Family Activities Guide
Discover 39 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Haslett.
9 upcoming events →Wharton Center for Performing Arts brings Broadway magic and world-class entertainment to East Lansing families. This premier venue offers a rotating selection of family-friendly shows, from beloved Disney musicals to engaging children's theater productions, all in a comfortable, state-of-the-art setting that makes every seat feel special.
The R.E. Olds Transportation Museum in Lansing offers a fascinating journey through automotive history that captivates kids and parents alike. With interactive exhibits, gleaming classic cars, and hands-on displays celebrating Michigan's rich automotive heritage, this budget-friendly museum makes learning about transportation fun and engaging for the whole family.
High Caliber Karting and Entertainment is a one-stop entertainment destination where families can race go-karts, bowl, battle in laser tag, and play hundreds of arcade games all under one roof. With its impressive 4.7-star rating from nearly 3,000 reviews, this Okemos hotspot delivers quality fun for the whole family, plus on-site dining so you can fuel up between activities without leaving the venue.
Impression 5 Science Center is a hands-on wonderland where kids can touch, play, and experiment their way through science concepts. With over 100 interactive exhibits spread across multiple themed areas, this beloved Lansing institution makes STEM learning irresistibly fun through water play, building challenges, and mind-bending experiments that keep children engaged for hours.
Fenner Nature Center offers 134 acres of pristine nature preserve right in Lansing, perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure without the long drive. Kids can explore five miles of easy hiking trails, cross wooden boardwalks over wetlands, and discover local wildlife while learning about Michigan ecosystems through hands-on interpretive programs.
Harris Nature Center offers families a wonderful opportunity to explore 90 acres of diverse habitats including forests, wetlands, and prairies right in Okemos. With engaging educational programs, well-maintained hiking trails, and a hands-on nature center building, kids can discover local wildlife, learn about ecosystems, and enjoy outdoor adventures at absolutely no cost to your family.
Abrams Planetarium offers an awe-inspiring journey through the cosmos that captivates young astronomers and space enthusiasts. With state-of-the-art planetarium shows projected on a stunning dome ceiling and hands-on interactive exhibits, kids can explore planets, stars, and galaxies in an immersive learning environment that makes complex astronomy concepts accessible and exciting.
Hawk Hollow Golf Course in Okemos offers an excellent introduction to golf for kids of all skill levels. With a family-friendly mini golf course, driving range, and professional lessons designed for young beginners, it's the perfect place to spark your child's interest in the sport. The welcoming atmosphere and affordable pricing make it easy for families to enjoy quality time together while learning a new skill.
Pinball Pete's is a beloved East Lansing arcade that perfectly blends nostalgia for parents with exciting entertainment for kids. With its impressive collection of vintage pinball machines alongside modern video games, this affordable hotspot offers hours of screen-filled fun that won't break the bank, making it an ideal rainy day destination or post-dinner activity for families.
Lake Lansing Park North is a fantastic waterfront destination that offers families the best of lakeside fun without spending a dime. With a sandy swimming beach, well-maintained playground, shaded picnic areas, and nature trails winding along the scenic shoreline, this park provides a full day of outdoor adventure for kids of all ages.
Wonch Park is a beloved Okemos community park that delivers all the essentials for a perfect family outing. With well-maintained playground equipment, basketball courts, spacious picnic areas, and wide open fields, this free park offers plenty of room for kids to run, play, and burn off energy while parents relax in a welcoming neighborhood setting.
Playground of Dreams is a beautifully designed, universally accessible playground in Haslett that welcomes children of all abilities to play together. With multiple play structures thoughtfully designed for inclusive play, this community gem ensures every child can climb, swing, and explore alongside their friends and siblings, making it a truly special destination for families.
The Michigan State University Veterinary Medical Center offers families a unique behind-the-scenes look at veterinary medicine through educational tours and hands-on demonstrations. While primarily a working veterinary hospital, the facility provides learning opportunities for children interested in animals and science, making it an excellent choice for aspiring young veterinarians and animal lovers.
Beggar's Banquet offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where families can enjoy New American cuisine without the stress of formal dining. With generous portion sizes perfect for sharing and a dedicated kid-friendly menu, this East Lansing staple makes it easy for parents to enjoy a quality meal while keeping the little ones happy and satisfied.
Bennett Woods Elementary School playground offers a well-maintained, modern play space that serves the Okemos community when school is not in session. The playground features separate areas designed for different age groups, with climbing structures, swings, and plenty of shaded spots where parents can relax while keeping an eye on their children.
The Horticulture Gardens at Michigan State University offer 14 acres of beautifully maintained themed gardens perfect for introducing children to nature's wonders. Kids can explore peaceful walking trails, discover colorful flowers, and enjoy wide open spaces for running and playing in a safe, educational environment. With free admission and extended hours, it's an affordable option for families seeking outdoor adventure any day of the week.
Beaumont Tower is a historic Michigan State University landmark that offers families a quick, educational stop with beautiful panoramic views of East Lansing. This iconic campus structure provides a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about local history while enjoying elevated perspectives of the surrounding university grounds and cityscape.
The MSU Museum offers an impressive world-class experience without the world-class price tag, making it perfect for budget-conscious families. Kids will be amazed by towering dinosaur skeletons, authentic Egyptian mummies, and fascinating cultural artifacts from around the globe. With its manageable size and diverse collections, it's an ideal spot for sparking curiosity without overwhelming young visitors.
Valley Court Park offers East Lansing families a classic neighborhood park experience with well-maintained playground equipment, basketball courts for active play, and plenty of open green space for picnics, running around, or flying kites. With its 4.3-star rating and completely free admission, this community gem provides an easy, budget-friendly outing when your kids need to burn off energy without breaking the bank.
Crunchy's is an East Lansing institution that combines hearty American and Mexican comfort food with old-school arcade fun, making it a hit with local families. Kids love the casual, no-fuss atmosphere where they can enjoy huge portions of pizza and nachos before burning off energy on the classic arcade games, while parents appreciate the budget-friendly prices and laid-back vibe that makes dining with energetic kids stress-free.
BIGGBY COFFEE offers a relaxed, family-friendly café environment in the heart of East Lansing, perfect for a quick break during campus explorations or downtown errands. While primarily a coffee shop for adults, they stock kid-friendly treats like hot chocolate, cookies, and muffins that make it a convenient pit stop when little ones need a snack and parents need a caffeine boost.
Eastwood Towne Center offers the best of both worlds: a free splash pad for kids to cool off and an outdoor shopping center for parents to browse. Located in Lansing, this popular destination combines water play fun with convenient shopping and dining, making it perfect for a summer family outing where everyone gets what they want.
Blaze Pizza transforms mealtime into an interactive experience where kids become pizza chefs, choosing from over 40 fresh toppings to create their perfect personal-sized pizza. Located conveniently in Lansing, this build-your-own concept keeps children engaged as they watch their custom creations cook in the blazing hot open-flame oven in just 180 seconds.
Forest Akers East Golf Course offers a welcoming, low-pressure introduction to golf for families in the heart of East Lansing. Operated by Michigan State University, this accessible course features a driving range perfect for beginners, junior programs, and a relaxed atmosphere where kids can learn the fundamentals without feeling intimidated. The affordable pricing and family-friendly approach make it an ideal spot to test whether your kids enjoy the game before investing in expensive memberships elsewhere.
The Lansing River Trail offers 13 miles of beautifully paved, family-friendly pathways winding along the scenic Grand River, perfect for biking, walking, or pushing a stroller. With multiple access points throughout Lansing, families can customize their adventure from a short 30-minute stroll to an all-day biking excursion. The flat, well-maintained terrain makes it accessible for all ages and abilities, while river views, wildlife spotting, and playground stops along the way keep kids engaged.
The Turner-Dodge House is a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion in Lansing that brings history to life for curious kids. With its ornate period rooms, lovely gardens, and engaging tours tailored for families, this hidden gem offers an affordable way to step back in time and learn about how families lived over a century ago.
Old Town Lansing is a charming historic district perfect for families who enjoy exploring unique shops, grabbing a bite at local eateries, and experiencing community events throughout the year. The pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to stroll with strollers, and kids love discovering the colorful murals, vintage storefronts, and frequent festivals that bring the area to life with music, food, and activities.
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via Potter Park Zoo
via Potter Park Zoo