parents setting aside dedicated time to read to their children, sadly, continues to drop,” said Dr. Charletta Dennis, medical director of behavioral health at Priority Health. “The culprits are increased screen time of both children and parents, hectic schedules and changing family dynamics.” More Reading Time Equals More School Success A new study reveals that children who are frequently read to, hear an estimated 1.4 million more words by the time they enter kindergarten than those children who are not reading with a parent or caregiver. “Reading to young children serves multiple purposes. Socially and emotionally, it becomes a quiet and special time to spend with mom or dad, strengthening those relationships and reinforcing self-esteem,” said Dr. Dennis, “Educationally, exposing small children to regular story reading increases their knowledge and vocabulary, and is a crucial step in building readiness for school.” Dr. Dennis adds that early and continual reading also creates a lifelong love of learning for children that extends through adulthood.
41%
of parents read to their children today, down from 64% in 2012
10 Best Bedtime Books for Kids Cozy up and curl up with a good book at bedtime.
4. Night-Night, Little Pookie by Sandra Boynton
8. Goodnight Already! by Jory John
1. Good Night, Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle
5. Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney 9. Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
2. Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late! by Mo Willems
3. Dinosaur vs. Bedtime by Bob Shea
6. G oodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site by Sherri Duskey Rinker
7. Just Go To Bed by Mercer Mayer
10. Good Night, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann
How to Create a Healthy Sleep Routine Without the Bedtime Battles
After a busy day of school, activities, and family fun, bedtime can sometimes feel like the hardest part of the day. But a consistent bedtime routine can help children get the rest they need while making evenings calmer for the whole family. Quality sleep plays an important role in children’s growth, development, mood, immune health, and overall wellbeing. While every child is different, healthy bedtime habits can make it easier to wind down and recognize when it’s time to rest.
Create a Calm Bedtime Routine Kids thrive on consistency. About an hour before bed, begin winding down with calming activities like taking a bath, putting on pajamas, reading a favorite book, listening to quiet music, or talking about the day.
Limit Screens Before Bed Screens can make it harder for kids to fall asleep. Instead, create a screen-free wind-down with activities like reading together, working on a puzzle, or sharing favorite moments from the day.
Make Sleep a Family Priority The goal isn’t a perfect bedtime—it’s creating routines that help children feel secure, well-rested, and ready for tomorrow. With a little consistency, bedtime can become one of the most peaceful parts of the day.
Getting enough sleep is essential for a child’s growth, immune system, brain development, and overall well-being. Here are age-specific tips to help your children build healthy sleep habits and get the rest they need.
Recommended Sleep by Age AGE GROUP
RECOMMENDED SLEEP
Newborns (0-3 months)
14 to 17 hours (naps included)
Infants (4-12 months)
12 to 16 hours (naps included)
Toddlers (1-2 years)
11 to 14 hours (naps included)
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
10 to 13 hours (naps included)
Grade-schoolers (6-12 years)
9 to 12 hours
Teens (12-18 years)
8 to 10 hours
Sleep Soundly
with these LittleGuide favorites
Hatch Baby
Tonie Box
A quality sound machine can help soothe your baby to sleep while soft lighting makes nighttime feedings and diaper changes easier. Many models also include a portable option for travel.
For older kids, Tonieboxes offer bedtime stories, calming audio, and built-in bedtime and wake-up routines to help make evenings and mornings a little smoother.
Team Favorites Between the hustle and bustle of school, sports and holiday prep, here are the activities we make time for in the fall.
Kerry Hallowe’en @ Greenfield Village Hallowe’en in Greenfield Village is one of our favorite family fall traditions. From thousands of glowing jack-o’-lanterns to beloved storybook characters and festive decorations, it feels like stepping into a classic Halloween story—and it’s an experience my kids talk about long after the season is over.
Jenna Fuller Farms We visited Fuller Farms last year, and it quickly became one of our favorite fall traditions. This charming, family-owned farm in Northville has everything from pumpkin painting and farm fun to warm mini donuts and fresh cider—an easy way to check off several fall bucket list activities in one stop.
Emily Zoo Boo @ Detroit Zoo Zoo Boo at the Detroit Zoo is a must-do for our family every year. The kids love dressing up, trick-or-treating, and seeing the animals, while I love that it’s festive, family-friendly, and just the right amount of spooky. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Halloween together.
Prea Cider Mill Trips We love visiting as many cider mills as we can each fall—and, of course, taste-testing the donuts at every stop!
Rachel Ghosts & Goodies @ Crossroads Village One of our favorite fall traditions is visiting Crossroads Village for Ghosts & Goodies. With festive Halloween décor, trick-or-treating, and a spooky (but kidfriendly!) train ride, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season without being too scary for little ones.
Share your favorite What are your FALL plans! Tag us on Instagram plans? @Littleguidedetroit
Carrie Glenlore Trails Glenlore Trails is always a hit with our kids. The mile-long walk is packed with interactive experiences, making it an exciting family adventure from start to finish.
MAPS A trip to the apple orchard is a fall family favorite! Use our Maps page to find the best cider mills and orchards— nearby or worth the drive.
Take your Pick
U-Pick
the Destination
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