By Isabel Prontes
Southeastern Michigan is the part of the state that takes up the Lower Peninsula. Most of the state's population and industries are located in southeastern Michigan. The state capital of
Detroit, which is also the largest city, is part of the region. If you are planning to visit southeastern Michigan with toddlers, there are plenty of things to do and see.
Andy T's Farm Market
Andy T's Farm Market is a great place to visit with toddlers, as it features a petting zoo, farmer's market, bakery and greenhouse. Toddlers will particularly adore the corn maze (seven acres in size) and wagon rides for pumping picking. There are tours of the mint farms that are hands-on and allow you to see, touch and smell. The gardens on the premises are very beautifully landscaped and pleasant.
3131 S. US-27,
St. Johns 48879
Tel: (989) 224-7674
Uncle John's Cider Mill
Uncle John's Cider Mill is a fun place to take the entire family, including toddlers. Some of the exciting activities that toddlers can partake in while at Uncle John's Cider Mill include orchard train rides, walks on the nature trail and visits to the wacky Fun House. The weekends are especially pleasant with several craft shows, special activities and entertainment options. You can also learn how to make your own apple cider at this cider mill.
8614 N US Highway 27
St Johns, MI 48879
Tel: (989) 224-3686
Detroit Zoo
The Detroit Zoo boasts beautiful outdoor animal habitats and vibrant, wide open spaces. The Wildlife Interpretive Gallery (hummingbird and butterfly garden housed in a historic structure) and Mandrill exhibits at the zoo are particularly fascinating. There is also a coral reef aquarium. Be sure to check out the Australian Outback, African Grasslands and Arctic Ring of Life Habitats. Children will adore the Wild Adventure Ride which is a motion-simulated reality voyage.
8450 W 10 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Tel: (248) 398-0900
Walled Lake Scenic Railway
The Walked Lake Scenic Railway is a tranquil, relaxing and interesting train ride that goes through West Bloomfield, Michigan and stops at the 1887 Walled Lake Depot which is steeped in history. The sights that you will encounter on this trip are mesmerizing, including diverse wildlife (swans, blue heron, cranes and much more) and various ponds. Toddlers will be awed as they look out of the train window and see all the delights of nature in front of them.
1499 E. West Maple Road
Walled Lake, Michigan 48390
Tel: (248) 624-4847
Greenmead Historical Park
Livonia, Michigan is home to Greenmead Historical Park, which spans ninety-five acres. This park was the homestead (back in the 1820s) of Joshua Simmons, a Michigan pioneer. The park consists of the authentic, original farmhouse complex, a quaint historical village, playgrounds and recreation, and picnic sites. This is a relaxing, beautiful place to witness history and have fun.
20501 N Newburgh Road
Livonia, MI 48152
Tel: (248) 477-7375
About the Author:
Isabel Prontes is a freelance writer and traveler residing in Manhattan, NY. She has traveled to five continents and counting. Her work has appeared on a number of websites, such as Travels, eHow.com and "Happy Living Magazine." Prontes has a professional background in public relations; she received a bachelor's degree in communication studies from Pace University.
