Your Guide to Homeschooling in The D | Detroit Science Museums

Modified: December 19, 2022 | Story by Heidi Tiano | Photos by Detroit Public Library, Bill Bowen

There’s nothing like a field trip to break up the humdrum of the school year. And when you’re homeschooling your kids, an adventure out into the world area can help round out their educational experience.

Detroit has plenty of resources for parents looking to boost their home curriculum. Here are a few of our favorites.

Detroit Science Museums and Exciting Attractions

1. Michigan Science Center

The STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and math) take center stage at the Michigan Science Center, with rotating hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, live stage shows and more.

2. Wayne State University Planetarium

Each Friday during the school year, the Wayne State University planetarium hosts public shows that teach visitors about the planets, solar system, stars and more with a state-of-the-art Spritz High Definition Digital System.

3. Belle Isle

With a beautiful backdrop of the Detroit city skyline, there’s plenty of nature and architecture to explore on the 982-acre Belle Isle Park. The Belle Isle Aquarium and Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory are both open to the public with self-guided or docent-led options.

4. Sea Life Michigan Aquarium

Located in Great Lakes Crossing Outlets, the Sea Life Michigan Aquarium offers a special hands-on experience (and discounted ticket options) designed for homeschoolers. Kids can watch feeding demonstrations and have a chance to touch shrimp, crabs, sea stars and more.

5. Detroit Public Library

About 150 years of history in the city makes the Detroit Public Library a great place to practice reading skills or to spend a quiet afternoon studying. For older students, the library offers a HYPE program catering to teenagers.

6. The Henry Ford

There are countless educational opportunities at The Henry Ford, from its Museum of American Innovation to the unique Greenfield Village and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour. With a focus on innovative education outside of the classroom, The Henry Ford also offers a variety of unique teaching resources.

7. Three Cedars Farm

Depending on the season, a trip to the farm can teach students all about animals and agriculture. Three Cedars Farm in Northville offers a seasonal corn maze, hayride and Barn Yard Play Land.

8. Cranbrook Institute of Science

On the campus of Cranbrook Educational Community, kids can discover the wonder of the natural world at the Cranbrook Institute of Science. It features public programs, special events, collections of artifacts, unique events, a planetarium, an observatory and more.

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Mentioned Attractions And Venues





  1. 1
    Michigan Science Center
    5020 John R St., Detroit, MI 48202
    313-577-8400
  2. 2
    Wayne State University
    5221 Gullen Mall, 573 Student Center Bldg., Detroit, MI 48202
    313-577-2424
  3. 3
    Belle Isle State Park
    99 Pleasure Drive, Detroit, MI 48207
    313-821-9844
  4. 4
    Belle Isle Aquarium
    Belle Isle State Park, 3 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207
    313-331-7760
  5. 5
    Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory
    Belle Isle State Park, 900 Inselruhe Ave., Detroit, MI 48207
    313-821-5428
  6. 6
    Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
    4000 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
    248-454-5000
  7. 7
    Sea Life Michigan Aquarium
    4316 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
    248-409-6001
  8. 8
    The Henry Ford
    20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, MI 48124
    313-982-6001