


Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
About
Great Lakes Crossing Outlets offers much more than shopping, with over 185 stores plus entertainment options that make it a full family destination. Kids can enjoy SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium, Legoland Discovery Center, Round1 Bowling & Arcade, and seasonal events throughout the year, all under one climate-controlled roof.
Highlights
- ✓SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium with underwater tunnel and touch pools
- ✓Legoland Discovery Center with interactive building stations and rides
- ✓Round1 Bowling & Amusement with arcade games, bowling, and karaoke
- ✓Build-A-Bear Workshop for creating custom stuffed animals
- ✓Large food court with options for picky eaters
Pro Tips
- 1.Park near the end where your main attractions are located (SEA LIFE and Legoland are near entrance 4) to minimize walking with tired kids.
- 2.Visit Monday through Thursday mornings for the lightest crowds and easier stroller navigation through the wide corridors.
- 3.Purchase combo tickets online for Legoland and SEA LIFE to save money if you plan to visit both attractions.
- 4.Bring layers as the mall temperature can vary, and comfortable shoes since you will easily walk a mile or more exploring.
- 5.Check the mall website for seasonal kids' events like trick-or-treating, Easter bunny visits, and Santa meet-and-greets which are often free or low-cost.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) offer the best experience with minimal crowds and fresh energy for exploring. Avoid Saturday afternoons and holiday weekends when the mall is most packed. Sunday mornings right at opening can also be pleasant with shorter hours limiting crowds.
What to Know
Parking is free in the large outdoor lots. The food court offers 15+ options including kid favorites, plus there are sit-down restaurants. Stroller-friendly with family restrooms and nursing rooms available throughout the mall.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with indoor climate control making it perfect for Michigan winters. Special seasonal events include Halloween trick-or-treating, holiday light displays, and spring break activities. Summer can be busy with families seeking air-conditioned fun.
Nearby Eats
The onsite food court features diverse options including Chick-fil-A and Panda Express. For sit-down dining, Rainforest Cafe inside the mall provides an immersive jungle-themed experience kids love.
More Activities Near Auburn Hills
Power-Up Arcade & Family Fun Center
Power-Up Arcade & Family Fun Center is Auburn Hills' premier indoor entertainment destination, boasting an impressive 5-star rating from 88 families who love its winning combination of classic and modern arcade games, ticket redemption system, and exciting prize counter. This clean, well-maintained facility offers the perfect solution for Michigan families looking for year-round fun, whether escaping rainy days or celebrating special occasions in their party-friendly event space.
Knollwood Country Club
Knollwood Country Club in Auburn Hills offers a delightful miniature golf experience that's perfect for families looking for outdoor fun. With creatively designed holes and well-maintained landscaping, this course provides an enjoyable challenge for both beginners and experienced mini-golfers, making it an ideal spot for quality family time.
AMC Star Great Lakes 25
AMC Star Great Lakes 25 is a spacious movie theater in Auburn Hills offering families a convenient spot to catch the latest animated features and family-friendly blockbusters. With 25 screens, comfortable stadium seating, and all the classic movie snacks kids love, it's a reliable option for rainy days, special treats, or casual weekend entertainment.
Paint Creek Trail
Paint Creek Trail offers 8 miles of smooth, paved pathways perfect for family biking adventures, leisurely stroller walks, and nature exploration in Auburn Hills. This free, accessible trail winds through beautiful wooded areas and open spaces, making it ideal for families wanting to introduce kids to outdoor activities without the challenge of rough terrain. The flat, well-maintained surface means even young cyclists and balance bike riders can enjoy the journey safely.