Explore Fun in the Sun

Fun Ways to Explore Flint & Genesee with Kids

As the weather warms and the days get longer there are many opportunities for families to head to Flint & Genesee for a full day of fun. If it’s heading to the park, hitting the water, going to one of our amazing museums, or taking in a show there’s always something to do. Here are some ideas on fun ways to explore Flint & Genesee. 

MORNING

Begin your day with a trip out to Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad for a journey through time. In the village the family can learn about how things were done during the days of the pioneers and see what life was like back then. After touring the many authentic village homes and businesses, you can take a ride on the historic CW Parker Superior Wheel, a large Ferris wheel that offers a great view of Mott Lake. Afterwards take a trip on the CW Parker Carousel or stop in for a show at the theater. Before you leave, make sure to take a ride on the Huckleberry Railroad to see even more of the expansive park. 

If you’d prefer something more outdoorsy, head out to For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum where the family can discover the natural world around us. From the beautifully constructed barrier-free treehouse that was built by the team at Treehouse Masters, to the arboretum to see the trees. Head to the apiary to see the bees at work or maybe the butterfly house will be more your speed. You can even just take a leisurely walk along the many paths.

LUNCH

If you are out at Crossroads Village for the morning, then you may want to head to nearby Huckleberry Junction for some pizza and games. Huckleberry Junction is also home to the Huckleberry Junction Playhouse Theater, where one of the few remaining animated bands in existence, Daniel & the Dixie Diggers, do several shows daily. 

If you go to For-Mar, head over to Starlite Coney Island for burgers, a salad, chicken tenders, or something else delicious off their menu. 

AFTERNOON

Now that everyone is well fed it’s time to work off some energy, so how about some fun in the water? If you want to stay in the area of Crossroads Village, head to nearby Bluebell Beach where there is plenty to do. Beat the heat in one of the 14 shade kites and then hit the water. Go on the bike path if you brought your wheels, or the kids can head over to the Splash Pad to play while you soak up some rays. 

If you went to For-Mar, it’s not a far drive to the gorgeous Lake Callis Recreation Complex. There is a beach and swimming area there as well as the Dash-n-Splash Pad, grills, and a snack stand. If you want something a little more exhilarating, you can rent a kayak or water board. Head for the water or maybe play some volleyball on an available court. On Friday nights you might even catch a movie on the lake.  

DINNER

We have some big plans tonight so for dinner, head out to Grand Blanc’s Hot Dog Stand, a local favorite where the family can get a hot dog, cheese dog, or a coney dog with their famed red sauce. If the weather is nice, it’s a great place to talk about all of the day’s adventures before heading out for one last stop. 

EVENING

To conclude a wonderful day of fun and adventure, you can head to the U.S. 23 Drive-In Theater, one of very few remaining drive-ins left in Michigan. Just down the street from the Hot Dog Stand, the U.S. 23 Drive-In offers double features for one price, allowing your family to spend an entire evening together watching movies and eating popcorn either under the stars or from the comfort of your vehicle before heading home or to a local hotel for some well-earned rest. 

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