Kid-Approved Summer Itinerary: 1 Day in the Brighton Howell Area
When a week-long or weekend getaway is not in the cards, plan a day trip to the Brighton Howell Area for the whole family. Conveniently located in southeast Michigan between Lansing and Detroit, the area is easily accessible, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. Here is a kid-approved Michigan summer itinerary that delivers the ultimate balance of outdoor adventure, hands-on fun, and tasty bites.
Head to Brighton Coffeehouse and Theatre right in downtown Brighton to kick off your whole day adventure. The adults can enjoy a caffeinated beverage featuring in-house roasted coffee beans while the kids devour homemade pastries and other delicious treats. For the ultimate view, enjoy your breakfast on the back patio overlooking the Mill Pond!
Located just outside the back door of Brighton Coffeehouse & Theatre, the Imagination Station is the perfect place to let the kids burn off some excess energy. This 10,000 square-foot wooden playground offers kids of all abilities maximum exploration. Littles can climb, slide, swing, and run to their heart’s content while the parents watch from multiple vantage points.
Your next stop is just a short, scenic 15-minute drive. Head to the Howell Nature Center, where kids can explore and learn about the wildlife that call this rehab facility home. Walk through Wild Wonders Park to see eagles, deer, owls, and other animals! Then, head over to Alexandria’s NatureScape & The Tree House to explore the waterfall, treehouse, dunes, spider web for climbing, and more.
After you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Tomato Brother’s in Howell for a family-friendly meal. This local favorite is known for its hearty Italian-American fare, generous portions, buttery breadsticks, and kid-approved dishes. You’ll leave full without breaking the bank.
Once you’ve carbo-loaded, head over to Tap-In’s for a round of mini golf. The 18-hole miniature offers a variety of obstacles and challenges, making it an enjoyable experience for the entire family. After your round, head just outside the entrance to indulge in a tasty treat from Gimme’s Ice Cream Truck.
Head over to Castaway Play Cafe in Howell to get out of the heat or if the weather turns. This adventure zone allows families to explore bounce houses, one of Michigan’s largest indoor playgrounds, arcade games, and laser tag. Adults can grab a snack or beverage while the kids enjoy safe, supervised fun.
Stop at Coratti’s Pizzeria Bar & Bocce in downtown Howell to wrap up your full day of adventures. This beloved spot is known for its wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and not to mention, a kid-pleasing menu. Coratti’s also offers a laid-back vibe along with outdoor patio seating to enjoy the evening.
Brighton Coffee House & Theater
Brighton Coffeehouse & Theater, 306 West Main, Brighton, MI, 48116 USA
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Brighton Imagination Station, Mill Pond Lane, Brighton, MI, USA
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Howell Nature Center, 1005 Triangle Lake Road, Howell, MI, USA
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Tomato Brothers Restaurant & Tavern
Tomato Brothers, 3030 West Grand River Avenue, Howell, MI, USA
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