As a mom, teacher, and travel writer, I love finding fun and educational activities to explore during my breaks. (Bonus points if there is a teacher discount!) My home state, Michigan, has so many options that combine fun with learning. Here are the 32 best things that I’ve found to do in all of Michigan just for teachers. My top picks are categorized by interest, complete with teacher discounts. This list is the kind of professional development teachers won’t want to miss. But please, if I missed any amazing locations, let me know! I’m always looking to grow this list.
Jump to:
- Best Things for Science Lovers To Do in Michigan
- Best Things for History Buffs To Do in Michigan
- Best Things for Outdoorsy People To Do in Michigan
- Best Things for Art Enthusiasts To Do in Michigan
- Best Things for Event Goers To Do in Michigan
- Best Places To Shop in Michigan
Best Things for Science Lovers To Do in Michigan
Here are all the places where science teachers can get geeky.
University of Michigan Museum of Natural History
Explore exhibits on prehistoric life, Michigan ecosystems, and more. The interactive displays and planetarium shows are fantastic for science enthusiasts.
Teacher discount: Free admission for everyone
Learn more: UMMNH
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
Engage with interactive science and technology exhibits. It’s an excellent place for hands-on learning and sparking curiosity in STEM.
Teacher discount: Free visit (on a field trip)
Learn more: AAHOM
Michigan Science Center
Engage with hands-on science exhibits and live demonstrations. It’s a dynamic environment to foster a love for STEM subjects.
Teacher discount: 20% off an annual membership
Learn more: Michigan Science Center
Detroit Historical Museum
Learn about Detroit’s automotive history and cultural heritage. It’s a rich resource for understanding urban and industrial development.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Detroit Historical Museum
Sandcastles Children’s Museum
Enjoy hands-on exhibits designed to spark children’s creativity. It’s perfect for elementary educators looking for interactive learning experiences.
Teacher discount: Discounted admission with ID
Learn more: Sandcastles Children’s Museum
Best Things for History Buffs To Do in Michigan
This is where history teachers get … historical.
Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Discover America’s greatest innovations and historical artifacts. It’s an inspiring place for teachers of history and technological advancements.
Teacher discount: 25% discount off of annual membership
Learn more: Henry Ford Museum
Greenfield Village
Step back in time and experience historic buildings and demonstrations. It’s a fantastic living history museum perfect for immersive learning.
Teacher discount: 25% discount off of annual membership
Learn more: Greenfield Village
Keweenaw National Historical Park
Learn about the region’s rich copper mining history through well-preserved historical sites. It’s a treasure trove for history and geology enthusiasts.
Teacher discount: Free admission
Learn more: Keweenaw NHP
Michigan Technological University Archives and Copper Country Historical Collections
Explore extensive collections on local history and industry. It’s a fantastic resource for deep dives into regional history and archival research.
Teacher discount: Free access
Learn more: MTU Archives
The Quincy Mine
Take a guided tour of this historic copper mine. It’s an engaging way to learn about industrial history and mining technology.
Teacher discount: Save $15 on the tour! Instead of $35, teachers only pay $20.
Learn more: Quincy Mine
Ludington State Park
Explore trails, beaches, and the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse. This is ideal for teaching about natural habitats and conservation.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Ludington State Park
Historic White Pine Village
Step back in time and learn about Michigan’s history with authentic village recreations. These are great for history buffs and those looking to bring history to life for their students.
Teacher discount: Discounted admission during History in Action Days throughout the year.
Learn more: White Pine Village
Best Things for Outdoorsy People To Do in Michigan
Teachers who hike, bike, and boat, these attractions are for you.
Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Wander through beautiful gardens and learn about diverse plant species. This serene spot is perfect for biology lessons and relaxation.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Hike the dunes, explore the beaches, and learn about the region’s natural history. It’s a stunning location perfect for lessons on geology and ecosystems.
Teacher discount: Discounted passes available
Learn more: Sleeping Bear Dunes
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Marvel at stunning cliff formations and waterfalls. It’s a great place for earth science and environmental studies.
Teacher discount: Discounted educational passes available
Learn more: Pictured Rocks
Detroit Zoo
Explore diverse animal exhibits and conservation efforts. It’s a perfect outing for lessons on biodiversity and animal behavior.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Detroit Zoo
John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids
Discover wildlife from around the world in a family-friendly environment. It’s a great place to learn about animal habitats and conservation.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: John Ball Zoo
Best Things for Art Enthusiasts To Do in Michigan
These are the places where art teachers get fancy.
Detroit Institute of Arts
Experience world-class art collections and exhibitions. It’s an enriching experience for art teachers and anyone passionate about visual arts.
Teacher discount: Free admission with ID
Learn more: DIA
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Enjoy stunning gardens and outdoor sculptures. It’s a beautiful blend of art and nature, perfect for creative inspiration.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Meijer Gardens
Best Things for Event Goers To Do in Michigan
If you’re a teacher who loves fairs, festivals, and other events, check out these attractions.
Ann Arbor Art Fair
This massive art fair showcases works from the entire USA. It’s the perfect outing for art teachers and anyone else interested in creative inspiration.
Teacher discount: Bring your ID, and check with individual vendors
Learn more: Ann Arbor Art Fair
Michigan’s Gus Macker Basketball Tournament
Participate or watch exciting 3-on-3 basketball games. It’s a fun, community-focused event great for physical education teachers and other sporty educators.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Gus Macker
Copper Harbor Trails Fest
Enjoy mountain biking and trail-running events. It’s a great way to explore the outdoors and promote physical activity.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Copper Harbor Trails Club
National Cherry Festival in Traverse City
Give apples the week off! Enjoy cherry-themed events and activities in the cherry capital of the world. It’s a fun way to learn about agriculture and celebrate a local specialty.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Cherry Festival
Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan
Learn about Dutch heritage and culture with performances, parades, and more. It’s a vibrant festival perfect for cultural education.
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Tulip Time
Best Places To Shop in Michigan
Here are some special places to spend your $250 tax deduction on classroom supplies and more.
Schoolgirl Style
A teacher’s paradise for classroom decor and supplies. It’s inspiring to see beautifully curated educational materials.
Location: 115 E. Main St., Flushing, MI 48433
Teacher discount: 50% off all items at warehouse outlet
Learn more: Schoolgirl Style
Wunderground Magic Shop
Michigan’s premier magic shop for educators wanting to add some magic to their classrooms. It’s a unique way to engage students and make learning fun.
Location: 16 S. Monroe St., Monroe, MI 48161
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Wunderground Magic Shop
Kerrytown Market & Shops
A vibrant market with interesting shops and local food vendors. It’s a charming place to find classroom supplies and enjoy local treats.
Location: 407 N. 5th Ave., Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Teacher discount: Bring your ID, and check with individual vendors
Learn more: Kerrytown
Avalon International Breads
Savor delicious baked goods made with organic ingredients. It’s a cozy spot for a coffee break or lunch after a day of exploring.
Location: 422 W. Willis St., Detroit, MI 48201
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Avalon
Literati Bookstore
Literati Bookstore offers a cozy atmosphere with a fantastic selection of books, author appearances, and themed book clubs. It’s a great place to find inspiring reads for both personal and classroom use.
Location: 124 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Literati Bookstore
The Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop
The Rocket Fizz offers a delightful mix of retro and special candies, sodas, and novelty items. It’s a great place to find fun treats and rewards for students or just to indulge your own inner child.
Location: 307 S. Main St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Teacher discount: None
Learn more: Rocket Fizz